Garden experts recommend low‑maintenance plants for patios

Gardening specialists highlighted a handful of resilient plants that thrive on neglect and suit sunny patio containers. Lantana was praised by Tammy Sons, founder of TN Nursery, who said it "will reward you with no end of bright flowers that draw in the butterflies and pollinators," and chief editor Anup Mutalik noted it "thrives in full sun, tolerates poor soil, shrugs off drought once established," flowering from late spring to November.

Lavender was recommended for its drought‑hardiness and fragrant foliage that attracts pollinators while deterring pests. Pelargoniums, native to South Africa, were described as "very drought‑resistant" and useful for repelling mosquitoes. Bougainvillea was called “one of the most spectacular, low‑fuss patio plants” that “practically takes care of itself once established,” according to Stephen Small of Moon Valley Nurseries.

Advice across the pieces includes using free‑draining soil, allowing containers to dry between watering, and applying balanced liquid fertilizer periodically. The guidance aims to help homeowners create colorful, low‑effort patios even in hot, dry conditions.