Guide to the Best Perennial Flowers for Beginners
Starting a perennial flower garden can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. One of the key considerations is selecting the right plants that offer low maintenance and an extended display of color. This guide will introduce some of the best perennial flowers for beginners, ensuring a long-lasting and visually appealing garden.
Low Maintenance Ground Covers
1. Oxalis Triangularis (Shamrock Plant)
Oxalis triangularis, commonly known as shamrock plants, add a touch of whimsy to any garden. Their small, triangular leaves and vibrant flowers make them a popular choice for beginners. They prefer partial shade and well-draining soil, making them resistant to neglect and easy to care for.
2. Veronica (Speedwell)
Veronica, or speedwell, comes in various colors and is known for its ability to grow through winter and spring. Its small, delicate flowers line the stem in a way that creates a continuous carpet of color. These plants thrive in semi-shade and are perfect for edging borders or creating a low-maintenance ground cover.
Medium Height Plants
3. Dahlias
Dahlias are a joy to grow, offering a wide range of colors and sizes. They can thrive in most conditions, as long as they receive plenty of sunlight and regular water during the growing season. Dahlias add a splash of summer color to any garden, making them a must-have for beginner gardeners.
4. Agapanthus
Agapanthus, or lily of the Nile, have a striking appearance with their blue blossoms. These plants grow best in full sun and well-draining soil. They are relatively drought-tolerant and can thrive with minimal care, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
5. Hibiscus
With their large and showy blooms, hibiscus flowers add a tropical touch to any garden. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and blue. Hibiscus requires full sun and regular watering, so they are a bit more demanding than some of the other plants on this list but still suitable for beginners.
Tall Plants
6. Evening Primrose
Evening primroses are beloved for their yellow blooms that open in the evening and their delightful scent. These plants are easy to grow and can thrive in partial shade. They are also excellent for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.
7. Crocosmia
Crocosmia, with their spear-like leaves and hot orange flower sprays, are a dramatic addition to any garden. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Crocosmia are hardy and easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners.
8. Cardoons
Cardoons are a unique tall plant known for their edible celery-type stems and striking thistle-like flowers. They are perfect for specimen planting or as a backdrop for other plants. Cardoons are generally easy to grow, even with less-than-ideal conditions, making them a great choice for novice gardeners.
Popular "Easy Care" Flowers
9. Daylilies
Daylilies are versatile and easy to grow, with many varieties available in a range of colors. While they spread quickly, proper placement can prevent them from overgrowing. Daylilies prefer full sun and well-draining soil, making them a favorite among beginner gardeners.
10. Balloonflowers (Campanula)
Balloonflowers have stunning purple or pink blooms that are easy to care for. They are drought-tolerant and can thrive in partial shade. These plants are perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden without requiring too much effort.
11. Coneflowers
Coneflowers are known for their long sturdy stems and their ability to attract pollinators. They require minimal care and can thrive in full sun. Hybrid coneflowers are shorter and come in more colors, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
12. Lavender
Lavender is a favorite among gardeners for its beauty and fragrance. It blooms in late spring and early summer, and its evergreen foliage adds color throughout the year. Lavender prefers well-draining soil and full sun, making it a low-maintenance option for beginners.
13. Roses
While some varieties of roses are easier to care for than others, they can still be rewarding for beginner gardeners. Certain species, such as floribunda roses, produce clusters of flowers and require less maintenance. Make sure to choose a hardy variety and provide them with proper sunlight and regular care.
Benefits of Perennial Flowers
Starting with perennials is a great way to build a low-maintenance garden. They establish strong root systems, which means they can thrive with minimal care. Additionally, perennials often have staggered bloom times, extending the period of vibrant color in your garden.
For inspiration on plant selection, visit the ground covers in shopping centers. These areas are designed to withstand neglect and provide colorful displays even when not tended to closely. When planning your garden, aim to stagger bloom times to ensure a continuous display of color throughout the growing season.
In the spring, daffodils are a good choice, with varieties like Winston Churchill standing out for their hardiness and ability to spread well. These plants can complement your perennial garden, providing a stunning display when planted in a large patch.
Choosing the right perennials for your garden can be challenging, but with the right plants and some basic knowledge, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance garden. Remember, "easy care" doesn't mean the plants are entirely without needs. Some plants may require particular conditions or care, so be sure to research each plant thoroughly.