Top 10 beginner-friendly plants for a low-maintenance backyard garden

Gardening is a wonderful hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner just starting out, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing plants for your backyard. For those new to gardening, it’s important to start with plants that are easy to care for and can withstand a range of conditions. This article will highlight ten of the best plants for beginners, with advice from gardening experts to help you keep your backyard looking beautiful throughout the season.

One of the easiest plants to grow is chives. These lovely perennials have long, green foliage and produce beautiful purple flowers in the spring. Chives thrive in both direct sunlight and cool conditions, making them ideal for any backyard. They’re also known for their fragrant aroma, which adds a lovely touch to any garden. Another great option for beginners is marigolds. These annual flowers come in a wide range of colors, including yellow and orange. Marigolds are extremely low-maintenance and can tolerate almost any type of soil. Plus, they’re perfect for attracting beneficial insects to your garden.

If you’re looking for a plant that will provide a pop of color all season long, sunflowers are an excellent choice. These cheerful flowers are easy to grow and will brighten up any backyard. Sunflowers prefer full sun and well-drained soil, so make sure to plant them in an area that receives plenty of sunlight. Another plant that requires minimal care is lavender. This beautiful perennial is known for its fragrant purple flowers and silvery-gray foliage. Lavender can be grown in pots or in the ground, and it thrives in dry, well-drained soil.

For those who want to try their hand at growing vegetables, there are many options that are perfect for beginners. One of the most popular choices is tomatoes. Tomatoes are relatively easy to grow and can be grown in pots or in raised beds. They require plenty of sunlight and need to be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Another easy-to-grow vegetable is lettuce. Lettuce can be grown throughout the season and is perfect for cool weather. It’s best to start lettuce seeds indoors and then transplant them outdoors once they’re established.

These are just a few of the best plants for beginners, but there are many others to choose from. If you’re new to gardening, it’s always a good idea to start with plants that are easy to care for and can withstand a range of conditions. By following the advice of gardening experts and submitting to the trends, you’ve made the first step towards creating a beautiful backyard oasis. So, don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and start planting!

10 garden plants that are great for beginners

If you’re new to gardening and want to start a beautiful backyard, there are plenty of plants that are easy to grow and require minimal care. Here are 10 garden plants that are great for beginners:

1. Chives: Chives are a versatile herb that can be grown in both pots and garden beds. They have long, thin leaves that add flavor to many dishes. Chives are known for their attractive purple flowers that bloom throughout the summer season.

2. Marigolds: Marigolds are annual flowers that come in a range of colors, including yellow, orange, and white. They are easy to grow and can be planted in the ground or in pots. Marigolds add a pop of color to any garden and attract beneficial insects.

3. Nepeta (Catmint): Nepeta is a perennial plant that has fragrant foliage and flowers. It is easy to grow and can be planted in well-drained soil. Nepeta blooms from late spring to early summer and adds a touch of elegance to any garden.

4. Sunflowers: Sunflowers are a classic choice for beginner gardeners. They are easy to grow from seed and require little maintenance. Sunflowers are known for their tall, vibrant yellow blooms and can be grown in beds or containers.

5. Mint: Mint is a hardy herb that is perfect for beginners. It can be grown in pots or in the ground and requires minimal care. Mint adds a fresh and fragrant touch to any garden and can be used in cooking or for herbal tea.

6. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a popular vegetable for beginner gardeners. They can be grown in both pots and in the ground, but they do require full sun and well-drained soil. Tomatoes are easy to start from seed or can be purchased as young plants.

7. Peppers: Peppers are another vegetable that is great for beginners. They come in a variety of colors and flavors and can be grown in pots or in the ground. Peppers require full sun and well-drained soil and can be started from seed or purchased as young plants.

8. Zinnias: Zinnias are annual flowers that come in a range of colors, from deep reds to bright pinks. They are easy to grow and can be planted in beds or containers. Zinnias will bloom throughout the summer season and add beauty to any garden.

9. Pansies: Pansies are cool weather flowers that are perfect for beginners. They come in a range of colors and can be planted in the fall or early spring. Pansies add a splash of color to any garden and can survive light frosts.

10. Aged manure: While not a plant, aged manure is a great addition to any garden. It adds nutrients to the soil and helps plants grow strong and healthy. Aged manure can be purchased from garden centers or composted at home.

These 10 garden plants are great choices for beginners because they are easy to grow and require minimal care. Whether you have a small balcony or a large backyard, there’s always room to start a garden and enjoy the beauty of nature.

1 Rudbeckia

Rudbeckia is a lovely plant that is perfect for beginners. If you’ve never had a green thumb before, this is the plant for you. Gardening experts recommend Rudbeckia because it is easy to care for and can withstand different growing conditions.

With its beautiful yellow-orange flowers, Rudbeckia can add a pop of color to any garden. They bloom throughout the long growing season, from early summer to late fall. The plant requires little to no maintenance, making it a great choice for busy gardeners.

Rudbeckia is a cool plant to have in your backyard. According to Mallory, one of our gardening experts, “They are easy to grow and their fruit makes nice cut flowers.” When planting Rudbeckia, make sure to choose a well-drained area with plenty of sunlight.

In terms of care, Rudbeckia doesn’t demand too much attention. “They are very low maintenance,” adds Mallory. “I have had Rudbeckia bloom all over my garden for years. They have aged with grace and are still going strong.” This plant is perfect for those who want beautiful foliage without much effort.

In addition to being easy to care for, Rudbeckia is also great for attracting pollinators. Bees and butterflies love the flowers of this plant, so it’s a win-win situation! Plus, the fragrant flowers of Rudbeckia will add a pleasant scent to your backyard.

If you’re looking for an annual plant that will bloom all season long, Rudbeckia is an ideal choice. It can be grown in gardens, pots, or even in a cool garage. It is a versatile plant that will thrive in most garden conditions.

So, whether you’re a beginner gardener or an experienced one, Rudbeckia is a plant that will make your garden shine. Get some today and enjoy their beautiful flowers throughout the season!

2 Nepeta

Nepeta, also known as catmint, is a perfect plant for beginners. It is low-maintenance and easy to grow, making it ideal for those who are new to gardening. Nepeta is a member of the mint family and is known for its fragrant foliage and beautiful flowers.

There are many different varieties of nepeta, but the most popular and well-known is Nepeta ‘Walker’s Low’. This variety has long bloom season, starting in late spring and continuing throughout the summer. The flowers are a lovely lavender-blue color and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Nepeta is also a great plant to include in your vegetable garden. It attracts beneficial insects that can help to control pests. Planting nepeta near your vegetables, such as tomatoes or peppers, can help to keep them healthy and free from insects.

Nepeta is a tough plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It prefers full sun but can also tolerate some shade. It likes well-drained soil and can even tolerate dry conditions. Nepeta is also deer-resistant, making it a good choice for gardens where deer are a problem.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds beauty to your garden, nepeta is a great choice. It is easy to grow and requires little care. Once established, it can grow for many years without much attention. So if you’re a beginner gardener, consider starting with nepeta.

3 French marigolds

French marigolds are a colorful addition to any garden with their range of vibrant yellow, orange, and white flowers. They are easy to care for and make an ideal choice for beginners.

French marigolds thrive in well-drained soil and should be planted in early spring once the weather has warmed up. They can be grown from seed or by purchasing established plants from a nursery. French marigolds add a pop of color to your garden beds and are known to attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.

One of the most popular French marigold varieties is the ‘Mizzurati’ with its beautiful orange and red flowers. These marigolds bloom throughout the summer and into the fall, making them a long-lasting addition to your garden.

French marigolds are also great companion plants for vegetables. They help to deter pests and attract pollinators, which can increase the yield of your vegetable garden. Some good companion plants to grow with French marigolds include chives, nepeta, and lavender.

These annual plants are low-maintenance and don’t require much care. Water them regularly, especially during dry spells, and remove any dead flowers or foliage to encourage new growth. French marigolds are also relatively pest-resistant, making them a perfect choice for those who want an easy-to-grow plant.

French marigolds can be planted in containers, flower beds, or even in pots on your balcony or patio. They are versatile and can adapt to different growing conditions, although they prefer full sun. With their fragrant blooms and beautiful foliage, French marigolds will add a touch of color and charm to any garden or outdoor space.

4 Chives

Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a versatile herb that every beginner gardener should consider growing. These plants are easy to care for and provide a range of benefits throughout the year.

Chives are perennial plants that can be planted in early spring or late summer/early autumn. They have beautiful purple flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer, adding a pop of color to your garden. Not only are the flowers lovely to look at, but they also attract bees and butterflies, making them a great addition to pollinator gardens.

One of the best things about growing chives is that they are low-maintenance. They are not demanding in terms of soil type or water requirements, as long as they are planted in well-drained soil. Chives can tolerate most weather conditions and can even survive slightly colder temperatures.

Chives are part of the onion family and have a mild onion flavor. The leaves can be harvested and used in various dishes, adding a fresh and subtle onion taste. You can use chives in salads, soups, scrambled eggs, and many other recipes.

In terms of companionship, chives are known to benefit many other plants in the garden. They repel pests like aphids and whiteflies, making them a great companion for vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, and peppers. On the other hand, chives are compatible with plants like sunflowers and marigolds, as they help deter beetles and other harmful insects.

To start growing chives, you can either plant seeds or purchase young plants from a nursery. Plant them in a sunny spot in your garden, preferably near the vegetable beds. Chives prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Once established, chives are relatively drought-tolerant and don’t require frequent watering.

In terms of care, it’s important to keep the chives foliage well-maintained. Remove any yellow or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth. It’s also a good idea to divide chives every few years to keep them from becoming overcrowded.

In conclusion, chives are an ideal plant for beginners. They are easy to grow, require minimal care, and offer both aesthetic and culinary benefits. Whether you have a backyard garden or a small herb container, chives will thrive and enhance your gardening experience.

5 Hellebores

Hellebores, also known as Lenten Roses, are a popular choice for both experienced and beginner gardeners. These evergreen perennial plants are valued for their ability to bloom during the late winter and early spring months when most other plants are still dormant. Hellebores are also known for their long-lived nature, making them an ideal addition to any garden. Here are 5 Hellebores that are perfect for beginners:

• Mallory: This Hellebore variety is known for its beautiful white flowers. It can be grown in both full sun and partial shade, and it blooms from late winter to early spring. Mallory is a low-maintenance plant that can withstand a wide range of weather conditions, making it an excellent choice for novice gardeners.

• Nepeta: Nepeta is a type of Hellebore with yellow flowers. It has a delicate and fragrant nature, making it a favorite among many gardeners. Nepeta is easy to grow and can tolerate cool weather. It is a perfect addition to any garden, adding a pop of color during the spring months.

• Aged Marigolds: Aged Marigolds are another type of Hellebore that beginners should consider. These plants have beautiful orange flowers and are known for their easy-care nature. Aged Marigolds can be planted directly in the ground or in containers, making them a versatile choice for any garden.

• Lavender Chives: Lavender Chives are a popular choice among gardeners who want to add a touch of fragrance to their gardens. These Hellebores have lavender flowers and can be grown in both full sun and partial shade. Lavender Chives are known for their long blooming season, making them a favorite among many gardeners.

• Mizzurati: Mizzurati is a Hellebore variety that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. It has beautiful purple flowers and is known for its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Mizzurati is a low-maintenance plant that can be grown in both full sun and partial shade, making it a great choice for beginner gardeners.

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, Hellebores are a great addition to any garden. With their easy-care nature and beautiful flowers, they are sure to bring years of beauty and joy to your outdoor space. Don’t miss out on these popular plants – start growing Hellebores today!

6 Crab apples

Crab apples are beautiful trees that make a great addition to any backyard. Known for their lovely white or pink blooms in the spring and their fruit in the fall, they are perfect for adding some color and interest to your outdoor space.

One of the best things about crab apples is that they are easy to grow and require very little care. They are ideal for beginner gardeners who are just starting out. With some direct sunlight and regular watering, they will thrive in your garden.

In terms of planting, crab apples are very versatile. They can be grown in beds or as standalone trees. They have a cool nature and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for many different climates.

Crab apples are also known for their foliage, which adds a pop of color to your garden. Their leaves come in different shades of green, orange, and yellow, making them a stunning addition to any landscape. They also have a fragrant scent, making them a favorite among homeowners.

If you’ve always wanted to grow fruit in your backyard, crab apples are a great option. While they may not have the same fruit as regular apple trees, their small fruits are perfect for making jams, jellies, and pies. Plus, they attract a variety of wildlife, including birds and butterflies.

Crab apples are also great companion plants, as they can be grown alongside other plants in your garden. They have shown to enhance the growth and health of other plant species, such as chives, marigolds, and sunflowers.

When it comes to care, crab apples are relatively low-maintenance. Once established, they require minimal pruning and can be left to grow on their own. However, if you want to shape the tree or remove any dead or damaged branches, you can do so in the late winter or early spring.

If you’re a beginner gardener or just looking for an easy-care tree, crab apples are the perfect choice. They will bring beauty and color to your backyard throughout the year. So why not start growing your own crab apples today?

7 Lavender

Lavender is a popular choice among beginner gardeners because of its easy care and beautiful blooms. It is a great addition to any garden, whether you have a small backyard with flower beds or a large established garden.

Lavender plants only require minimal care, making them ideal for those who are new to gardening. They can be grown in a wide range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade, and they are known to be quite drought-tolerant. This means that they can withstand dry spells and don’t require frequent watering.

One of the best things about lavender is its lovely fragrance. The flowers are known for their calming scent and can be used to make potpourri, sachets, or essential oils. Lavender is also a favorite of bees and butterflies, so you can attract these beneficial insects to your garden.

There are many different varieties of lavender to choose from, each with its own unique color and growth habit. Some of the most popular ones include English lavender, French lavender, and Spanish lavender. English lavender is known for its long blooming season, while French lavender has beautiful purple flowers and a compact growth habit. Spanish lavender has flowers in shades of purple, yellow, and white.

Lavender plants are typically started from cuttings or purchased as young plants from a garden center. They can be planted in spring or fall in well-draining soil. It’s important to provide them with plenty of sunlight and space to grow. Lavender plants should be spaced at least 12-18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation.

When it comes to care, lavender is relatively low maintenance. The plants should be watered regularly during their first year, but once established, they only need watering during extended dry periods. Pruning is also necessary to promote bushier growth and more blooms. This can be done in early spring or after the flowers have faded in summer.

If you live in a colder climate, you may need to provide some extra protection for your lavender plants in winter. Mulching around the base of the plants with aged compost or straw can help insulate the roots. You can also cover them with a burlap sack or move potted plants into a garage or other protected area.

Lavender is a beautiful and versatile plant that can be enjoyed in gardens of all sizes. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or an experienced plant owner, adding lavender to your landscape is always a great idea. Follow these care tips and enjoy the fragrant blooms and foliage that lavender provides throughout the growing season.

8 Heucheras

Heucheras, also known as Coral Bells, are beautiful perennial plants that are perfect for beginners. With their easy care and wide range of foliage colors, they add a pop of color to any garden. Here are 8 Heucheras that are sure to thrive in your backyard:

1. Marigolds: Marigolds are easy to grow and come in a range of colors, from bright yellow to deep orange. They bloom throughout the season and add a lovely fragrance to your garden.
2. Lavender: Lavender is a great choice for any garden. Its beautiful purple flowers and fragrant foliage make it a favorite among gardeners. It’s also known for attracting bees and butterflies.
3. Mallory: Mallory is a stunning Heuchera with silver-marbled leaves. It adds a touch of elegance to any garden and can be grown in both sun and shade.
4. Nepeta: Nepeta, also known as Catmint, is a low-maintenance plant that adds a splash of purple to your garden. It’s perfect for gardens with dry and well-drained soil.
5. White Heucheras: White Heucheras are known for their cool and calming effect in the garden. They’re perfect for brightening up shady areas.
6. Chives: Chives are not only great for adding flavor to your vegetable dishes, but they also have beautiful purple flowers. They’re easy to grow and require minimal care.
7. Mizzurati: Mizzurati is a Heuchera with stunning silver foliage that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. It’s perfect for adding texture and contrast to your flower beds.
8. Sunflowers: Sunflowers are not only tall and beautiful, but they also attract birds and bees to your garden. They’re easy to grow and can add a splash of yellow to your backyard.

If you’re new to gardening, don’t worry! These Heucheras are easy to care for and will thrive in a variety of conditions. Just make sure to provide them with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.

So if you’re looking to add some color and beauty to your backyard, why not try growing one of these Heucheras? With their easy care and stunning foliage, they’re sure to be a hit with both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

9 Sunflowers

Sunflowers are one of the most popular and easy-to-grow plants for beginners. They are known for their vibrant yellow flowers and can come in a range of sizes, from small dwarf varieties to tall and towering giants.

One of the best things about sunflowers is that they are very low-maintenance. They can be grown from seed and require minimal care throughout the growing season.

Sunflowers are perfect for making a bold statement in your backyard. They have a cool nature of adding a touch of sunshine to any garden. With their beautiful yellow blooms, they are sure to brighten up any outdoor space.

These lovely flowers are also great for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Their tall foliage offers shade and shelter for other plants, making them ideal companions for your vegetable garden.

Sunflowers are hardy and can withstand a range of weather conditions. They are well-suited to hot and dry climates, but they can also survive in cooler temperatures. Just make sure to provide them with well-drained soil and plenty of sunshine.

When it comes to planting sunflowers, they can be grown directly in the ground or in pots. If you live in a colder climate, you can start them indoors and then transplant them outside when the weather warms up.

Sunflowers are annual plants, which means they complete their life cycle in a single growing season. However, some varieties may self-seed and come back the following year.

If you’re a new gardener looking for a plant that requires minimal care but provides maximum impact, sunflowers are a perfect choice. Their easy-care nature and beautiful flowers make them a favorite among both beginners and experts.

So, if you want to add a pop of color to your garden and enjoy the beauty and fragrance of sunflowers throughout the summer, give them a try. You won’t be disappointed!

10 Sea hollies

Sea hollies, also known as eryngiums, are beautiful plants that are easy to grow and care for. They have lovely flowers that come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, lavender, and orange. Sea hollies are ideal for gardens with well-drained soil and they can thrive in both full sun and partial shade.

One of the best things about sea hollies is that they’re low-maintenance plants. They don’t require a lot of water and can tolerate dry conditions, making them perfect for beginners or the busy gardener. They also have long bloom times, with some varieties blooming from spring all the way through the summer months.

Sea hollies are also great for attracting pollinators to your garden. The flowers are fragrant and the nectar attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. This makes sea hollies an excellent choice for gardens that want to support the local ecosystem.

Here are 10 sea hollies that are easy to grow and perfect for beginners:

1. Eryngium ‘Blue Glitter’: This variety has beautiful blue flowers and is known for its attractive foliage.

2. Eryngium alpinum: These sea hollies have white or pale blue flowers and are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your garden.

3. Eryngium ‘Jade Frost’: With its unique foliage and striking flowers, this sea holly is a showstopper in any garden.

4. Eryngium planum: This sea holly variety has bright blue flowers that add a pop of color to any garden.

5. Eryngium giganteum: These sea hollies have tall stems and large flower heads, making them a standout in any garden bed.

6. Eryngium bourgatii: With its silvery foliage and deep blue flowers, this sea holly is a must-have for any garden.

7. Eryngium x zabelii: These sea hollies have lavender-colored flowers that bloom throughout the summer months.

8. Eryngium ebracteatum: As the name suggests, this sea holly has eye-catching bracts that add interest to any garden.

9. Eryngium pandanifolium: With its spiky leaves and large flower heads, this sea holly is sure to make a statement in your garden.

10. Eryngium ‘Sapphire Blue’: These sea hollies have beautiful blue flowers that add a touch of elegance to any garden.

When planting sea hollies, it’s important to choose a well-drained location with plenty of sunlight. These plants don’t like wet feet, so make sure to provide good drainage. Sea hollies should be watered regularly during dry spells, especially in the first few years after planting. Once established, they’re quite drought-tolerant and don’t require a lot of care.

In terms of care, sea hollies don’t require much attention. However, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for any pests or diseases. Aphids and slugs can be a problem for sea hollies, so make sure to check for any signs of infestation. If necessary, there are organic solutions that can help control these pests.

In conclusion, sea hollies are beautiful, easy-to-grow plants that are perfect for beginners. They add a touch of elegance to any garden and attract pollinators with their lovely flowers. Whether you have a small backyard or a large garden, there’s always room for these stunning plants!