Building new landscape beds is one of the best ways to boost curb appeal, but choosing the right plants is what keeps those beds looking great with minimal upkeep. Wisconsin's climate demands hardy, reliable perennials that can handle cold winters, humid summers, and everything in between.
These seven perennials are some of the most dependable, low-maintenance options for Wisconsin yards. They establish quickly, return every year, and bring color, texture, and structure to your landscape beds.
1. Hostas
Hostas are the foundation of any shade bed. With endless varieties and lush foliage, they add depth and texture to areas where grass struggles.
Why they're low-maintenance: Extremely hardy, thrive in shade, come back bigger every year, and require almost no care.
2. Coneflowers
Coneflowers bring bold color and long-lasting blooms to sunny beds. They're tough, upright, and loved by pollinators.
Why they're low-maintenance: Drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, bloom for months, and return stronger each year.
3. Lilies
Lilies, especially daylilies, are incredibly forgiving and adaptable. They thrive in a wide range of soil and light conditions.
Why they're low-maintenance: Reliable yearly blooms, tolerate poor soil, spread slowly to fill space, and handle inconsistent watering.
4. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses add height, movement, and texture to landscape beds. They look great from summer through winter.
Why they're low-maintenance: Drought-tolerant, provide winter interest, pest-resistant, and only need one yearly cutback.
5. Sedums
Sedums are some of the toughest perennials you can plant. They thrive in hot, dry areas and poor soil.
Why they're low-maintenance: Need very little water, love full sun, great for rocky or sandy soil, and add structure and late-season color.
6. Peonies
Peonies are a Wisconsin staple. Their huge, fragrant blooms make them a standout in any landscape bed.
Why they're low-maintenance: Extremely cold-hardy, long-lived, minimal watering once established, and stunning late-spring blooms.
7. Butterfly Bushes
Butterfly bushes bring long, colorful blooms and attract pollinators all summer long. They add height and drama to new beds.
Why they're low-maintenance: Fast-growing, drought-tolerant, bloom from summer into fall, and loved by butterflies and bees.
Personal note: we've even seen hummingbirds visit the butterfly bush in our own yard. It's a magnet for all kinds of wildlife.
Final Thoughts
These seven perennials are proven performers in Wisconsin landscape beds. They're hardy, beautiful, and easy to maintain, perfect for homeowners who want long-lasting curb appeal without constant upkeep.
If you're planning new landscape beds or refreshing old ones, M.Y. Landscaping can help you choose the right mix of plants and create a design that fits your home and your lifestyle.