Are you looking to create a beautiful outdoor space for yourself or a senior loved one but worried about the upkeep? Read on!
Introducing plants into your garden or patio adds color and life and offers numerous health benefits for seniors, including improved mental health, reduced stress levels, and enhanced cognitive function. In this blog post, we will guide you through a selection of easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plants that will help you achieve a gorgeous oasis without the hassle. Considering watering needs, sunlight requirements, and pest resistance, we've curated a list of flowering and non-flowering plants that will thrive with minimal care. So, let's get started on creating a stunning and effortless outdoor space you'll love spending time in!
Low-Maintenance Flowering Plants for Outdoor Spaces
Here are some popular, easy-to-grow flowering species that could be perfect for your garden:
Lavender
Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden and can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. This Mediterranean low-maintenance plant requires minimal watering and full sunlight, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. To keep your lavender healthy, simply prune back the stems after they've finished flowering.
Marigolds
Marigolds are vibrant flowers that can be an eye-catching focal point in any outdoor space. These drought-tolerant flowers can be grown in full sun or partial shade, requiring little care. They also act as a natural pest repellent, protecting nearby plants from harmful insects. Just be sure to remove spent blooms to encourage new growth.
Coneflowers
These hardy, daisy-like flowers are a favorite among pollinators. They are low-maintenance plants that can bring butterflies and bees to your garden. Coneflowers are drought-tolerant and can handle full sun or partial shade. Simply deadhead the spent flowers throughout the growing season to promote more blooms.
Geraniums
Geraniums are a classic choice for low-maintenance gardens due to their wide variety of colors and easy-care nature. Be sure to give them plenty of sunlight for optimal blooms – part sun to full sun is best in well-draining soil.
Low-Maintenance, Non-Flowering Outdoor Plants
Looking for a backdrop for your flowering low-maintenance plants or specimens with leaves that provide stunning visual interest? These might be for you:
Hostas
Hostas are popular perennial low-maintenance plants known for their lush foliage and durability. (While they do flower, the blooms are small and short-lived.) Perfect for shady areas, hostas come in various shades of green and can add a pop of color to any garden. Minimal watering is required, and a light layer of mulch can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Ferns
Ferns are another excellent non-flowering option for shady outdoor spaces. Ferns add texture and visual interest to the garden with their delicate fronds and varying shades of green. Keep their soil consistently moist, and they'll reward you with their beauty all season long.
Succulents
They are ideal for gardens with low-maintenance plants and are known for their striking shapes and low water requirements. You can grow them in both sunny and partially shaded spots, and they need sandy, well-draining soil. Succulents are perfect for container gardening and require minimal care. Just be sure to protect them from frost in colder climates.
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses are a fantastic way to add height, movement, and texture to your garden. With minimal care, these grasses can grow in a variety of conditions – from full sun to partial shade. Most varieties are drought-tolerant and pest-resistant, making them a hassle-free choice for your outdoor space.
Practical Tips for Proper Plant Placement and Basic Maintenance
When placing your low-maintenance plants, be mindful of their sunlight and shade requirements, and group plants with similar needs together. It will make it easier to care for your garden. For basic maintenance, keep a watering, pruning, and pest control routine to ensure your plants continue flourishing.
If you have the means, install a low-pressure drip irrigation system to make the gardener's job easier and to ensure all low-maintenance plants get sufficient water.
Enjoy Your Home Longer With Senior Helpers
Incorporating low-maintenance plants into your outdoor space is an easy, stress-free way to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature. With these simple tips and plant suggestions, you can create a stunning garden that brings you and your loved ones joy and relaxation.
If you live in Long Beach, Carson, Avalon, Signal Hill, or Compton and need assistance with senior care and in-home independent living, don't hesitate to contact us at Senior Helpers Long Beach. Our team is eager to help you enjoy a beautiful, effortless outdoor space.