The 5 Most High-Maintenance Plants To Have In Your Garden, According To Experts
When plotting out a garden, you want things to look beautiful, yes, but you also want plants you can maintain. Whether it’s fussy about water, light, soil, or pests, some plants demands more time and energy than they give back. These high-maintenance picks may be beautiful or even tempting, but gardeners often find themselves constantly chasing problems just to keep them alive. Here are six plants that experts say require the most upkeep.
English Roses
While many roses are bred for easier care, English roses still ask for a lot. They need well-draining soil, regular feeding, strong sunlight, and vigilant pest control. On top of that, pruning them properly each season takes skill and timing. Their fragrant blooms are stunning, but many gardeners end up frustrated with how easily these plants can fall prey to mildew, black spot, and aphids.
Gardenias
Gardenias are known for their lovely scent, but they’re also famously particular. They don’t like sudden changes in temperature, struggle in poor-quality soil, and are highly prone to leaf yellowing and bud drop if conditions aren’t just right. Humidity, pH levels, and moisture must all be closely managed. A missed watering or too much sun can throw the plant off entirely. Gardenias reward care, but only if you’re prepared to stay one step ahead of them.
Caladiums
Caladiums bring color and texture to shady garden corners, but they’re short on staying power unless they’re pampered. These plants need high humidity, warm temperatures, and regular water. Their bulbs must often be dug up and stored over winter in colder areas, and if they dry out or get too cool, they’ll wither fast. For a plant that only thrives for part of the year, they require an outsized amount of effort.
Wisteria
Wisteria is undeniably beautiful, but it’s also a major commitment. Without strict pruning, it will quickly overrun fences, walls, and even nearby trees. Its strong roots grow fast, sometimes damaging nearby structures or pipes, and keeping it contained takes ongoing work throughout the year. Gardeners often underestimate just how fast and forcefully it spreads and don’t notice the damage until it’s too late.
Azaleas
Azaleas bloom brightly in spring, but many gardeners don’t know just how specific their needs are. They require acidic, well-draining soil and steady moisture. A slight shift in soil pH or a few dry days can lead to leaf drop or disease. They’re also prone to lace bugs and other pests, especially when stressed. Even well-established azaleas need regular feeding, mulching, and seasonal protection to perform well.
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High-maintenance plants aren’t necessarily bad plants, but they do require more attention than others. Knowing which plants demand more from you can help you make better choices for your space, time, and energy. Some gardeners enjoy the challenge, while others prefer low-effort, dependable greenery. Whichever camp you fall into, being realistic about your garden’s needs can save you frustration and lead to healthier, longer-lasting results.
Daniel Mitchell
