Looking for low-maintenance garden
Valerie Asked
I live in Western Kentucky and need ideas on what to plant that needs no attention and is deer resistant. I have empty terraced beds in my front yard and no clue what to plant. HELP
The Gardener’s Answer
Hi, Valerie: Before choosing plants, you will want to observe the amount of daily sunlight this space receives. 6 hours or more is considered full sun, less than 3 hours of sun is considered shade and any amount in between is part-sun. All plants have different requirements in terms of growing conditions. You will want to consider the height and growth habit of each plant. Depending on the size of the terraced hillside you may want to work with a landscape designer.
They can draw up a plan for you and give suggestions for plant choices that will be happy with the growing conditions and deer issue. It sounds like you have a few beds so you could incorporate different plants. Combining evergreens with perennials and annuals will provide year-round interest. I am happy to give you more specific suggestions if you want to send along photos and growing conditions. This is also a good time to have your soil tested.
The results will indicate current nutrient levels and give suggestions for improvement if needed. This can at your County Cooperative Extension Service. The Lyon county offices are located at 231 Main Street in Eddyville. The phone number is (270) 388-2341. The following link lists deer resistant plant options that are hardy for Kentucky gardeners: https://www.plantkingdom.net/include/PDFs/tips/Wildlife-in-the-Garden/Wildlife-in-the-Garden/Deer/Deer-Resistant-Plants.pdf
