Five flowers to plant that are perfect for lazy gardeners – they barely need watering
These vibrant plants, best planted in spring and summer, are adapted to thrive with minimal water, having originated in hot, dry regions like southern Europe and south America.
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1. Globe amaranth
The globe amaranth is 'a lazy gardener's dream', according to Southern Living.
These round-shaped flowers, which can be spotted by their striking bright hues of magenta, purple, red and pink, do not require deadheading.
They are also heat and drought tolerant, meaning they grow well in full sun and can thrive even in poor soil.
Once established, they require little watering and are generally pest-free.
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2. Summer snapdragon
As their name suggests, these flowers are happy basking in the sun in hot weather conditions, where other plants would struggle.
Not only are they highly heat tolerant, they are also resistant to most pests and diseases.
They are known for their tall flower heads that come in blue, pink and purple.
This plant only requires occasional deadheading.
Though Summer snapdragons appreciate regular watering, they can handle dry spells well.
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3. Blanket flowers
These blood-orange flowers, native to north and South America, are frequently found growing by beaches.
The vibrant, daisy-like plants are known for being drought-resistant and sun-loving.
They are also easy to grow, requiring little or no fertiliser.
When caring for them, all they require is occasional watering and that for their old flower heads to be trimmed from time to time to allow new growth.
They are also not prone to pests and typically bloom continuously through the warmer months.
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4. Dianthus
These pink flowers each have five petals with a frilled or pinked margin.
Their flower stems have a distinctive spicy fragrance which calls to mind clove and cinnamon.
This plant is also perennial, meaning it will come back every year.
Dianthus is compact in size, tolerates cooler temperatures, and can thrive even in containers, requiring only minimal upkeep beyond the removal of spent blooms.
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5. Ornamental purslane
These delicate, brightly coloured flowers require minimal maintenance and prefer less water.
Purslane grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, and it tolerates heat and drought well.
The plant's succulent leaves store water, making it highly adaptable to dry conditions.
It spreads quickly, making it effective for ground cover, and does not require fertiliser or pruning beyond occasional trimming to manage growth.
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