Top 20 Low-Maintenance Plants Perfect for Effortless Landscaping

Hosta, Perennial

Hostas are among the most popular low-maintenance perennial plants for landscaping. While they are typically considered shade-loving, some varieties can tolerate a few hours of sunlight, although they generally prefer cooler morning sun and afternoon shade. These leafy plants display their beauty from spring to fall and are suitable for Zones 3 to 9. Shadowland 'Etched Glass,' for example, thrives in partial shade to shade, featuring leaves with broad, dark-green edges framed by bright yellow margins. It reaches a mature size of 18 inches in height and 36 inches in width.

Hostas come in various attractive shades, including blue-green, cream, green, and yellow. It's important to check the plant tag to determine the sunlight requirements of each variety. They flourish in well-drained, organically rich, and moist soil. While some gardeners remove the stalks of white or lavender flowers that emerge in mid to late summer to redirect the plant's energy into foliage growth, it's not always necessary. However, it's essential to trim the foliage at ground level when it turns yellow in early winter, signaling the plant's dormancy. Additionally, any foliage damaged by pests like slugs should be removed.