Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

What is an appropriate action to take when gardening in Texas' summer heat?

1. Water plants during midday

2. Use drought-resistant plants

3. Plant during the hottest part of the day

4. Apply excessive fertilizer

The correct answer is: Use drought-resistant plants

Using drought-resistant plants is an appropriate action when gardening in Texas' summer heat because these plants are specially adapted to thrive in arid conditions and can withstand prolonged periods of high temperatures and limited water availability. Drought-resistant plants often have features such as deep root systems, thick or waxy leaves, and reduced leaf size that help conserve moisture and protect against heat stress. Selecting these types of plants not only supports sustainable gardening practices but also reduces the need for frequent watering, making it easier to maintain a healthy garden during the hot summer months. In contrast, the other options would generally lead to negative outcomes for plant health and garden management. Watering plants during midday can lead to significant evaporation, reducing the effectiveness of watering efforts. Planting during the hottest part of the day stresses the plants unnecessarily, making it harder for them to establish themselves. Applying excessive fertilizer, particularly in heat, can harm plants by promoting rapid growth that they might not survive due to stress from heat and lack of water, potentially leading to root burn and nutrient imbalances.