Which perennial flowers are easiest for beginners?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.For new gardeners, low maintenance perennials provide instant success! Flowering plants, such as coneflowers and daylilies, will offer numerous blooms while forgiving your beginner mistakes. Tough plants will flourish in less-than-desirable growing conditions, compared to temperamental plants! I always give these perennial favorites for initial garden themes.
Planting Basics
- Space plants according to mature size to prevent crowding
- Amend soil with compost before planting for better drainage
- Set crowns at proper depth to avoid rot issues
Seasonal Maintenance
- Water deeply during first growing season to establish roots
- Apply mulch annually to suppress weeds and retain moisture
- Divide plants every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Coneflowers grow well in poor soil and dry conditions, which makes them perfect beginner plants. Their daisy-like flowers draw in butterflies all summer long. They are also tough plants that can recover from neglect, even after a drought. I've witnessed them prosper with no care in roadside gardens.
Daylilies are adaptable to light levels ranging from full sun to shade. Their fleshy roots help store water to endure periods of drought or watering lapses. Each stem produces many blooms over weeks. My first garden featured these forgiving plants, and they taught me the basics of caring for them.
Sedum types are drought-resistant and add distinctive textures. Their thick leaves can hold moisture during dry times. Autumn Joy sedum provides fall color when other plants begin to fade. These types of plants require minimal care, with trimming being the only annual maintenance needed, making them ideal for beginners.
Begin with three to five plants of a single variety and group them together for a visual effect or easier management. Water consistently during the first season, then water less frequently. Avoid over-fertilizing and encourage weak growth. These basic practices build confidence and skills in gardening.
Read the full article: When to Plant Perennials: Expert Guide
