We all love the idea of a beautiful, lush garden, but maintaining one can feel like a second job—especially for busy homeowners. Fortunately, low-maintenance landscaping solutions can help you enjoy a stunning outdoor space without spending all your free time pruning, watering, and weeding. We spoke with one of our resident experts, Jake from The Greenery, who shared some practical tips on how to create a garden that requires minimal care while still looking its best year-round.
Key Principles for Low-Maintenance Landscaping
The first step in designing a low-maintenance garden is all about plant selection. Jake emphasises, “There are lots of low-maintenance plants out there—drought-tolerant, sun-tolerant, and even shade-tolerant varieties. Whether you're a fan of native plants, exotic species, or a mix of both, there's something for every garden.” The key is to choose plants that suit your climate and soil type to minimise the effort needed for upkeep.
Another crucial factor is time and maintenance management. While it's possible to create a garden that doesn’t need much attention, Jake is realistic about the level of effort required. "Zero-maintenance gardens rarely exist," he explains. "You need to think about how much time you actually have. If you love potted plants, can you commit to watering them regularly? If not, you may want to avoid them."
In addition to plant selection, consider how you'll use your non-plant space. Walkways, ground covers, and mulching are excellent options to reduce the need for weeding and other tasks. "If you’re thinking about filling a gap between plants with a hedge, for example, keep in mind that it will need pruning and watering," Jake notes. "Sometimes a fence extension can be a better option for privacy without the added upkeep."
Drought-Tolerant Plants That Practically Take Care of Themselves
One of the most effective ways to minimise garden maintenance is by planting species that are drought-tolerant. These plants thrive on minimal watering and often require little more than an occasional trim. Jake shared his top five low-maintenance plant recommendations for busy homeowners:
1. French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)
"This is a great shrub that can tolerate nearly any soil condition and fills your garden with beautifully scented foliage and flowers," Jake says. Not only is it low-maintenance, but bees love it, and it’s best in full sun, though it can handle partial shade.
2. Cosmos (Cosmos spp.)
If you’re a fan of colourful flowers, Cosmos is a great choice. "We planted them at home from a seed packet, and they flowered for three-quarters of the year," Jake recalls. "They’re the type of plant that thrives on neglect and self-seeds, so they pop back up year after year."
3. Mexican Sage (Salvia leucantha)
Salvia varieties are a favourite of Jake’s for their hardiness. "They’re drought-tolerant once established, and they flower for long periods," he says. Plus, they can thrive in both sunny and shady spots, making them versatile garden additions.
4. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’
This flowering succulent is perfect if you want a plant that practically takes care of itself. "I pulled one out and left it sitting in the garden, and it started growing again on its own," Jake laughs. "It needs very little attention, and after it flowers, you can simply cut it back, and it will come back bigger and better."
Image Credit: James Mann
5. Native Violet (Viola hederacea)
For ground cover, Jake recommends native violets. "They’re self-spreading, so they fill an area quickly, and they flower nearly all year round. They can handle both sun and shade, making them an ideal low-maintenance choice for busy gardeners."
Practical Tips for Minimising Garden Work
When planning your garden, consider a few additional strategies to reduce upkeep:
Mulch generously: Mulching not only helps your plants retain moisture but also suppresses weeds, cutting down on one of the most tedious garden tasks.
Install a drip irrigation system: A well-designed irrigation system can automate your watering routine, saving you time and ensuring your plants get the moisture they need, even in dry spells.
Use ground covers: Plants like native violets or low-growing shrubs can help reduce bare patches of soil that would otherwise sprout weeds.
Lastly, think about how you'll incorporate functional elements into your landscape. Whether it's pathways, seating areas, or outdoor lighting, opting for hard-wearing, low-maintenance materials like gravel, pavers, or composite decking will ensure that your garden remains easy to manage in the long term.
With some careful planning and plant selection, it’s possible to create a garden that enhances your home’s curb appeal or create a relaxing backyard without demanding too much of your time. By following Jake’s expert advice—selecting drought-tolerant plants, considering how much time you have for maintenance, and designing your non-plant spaces thoughtfully—you can enjoy the beauty of your garden while leaving more time for life’s other demands.
For expert advice and help choosing the perfect plants for your low-maintenance dream garden, visit The Greenery.
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Pop into their Heidelberg location, more than just a nursery, it’s a mecca for plant and garden lovers. Enjoy a relaxing wander, grab a coffee, or let the kids explore The Fairy Garden. Or, drop by their boutique Hawthorn store in a stunning 1890s terrace for a unique blend of art, plants, and décor.
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