Gardening Tips To Level Up Your Home’s Curb Appeal

Spring is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to get our hands a little dirty. Gardens are just starting to wake up, buds are opening, and the world outside is starting to look a little brighter. Spring is the perfect time to share our favorite spring gardening tricks that work, not just because they brighten up your yard but because they can also boost your home’s curb appeal. (More on that shortly!) It’s also the season for Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, and those sunny weekends made to celebrate the people you love.  

Flowers can come in many different shapes and sizes. They can come from a shop, or directly from your own backyard. Flowers can be a very thoughtful gift around this time of year. You may be honoring a loved one for Memorial Day or celebrating mom on Mother’s Day, either way, your garden is the perfect place to pick a heartfelt gift. 

So, what should you plant this spring to create something gift-worthy, garden-fresh, and full of meaning? We’ve got you covered. Below, we’ll share some of the best flowers to grow for spring gifting, plus a few simple gardening tips to help you grow a gorgeous garden. 

Choosing the Right Plants for Your Garden’s Climate

No two gardens are the same. This is especially true when it comes to climate. From muggy mornings is the Southeast United States, to the sunbaked climate of the west, you location plays a big role in what plants will not only survive, but thrive, in your region. Here’s a super quick region-friendly guide to help your garden flourish.  

Northeast – New England, New York, Massachusetts 

Having four seasons means you need flowers that can handle a chill and bounce back pretty quickly.

Top Native Plant Picks: Wild Anemone, Maidenhair Fern, Yellow Lady’s Slipper Orchid, and Peonies.  

Pro Tip: A good note would be to start your seeds indoors in the late winter. That way, they’ll be ready when the frost lifts. Don’t forget, like most summer and spring weather, there may be a late cold snap, so keep an eye out!  

Southeast – Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas 

What should I plant in a hot and humid climate that is prone to pop-up storms? This region rewards heat-lovers when it comes to plants.  

Top Native Plant Picks: Zinnias, Agave, Hibiscus, and Gardenias.  

Pro Tip: Humid climates call for watering early in the morning. This prevents mildew from forming during those sticky nights. Native varieties are better adapted to handle intense summer heat and the ups and downs of the season’s rainfall.  

Midwest – Ohio, Illinois, Michigan 

The Midwest has an interesting climate. One day, it can be cold as ice, the next as hot as a desert. Big skies mean big temperature swings.  

Top Native Plant Picks: Hosta, Phlox, Rudbeckia, and Lavender.  

Pro Tip: Freeze and thaw cycles are common in this area. Flowers like perennials are a good way to go and can handle those cycles. Also, working with raised flower beds is recommended as they can warm faster in spring.  

Northwest – Oregon, Washington, Northern California 

The Northwest of the United States can feel like a rainforest at times. So much rain, mild temps and lush greenery to be seen for miles.  

Top Native Plant Picks: Dahlias, Rhododendrons, Daises, and Bleeding Hearts.  

Pro Tip: Soil is key in the Northwest, a compost-rich soil will improve drainage and root health. 

Southwest – Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico 

What’s drier than dry? The Southwest! Think super-hot days, possibly frigid nights, and little to no rain. Sounds like a flower’s worst nightmare! Not to worry, flowers can still bloom in the desert.  

Top Native Plant Picks: Succulents, Marigolds, Sunflowers, and California Poppies.  

Pro Tip: In a very dry environment, it’s a good idea to invest in mulch. It helps to retain moisture and keeps your roots cool. Native flowers will be low maintenance and beautiful. 

Sustainability and Water Saving Solutions 

Now that you’ve got some native plant ideas for your garden, it’s time to start thinking about how much water you’ll use. Always water your plants early in the morning as it gives the soil time to absorb moisture before it gets too hot for the day. Be sure to research every plant’s water cycle and see where you are in the USDA hardiness zone. Some plants may need more water than others and vice versa so it’s good to make sure you aren’t over or under-watering.  

Water bills have their ups and downs. In drier climates, you will likely have a higher water bill, while in more humid climates, you may not have to water as much. This can also all depend on the season. As showcased above, our biggest pro-tip is to stick to native plants. These plants are already adapted to the local climate and soil. They’ll require far less water and attention than non-native plants. They also will create an amazing little ecosystem in your backyard that will attract bees, birds, and butterflies.  

If you have any issues dealing with water bills, always reach out to your local government as you’ll be surprised at what they have to offer. Our last, but certainly not least gardening tip would be to invest in mulch. As previously mentioned, it will keep the soil cool, lock in the moisture and help to keep weeds away.  

How a Garden Improves the Value of Your Home 

As you put these spring gardening tricks into action keep in mind that your garden is more than just for personal use. Your garden is also a powerful asset when it comes time to sell your home. A maintained garden, manicured with native plants, seasonal colors, and eco-friendly features will show buyers that your property is beautiful and practical.  

Furthermore, making sustainable choices like pollinator gardens or xeriscaping can help you save money and time. In very dry climates it can help lower water usage and reduce maintenance overall. 

Home gardens come in all different shapes and sizes. You could be planting flowers for Mom, honoring a loved one for Memorial Day, or simply celebrating the season. Regardless of the reason for your green thumb, these gardening tips will keep your backyard vibrant all season long. Your beautiful garden may even add value to your home!