Let's face it, a glorious garden can mean hours, days, whole weekends sacrificed for the greater, greener cause. It doesn't need to be like that, though.
If you're after a plot that packs a punch colour-wise – but also requires minimal effort –there are certain plants to plump for for bold beds, borders and containers. Read on for some suggestions of what to grow if you're after reliable, low-maintenance options that still bring the flower power (and are pollinator pleasing, too).
1. Black-eyed Susans
This unfussy flower is very forgiving once established. They cope well in most ordinary garden soils, especially if the ground is reasonably well drained, and they flower best in a sunny spot.
They're also relatively drought-tolerant after their roots have settled in, so they don't need constant watering. Black-eyed Susans' sturdy stems and daisy-like flowers give lots of colour for very little effort, and many varieties will keep blooming from late summer into autumn. Deadheading can encourage more flowers, but they'll still perform without too much fuss.
2. Lantana
Lantanas thrive in warm, sunny spots and cope well with dry conditions once established (good to know if any hosepipe bans come into force this summer). They don't need rich soil or constant feeding, and their long flowering season makes them a generous choice for very little effort.
3. Ice plants
This succulent has small flowers in neon shades and leaves with a bit of a frosty shine. Typically used as a ground cover, ice plants do well in most soil types as long as it is well-drained. Once established, they're fairly low-maintenance and often thrive in sunny, exposed spots where fussier plants struggle.
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4. Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’
This plant may look delicate with its pretty yellow flowers on threadlike stems, but it soldiers on through drought and dry soil. Even better, it will come back every year.
5. Switchgrass
If you like the look of ornamental grasses, this easy-to-grow variety has delicate, pink-tinged panicles that rustle in the wind. Resistant to most pests, it can tolerate wet, dry, and even clay soil.
6. Catmint
A popular shrub for its toughness, pretty blue-lilac flowers, and silvery green leaves, catmint will also attract bees and butterflies to your garden. It can have other uses in the garden as well.
7. Sedum
These fun plants come in so many shapes, sizes, and colours, and they can all withstand heat, drought, and poor (but well-drained) soil. Known for their succulent-like foliage, some sedum can be used as groundcover, while others are taller and covered in flowers that are beloved by bees.
8. Hardy geraniums
Cranesbills are famously low-maintenance, robust perennials that require minimal upkeep once established. The gift that keeps on giving, they're also drought-tolerant, rarely bothered by pests like slugs, and thrive in various soil types. Regular feeding/watering is only needed for container-grown plants. Try Geranium ‘Rozanne’ for blue-purple flowers.
9. Heuchera
It's not just about pretty petals, foliage can bring colour, pattern and texture to your garden. Try this shade-loving evergreen for year-round interest.
10. Astrantia
If you covet that cottage garden look, this star-shaped perennial is the plant for you. Blooming from May to August, astrantia like well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. This jewel of a flower is perfect for pollinators and excellent for cutting. What's not to love?
Gardening must-haves
Filberts of Dorset Gardeners Hand Salve
Haywards Garden Bee and Butterfly Water Stations, Garden Décor, set of three colourful bee water cups .
Home Sussex Handmade Peg Apron
Painted Garden Label/Marker
The Fae Potter Wild Bird Feeder ceramic hanging
WhinnyPoo WhinnyPoo Box of 3 Plant Feed
Lisa Cericola (she/her) is a writer and editor who specializes in travel, food, and culture. A South Florida native, Lisa lived in New York City for 15 years and now resides in beautiful Birmingham, Alabama. She has been an editor at Southern Living and Food Network Magazine and writes for numerous publications including Garden & Gun and Late Checkout. When she’s not working on a story, or planning her next trip, Lisa is likely making and selling small-batch olive oil granola at her local farmers market.
