Many people hesitate to plant a garden because they believe the upkeep is too labor-intensive and expensive. While this is a valid concern, it’s based on a misunderstanding. Not all plants require constant attention! In fact, there are plenty of low-maintenance plants that thrive with minimal care, allowing us to enjoy a beautiful garden without all the hassle.
Today, I’ll introduce you to 10 low-maintenance groundcover plants to consider for your garden that don’t require too much upkeep but will still grow beautifully.
1. Aster (Dutch Aster)
Aster, also known as Symphyotrichum or New England Aster, is a gorgeous perennial plant that blooms in late summer to fall.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Cold-tolerant and drought-resistant.
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Thrives in full sunlight and can survive cold winters without protection in northern regions.
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It adapts well to different soils, whether fertile or poor.
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Blooms from August to October with a long flowering period and vibrant flowers.
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Needs minimal care, but watering and fertilizing during the growing season can encourage more flowers.
2. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
This perennial herb is one of the most popular flowers for gardens due to its bright yellow petals and long-lasting blooms.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Tolerates both heat and drought, and is easy to grow.
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Prefers sunny spots but can also tolerate partial shade.
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Blooms from July to October with a long flowering period.
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Resistant to pests and diseases and doesn’t require staking.
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Once established, it requires very little maintenance.
3. Coreopsis (Tickseed)
Coreopsis is a hardy perennial that blooms from summer to fall, and is widely used in garden borders and flower beds.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Tolerates both sun and partial shade.
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Drought-resistant and easy to grow in a variety of soils.
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Thrives in well-drained soil and doesn’t need excessive fertilizer.
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Blooms from July to September, and doesn’t require frequent care once established.
4. Echinacea (Coneflower)
Echinacea is a striking perennial flower with daisy-like petals and a central cone, perfect for attracting pollinators to your garden.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Extremely resilient, drought-tolerant, and cold-hardy.
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Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil but can grow in most conditions.
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Blooms from June to August, often with a long flowering season.
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Requires little maintenance after planting and benefits from regular sunlight and good air circulation.
5. Liatris (Blazing Star)
Liatris is a bold, vertical perennial that adds height and texture to the garden with its spiky purple flowers.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Grows well in full sunlight and can tolerate some shade.
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Drought-resistant and doesn’t need rich soil.
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Flowers in July and August with long-lasting blooms.
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A very low-maintenance plant that only needs occasional watering during dry periods.
6. Blue Fescue Grass
Blue Fescue is a compact, ornamental grass known for its unique blue-gray foliage, adding texture and color to your garden.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Cold and drought-tolerant, perfect for areas with fluctuating temperatures.
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Prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight.
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Blooms in late summer and requires little to no care once established.
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Ideal for smaller gardens, containers, or as a border plant.
7. Yarrow (Achillea)
Yarrow is a hardy perennial that produces flat clusters of small flowers in shades of pink, yellow, or white.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Thrives in full sun and can tolerate both drought and poor soil.
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Has a long flowering period from mid-summer to fall.
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Extremely easy to grow with minimal maintenance, perfect for low-care gardens.
8. Creeping Thyme
Creeping thyme is a fragrant, ground-cover herb that adds a lovely touch of greenery and flowers to your garden.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Hardy, drought-resistant, and thrives in full sunlight.
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Low-growing and spreads easily, making it perfect for ground cover.
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Can tolerate foot traffic and is often used as a lawn substitute in some gardens.
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Blooms in summer, with aromatic flowers that repel pests and have antimicrobial properties.
9. Honeysuckle (Lonicera)
Honeysuckle is a hardy, evergreen vine that produces fragrant flowers, making it perfect for both garden fences and trellises.
Why It’s Recommended:
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Extremely adaptable and tolerates both sun and shade.
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Drought and cold-resistant, as well as tolerant of different soil types.
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Blooms from May to August, offering a long period of flowering.
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Requires very little care after initial planting and is excellent for vertical garden spaces.
10. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses are a versatile category that includes plants like Muhlenbergia, Panicum, and Miscanthus, known for their aesthetic appeal and easy care.
Why It’s Recommended:
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These grasses are hardy and adaptable, thriving in various weather conditions.
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They require little care and are low-maintenance once established.
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Their attractive appearance, especially when swaying in the wind, makes them a perfect addition to any garden.
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They do not require frequent watering and can survive in both poor and fertile soils.
These 10 low-maintenance garden plants are perfect for those looking to create a beautiful outdoor space without the stress of constant upkeep. Whether you’re a beginner or simply want an easier garden to maintain, these plants will thrive with minimal attention and reward you with vibrant color, texture, and fragrance throughout the year. Happy gardening!