Living in Zone 3 can sometimes feel like a challenge for us gardeners. With our harsh winters and short growing seasons, it’s easy to wonder if anything will thrive in our gardens. But don’t worry – I’ve got you covered!
After years of trial and error in my own backyard, I’ve discovered a treasure trove of perennials that not only survive but truly flourish in our chilly climate.
Let me share my top 20 picks with you!
1. Asiatic Lilies
These beauties are a true joy in my garden. They’re incredibly low-maintenance – I just plant them and let nature do its thing. Come July, my yard bursts into a rainbow of yellows, oranges, pinks, and reds. It’s like having my own personal fireworks show!
2. Peonies
Oh, the fragrance of peonies! Nothing says summer quite like these gorgeous blooms. They typically show off their beauty from late June to early July. Just remember, patience is key – it took about three years for mine to fully establish and bloom, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
3. Delphiniums
Want to add some height to your garden? Delphiniums are your answer. These tall, stately flowers come in dreamy shades of blue, white, pink, and purple. They’re not just pretty in the garden; they make stunning cut flowers too.
4. Yarrow
I know some gardeners consider yarrow a nuisance, but I absolutely adore it. It’s one of the most reliable plants in my garden, and the long-lasting blooms are a dream for bouquets. Yes, it can be a bit enthusiastic in its growth, but with proper management, it’s a fantastic addition.
5. Tulips
Forget boring red and yellow tulips! I’ve discovered a whole world of unique varieties that add whimsy to my spring garden. Pro tip: check out specialty varieties sold by cut flower farmers for the most interesting selections.
6. Daffodils
Daffodils are like sunshine after a long winter. While the classic yellow is charming, I’ve fallen in love with apricot, white, and cream varieties. Some even have double flowers that look like tiny peonies!
7. Lilacs
The scent of lilacs brings back so many childhood memories. I adore the traditional white and purple varieties, though there are newer cultivars that are less prone to spreading. Just keep in mind that these newer types might not be as fragrant as the old-fashioned ones.
8. Coneflowers
When August rolls around, my coneflowers steal the show. I have a mix of Heliopsis, Echinacea, and Rudbeckia, and they bloom for an impressive 4-6 weeks. They’re the workhorses of my late summer and fall garden.
9. Goldenrod
I know what you’re thinking – isn’t goldenrod a weed? While it’s true that you’ll often spot it growing wild in ditches, cultivated varieties are stunning in the garden. I love using them in fall bouquets, and they add a beautiful golden glow to the landscape.
10. Bergenia
Bergenia is my go-to plant for those tricky spots. It’s incredibly versatile and seems to thrive in just about any soil condition. Plus, it’s one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, which always lifts my spirits after a long winter.
11. Bleeding Hearts
These whimsical flowers never fail to make me smile. They’re super easy to grow and come in both pink and white varieties. The heart-shaped blooms are so distinctive – they always catch visitors’ eyes.
12. Hostas
While I personally find hostas a bit plain, I can’t deny their popularity and ease of care. They’re perfect for those shady spots where other plants struggle.
13. Ferns
Ferns are another great option for shady areas. Just steer clear of the ostrich variety unless you want it taking over your entire garden!
14. Blazing Star (Liatris)
Blazing Star is a true showstopper. Once established, it’s incredibly drought-resistant, which is perfect for those dry summer spells. The tall purple or white spiky flowers add such interesting texture to the landscape.
15. Globe Flower (Trollius)
If you have a wet spot in your yard, Globe Flower is your new best friend. The flowers remind me of ranunculus, with beautiful yellow and orange hues. They’re a late spring bloomer in my garden and always draw compliments from visitors.
16. Columbine
I can’t help but think of fairy skirts when I see columbine flowers dancing in the breeze. They come in such a lovely range of colors – pinks, purples, reds, whites, and yellows. They’re a charming addition to any late spring or early summer garden.
17. Clematis (Vine)
For those bare walls or fences, clematis is my go-to vine. It’s well-behaved (unlike some other vines I could mention!) and produces stunning blue flowers in late spring to early summer. It’s the perfect way to add vertical interest to your garden.
18. Rock Foil (Ground Cover)
Rock foil is my favorite ground cover. The cheery yellow flowers bloom for about a month, and even when not in bloom, the green foliage looks great. It’s perfect for rocky areas or under trees where other plants might struggle.
19. Rudbeckia
Also known as Black-eyed Susans, these cheerful yellow flowers bring a splash of sunshine to the late summer garden. They’re hardy, easy to grow, and attract butterflies too!
20. Sedum
Last but not least, sedum is a fantastic choice for Zone 3 gardens. It’s drought-tolerant, loves full sun, and provides beautiful fall color. The ‘Autumn Joy’ variety is my personal favorite.