Charter One Realty Blog

Lowcountry gardens are some of the most beautiful around the entire country. We may be biased, but between the variety of plant life, the lush background of Spanish moss-covered oaks, and the fragrant blooms of Magnolia and Gardenia, we stand by our statement.

Photo: Pinterest

We’ve all but said goodbye to April showers and made way for our May flowers. We want to know: have you refreshed (or started) your Lowcountry gardens yet?

Now is a great time for a summer refresh. As time passes, gardens grow larger and the hobby is increasing in popularity. From making fresh veggie dishes to fun competition shows on Netflix, people love growing and creating with nature. 

Photo: Southern Living

With more time at home last year, many Lowcountry residents found joy in creating gardens in sunny spots in their yards. As most of our businesses return to in-person work hours and our time for hobbies is lessened, we thought now was a great time to prepare a list of ways you can still grow and maintain your gorgeous Lowcountry gardens even if time is short.

Whether you are preparing for the new season or jumping into the unknown, check out our tips to keep your Lowcountry gardens thriving this summer!

How to Garden With Limited Time

No time to grow your dream garden? Use some of these tips to streamline your time and make the most of your hobby:

1. Cut down on weeding by covering the garden bed with plastic and then mulching regularly to inhibit weed growth. If you prefer to look of pine straw, you can lay mulch and then top it with pine straw.

2. Choose plants that need less water than others to cut down on watering time. Alternatively, invest in a sprinkler head for your hose(s) and position them to do the watering for you.

3. Grow perennials so you have less work to do each season. More on that next!

Lowcountry Gardens: Annuals versus Perennials 

Annuals must be replaced every year, and perennials offer longevity. Some Lowcountry gardening favorites are Crinum, Yellow Flag Iris, and Lantana.

Photo: Nancy Rotenberg

Use the tip above to remember how to keep your Lowcountry garden bountiful. If you prefer a lower-maintenance approach to a garden, seek out perennials when shopping for plants. If you like the idea of a seasonal refresh and have the time and budget to maintain it, annuals could be your go-to plant type. 

Research Before Buying

For best results, take your time to research plants, vegetables, fruits, and flowers you like and what will do well in the Lowcountry zone (around 7a - 9a). To find your specific hardiness zone, visit the USDA site. Take notes of the plants you like and record online the hardiness zones they thrive in, then check again at the nursery to make sure they are a match. Most plants often come with a tag or care notes.

A few staple plants that work well here are azaleas, hydrangea, and viburnum. If you have questions, nursery staff or a knowledgeable neighbor may be willing to provide directions and tips on keeping your garden growing. 

You may even find a gardener in your hardiness zone on social media and get some ideas on what to incorporate in your yard based on their success!

For First-Timers: Scout other Lowcountry Gardens

If you want the benefits of a beautiful Lowcountry home garden but don’t know where to start, the best way to get inspiration is by taking a look around your neighborhood. This method will inspire you and also help you determine what you like and what is most likely to survive on your property. Ask the neighbors if you may snap photos for your personal reference, then take them while shopping at a local nursery for insight and extra growing tips. 

If you’re new to gardening, it is easy to make the mistake of watering incorrectly. The best time to water your plants is in the morning before they cook in the sun all day. Unless otherwise directed, many gardeners prefer the morning for a watering time as it boosts the growing process for the plants. Certain plants need much more water than others, so be sure to learn what each plant needs. 

Conclusion

The best versions of Lowcountry gardens are the ones you admire: full of flowers, fruits, and veggies, your friends and family. Build or enhance your Lowcountry gardens with these tips: 

1. Even if you don’t have a lot of time, you can grow a lovely garden with a few time-saving tips like mulching to reduce weeds and planting perennials.

2. Research before buying and digging. Ask a neighbor or search social media for a gardening influencer in your hardiness zone!

3. Snap photos of plants you like from around your neighborhood before you shop. 

4. After planting, water the new flowers, bushes, and plants in the morning so they survive their new environment. 

What do you like about your Lowcountry gardens? What challenges do you face? 

Share with us in the comments below!