Discovering Hidden Gems: Easy-to-Grow Plants That Deserve More Attention
When it comes to gardening, there are many plants that are relatively easy to cultivate and do not require any special care for optimal growth. These resilient and maintenance-free options can add a splash of beauty to your garden without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore some of these hidden gems, including mulberries and spiderwort, along with other popular choices like the portulaca, spider plant, and peace lily.
Introduction to Easy-to-Grow Plants
There are certain plants that are known for their ease of cultivation and ability to thrive with minimal care. Examples include the portulaca plant, the spider plant, the ZZ plant, the palm, the hibiscus, and the peace lily. These plants are perfect for novice gardeners or anyone looking for low-maintenance plants that can add color, beauty, and functionality to their space.
Mulberries: A Hidden Treasure in the Garden
While mulberries may not be as well-known as some other fruits, they are a fantastic addition to any garden. These berries taste a little milder than blackberries and grow on attractive trees that provide fruit for much longer during the season. Unlike other berries, mulberries do not have thorns, making them easier to harvest. As they ripen, they gradually change from red and sour to overly sweet and dull black, allowing you to choose your preferred stage of ripeness.
Key Features of Mulberries:
Harvest Time: Mulberries are extremely delicate and do not survive being put in a bowl with other fruits. They regularly mush from the stress of picking. This is why you rarely see them in stores. Continuous Harvest: Unlike other fruit trees that have a single picking season, mulberries fruit and ripen at different rates, providing a consistent supply of fruit for several months. Cold Weather Tolerance: The trees are fast-growing and can tolerate cold weather up to USDA zone 4.The Resilient Spiderwort
Another hidden gem that deserves more attention is the Spiderwort. This plant is renowned for its fortitude and adaptability, making it a perfect choice for novice gardeners. Here are some of the key features of Spiderwort:
Hardiness
Spiderworts are highly adaptable and can thrive in various soil types and climatic conditions. They can handle both sun and partial shade, making them suitable for different garden locations.
Low Maintenance
Once established, Spiderworts require little maintenance. They can tolerate drought conditions and do not need frequent irrigation. Unlike some other plants, overwatering is not a concern for Spiderworts.
Attractive Foliage
Spiderworts feature long, slender leaves that can be green or variegated with stripes. Some varieties have vibrant foliage that can add visual appeal to your garden.
Unique Flowers
These plants produce small, three-petaled flowers that can be blue, purple, pink, or even white. The flowers can bloom throughout the growing season and have an intriguing structure.
Naturalizing
Spiderworts have the natural ability to fill in bare spots and offer ground cover. They are excellent for filling in spaces left by other plants.
Wildlife Attraction
The nectar-rich blossoms of Spiderworts attract bees and butterflies, increasing the overall richness of your garden.
Propagation
Spiderworts are easily propagated through division, making it simple to increase the size of your garden or share plants with friends.
Conclusion
。Mulberries and Spiderworts are just two examples of hidden gems in the world of gardening. These plants offer a range of benefits, from providing continuous fruit to adding beauty and functionality to your garden. If you are looking for easy-to-grow plants that can add color and vibrancy to your space, consider giving mulberries and Spiderworts a chance. They may not be as well-known as some other garden plants, but their resilience and versatility make them an excellent choice for novice gardeners and experienced gardeners alike.