A to Z Garden Tour: Color, Blooms and Foliage I Love
Have you ever stopped to consider just how many varieties of flowers, blooming shrubs and ornamental plants are growing in your home gardens? When you count the perennials that return each year, the annuals added for bursts of color, the potted arrangements and standout specimen plants, chances are you’ve cultivated quite a collection.
The idea for this post came after playing fun rounds of the “alphabet game” with our grandkids on vacation. It got me thinking: What would my garden look like from A to Z? I started jotting down the plants growing around our home, and to my surprise, I had something for nearly every letter. You might find it fun to try, too!
While my list may be modest compared to those of you with sprawling gardens, I’m sharing what thrives in my flower beds, foundation plantings, containers and a few standout trees. It’s a little snapshot of what brings me joy throughout the seasons and a helpful guide to learn more about New England gardens!
A
Astilbe is a shade-loving perennial that grows around the shed in the backyard. A transplant gift from a bonus family member, I look forward to the pretty-in-pink showy flowers that get better every year.
I use arborvitaes as ornamental evergreens in containers to enjoy in the winter (learn more). Now potted for several years, the Emerald Green tree varieties flank my front entrance. I was looking for something that reminded me of an Italian Cyprus with a narrow, columnar growth pattern, and this arborvitae was closest I could find in my growing zone.
The dwarf Little Giant shrub is happy in a pot for several years, and once it outgrows the container, I plant it in a wooded area on the side of my driveway. Both these arborvitae varieties are slow growing, especially in pots, so are a good investment for winter color.
Alyssum is one of my go-to plants for ground cover and filling spaces in decorative pots. It’s low and spreads nicely, so it’s great for filling those little gaps in the garden or spilling over the edges of containers. It’s easy to grow, loves sun but does fine in some shade and keeps blooming almost nonstop with very little fuss.
B
Black Eyed-Susans come in a variety of colors, but are best known for their daisy-like flowers with yellow petals and dark centers. I am especially fond of them because they grew as wildflowers in the fields of my grandparents’ farm.
Bleeding hearts are a beloved spring favorite that naturally thrive in cool, shaded woodland areas. Their delicate, heart-shaped blooms come in lovely shades of pink, red, white and even coral. They are sweet sign of spring and nature’s way of sharing a little love.
BloomStruck hydrangea is one of my favorite Endless summer varieties. BloomStruck always surprises me with its grand showing of mops and colors. I usually don’t treat my soil to change the acidity levels, so I’m happy with different color combinations.
Butterfly bush is a newcomer to my garden with a compact dwarf variety that fits perfectly in a large container. Planted in good company with other butterfly-attracting flowers in my garden, it’s a favorite stop for pollinators.
C
Chamomile is warmly welcomed because it’s visited by butterflies. For that reason, I like to add this daisy-like flowering perennial herb in my pots and flower beds.
Coleus come in a stunning range of colors, from deep burgundy to bright lime and everything in between. They handle shade and partial sun well, making them perfect for a flower box, containers on the patio or as fillers to add a splash of color.
Chantilly Lace is a large panicle hydrangea shrub, more like a small tree, really, that has found its perfect home in the corner of my front yard. Chantilly Lace blooms are delicate and charming, reminiscent of old-fashioned doilies with their lacy, intricate petals.
Columbine always surprises me when it self-seeds in different spots throughout the shady areas where it does well. I especially love the delicate pink petals that linger for a few weeks from mid- to late spring. Columbines also come in shades of purple, red, yellow and white.
Coneflowers weren’t familiar to me growing up, but after discovering them in my college roommate’s backyard, I was instantly hooked. It took some time and patience, but I finally got them established thanks to a few varieties I picked up at a local garden club plant sale. Their bright reds, pinks and purples bring cheerful color to my garden every summer.
D
Daffodils come and go in my yard. I never seem to have the long-lasting success with spring bulbs that many gardeners enjoy. Still, every few years I plant a batch in the fall, eager to welcome their bright, early blooms and the promise of spring. I’m learning that planting bulbs at the right depth, in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight, helps them come back stronger each year.
For years, I called daylilies simply “lilies,” but daylilies grow from tubers, unlike true lilies that come from bulbs. I’ve planted many varieties, from red, burgundy, yellow, pink and the variegated one pictured here. My favorite are tiger daylilies, with their bold orange and black-striped petals that really stand out in the garden.
Delphiniums were something I picked up on a lark at a garden center, hoping to get lucky and enjoy them for a few seasons. Not very familiar with the plant, I soon realized the variety I had, Summer Nights, is a dwarf. My sister-in-law’s delphiniums are much taller and fuller, resembling lupines, so I was surprised to learn how tall and lush other varieties can be. I purchased a larger variety to fill an empty spot and am hoping they’ll thrive.
E
Euonymus may not a favorite to everyone because they like to creep, but I happen to love them for that reason. They fill in an awkward spot along the back of my house with poor soil. Planted with Japanese Boxwood, this variegated green-and-white shrub fills in the back-of-the-house foundation bed nicely and requires minimal care.
F
Ferns from the wooded area behind my house were transplanted in my front flower bed and fill in the gaps to keep that area lush and green like an English-garden. And if they infringe too much, I can easily weed them to regain more space and control!
Florist mums (chrysanthemums), not to be mixed up with perennial garden/hardy mums, make a statement in containers on my front steps in September. These popular autumn annuals come in a variety of colors that you’ll find in abundance at local nurseries and supermarkets.
G
Grape Hyacinths are such pretty spring bulbs that I enjoy growing. A big plus is they seem happier in my yard than many other bulbs. I often snip a few to brighten my kitchen windowsill, where they look just right in a tiny vase.
Garden Mums (also called Hardy Mums) are a plant I came across at a local garden club plant sale. I never knew mums were perennials in my growing zone. They do like to spread, so keep that in mind when planting to give them some breathing room!
H
My braided tropical hibiscus tree was a special Mother’s Day gift, and it bloomed nonstop throughout the season. To overwinter tropical hibiscus successfully, bring the plant indoors before the first frost. Place it in a bright, cool spot and keep the soil just barely moist; too much water can cause root rot. Pruning the plant back before bringing it inside can also help it conserve energy during the winter months. With its large scarlet flowers, it’s definitely a stunner worth the extra care.
Holly shrubs are lush and beautiful, with their bright red berries putting on a pretty show throughout winter. Just a reminder: You need both male and female hollies for the berries to appear. These were some of the first shrubs I planted when we moved into our house, and they continue to do well with minimal maintenance.
Hyacinths are special bulbs, not only are their vibrant blooms a stunning sight as they push through the spring soil, but their sweet fragrance fills the air with a wonderful scent. I always look forward to their return each year, a sure sign that spring is on its way.
Hostas were once so underappreciated by me. I never really gave them much credit or appreciated their charm, until, well, I got a crush on them! I Originally native of northeast Asia, these shade-loving plants come in so many beautiful varieties with amazing leaf patterns. There are so many types that someday I hope to write a blog about shade-loving hostas. But first, I need to figure out which varieties are growing in my yard. I have quite a collection now; most have been gifts or finds from garden clubs and end-of-season sales.
Hydrangeas of different varieties have found their way into my yard and heart. I love them so much I break them out by the specific type in this post. From Chantilly Lace to BloomStruck to Vanilla and Strawberry, I’ll share them all with you! 😊
I
Irises have been a bit hit-or-miss in my yard over the years. I’m not sure if it’s the soil, sun exposure or a mix of both, but some seasons they really put on a show, and other years, it’s just meh. Seeing these elegant blooms pop up each spring makes me happy!
Impatiens are shade-loving annuals that always seem to find a place in pots and for extra color in my beds. They come is so many colors from this calming white to saturated hues like red, orange, purple and pink to provide contrast.
J
Japanese barberry is a striking shrub that adds a rich burst of burgundy along my front walk, where it’s tucked between Green Mountain boxwoods. The bold contrast in both color and texture creates a beautiful, layered look.
K
Kalanchoe, typically grown as an indoor plant, does surprisingly well out on my deck where it can soak up the sun. These sun-loving succulents really seem to enjoy the extra rays during the warmer months. The only catch is keeping an eye on the weather. If a heavy shower is in the forecast, I make sure to bring the pot inside.
L
Liatris, also known as blazing star or gayfeather, is a native perennial that not only adds beautiful vertical interest to the garden but also draws butterflies, especially Monarchs, when it blooms. My liatris had gotten so massive over the years that I divided it into several clumps to share with family and friends. This is a sun-loving plant that comes back reliably.
Lily of the Valley is a charming plant with its delicate, bell-shaped blooms and sweet, nostalgic fragrance. There is something lovely about it quietly filling in shady corners, but I do pull it back when it starts getting a little too assertive.
M
Magnolia trees put on a spectacular floral show each spring, and I’m thrilled that my small-but-mighty one holds onto its blooms longer than many full-sized trees. I have been enjoying more than three full weeks of flowers. This particular magnolia is especially meaningful to me. It was memorial gift from a dear friend in honor of my mother. I’m truly enjoying the process of watching it grow and take shape each year and remembering my mother.
Marigolds are cheerful pom-pom flowers that help keep critters at bay while adding bright pops of color to my vegetable raised beds. I always pick up several flats from local nurseries and scatter seeds along the stone edging in my front bed. I tend to favor sunny yellow marigolds, but sometimes red and orange varieties make a nice change.
Million Bells, also known as Calibrachoa or mini petunias, are definitely annuals to feature in containers. They come in countless colors, making them a cheerful addition to your front entrance, deck or patio. I repot hanging baskets into pretty pots for my front steps and in front of the garage. Just remember to fertilize them occasionally to keep the blooms coming all summer long.
N
Nasturtium grown from seed have become a staple in my raised beds and containers. These dainty flowering plants are edible, and make a pretty complement to a summer salad or pretty garnish!
Nicotiana, also known as flowering tobacco, are perfect bedding plants that come in many colors. Their trumpet-shaped flowers attract hummingbirds, and I love that they often self-seed, providing a nice springtime surprise!
O
Original Endless Summer Hydrangeas, which are the bigleaf variety, have done well over the past several years in my front flower bed. Endless Summer Original, which replaced Nikko blues planted 20 years earlier, have consistently bloomed and some years are better than others. Read my post about trying different hydrangea varieties.
Ornamental cabbage and kale are autumn-hardy plants that add great texture and color to fall containers. I like planting them alongside small florist mums for a lovely seasonal display. These cool-weather plants can handle light frost and actually develop more vibrant colors as temperatures drop. To keep them looking their best, water regularly but avoid soggy soil.
Oxeye daisies sometimes get a bad rap for being invasive, but that hasn’t been my experience. They became part of my main flower bed after a garden club purchase, and I felt confident planting them since they were thriving in a local gardener’s yard. They do self-seed throughout the summer, so I make sure to combine new clumps with existing ones to keep things tidy. While they can get a bit leggy, I stake them to help keep the plants contained and orderly.
My Oxeye Sunflower was an impulse purchase that’s become one of my favorites over the years. Its striking variegated leaves paired with those cheerful yellow blooms create a bold contrast that makes it stand out among my other flowering plants.
P
Pansies are a favorite of mine because they’re so pretty and colorful while also being hardy spring annuals. I often tuck them into containers and mix a few into my garden beds. Most years, some will reseed in unexpected spots, which is always a lovely surprise.
Peonies in my yard carry a deep family history—transplanted from my Grammy’s garden, where they were originally planted by her mother, my great-grandmother. These large, hot pink blooms not only dazzle with their vibrant color but also fill the air with a sweet, intoxicating fragrance. With well over 100 years of history, they bring me joy every year when they burst into bloom around Memorial Day.
Phlox are a newer addition to my garden, and I enjoy several perennial varieties that enrich my garden’s story and life. The pink one, a charming old-time beauty, was transplanted from a bonus family member’s garden, while the purple variety I planted with hostas in containers.
Q
Queen’s Ann Lace holds a special place in my heart because my mother added it to my wedding bouquet alongside white roses. These delicate wildflowers grow in the back of my driveway. I like to think of them as charming “weeds” that carry sweet memories with them.
R
Roses have been a bit of a rollercoaster in my garden; I keep trying because I have a special fondness for them. For about five years, a miniature tea rose I picked up at the supermarket kept coming back, along with a full-sized bush. But sometimes winters in my growing zone get too harsh, and I have to replace them.
I’m planning to replant my Rose of Sharon sapling into a container which allows for better control over soil quality and flexibility to move the plant as needed. They prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, so I’ll make sure the pot is large enough to support growth and place it in a sunny spot.
S
I picked up a perennial sunflower at a garden club sale after hearing good things from the grower who had divided hers. It comes back thick and healthy, adding a nice touch to any garden. Perennial sunflowers prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Stonecrop sedum is a true sign of fall with its blooms signaling that the warm days are starting to wind down. Three small plants I got from a garden club grew massive over the years, and I happily shared clippings with family and friends. It’s rewarding to see those transplants thriving in other yards.
Dwarf Shasta Daisies “Snow” and “White Lion” made their debut in the front flower bed, and they’ve earned their place. With a tidy height of just 8 to 12 inches, they’re perfect for the front of the border and filled in beautifully after the oxeye daisies were trimmed back. Their compact habit and classic blooms make them a reliable favorite season after season.
Salvia with purple flowers remind me of lavender. This perennial, drought-tolerant plant makes a nice addition to a flower bed with its spiky blooms for dimension especially around large flowering shrubs.
T
One of my summer faves are tiger daylilies, which usually bloom around summer solstice to officially announce my favorite season is here. I love them for their beautiful orange color that contrasts against my blue hydrangeas. Plus, they have a special place in my heart because I transplanted them from my Mémé’s farm.
Tulips are warmly welcomed every spring, but they don’t seem to stick around my yard unless I plant bulbs in the fall every few years. I’m not sure if my soil is too clay heavy or if the critters devour the bulbs before they have a chance to grow. Here’s some tips on growing them; hope you have better luck than me!
V
Vanilla and Strawberry Hydrangea bloom during the heart of the summer starting out with white flowers that transition to pink and finally a dark “strawberry” rose color. As a panicle variety, it produces large football-shaped blooms and is hardy from zones 3 to 8. If you struggle growing mop, bigleaf hydrangeas, I recommend trying a panicle variety. You’ll be happy with the results! Promise.
Viburnum, which I’m pretty sure mine is the Burkwood variety, produces large “snowball” flower clusters each spring. I’m enjoying this shrub that’s newish to my landscape.
W
Wave petunias are a standout choice for annuals, offering vibrant, nonstop blooms from spring through fall with minimal maintenance. Their spreading habit fills containers, garden beds and hanging baskets with lush, cascading color that brightens any space. I’m especially drawn to the purple varieties; the rich, velvety hues are not only stunning but also speak to my favorite color, adding a personal touch to my yard.
Wax Begonias end up in my flower beds because they’re shade and sun tolerate. I often tuck them into spaces around my front flower bed after the daisies make their debut and get cut back. They come in a variety of colors in both flowers and leaves, which are shiny green or reddish brown.
Willow is our favorite statement tree growing in our yard. Called Dappled Willow, it was a house-warming gift from close friends. It takes center stage in June with its variegated green and white foliage with a tinge of pink hue when in full bloom.
X
‘Xtras that pop up in your gardens unexpectantly are known as volunteers. Whether they self-seed, get dispersed through the wind, get rooted during fall cleanup or are a surprise “annual” that comes back, they’re always a fun addition. Some include dandelions (always), oxeye daisies, pansies, columbines, hostas, garden mums and milkweed. Milkweed are often part of my landscape to help the Monarchs, which are now considered close to extinction. Not sure if a few plants will make a difference, but it makes me feel a little better.
Y
Yucca grown in large pots take up a summer residence in my lower deck where they add some tropical ambience. In the cold months, they add to the décor in my finished basement.
Drought-resistant yarrow is a great choice for the middle or back of the garden, thanks to its upright habit and height, it often reaches around three feet tall. It’s a tough, sun-loving perennial that blooms through heat and dry spells with ease. I planted ‘Sassy Summer Sunset’ for its warm, golden-orange tones, which create a striking contrast against the soft green texture of nearby ferns.
Z
Zinnias in mixed colors, including bright reds, sunny yellows, vibrant oranges and hot pinks, are a summer staple. They’re tucked in with my Black-Eyed Susans, added for height in containers and sometimes planted along the foundation for a bold statement. Butterflies adore them!
How I Love Them All!
As a proud plant mom, I truly love them all, but some hold a special place in my heart for the way they reflect the seasons and stir emotion. In spring, it’s the early bulbs that awaken the garden, followed by bleeding hearts, irises, peonies and daisies that make my heart swell. As summer settles in, my hydrangeas take the spotlight. On a good year, they burst into glorious blue mops; even in a modest bloom, they bring me joy. Coneflowers, Black-eyed Susans and zinnias carry the season forward with color and charm. My million bells, transplanted from hanging baskets into pots, bloom faithfully and keep me smiling all season long. And as the year winds down, mums, stonecrop sedum and ornamental kale and cabbage close the show, while red-berried holly adds a final touch of magic to winter’s garden. Through every bloom and season, they each tell a story …. and I cherish every chapter.
Post to Read Again Later!
What a delightful and creative way to look at your garden! I love how a simple alphabet game with the grandkids sparked this wonderful inventory of all your plants. It’s amazing how much variety we accumulate over the years without really realizing it until we take stock like this.
I’m definitely going to try this exercise in my own garden – I’m curious to see which letters will be easy and which ones might stump me! It’s such a fun way to appreciate the diversity we’ve created in our outdoor spaces. Thanks for sharing this charming idea and for inspiring me to look at my garden with fresh eyes. I’d love to hear which letter was the trickiest for you to fill!
What a garden, the flowers and all. I love it. My mom has a green thumb and she definitely love gardening. Great post!
What an inspiring, helpful post! Your gardens are amazing. I love your advice on tucking flowers into corners and with other types of flowers. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Oh this such a fun idea!! I have bluish/purpleish hydrangeas in my yard since they were my husband’s and my wedding flowers, and I never knew they were actually the Bloomstruck variety! So cool, thank you for sharing 🙂
Such a beautiful garden tour! I loved seeing the variety from A to Z, so much color and texture. Super inspiring!
This made me think of my sister—she’s the green thumb in the family! Her garden is full of all kinds of flowers and plants, and I’m always amazed at how much beauty she’s cultivated. I never realized just how many varieties she has until reading this! The flowers are so beautiful!
Your garden looks stunning! Thanks a lot for sharing this wonderful space with us!
Lovely garden! I would someday love to have one like yours with all kinds of flowers and plants!!
I’m fascinated by flowers and nature, although I must confess that I couldn’t name many plants. I feel I’ve learned a lot about the subject today.
Looks like you have a beautiful garden, by the way.
Thanks for sharing!
Absolutely love this post. It gave me a ton of great ideas! I have a handful of the plants you mentioned so I’m excited to look for some of the others listed.
I enjoyed your garden tour! You’ve got so many stunning pictures of all the gorgeous plants! I wish I had a green thumb to bring some of these beauties to life in my backyard!
Wow, you have a beautiful garden! I loved the tour and new ideas for a few plants to try out in containers. You are doing a great job with your outdoor spaces.
Ohhh I absolutely loved this garden tour! 🌸🌿 So many beautiful colors and textures — makes me want to grab my gloves and run outside to dig in the dirt! ha ha! Thanks for the inspiration. 💚
What a stunning garden! The variety of colors is breathtaking – it feels like looking at a living painting! Your love of gardening shines through in every photo. Thanks for sharing such a joyful and inspiring space!
Beautiful post! I really enjoyed reading. The hydrangeas are one of my favorites.