Utah has scenic landscapes and natural wonders, but its wild beauty can challenge gardeners. The dry climate and unpredictable forecasts can throw even the most experienced gardeners for a loop. Finding the ideal plants that will hold up under various conditions is essential for a lush, thriving garden.
Here are eight of the best plants for a Utah garden.
Local plants
Planting a garden can serve several purposes, from boosting a home’s curb appeal to feeding the family living there. It can also help protect the land and ecosystem but picking the perfect Utah seeds to survive in the area is essential.
Utah agave
Agave is a succulent, which is perfect for Utah’s dry climate. Succulents generally prefer arid landscapes, but the Utah agave will tolerate the colder winter season, unlike other succulent varieties. The long, spiked foliage is gorgeous to look at, and in the late winter to early spring, you might spot some bright yellow flowers adorning this plant.
Desert marigold
Planting a water-efficient garden is one of the best ways to help protect both your personal property and the environment at large. Desert marigold is a great flower to add to your garden because it’s drought-tolerant, vibrant, and pleasing. It’s also resistant to the many types of wildlife you can find in the state.
Chris English, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Juniper
Trees and shrubs are an important part of a garden. They can help provide shelter or shade for more delicate plants and look great along a walkway. Juniper is an excellent option for Utah gardens thanks to its low to moderate water needs and evergreen foliage.
Fragrant sand verbena
Fragrant sand verbena is a gorgeous perennial. With the proper care, the graceful white flowers emit a sweet scent and bloom from spring to fall. They prefer a partially shady area with sandy soil that drains well and will resist many of the common pests found in Utah.
JerryFriedman, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Chili pepper
Although most people won’t consider the chili pepper when planting their gardens, these plants are attractive with their brightly colored peppers and lush greenery. When the plant is young, you’ll likely find peppers ranging in color from purple to creamy white. Later, they become red, yellow, or orange in hue.
Chrysanthemums
Spring is typically the first season that comes to mind when you think about fresh blooms, but fall-blooming flowers like chrysanthemums can give gardens a second life. Chrysanthemums are the perfect choice for Utah gardeners because they do well with plenty of sunshine and moderate watering.
Coneflowers
Coneflowers are hardy plants that attract birds and insects that help keep your garden healthy. They are easy to grow, and planters can find all kinds of colors and varieties to suit their preferences.
John Cabot rose
Roses are another plant that comes in several varieties, which means they can grow all over the United States. In Utah, the John Cabot rose tends to do exceptionally well. This plant presents showy blooms all summer long in bright pink or red.
Nadiatalent, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Wrap up
Establishing a comfortable garden that reflects the natural beauty of Utah requires a bit of research but is worth the payoff. There’s nothing quite like lounging in your own personal oasis.