We may earn revenue from products available on this page and may participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›
While many of us prefer a lush, effortless yard, some of the most desired plants come with hidden complications. This popular but high-maintenance species can quickly turn a comfortable backyard oasis into a demanding job, requiring specific conditions, constant pruning, or frequent battles against pests.
To help you avoid major gardening headaches this season, we asked some master gardeners to identify six common high-maintenance plants to avoid if you want a carefree landscape. Before your next trip to the nursery, read on to find out which problems you want to skip and resilient, easy options that will keep your yard looking gorgeous without all the hard work.
1. Hosta (Hosta spp.)
Because hostas can be high on the buffet list for many insects and deer, keeping them healthy can be time-consuming, says Monica Watson, master gardener and community food systems manager. Operation Food Search in St. Louis, Missouri. “They prefer shade, which is great, but they burn easily with normal summer sun,” she explains. “The changing landscape of one’s yard (more sun hitting where there was shade) may mean your once-thriving hostas aren’t working.” She recommends planting wild ginger instead Beautiful but problematic Hosta, because ginger does well in shade and deer don’t like it.
Increase this instead: wild ginger (Canadian duck)
2. Persian Buttercup (Asiatic buttercup)
Persian buttercups are beloved for their vivid, ruffled petals, tall stems and long vase life. The problem is that these plants stop growing when temperatures rise above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is challenging in hot climates, notes Anastasia Borisevich, a botanist here. a plantAn app that helps identify plants and improve plant care. “Like many tuberous plants, it does not tolerate waterlogging.” For a Select the low maintenance option Instead of zinnia.
Increase this instead: Normal chair (Zinnia elegans)
3. Bradford pear tree (Pirus Coleriana)
Watson says Bradford pear trees are not very robust, so they are vulnerable to storms, costing owners money if not maintained. “They also have aggressive habits that cause Many problems For many other plants.” While it is one of the first trees to bloom with white flowers in the spring, according to NC State Extension, the scent is offensive and off-putting to some people. As an alternative, Watson suggests the serviceberry tree, which produces flowers and edible berries in the spring.
Increase this instead: serviceberry tree (Amelanchier arborea)
4. Orange Star (Ornithogalum doubt)
Borisevich also warns against planting orange star in your yard. “Orange star needs light, airy soil with a filler like perlite or coarse sand to prevent waterlogging,” she explains. “It also needs a dry, cool dormant period of at least 2 to 3 months at about 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit.” Skipping this step means a lot less blooms. A good alternative is freesia.
Increase this instead: freesia (Freesia)
5. Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum)
Lisianthus, a herbaceous perennial commonly grown as an annual, is another problematic plant because it has a root system that is highly susceptible to rot, which means good drainage is essential, Borysevich notes. “You never want to let water drip on the leaves, stems or buds. Always water the plant directly at the base,” she explains. He recommends garden balsam as a better alternative.
Increase this instead: Garden Balsam (Indispensable balm)
6. Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) or Japanese wisteria (Wisteria floribunda)
Although they produce beautiful clusters of white or purple flowers, these varieties are invasive. They are known for their aggressive, winding growth that can damage structures if not contained regularly. They also require heavy annual pruning to control their spread and encourage flowering. Trumpet vines offer a comparable cascading floral display, although they are more contained and require basic support.
Increase this instead: Trumpet Wine (Campsis radicans)
Even if you’re not selling your home, you’ll appreciate curb appeal updates
