Five Resilient Outdoor Plant Species that barely require maintenance
In contrast to the meticulous care required for indoor plants with customizable temperature, water, and sunlight preferences, outdoor varieties often face harsher environments and unintentional neglect. Placed in secluded corners of your yard, they can endure the elements and occasional forgetfulness about watering. To help you enliven these overlooked garden spots, our experts have shared some hardy options that can withstand neglect and harsh conditions:
Hardy Plants for Neglect and Harsh Conditions
Chives
Lara Hermanson, co-founder of Farmscape, highlights the versatility of chives: "In cooler climates, chives can be cut back during harsher weather and will re-sprout in the spring. In warmer areas, they are a cut-and-come-again plant that can be continuously harvested, withstanding several years with proper care"[1].
Sedum
Any plant lover with a soft spot for succulents can appreciate sedum, as this perennial provides vibrant colors while adapting to nearly any challenging climate condition, from partial shade to full sun[1].
Geraniums
Known for their lush green foliage and bright hues, geraniums are a go-to plant that thrives in moist soil and abundant sunlight, making them a reliable outdoor option for those seeking survivability[1].
Herbs
In your cutting garden, kitchen staples like sage, rosemary, and thyme are surprisingly hardy plants that can withstand varying weather and seasonal changes in growth[1]. Lavender and other herbs, such as mint and jalapeños, can also hold their ground with minimal care.
Agave
Living in warm, arid areas, agave plants are a must-have for anyone seeking tough-as-nails outdoor decor[2]. If you aren't sure if agave will work for your area, simply take note of what's thriving in your neighbor's yards.
When it comes to caring for the hardiest plants, remember: less is often more. These resilient options not only withstand neglect and harsh conditions but also add a touch of beauty to your outdoor spaces while requiring minimal maintenance.
[1] Enrichment data for outdoor plants[2] Enrichment data for agave in particular climates
Martha Stewart might suggest focusing on these hardy plants for your garden, as they can withstand neglect and harsh conditions. Lara Hermanson, co-founder of Farmscape, found success with chives, which can be cut back during harsh weather in cooler climates and continuously harvested in warmer areas. Moreover, geraniums, herbs like sage, rosemary, and thymes, and even agave plants can thrive under minimal care. In your garden, the kill of forgetfulness about watering and harsh environments seems less likely to affect these true survivors. The true beauty of these plants lies in their resilience and ability to transform overlooked garden spots, bringing life to your outdoor spaces with minimal upkeep.
