Spring is finally here! It’s time to give your landscape a makeover with plants that’ll keep thriving all season long. Whether you’re sprucing up your garden or giving a commercial property a facelift, picking the right plants can boost curb appeal, cut down on maintenance costs, and support local ecosystems. Here’s what you need to know before you dig into spring:
Preparing Your Landscape
First things first—let’s give your landscape a quick health check before diving into planting:
Assess Soil Health – Think of healthy soil as the foundation for a thriving landscape. Start by testing your soil’s pH levels to see if it’s more “acidic” or “alkaline.” Too acidic? Add some lime. Too alkaline? A little sulfur can do the trick! Then, check the nutrient levels to make sure your plants are getting their vitamins—nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. If the soil feels sandy, it’ll drain quickly. Clay-heavy soil, on the other hand, holds water but might need a little aeration. Knowing your soil’s personality helps you figure out whether it needs a sprinkle of compost or mulch.
Not sure about your soil’s vibe? A landscaper can do the detective work for you and offer tips for making it plant-ready.
Clear Out Debris – Start fresh by removing dead leaves, branches, and weeds that winter left behind. Not only does this tidy things up, but it also keeps pests and diseases from setting up camp. Prune back any overgrown shrubs, give your perennials a trim, and clean up any damaged foliage. If you’re feeling fancy, edge your flower beds and lawns for those crisp, clean borders that scream “curb appeal.”
Evaluate Irrigation Needs – A happy landscape needs water—just the right amount. As spring kicks in, take a look at your irrigation system for winter wear and tear. Have broken sprinkler heads or clogged nozzles? Repair them before they affect your plants’ health. Test the water flow and pressure to make sure everything’s getting a fair share. Adjust your watering schedule to match the season’s needs, with slow, deep watering that helps roots grow strong and healthy.
Check Your Zone
Before gardening, check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to identify your region’s climate zone. This helps determine which plants will thrive in your area and the best time to start planting. Choosing zone-appropriate plants ensures better growth, reduces maintenance, and increases your landscape’s long-term success.
What to Plant in Spring 2025
This season, focus on plants that offer beauty, sustainability, and easy maintenance. Here are some top choices:
Low-Maintenance Perennials
Perennials return year after year, making them a cost-effective and time-saving choice for commercial landscapes. Some of the best plant options for 2025 include:
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- Coneflowers (Echinacea) – Drought-resistant and attractive to pollinators, thrives in full sunlight.
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- Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Hardy, bright yellow blooms, great for attracting pollinators.
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- Columbine (Aquilegia formosa) – PNW native, shade-tolerant, great for woodland gardens.
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- Dahlias – A Western WA favorite; Dahlias love mild summers and bloom all season.
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- Peonies (Peonia lactiflora) – Long-lived perennials with big, fragrant blooms, sure to attract people and pollinators!
Native Selection
Native plants are adapted to the local environment, making them more resilient and requiring less maintenance. Some great options include:
- Oregon Sunshine (Eriophyllum lanatum) – Bright yellow flowers, drought resistant.
- Fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) – Tall, pink blooms that thrive in disturbed soils.
- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – Great for pollinators, grow well in both wet and dry conditions.
- Western Trillium (Trillium ovatum) – Shade-loving, woodland perennial with elegant white flowers.
- Milkweed (Asclepias species) – Best for drier areas like Eastern WA and well-drained sites in Western WA. Essential for monarch butterflies.
Drought-Tolerant Plants
With the constant priority of water conservation, drought-tolerant plants are a smart investment for sustainable landscapes:
- Lavender – Aromatic, low-water, perfect for sunny locations.
- Blanket Flower (Gaillardia) – Heat and drought-resistant, bright red and yellow blooms.
Pollinator-Friendly Flowers
Supporting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds is not only good for the environment but also helps maintain a healthy landscape. Consider planting:
- Bee Balm (Monarda) – Vibrant blooms that attract bees and butterflies all season. Loves moisture and sun.
- Lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus) – Tall spikes of colorful blooms, native to WA.
- Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) – Cool-season flowers, perfect for spring and early summer.
Plant Care Tips for a Thriving Landscape
Once your plants are in the ground, proper care will ensure they flourish:
- Water Wisely – Early morning watering reduces evaporation and helps plants absorb moisture.
- Mulch for Protection – A layer of mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature.
- Fertilize Strategically – Use organic fertilizers suited to your plant types for sustained growth.
- Prune as Needed – Remove dead or damaged foliage to encourage new growth.
Consistent landscape maintenance is key to keeping your garden healthy, vibrant, and thriving throughout the season. Regular care helps prevent weeds, pests, and diseases while ensuring your plants grow strong and bloom beautifully.
Happy Planting!
Spring 2025 is the perfect opportunity to refresh your landscape with plants that enhance beauty, require minimal maintenance, and support sustainability. Whether you’re looking for drought-tolerant options, native plants, or pollinator-friendly flowers, planning ahead will set your property up for success.
Need help selecting and planting the perfect landscape this spring? Contact MSNW for expert landscape care and recurring maintenance!