Whether you’re a gardening novice or an experienced green thumb, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of growing plants that require minimal maintenance. Easy-care plants are ideal for those who want to enjoy their garden without spending countless hours tending to it. We’ve curated a list of our five favorite low-maintenance outdoor plants that are perfect for any gardener, regardless of skill level. These plants not only add beauty to your landscape but also allow you to spend more time relaxing and enjoying your garden.
1. Stonecrop (Sedum)
Sedum, commonly known as stonecrop, is a versatile ground cover plant that excels in minimal care. It thrives in hot, humid conditions and requires very little water, making it ideal for dry soils or areas prone to drought. This “plant it and forget it” type is perfect for transforming neglected spaces or adding a pop of color to containers. With its quick growth and attractive appearance—ranging from bright yellow foliage to lush green leaves—sedum remains a favorite among gardeners. Additionally, it produces delicate flowers in the summer, adding even more charm to any garden. Sedum is nearly impossible to kill and perfect for gardeners who want a low-maintenance yet visually appealing plant.
2. Hosta
Hosta, often referred to as plantain lily, is a staple in low-maintenance gardening, especially in shaded or woodland gardens. This adaptable perennial thrives in areas with filtered sunlight, adding color and texture with minimal effort. Hostas come in various sizes and shapes, from the ‘Waterslide’ hosta with its wavy blue-green leaves to the ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ miniature hosta, perfect for smaller spaces. The foliage remains attractive throughout the season, and during summer, each plant produces charming, icy-purple flowers that attract hummingbirds. To combat slug issues, choose hosta varieties with thicker leaves. Hostas are an easy-to-care-for solution for shaded areas, requiring little more than occasional watering and the occasional cleaning up of spent flowers.
3. Panicle Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are a favorite among many gardeners for their stunning blooms, and the panicle hydrangea, such as ‘Limelight’ and Quick Fire Fab, is one of the easiest to maintain. Known for its hardiness, it continues to bloom even after harsh winters. These hydrangeas feature football-shaped blooms that transition from creamy green to a rich red or pink as they age. Pruning is simple—just cut back about one-third of the plant’s height in spring. Panicle hydrangeas offer a bounty of blooms with minimal effort, making them an excellent choice for gardeners who want to add a splash of color with little maintenance.
4. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses are versatile, low-maintenance perennials that add drama and interest to any landscape. They thrive with minimal care, providing multi-season color and texture to your garden. Whether you’re looking to create a privacy screen or simply enhance your garden’s aesthetic, ornamental grasses like ‘Karley Rose’ fountain grass offer a big impact with little effort. They are also deer-resistant, adding an extra layer of convenience. With a range of colors and heights, these grasses can be placed anywhere to add a touch of elegance to your garden throughout the year.
5. Roses (Oso Easy Series)
Yes, roses can be easy to care for, and the Oso Easy® series from Proven Winners® Color Choice® proves just that. This series breaks the traditional mold of high-maintenance roses by being virtually worry-free. No need for constant spraying to protect against pests like aphids, and these roses even “self-clean,” dropping old blooms to make way for new ones. The Oso Easy roses are also highly disease-resistant, ensuring vibrant, healthy blooms all season long. With a variety of colors—from classic reds to yellow and pink—there’s a rose in this series for every gardener. Oso Easy roses provide classic beauty with minimal fuss.
Plants for Gardeners of Every Skill Level
This collection of plants is perfect for gardeners at any skill level. Whether you’re just starting your gardening journey, have been cultivating plants for years, or are somewhere in between, easy-care plants can add beauty to your landscape without the added maintenance hassle. Our goal is to help you create a garden that you can truly enjoy—one that doesn’t require constant attention but still looks stunning. We invite you to explore these low-maintenance options and see how they can transform your garden. Let us know what you think!
If you’re a beginner gardener or simply looking for even easier-to-care-for plants, we’ve got you covered. Check out our curated collection of plants that are perfect for those just starting out or those who want something simple and beautiful to grow.
