Key Takeaways
- Lavender is a perfect low-maintenance plant for Alaska gardens, as it thrives in the climate and is resistant to pests and diseases. English lavender and French lavender are the best varieties for Alaska.
- Daisies, such as Shasta Daisy, Oxeye Daisy, and English Daisy, are popular low-maintenance plants for Alaska gardens. They should be planted in well-draining soil and provided with full sun.
- Dahlias, including Dinnerplate, Decorative, and Cactus dahlias, are low-maintenance plants that add vibrant colors and intricate petals to gardens in Alaska. They require full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering, and fertilizing.
- Milkweed, Joe Pye Weed, Daffodils, Lilies, Black-Eyed Susans, and Coneflowers are other low-maintenance plants that can thrive in Alaska gardens and attract pollinators. Each plant has its own specific care requirements, but overall they are relatively easy to grow and maintain.
1. Lavender
If you’re looking for a low maintenance landscaping plant in Alaska, lavender is a fantastic choice. It adds beauty and a soothing fragrance to your outdoor space.
Growing lavender in Alaska has many benefits. It thrives in the cool climate and is resistant to pests.
To successfully cultivate lavender, choose hardy varieties like English lavender or Munstead. Provide well-drained soil and full sun.
Use lavender in Alaska’s landscape for its versatile uses, such as in borders, containers, or as a fragrant addition to a garden.
2. Daisies
Surprisingly, daisies are the perfect choice for creating a vibrant and easy-to-care-for garden in the Last Frontier.
There are several different varieties of daisies that thrive in Alaska’s unique climate, such as Shasta daisies and Alaska daisies.
When planting and caring for daisies, it’s important to choose a well-draining soil and provide regular watering.
To create a daisy-filled border, plant them in clusters along the edge of your garden.
Pair daisies with other low maintenance plants like creeping thyme or yarrow to create a stunning Alaskan garden.
Consider incorporating daisies into your landscape by planting them in containers or using them as a groundcover.
3. Dahlia
Dahlias are a stunning addition to any garden, offering a burst of vibrant colors and a touch of elegance.
When cultivating dahlias in Alaska, it’s important to choose the best varieties that can withstand the harsh climate.
To care for dahlias in Alaskan winters, it’s recommended to dig up the tubers and store them indoors.
Extending the blooming season can be achieved by deadheading and regularly fertilizing.
To manage pests and diseases, practicing good sanitation and using organic controls are essential.
4. Bee Balm
For a burst of color and a touch of charm in your garden, bee balm is the perfect addition to create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, offers a multitude of benefits. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden.
Bee balm comes in various varieties, including ‘Jacob Cline’ and ‘Raspberry Wine,’ each with its own unique colors and characteristics.
To maintain bee balm, ensure it receives full sun and well-drained soil.
Watch out for common pests like aphids and powdery mildew, and treat them promptly to keep your plants healthy and thriving.
5. Milkweed
Milkweed, with its vibrant flowers and essential role in supporting monarch butterflies, is a fascinating plant to explore and understand.
Planting milkweed in your Alaska garden has numerous benefits.
Not only does it attract monarch butterflies, but it also provides a crucial food source for native pollinators.
To grow milkweed in Alaska’s cold climate, choose hardy varieties such as common milkweed.
By incorporating milkweed into your landscaping, you can help support the delicate ecosystems of Alaska.
6. Joe Pye Weed
Joe Pye Weed, with its tall, majestic blooms and ability to attract a wide variety of pollinators, is a captivating addition to any garden.
Here are some growing tips for joe pye weed:
- Plant it in moist, well-drained soil and provide full sun to partial shade.
Benefits of incorporating joe pye weed in your garden include providing food and habitat for butterflies and bees.
Common pests and diseases of joe pye weed are aphids and powdery mildew.
To propagate joe pye weed, divide the plant in early spring.
Best companion plants for joe pye weed include asters and goldenrod.
7. Daffodils
Daffodils bring a burst of vibrant color to any garden. In Alaska’s climate, there are several varieties of daffodils that thrive.
When planting daffodils, choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun.
The best time to plant daffodils in Alaska is in the early fall, allowing them to establish roots before winter.
Consider incorporating daffodils in rock gardens, borders, or as accents in larger landscapes to add beautiful pops of color to your Alaskan garden.
8. Lily
Now let’s move on from daffodils to another beautiful and low maintenance plant for your Alaskan garden: lilies.
When it comes to lily cultivation techniques, there are a few key points to keep in mind.
First, choose the best lily varieties for Alaskan gardens, such as the Martagon Lily or the Stargazer Lily.
Secondly, make sure to follow tips for maintaining lilies in harsh Alaskan winters, like providing adequate mulching and protection.
Lastly, consider incorporating lilies into your low maintenance landscape design by planting them in clusters or using them as focal points.
And if you want to expand your lily collection, learn how to propagate lilies in Alaska’s unique climate for a stunning and sustainable garden.
9. Black-Eyed Susans
If you’re looking for a visually appealing and easy-to-care-for addition to your garden, consider the vibrant and resilient Black-Eyed Susans.
These versatile plants can thrive in a variety of climates, making them a great choice for Alaska.
Not only do they add beauty to your garden, but they also attract important pollinators like bees and butterflies.
To keep your Black-Eyed Susans looking their best throughout the year, make sure to provide them with regular watering and remove any dead blooms.
Get creative with your landscaping design by incorporating Black-Eyed Susans in flower beds, borders, or even hanging baskets.
10. Coneflowers
Coneflowers are a delightful addition to any garden in Alaska’s harsh climate. They not only add a burst of color but also attract a variety of pollinators.
To successfully grow coneflowers, make sure to plant them in well-drained soil and provide them with full sun.
Common pests and diseases that can affect coneflowers in Alaska include aphids and powdery mildew.
Unique varieties that thrive in Alaska’s climate include the Alaska Shasta Daisy and the Purple Emperor.
Incorporate coneflowers into your low maintenance landscaping design by planting them alongside native grasses and other hardy perennials.
Before You Go
If your looking to buy shrubs or trees online, I highly recommend Nature Hills. They always have sales and discounts on nursery stock, well worth your time to check them out.
You can find them here, NatureHills.com.
Also, I have other articles about Alaska that might interest you, you can check them out here.
Evergreen Trees Found In Alaska
4 Types of Oak Trees Found in Alaska
Maple Trees in Alaska: A Guide to Hardy Varieties