How to Create a Low-Maintenance Summer Garden
A beautiful garden doesn’t have to be a lot of work. With the right strategies, you can create a low-maintenance summer garden that thrives with minimal effort. Here are some tips to help you design an outdoor space that’s easy to care for and enjoy all season long.
1. Embrace Native
Selecting native plants is one of the best ways to reduce garden maintenance. Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil, making them more resistant to pests and diseases. They typically require less water and fertilizer than non-native species. Research which plants are native to your area and incorporate them into your garden design.
2. Opt for Perennials Over Annuals
Perennials come back year after year, reducing the need for replanting each season. They provide lasting beauty and require less maintenance than annuals. Popular low-maintenance perennials include daylilies, hostas, and coneflowers. These plants are hardy and can thrive with minimal care.
3. Use Mulch and Pebbles to Your Advantage
Garden supplies that can be ordered in bulk, such as mulch or landscaping stones, are a gardener’s best friend when it comes to reducing maintenance.
These materials help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches like wood chips or shredded bark also improve soil quality as they decompose. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants to keep your garden looking neat and healthy.
4. Install Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the plant roots, reducing water waste and ensuring your plants receive consistent moisture. They’re easy to install and can be set on a timer, so you don’t have to worry about daily watering. This method is especially effective for vegetable gardens and flower beds.
Grouping plants with similar water needs together can simplify your watering routine and conserve water. This practice, known as hydrozoning, ensures that each plant receives the appropriate amount of water without over- or under-watering. It also makes it easier to install
efficient irrigation systems.
5. More Ways to Use Pebbles for Low-Maintenance Hardscaping
Adding elements like gravel paths, stone patios, and raised beds can reduce the amount of lawn and planting space that needs tending. Hardscaping requires little to no maintenance and adds structure and aesthetic appeal to your garden. Choose durable materials that complement your garden style.
6. Minimize Lawn Areas
Lawns can be high-maintenance, requiring regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing. Reduce the size of your lawn by expanding garden beds, adding ground covers, or incorporating hardscaping features. This will save you time and resources while creating a more diverse and interesting landscape.
