If you’re looking to add a little bit of color to your Maine garden, but don’t want the hassle of constantly having to water and maintain your plants, then look no further! These eight easy-to-grow plants will add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space without all the fuss. And since they’re hardy enough to survive in the Maine climate, you won’t have to worry about them dying come winter.
Decorative Plants For Your Maine Garden
If you’re ready to add some decorative plants to your garden, keep reading for our top recommendations!
1. Camellia
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance decorative plant that will thrive in both sun and shade, then camellias are your best bet. They bloom profusely during the spring months, providing vibrant color to your garden. Plus, they’re hardy enough to survive the colder Maine winters. Camellias are relatively easy to care for, requiring only occasional watering and pruning. They can be planted in the ground or in containers, making them a versatile addition to any garden.
2. Pansies
Pansies are a type of flowering plant that is part of the genus Viola. There are many different species of pansies, but they all feature large, showy flowers with distinctive blotches or “faces.” Pansies are incredibly versatile plants and can be used in various ways to add color and cheer to your yard. For example, pansies can be planted in beds and borders, used as ground cover, or even grown in containers. This hearty flower can tolerate temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit and will brighten up any space with its colorful blooms.
3. Lily of the Valley
Lily of the Valley is a perennial flowering plant that grows in clusters of delicate, bell-shaped flowers. This fragrant flower is native to the Northern Hemisphere and can be found growing wild throughout Europe, North America, and Asia. Lily of the Valley prefers cool climates and will thrive in areas with well-drained soil. It’s also extremely easy to care for; it needs periodic watering and pruning. The lily of the valley produces white flowers with a sweet fragrance that will fill your garden with its wonderful scent.
4. Purple Coneflower
The purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is a herbaceous perennial that bears large daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and purple petals. This plant is native to the Eastern United States, where it grows in woods, prairies, and meadows. The purple coneflower is perfectly suited for the climate in Maine, and it is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. The plant is easy to grow and care for and is tolerant of drought and poor soil conditions. The purple coneflower blooms from June to September, and the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant also has medicinal properties, and the roots and leaves can be used to make teas and tinctures.
5. Northern Bayberry
Northern bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica) is a shrub that grows in the cooler regions of North America and Scandinavia. This evergreen shrub has an upright form with a rounded canopy and produces small, waxy white berries in the fall. Northern bayberry is an ideal plant for those seeking a low-maintenance shrub that can tolerate cold temperatures and withstand salty coastal conditions. It requires minimal pruning and will happily flourish even in poor soil. In addition to its hardiness, northern bayberry also provides year-round interest with its glossy green foliage and fragrant flowers.
6. Yarrow
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial flowering plant with fern-like leaves and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. This hardy plant is native to temperate regions and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including hot summers and cold winters. Yarrow is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens, and its flowers are also used in dried arrangements. The plant gets its name from the Greek hero Achilles, who is said to have used yarrow to treat wounds. Today, yarrow is still used for its healing properties and is thought to help with everything from inflammation to indigestion. This versatile plant has many benefits and makes a great addition to any garden.
7. Viola Odorata
Viola odorata, also known as sweet violet or English violet, is a perennial flowering plant that is native to Europe and Asia. This low-growing plant produces purple, white, or yellow flowers with a strong scent. The flowers can be dried and used in potpourri or made into fragrant oils. Viola odorata prefers cool weather and moist soil conditions. It can survive temperatures down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit and thrive even in poor soil quality. Its small size makes it perfect for rock gardens and borders, while its cheery blooms make it an ideal choice for adding color to any space.
8. Japanese Yew
Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata) is an evergreen shrub that grows in zone 3 and 4 climates. This hardy shrub has a dense, pyramidal shape and produces bright red berries in the fall. Japanese yew can tolerate temperatures down to -50 degrees Fahrenheit and prefers acidic soil conditions with good drainage. The plant is slow-growing, but it can reach heights of up to 10 feet if given proper care. Its dense foliage provides year-round interest, and its bright red berries are popular with birds. Japanese yew makes a great choice for creating hedges or as an accent piece in landscaping projects.
Tips for Preparing Winter Plants for Pots
When growing winter-hardy plants in pots, there are some important steps to take to ensure their success.
Select a Frost Proof Container
Choose a pot that is made of a material that can withstand freezing temperatures, such as treated terracotta or glazed ceramic.
Protect the Roots
Wrap burlap around the pot to help insulate the roots from cold temperatures. You may also want to consider adding an extra layer of protection, such as hay or straw.
Stop Feeding Plants in The Fall
Stop fertilizing plants in the fall to help them better prepare for winter.
Add Mulch
Mulching with hay or straw before the first frost helps keep soil temperatures consistent and helps protect roots from extreme cold.
Closing Thoughts
Maine has a unique climate that requires special care when it comes to gardening and landscaping projects. These easy-to-grow decorative plants are perfect for gardens and landscapes in Maine and will provide year-round interest with their vibrant blooms and foliage. With proper care and maintenance, these plants can easily thrive in the Maine climate and become a beautiful addition to your garden.
Stone Solutions is your one-stop source for all your landscaping and gardening needs in Maine. Our knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect plants for your garden and provide tips on how to care for them throughout the year. Contact us today to learn more!