Guest Author: Nancy Jones
Gardening in Michigan can be a challenge because of our crazy climate and temperature extremes, but once you get some basics down, it's pretty easy. Read "the rules" first and then pick a few plants that are well suited to the Metro Detroit area. All plants listed are geared toward easy-care, so no fussing allowed! And one more thing: DON'T BE AFRAID TO FAIL! If you haven't killed a few plants, you aren't really gardening. Try the plant in a different place next time or find a different plant.
Without further ado, here is your guide to gardening in Detroit, Michigan:
Gardening in Michigan can be a challenge because of our crazy climate and temperature extremes, but once you get some basics down, it's pretty easy. Read "the rules" first and then pick a few plants that are well suited to the Metro Detroit area. All plants listed are geared toward easy-care, so no fussing allowed! And one more thing: DON'T BE AFRAID TO FAIL! If you haven't killed a few plants, you aren't really gardening. Try the plant in a different place next time or find a different plant.
Without further ado, here is your guide to gardening in Detroit, Michigan:
Rules for Gardening in Michigan
Photo © Howard E.
A few hard and fast rules for gardening in Southeast Michigan, including tips on and information about climate zones, soil and flower-bed size.
Bulbs
Photo © Laura Sternberg, Licensed to About.com
Bulbs are planted in spring or fall, and the plant grows every year thereafter.
Easy-Care Annuals
Photo © Dawn Ulmer
These plants live only till the first frost and then die. Their life cycle (in Michigan) is spring through fall. Since they have color the entire season, a good garden will usually have some annuals mixed in to brighten it up when no perennials are in bloom.
Perennials for Shady Flower Beds
Photo © Laura Sternberg, Licensed to About.com
Perennial plants generally return every year because their roots remain alive under the soil through the winter.
Full-Sun Perennials
Photo © Karon Miller
Perennial plants should be the backbone of an easy-care garden. Generally speaking, perennials are in bloom for 2-4 weeks in Michigan.
