Our theme of late has been about the various ways that people can gain more free time, and, in turn, get more enjoyment out of their picnic tables and porch furniture. One popular method for doing this is to cultivate drought-tolerant plants, which require much less maintenance than traditional flowers. This approach has become even more favorable recently, as it also helps to conserve water.

In our last article, we listed many varieties of such plants; and, as promised, we will drop a few more of their names here. To begin with, let’s try Perovskia Atriplicifolia. Now there’s a name – and a mouthful! Also known as Russian Sage, its splendid, sweetly-scented silver foliage is interspersed with lovely violet blossoms. This robust plant, which can grow up to six feet tall, flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil. On top of all of its other great attributes, it’s also repellent to deer and most other wildlife.

As long as we’re talking about sage, Salvia ‘Raspberry Delight’ is another great choice. A delightful plant with gorgeous raspberry-colored flowers (you didn’t see that one coming down Main Street, did ya?), it is commonly referred to as Bush Sage. A beautiful, vigorous plant, which can reach a height of three feet, it thrives under almost any condition, producing its striking flowers, which attract hummingbirds by the score, from late spring until early fall.

Okay, more sage. Salvia ‘May Night’ blooms from the middle of the summer until early in the fall, with spectacular violet-blue flowers. Also called Meadow Sage, this hardy and drought-tolerant plant grows to a little over two feet high, and draws many hummingbirds and butterflies.

One of the most breath-taking sages, Salvia Pachyphylla, or Mojave Sage, produces exquisite pink flowers that last until well after the autumnal equinox. Even after its blossoms fade, its grayish-green foliage keeps it looking great. Also appealing to hummingbirds and butterflies, it may grow to three feet high.

Whatever your reason for wanting drought-tolerant flowers – whether it’s the hot, dry climate in which you live, your wish to conserve water, or your desire for more free time – sage is a wise choice (and aptly named, as it turns out!). Furthermore, because you’ll need some eye-catching, colorful, low-maintenance outdoor furniture to complete the equation, a visit to the appropriately-named AllPicnicTables.com is a very wise move.

AllPicnicTables.com has a colossal collection of decay-resistant cedar, pine, oak, cherry, and teak, as well as nearly indestructible polywood and aluminum picnic tables and dining sets. Available in an array of styles, shapes, colors, and sizes, there’s a table to fit every space, budget, and occasion, and complement any porch, patio, or gazebo.

To see the entire selection of picnic tables, along with a huge assortment of outdoor furniture, go to AllPicnicTables.com. To contact a design consultant or a customer service representative, call 1-888-293-2339, or e-mail contact@allpicnictables.com.