Top 20 Low Maintenance Plants for Indian Gardens

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Beginners looking to start gardening? In this article discover the Top 20: Low Maintenance Plants for Indian Gardens. These are the best outdoor plants for beginners that are low-maintenance and easy to grow. Learn how to create a thriving garden with minimal effort.

Starting a garden doesn’t have to be intimidating, especially when you choose the right plants. By selecting low-maintenance, hardy plants, you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving garden with minimal effort. Whether you have a large outdoor space or a small balcony, these plants will bring life and color to your surroundings. As you gain confidence, you can gradually expand your garden with more varieties, knowing that your green thumb is growing stronger every day.

Let’s start our journey to understand the Top 20 Low Maintenance Plants for Indian Gardens. Also this list isn’t just limited to India, anyone can take these as their starter low maintenance plants for growing their own gardens.

Why Choose Low-Maintenance Outdoor Plants for Your Garden?

Gardening is a relaxing and rewarding hobby, and for beginners, for people who are absolutely new to this skill, having and maintaining their own garden might seem like a daunting task. That’s why I believe starting with low-maintenance plants is crucial for building confidence and ensuring success in their gardening journey.

Whether you have a sprawling garden or a even a small balcony, selecting the right plants can transform your outdoor space into a lush, green haven of comfort and serenity. With the increasing interest in gardening, particularly in urban Indian homes, finding the right outdoor plants that require minimal care, yet offer maximum beauty is more important than ever.

This article will guide you through some of the best low-maintenance outdoor plants suitable for beginners. This list contains not only the best, but also the most popular low-maintenance out-door plant trends, and timeless choices that will thrive in varying conditions like the varying conditions we have in India.

Understanding Low Maintenance Plants for Indian Gardens: What Makes a Plant Easy to Care For?

Plants that will grown and thrive with minimal care are your low-maintenance or easy care for plants. These plants typically require less watering, are more resistant to common pests, and do not ask for frequent fertilization or pruning. While all this sounds great, however, please keep in mind that no matter how low maintenance a plant is it is still a living thing and will require some amount of care otherwise the plant will not grow and thrive. It will die. 

Like human beings, plants also need just enough care for them to be able to live a healthy life. But unlike human beings, each plant has different and specific needs and requirements that are specific to their plant family or genus. 

While low maintenance plants are ideal as they reduce the chances of failure and make the gardening experience more enjoyable, they do require a scheduled and timely care routine. Therefore, understanding the climate, soil type, and light conditions specific to your region will help in selecting the most suitable plants for your outdoor garden. In this article we will be dealing with plants with and without flowers, but we will not be dealing with plants that bear fruits or vegetables such as lemons, oranges, and pears to name a few.

Benefits of Low-Maintenance Plants

• Water Efficiency: Many low-maintenance plants are drought-tolerant and require less water, making them ideal for regions with water scarcity.
• Pest Resistance: These plants are often resistant to common pests, reducing the need for pesticides.
• Versatility: Low-maintenance plants can thrive in different environments, from full sun to partial shade.
• Cost-Effective: Since they require less care, you’ll spend less on fertilizers, pesticides, and water.

How to Choose the Right Low-Maintenance Plants for Your Garden

1. Consider Your Climate

• Choose plants that are well-suited to your local climate. While you may have a general idea of area’s climate condition, to get a more better understanding simply go online and search your area climate condition. Then accordingly deicide which plant falls under the category of your climate condition. For example, low water or drought – tolerant plants like succulents are ideal for hot, dry region. On the other hand tropical plants like palms thrive in humid conditions.

2. How Much Space You Have

• Before getting your plant to start your gardening journey, you need to have just enough area to place your plants without crushing them into each other. So consider the size of your garden or gardening area like your balcony or window, and the amount of sunlight it receives before getting your plants.
• Some plants, like succulents, prefer full sun, while others, like Bamboo Palms, can thrive in shaded areas.

3. Think About Watering Needs

• If you have limited time for gardening, choose plants with low watering requirements, such as succulents and cacti.

4. Consider Pest Resistance

• Opt for plants that are naturally resistant to pests to minimize the need for pesticides and reduce maintenance efforts.

5. Plan for Growth

• Choose plants that will fit your space even as they mature. For example, fast-growing vines like Money Plants can be trained to climb or trail, making them versatile for small spaces.

Below is a list of 20 Best Outdoor Plants for Beginners: Low-Maintenance Choices for Your Garden: 

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

Description: The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a hardy succulent known for its tall, sword-like leaves. It’s an excellent air purifier and can thrive in various light conditions, from full sun to low light.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light.
• Watering: Water once every 2-3 weeks. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• Soil: Well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix.

• Availability: Available at most nurseries and online stores like Amazon India and Ugaoo.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹300 to ₹800 depending on the size.

2. Aloe Vera

Description: Aloe Vera is a succulent plant known for its medicinal properties. It’s a great plant for beginners due to its minimal care requirements. The plant’s thick, fleshy leaves store water, making it drought-tolerant.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires bright, indirect sunlight.
• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, about once every 3-4 weeks. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings.
• Soil: Sandy or well-draining soil.

• Availability: Widely available at local nurseries and online platforms like Amazon and Nurserylive.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹150 to ₹500 depending on the size.

3. Money Plant (Epipremnum aureum)

Description: The Money Plant, also known as Pothos, is a popular houseplant that can also be grown outdoors. It’s a fast-growing vine with heart-shaped leaves that can be trained to climb or trail.

Care Tips:

• Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week.
• Soil: Well-draining, all-purpose potting mix.

• Availability: Easily available at most nurseries and online stores.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹100 to ₹400 depending on the size and variety.

4. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)

Description: The Jade Plant is a succulent with thick, glossy leaves. It’s a symbol of good luck and prosperity in many cultures and is known for its longevity.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
• Watering: Water once every 2-3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
• Soil: Well-draining, succulent soil mix.

• Availability: Available at local nurseries and online gardening stores.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹200 to ₹600 depending on the size.

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5. Bougainvillea

Description: Bougainvillea is a vibrant, flowering plant that’s perfect for adding color to your garden. It’s a hardy plant that thrives in hot, sunny conditions. It has the most beautiful variety of colors that will definitely add splash of colors to your space. White, pink, yellow, red, magenta and a number of blends between different colors. Its a beauty falling gracefully over your walls and balcony.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires full sunlight for at least 5-6 hours a day.
• Watering: Water sparingly; Bougainvillea is drought-tolerant and prefers dry soil.
• Soil: Well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH.

• Availability: Commonly available at nurseries and online.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹150 to ₹500 depending on the variety and size.

6. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Description: The Areca Palm is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces due to its elegant, feathery fronds. It’s an easy-to-care-for plant that adds a tropical feel to your garden.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
• Watering: Water when the top 2 inches of soil feel dry, typically once a week.
• Soil: Well-draining, all-purpose potting mix.

• Availability: Available at most nurseries and online platforms.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹150 to ₹1500 depending on the size.

7. Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii)

Description: The Crown of Thorns is a flowering succulent with thorny stems and vibrant flowers (the flowers are sticky to touch). It’s a tough plant that thrives in harsh conditions, making it perfect for beginners.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires full sunlight for best flowering.
• Watering: Water sparingly; it’s drought-tolerant and prefers dry soil.
• Soil: Well-draining, sandy soil.

• Availability: Available at local nurseries and online.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹200 to ₹600 depending on the size.

8. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

Description: The Bamboo Palm is a small, clumping palm that’s perfect for creating a tropical atmosphere in your garden. It’s easy to care for and can thrive in low-light conditions.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers indirect sunlight but can tolerate low light.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week.
• Soil: Well-draining, all-purpose potting mix.

• Availability: Available at garden stores and online.
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹500 to ₹1500 depending on the size.

9. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Description: The Spider Plant is a resilient plant known for its arching leaves and tiny white flowers. It’s excellent for hanging baskets and can thrive in a variety of conditions.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate low light.
• Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically once a week.
• Soil: Spider plant require well-draining, all-purpose potting mix for best results.

• Availability: Widely available at nurseries and online gardening stores
• Cost in India: Prices range from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the size.

10. Marigold (Tagetes spp.)

• Description: Marigolds are bright, cheerful flowers that are easy to grow and maintain. They’re a popular choice for Indian gardens due to their vibrant colors and pest-repellent properties.
• Care Tips:
  • Light: Requires full sunlight for best growth and flowering.
  • Watering: Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week.
  • Soil: Marigold require Well-draining, and fertile soil.
• Availability and Cost in India: Available at local nurseries and online platforms. Prices range from ₹20 to ₹100 per plant.

11. Crinum Lily (Cape Lily)

Description: The Crinum lily, also known as Cape lily, is a beautiful perennial plant celebrated for its large, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of white, pink, or purple. This plant adds a touch of elegance to any garden and is well-suited for Indian climates. The lush green foliage contrasts beautifully with its striking flowers, making it a focal point in any outdoor space.

Care Tips

• Light: Crinum lilies thrive in full sun and require at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can also tolerate partial shade but bloom more profusely in brighter conditions.
• Watering: Once established, Crinum lilies are relatively drought-tolerant. They prefer moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During hotter months, more frequent watering may be needed to maintain their vibrant growth.
• Soil: The best soil for your crinum lily should be moist, but having good drainage. The soil you use should be rich with organic matter and be fertile. While this plant can grow in poor soils as well, it will thrive and bloom best with this recommended mix.

Availability in India: Crinum lilies are commonly available in nurseries across India. They can be purchased as bulbs or mature plants and are easy to find in local gardening stores or online platforms.

Cost in India: ₹100 to ₹300 per bulb, while mature plants range from ₹500 to ₹1,500, depending on the size and variety.

12. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

Description:
Sunflowers are bright, cheerful flowers that can grow tall and make a bold statement in any garden. They are not only beautiful but also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires full sunlight for 6-8 hours a day.
• Watering: Needs regular watering, especially during their growing phase. Ensure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil with neutral pH levels. You can check the pH levels of the soil with a pH level home kit.

Availability:
Seeds are easily available in most gardening stores and online platforms in India.

Cost Estimation:
₹20 to ₹100 for a packet of seeds.

13. Jasmine (Jasminum officinale)

Description:
Jasmine is a fragrant flowering plant that produces small, star-shaped white or yellow flowers. It’s perfect for adding a sweet scent to your garden.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It flourishes with 4-6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Watering: Requires moderate watering, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings.
• Soil: Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil.

Availability:
Commonly found in nurseries throughout India.

Cost Estimation:
₹100 to ₹300 depending on the variety and size.

14. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Description:
Lavender is a fragrant, flowering shrub known for its beautiful purple flowers and calming scent. It’s a hardy plant that can thrive in the hot, dry climates of India, making it an excellent choice for outdoor gardens. Lavender is not only visually appealing but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours daily. Lavender thrives in bright light and warm conditions.
• Watering: Water sparingly; Lavender prefers dry soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• Soil: Needs well-drained, sandy, or gravelly soil with a slightly alkaline pH. You can amend the soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage.

Availability: Lavender is available in select nurseries and online gardening stores in India.

Cost in India: Prices range from ₹200 to ₹600 depending on the size and variety.

15. Oleander (Nerium oleander)

ers in various colors such as pink, red, yellow, and white. It’s excellent for creating hedges or borders in gardens.

Care Tips:

• Watering: Needs regular watering during the growing season but can tolerate dry conditions once established.
• Light: Requires full sun for optimal blooming.
• Soil: They mostly grow well in acidic and neutral soil. Their soil requires a PH level of 5.0 to 8.3. But these oleander plants can adapt to various types of soil conditions, thereby allowing them to grow even in poor soil condition. 

Availability: Easily available in nurseries across India.

Cost Estimation: ₹200 to ₹600 depending on size and variety.

16. Geranium (Pelargonium)

Description: Geraniums are popular for their colorful blooms and fragrant leaves. They are versatile and can be used in borders, containers, or hanging baskets.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires bright light and can tolerate full sun for most of the day.
• Watering: Needs moderate watering; ensure the soil is well-drained.
• Soil: Geraniums don’t require fancy fertilizers or specialized soils, in fact, they require just a bit of basic care to thrive. The perfect soil for growing Geraniums is a loose soil mix with plenty of organic matter. If your soil is on the heavy side, include coco peat, compost or perlite. Manure and vermiculite are not recommended for this plant.

Availability: Available in nurseries and online gardening stores.

Cost Estimation: ₹150 to ₹400 depending on size and variety.

17. Plumeria (Frangipani)

Description: Plumeria is a tropical plant with large, fragrant flowers that are commonly used in making leis. It’s perfect for Indian gardens as it thrives in warm climates.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires full sun to produce abundant blooms.
• Watering: Needs moderate watering during the growing season and less during dormancy.
• Soil: Plumerias need very good drainage and big size pots for their roots to grow. The basic soil mix recommend is cactus mix combined with pumice or Perlite to help with the drainage. People add with redwood chips or other compost but plumerias will grow in poor soils and still produce a good thriving plant. A soil pH of between 5.5 and 6.5 is ideal for plumerias, though they can tolerate a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. You can test the pH level of your soil with a pH level testing home kit.

Availability: Widely available in nurseries across India.

Cost Estimation: ₹300 to ₹1,000 depending on the size and variety.

18. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Description: Hibiscus is a well-loved plant in India, known for its large, vibrant flowers. It’s a great choice for adding a tropical feel to your garden.

Care Tips:

• Light: Thrives in full sun and requires at least 5-6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Watering: Needs regular watering, especially during dry periods.
• Soil:  Hibiscus requires well drainage soilless potting mix (contains no real soil) For well drainage soilless mix in your pots you can use peat moss, perlite, vermiculite or coco coir, which are lighter and will improve drainage.

Availability: Easily found in nurseries across India.

Cost Estimation: ₹150 to ₹500 depending on size and variety.

19. Ixora (Ixora coccinea)

Description: Ixora is a flowering plant that produces clusters of tiny, bright flowers in red, pink, orange, or yellow. It’s commonly used in hedges and as ornamental plants in Indian gardens.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Watering: Requires regular watering, but the soil should be well-drained.
• Soil: Ixora plants, also known as “West Indian jasmine” or “flame of the woods”, this plant prefer soil that’s rich in organic matter and peat-based. The soil should be slightly acidic pH level between 5.5 and 6.5

Availability: Available in nurseries and gardening stores across India.

Cost Estimation: ₹100 to ₹400 depending on size and variety.

20. Lantana (Lantana camara)

Description: Lantana is a hardy shrub that produces small, colorful flowers throughout the year. It’s a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various conditions.

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires full sun for at least 6 hours daily.
• Watering: Needs moderate watering; it’s drought-tolerant once established.
• Soil: Lantana is tolerant of most soil types, but prefers rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5 and a high organic matter content.

Availability: Widely available in Indian nurseries.

Cost Estimation: ₹50 to ₹300 depending on size and variety.

Gardening is not just about beautifying your space; it’s a journey that connects you with nature and provides a sense of fulfillment. So, grab your gardening tools, choose your favorite low-maintenance plants, and start your gardening adventure today!