Being a gardener is like being a parent — you love all your plant children equally, but let’s be honest, some are simply more trouble than they’re worth. As a seasoned gardener, I’ve had my fair share of plant trials and tribulations.
Some plants have been a breeze to grow, while others have tested my patience to the point where I’ve vowed never to grow them again. Here are my top 12 plants I’ve decided to part ways with, and the easier-to-grow alternatives I’ve chosen instead.
1. Mint
Mint is a lovely herb that’s great in refreshing summer drinks, but it’s also an invasive species that spreads rapidly. It’s a challenge to contain and can quickly overrun your garden. Instead, I now grow stevia. This sweet-tasting herb is non-invasive and can be used as a natural sweetener in your drinks.
2. Roses
Roses are beautiful, but they require a lot of care. They’re prone to diseases and pests, and they need regular pruning and feeding. I’ve found that peonies are a wonderful alternative. They’re just as beautiful as roses, but they’re far more low-maintenance.
3. Petunias
Petunias are lovely, but they require deadheading to keep them looking their best. This can be a time-consuming task. Instead, I’ve started growing begonias. They’re equally stunning, but they require less maintenance.
4. Figs
Figs are a tricky fruit to grow. They need a very specific climate, and they’re prone to various diseases. Instead, I’ve started growing raspberries. They’re easier to grow and they’re just as delicious.
5. Grass
Maintaining a lush, green lawn can be a full-time job. Grass needs regular watering, mowing, and feeding. Instead, I’ve started growing clover. It’s low-maintenance, it’s great for pollinators, and it stays green even in dry conditions.
6. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are notoriously difficult to grow. They need a long growing season, and they’re prone to pests. Instead, I’ve started growing kale. It’s more versatile, it’s easier to grow, and it’s super nutritious.
7. Rhododendrons
Rhododendrons are beautiful, but they need acidic soil to thrive. This can be a challenge to maintain. Instead, I’ve started growing hydrangeas. They’re just as stunning, but they’re easier to care for.
8. Japanese Maples
Japanese maples are stunning, but they can be finicky. They need specific soil conditions, and they’re prone to diseases. Instead, I’ve started growing dogwood trees. They’re just as beautiful, and they’re far more resilient.
9. Orchids
Orchids are beautiful, but they’re notoriously difficult to keep alive. They need specific humidity and light conditions to thrive. Instead, I’ve started growing peace lilies. They’re just as exotic-looking, but they’re much easier to care for.
10. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a garden staple, but they can be a challenge to grow. They need staking, regular feeding, and they’re prone to various diseases. Instead, I’ve started growing zucchini. It’s a prolific producer, and it’s far less finicky.
11. English Ivy
English ivy is a popular ground cover, but it can quickly become invasive. It’s hard to remove once it’s established, and it can damage structures. Instead, I’ve started growing creeping thyme. It’s a lovely, low-maintenance ground cover that won’t take over your garden.
12. Hyacinths
Hyacinths are lovely, but they can be a challenge to grow. They need specific soil conditions, and they don’t always bloom reliably. Instead, I’ve started growing daffodils. They’re just as colorful, and they’re far more reliable bloomers.