Summer is a time for relaxation, not plant worry. Discover these 7 gorgeous low-maintenance plants that thrive with minimal care and thrive even during your vacation.^^
The arrival of summer often comes with the temptation to escape and explore new horizons. Yet, the anxiety of leaving your beloved plants unattended can leave you feeling torn. Thankfully, there are best low maintenance plants for pots that effortlessly handle your absence, allowing you to kick back and enjoy the season without worry. Here’s a look at 7 vibrant varieties that require little effort yet offer a burst of life to your outdoor space.^^
1. Coreopsis
Commonly known as tickseed, Coreopsis stands out as one of the most beloved summer perennials among gardeners. Renowned for its long-lasting blooms, this hardy plant flourishes in poor soil conditions, making it a perfect choice for low-maintenance container gardens. The Coreopsis grandiflora ‘Early Sunrise’ variety produces stunning semi-double golden blooms that grace your pots from late spring until early fall.
- Thrives in lean, well-drained soil without requiring extra care.
- sturdy in planting zones 4-9 and resilient against drought conditions.
- A great companion to airy grasses or darker foliage for a visually pleasing combination.
For those looking for a compact option, Coreopsis ‘Zagreb’ forms dense mounds adorned with bright golden flowers, making a notable statement in mixed containers. These plants embody resilience, giving you cheerful blooms without demanding consistent watering.^^
2. Lavender
No summer garden would be complete without the ethereal beauty and fragrant aroma of lavender. With varieties such as Munstead and Hidcote, this drought-tolerant plant serves as an attractive addition to any pot while catering to pollinators.
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it suitable for zones 5-9.
- Munstead grows to about 12-18 inches with rich purple-blue flowers that start blooming in early summer.
- Hidcote stands out with its deep violet flowers and bushy habit, perfect for mixed herb planters.
Lavender not only beautifies your garden but also provides a pleasing scent that enhances your outdoor experience, all while thriving with minimal intervention.^^
3. Sedum
Ideal for those seeking a succulent that adapts well to various conditions, sedum is synonymous with low maintenance. This versatile plant works wonderfully in pots, window boxes, or hanging baskets, showcasing an array of colors and textures. The Sedum ‘Angelina’, with its golden-green foliage, shifts to a striking orange-red in the fall, serving as a captivating filler with minimal requirements.
- Hardy in zones 3-9, these enticing succulents demand very little water.
- Dragon’s Blood, another stunning variety, displays bold burgundy leaves and deep red flowers, ideal as a focal point.
- These plants thrive in full sun and provide a dependable beauty that flourishes with minimal care.
Whether you’re seeking ground cover options or upright varieties like Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’, sedums deliver satisfaction and aesthetic appeal all summer long.^^
4. Calibrachoa (Million Bells Series)
If vibrancy is at the top of your gardening desires, look no further than the Calibrachoa. Varieties like the impactful Cherry Blossom cultivar eviscerate the drab and breathe life into any container. These delicate flowers bloom in stunning colors and patterns, ideal for cottage gardens and hanging installations.
- Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, Calibrachoa requires minimal maintenance, offering a welcome alternative that doesn’t demand thorough deadheading like its larger counterparts.
- This series can thrive in a range of climates, flourishing as annuals in zones 1-8 and as perennials in zones 9-11.
Though they can withstand periods of neglect, the visual rewards of Calibrachoa are immense, motivating any gardener to fill their pots with colorful displays.^^
5. Periwinkle (Vinca)
As a striking low-maintenance option, periwinkle—also known as creeping myrtle—continues to capture hearts with its ability to bloom consistently throughout the warmer months. Perfect for filling in spots in container gardens, Vinca requires morning watering and avoids over-saturation, making it splendid for drought-resistant setups.
- Adaptable to various colors, this plant enhances both aesthetics and functionality by attracting pollinators.
- With a heat-tolerant nature, Pacifica™ Purple Vinca thrives in full sun while showcasing lovely blooms.
This flowering beauty effortlessly provides summer appeal, standing alone or as a vibrant filler.^^
6. Palace Purple Coral Bells (Heuchera micrantha 'Palace Purple')
For those who cherish eye-catching foliage over flowers, the Palace Purple Coral Bells offer rich, deep red leaves that inform the design of any container. Its durability and appeal while attracting hummingbirds add to its charm.
- With minimal sunlight needs, it can thrive in partial shade, creating a striking visual appeal in your containers.
- Suitable in zones 4-9, this perennial provides color throughout the seasons while remaining deer and rabbit resistant.
Integrating varieties like Heuchera ensures your garden retains interest with minimal fuss.^^
7. Carex (Sedges)
Last but not least, Carex plants introduce elegance and greenery to your space with their architecturally appealing foliage. Many varieties are evergreen, sustaining aesthetic value throughout the year with little need for fuss.
- Preferring moist well-draining soil, carex can thrive with minimal interference while showcasing resilient cascading leaves.
- The Feather Falls variety accents pots beautifully, effortlessly spilling over the edges while occupied.
Augment your patio or porch with Carex and enjoy both their aesthetic elegance and low-maintenance growth.^^
Choosing from this selection of best low maintenance plants for pots empowers you to cultivate a vibrant outdoor space without the anxiety of constant upkeep. Whether you desire cheerful blooms or striking architectural foliage, there’s something here to suit any aesthetic while ensuring you relax this summer.