Teaching your child about nature, the landscape, and healthy eating habits can all be done in the privacy of your own backyard and for a nominal fee. Oklahoma City is home to many native plant species that are easy to care for and improve the local habitat. Little hands are often eager to get into the dirt and see their work grow into something beautiful, or even edible. Whether you have a toddler or an older tween, teaching them gardening skills can help develop confidence and an appreciation of nature. Here is our list of plants to include in your own low-maintenance garden. 

Yucca Plants

Yucca plants are some of the hardiest plants you will find. These low-maintenance plants make ideal houseplants. The yucca is a good option for younger children who may often forget to water the plant. Because it is drought tolerant, pest-resistant, and slow-growing, little hands can feel successful and still be a little forgetful about maintenance. The yucca plant is also very easy to propagate, which makes it an ideal plant to have around to share with friends and neighbors. 

Roses

You’ll also want to plant a rose bush or two. There are thousands of varieties to choose from, ranging from dwarf roses that grow well in pots, to climbing roses that love a trellis, and your standard rose bush that can produce countless blooms when mature. There are few things as precious as a smile on your child’s face when you give them a freshly cut rose from your garden. Although many think roses are hard to grow, the bush itself is a very easy-to-care-for plant under the right conditions. 

You need to ensure you have well-drained soil and a good pair of shears to help you shape it to your desired size. If you’re still unsure, consider a variety of roses called the OSO easy roses. These require less pruning, don’t need much water, and grow easily even if you don’t cut off the dead blooms. While it does well in full sun, this plant is great for slightly older children to tend to because of the thorns. 

Shasta Daisies

Shasta daisies are a great option to add a pop of bright white to your garden while still maintaining a low profile. The flowers will bloom strongly for a solid two to three months if cared for properly. This is a good flower to place in an area with soil that has good drainage because too much water can cause rot. The daisy is a good option for children who love to make crowns of flowers, want to give mom or grandma a bouquet of fresh flowers, or appreciate counting petals. 

Lantana

If you are looking for solid ground cover and an ornamental appeal, consider planting lantana. This easy-to-grow plant spreads well, is easy to trim, and comes in a variety of colors to accent your lawn or as a border around trees. While the lantana has a vine-like appearance, it has round clusters of tiny bright flowers. You can find yellow, orange, red, white, pink, blue, and purple varieties. However, they do cross-pollinate, so if you buy different colors, they may not stay the same. 

This plant does well on the ground or in hanging pots outside. It requires little water and is a safe option for young children to plant. The plant does spread if not kept trimmed, especially in an open yard. If you have pets, be sure to plant it in an area where they can’t reach, as it can be toxic if eaten in large quantities. 

Winter Jasmine

If you want flowers in winter, look no further than the winter jasmine. It does well in drained and sandy soil. With regular watering and care it can grow up to 12 to 15 feet tall. Because this plant needs consistent watering, it is best suited for older children. Plant it near a trellis and where it can get the most winter sun to ensure optimal health. 

Edible Plants

Even in Oklahoma, caring for plants can sometimes be a chore. However, the pay-off is exceptional. Especially with children, you want to show them the benefits of growing their own food. This method can help even reluctant vegetable eaters enjoy a few healthy snacks because there are few things more gratifying than eating what you have grown. 

Some plants to consider growing in your home garden for that farm-to-table experience include carrots, radishes, lettuce, onion, and tomatoes. In the hotter summer months, try okra or sweet potatoes. You can even collect some seeds from your grocery store purchases. Take the seeds from a bell pepper, cantaloupe, or watermelon and teach your little one about the life cycle of a plant. 

Herbs for Cooking

If you want an herb garden to help add flavor and spice to your meals, consider planting your garden in a rather sunny location. Several varieties of mint grow well in the Oklahoma climate, as well as rosemary, sage, and thyme. Just be sure to prune them in spring to encourage new growth.  

So there you have it. Crème de la Crème of Oklahoma City has enjoyed sharing our list of quality vegetation for planting low-maintenance gardens on your property. Whether you are planning a container garden or a more permanent landscaping option, there are plenty of colorful and hardy plants to help bring some color to your area. So what do you think? Did we mention a plant that will be featured in your next low-maintenance garden? 

While you think about how to configure your next garden, consider Crème de la Crème of Oklahoma City for your child care needs. Whether you need an immersive and enriching summer camp or are searching for a dependable and welcoming child care and learning facility, we have options that fit your needs. Our facility has state-of-the-art arrangements including a bowling alley, a soccer field, and an indoor basketball court. Call our friendly staff at 405-977-0191 to schedule a tour and learn the benefits of our programs. 

Single Spider’s Strand on Red Yucca Flowers by Chic Bee is licensed with CC BY 2.0