We’ve all killed at least one plant in the garden, no matter our best intentions. It doesn’t feel great, even if it is a rite of passage. So, we’ve made a list of extremely easy-care plants to pepper around your space in an effort to keep you from feeling that kind of heartache again. No matter if you’re a forgetful gardener, new to the game, or just enjoy being more hands-off, these plants are ready to weather whatever conditions you’ve got.
Drought is one of the biggest challenges gardens are facing today, so each plant on our list is at least drought-tolerant, but comes with a list of other helpful qualities, too. I’ve hand-selected 11 plants in particular, as they have yet to die under my very, very hands-off care*. Of course, they’re beautiful too.
Low Scape® Snowfire aronia
- USDA zones 3-9
- Native species that benefits wildlife and pollinators
- No need to prune
Happy Face® Pink Paradise Potentilla
- USDA zones 2-7
- Native species handles intense heat and sun well
- Very deer resistant
La Vida Mas®
Indian Hawthorn
- USDA zones 8-10
- Plentiful rebloom from spring to fall
- Compact, no prune habit
*After their first year getting established in the ground.
Tuff Stuff Ah-Ha® Mountain Hydrangea
Pretty as a painting, these wide waterlily-like flowers decorate the garden from early summer into fall. They arrive in incredible numbers, courtesy of old and new wood flower buds. And while the flowers look delicate, the plant is rugged as can be with outstanding cold hardiness.
- full sun (6+ hours of exposure)
to part sun (4-6 hours of exposure) - 2-3 feet tall and wide
- USDA zones 5-9
How do you determine if a plant is deer resistant?
We rely on the research conducted by professionals at Rutgers University. They’ve compiled studies and observations from gardens and public universities across the US to rank popular trees, shrubs, and perennials into categories ranging from “rarely damaged” to “frequently severely damaged. However, deer browsing always depends on the local population. Deer will eat some pretty surprising plants when they’re hungry enough.
