Factors to Consider When Choosing Plants

Whether you are looking to add some pizazz to your front yard or looking for a spruce up in preparation of getting your home ready to sell, choosing the right plants is essential. There are a variety of factors that can determine which plants will grow best from climate to amount of shade or sun your yard receives. Save some money and frustration by taking the time to determine which plants will work best with the specific conditions of your yard. 

Take These Factors into Consideration When Deciding Which Plants to Grow This Spring.

Choosing Plants
  • Sun vs. Shade – One of the biggest factors for determining whether a plant will thrive in your yard is sun exposure (or lack thereof). Certain plants work best in full sun while other need partial sun or full shade.
  • Climate – Choosing plants that are native to the area in which you live can help increase your chances of success. For the Maryland area, look for plants that are more drought resistant and can survive the hot, humid summers.
  • Perennials vs. Annuals – Perennials will continue to bloom year after year. Annuals, on the other hand, will only bloom for the current season. Keep this distinction in mind and pay attention to this difference when purchasing plants this spring.   
  • Low-maintenance vs. High-maintenance – Different species of plants require differing levels of care. If you are a beginner, starting with low-maintenance plants will set you up for success; however, if you have a green thumb, you may be willing to try some more high-maintenance options instead.
  • Spacing – The size of your garden or flowerbeds play a big part in which plants will work best for your yard. Some plants require more space to grow properly, while others don’t need much space at all.
  • Soil Type – There are a variety of soil types common in the Maryland area, such as clay, sandy, and peaty, depending on where you are living within the state. Taking the time to figure out which soil type your have in your yard can help the experts give you the best plant suggestions for your garden or flowerbeds. 

Once you take these factors into consideration and figure out the specifications of your yard, head to a lawn and garden center or store to get help from the experts. Nursery Specialists at large home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot are a great resource and can help give you valuable tips and advice on which plants will work best for your yard. Homestead Gardens (located in Davidsonsville and Severna Park) is another great option for those in the Annapolis area.

Take some time to spruce up your yard this spring with a little help from lawn and garden experts and enjoy the fruits of your labor all summer long!