If you’re looking to build a thriving garden in the Northeast, you’ll need cold-hardy plants that can handle those chilly winters.
But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with 20 gorgeous plants that will not only survive but thrive in your garden. These beauties will brighten up your space year after year, even when the temperature drops.
Plus, I’m sharing some easy tricks to keep them looking their best, no matter what the weather throws at them. Let’s get your garden blooming beautifully, even in the coldest months!
1. Japanese Maple
No garden should be without the graceful allure of Japanese Maple trees. Known for their striking red leaves, they bring a splash of color to any landscape.
Growing these beauties is a breeze as long as you provide them with partial shade and well-drained soil. Make sure to keep their roots cool, and they’ll reward you with vivid foliage season after season!
2. Red Twig Dogwood
If you’re seeking a plant that shines in winter, Red Twig Dogwood is your go-to. Its vibrant red stems are a showstopper against the winter snow.
Plant these in a sunny spot with moist soil, and they’ll thrive beautifully. Don’t forget to prune them occasionally to encourage new, vivid growth!
3. Black-eyed Susan
Add a touch of sunshine to your garden with the cheerful Black-eyed Susan. These bright yellow blooms are a joy to behold and attract butterflies like magic.
Ensure they bask in full sun, and they’ll bloom profusely throughout summer. Deadhead them regularly to keep the flowers coming all season long!
4. Coneflower
For a burst of color and a pollinator’s paradise, look no further than Coneflowers. Their purple petals and cone-shaped centers make them a garden favorite.
Plant them in a sunny spot with well-draining soil to see them flourish. Give them a little love in the form of occasional watering, and they’ll thrive without fuss!
5. Hosta
Shady spots in your garden deserve the beauty of Hostas. With their lush green leaves and variegated patterns, they’re a sight to behold.
Plant these in a shaded area with rich, moist soil to let them thrive. Divide them every few years to keep them healthy and vibrant!
6. Daylilies
Daylilies bring a splash of color and resilience to any garden. Known for their trumpet-shaped blooms, they offer a display that lasts all summer.
Give them a sunny spot and well-drained soil to see them flourish. Once established, they’re drought-tolerant and require minimal care!
7. Shasta Daisy
Few flowers embody the essence of summer like the Shasta Daisy. Their white petals and sunny yellow centers exude charm and cheer.
Plant them in full sun with well-drained soil, and they’ll bloom happily. Deadhead the spent flowers to keep them blooming again and again!
8. Coreopsis
Add a splash of sunshine to your garden with the vibrant Coreopsis. These golden flowers dance with the breeze, bringing joy to any space.
Plant them in full sun and well-drained soil, and they’ll reward you with long-lasting blooms. They’re hardy and carefree, making gardening a breeze!
9. Lavender
Bring the calming essence of the Mediterranean to your garden with Lavender. Known for its soothing scent and beautiful purple blooms, it’s a must-have.
Plant it in full sun with well-drained soil, and it will flourish with ease. Prune regularly to maintain its shape and encourage new growth!
10. Astilbe
Shaded gardens can come alive with the delicate charm of Astilbe. With their feathery plumes, they add elegance and color to any space.
Plant them in a shady area with moist, rich soil, and they’ll flourish beautifully. Regular watering keeps them looking their best!
11. Peonies
Elegance and grace define Peonies, making them a garden favorite. Known for their large, fragrant blooms, they’re a showstopper in any landscape.
Plant them in full sun with well-drained soil, and they’ll reward you with a stunning display. Provide support to the heavy blooms to keep them upright!
12. Blue Fescue
Add texture and color to your garden with Blue Fescue. This ornamental grass is known for its distinctive blue blades.
Plant it in full sun with well-drained soil, and it will thrive effortlessly. Low maintenance and drought-tolerant, it’s perfect for busy gardeners!
13. Lupine
Bring a vertical element to your garden with the stunning spikes of Lupine flowers. Their vivid colors and unique form make them a standout choice.
Plant them in full sun with well-drained soil to see them flourish. They’re a magnet for hummingbirds and make a striking addition to any space!
14. Sedum
For a hardy, carefree addition to your garden, look no further than Sedum. Known for its fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers, it’s a gardener’s dream.
Plant it in full sun with well-drained soil, and it will thrive with minimal care. Perfect for rock gardens and borders alike!
15. Creeping Thyme
Turn your garden into a lush tapestry with Creeping Thyme. This versatile ground cover is not only beautiful but also fragrant.
Plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and it will spread gracefully. Perfect for filling in gaps, it’s a fragrant delight!
16. Ajuga
Ajuga adds a splash of color to your garden with its brilliant blue spikes and glossy leaves. It’s perfect for shady spots and thrives in various conditions.
Plant it in a shaded area with moist soil, and it will spread effortlessly. A charming ground cover that’s hard to resist!
17. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, or mums, bring a burst of late-season color to gardens. With their abundant blooms, they’re a fall favorite.
Plant them in a sunny spot with well-drained soil, and they’ll brighten your garden as summer wanes. Pinch them back in early summer for bushier growth!
18. Norway Spruce
Create a timeless landscape with the majestic Norway Spruce. Known for its towering presence and evergreen needles, it’s a garden staple.
Plant it in full sun with well-drained soil, and it will thrive with minimal care. Perfect for a living screen or windbreak!
19. Hellebores
Add winter interest with the captivating blooms of Hellebores. These nodding flowers emerge when most plants are still sleeping.
Plant them in a shady spot with rich, well-drained soil, and they’ll thrive. Their evergreen foliage adds year-round charm!
20. Creeping Jenny
Creeping Jenny is a versatile ground cover that brightens gardens with its golden foliage. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for containers or garden edges.
Plant it in sun or shade with moist soil, and it will spread joyfully. A perfect choice for adding a splash of color!
21. Snowdrop
Herald the end of winter with the delicate beauty of Snowdrops. These charming bulbs bloom early, bringing hope and color to gardens.
Plant them in a shady area with well-drained soil, and they’ll naturalize over time. A delightful sight in late winter!
22. Winterberry Holly
Winterberry Holly provides a splash of color when most plants are dormant. Its bright red berries stand out against the snowy landscape.
Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist soil to see them flourish. Birds adore the berries, making them a welcome addition!
23. Cranberry
Bring a taste of the bog to your garden with Cranberry plants. Known for their tart berries, they’re both beautiful and bountiful.
Plant them in a sunny spot with acidic, moist soil, and they’ll thrive. Perfect for adding an edible element to your garden!
24. Bee Balm
For a burst of summer color and pollinator appeal, plant Bee Balm. Known for its vibrant blooms, it attracts bees and butterflies like a charm.
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil to see them thrive. Their aromatic foliage adds an extra layer of delight!
25. Yarrow
Add a touch of wild beauty with Yarrow, known for its feathery foliage and flat-topped blooms. These hardy perennials thrive in sunny spots and well-drained soil.
Once established, they’re drought-tolerant and carefree. Perfect for a naturalistic garden setting!
26. Garden Phlox
Fill your garden with fragrance and color by planting Garden Phlox. Known for its clusters of vibrant blooms, it’s a summer staple.
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil to see them flourish. Provide good air circulation to prevent mildew!
27. Celandine Poppy
Add a splash of sunshine to your shaded garden with Celandine Poppy. Known for its bright yellow blooms, it’s a woodland wonder.
Plant in dappled shade with moist, well-drained soil to see it thrive. Perfect for naturalizing under trees!
28. Butterfly Bush
Invite fluttering guests to your garden with the enchanting Butterfly Bush. Known for its fragrant, nectar-rich blooms, it’s a pollinator favorite.
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil to see it flourish. Prune regularly to encourage new growth!
29. Sumac
Transform your garden with the bold presence of Sumac. Known for its stunning fall foliage, it’s a showstopper in any landscape.
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil to see it thrive. Perfect for creating a dramatic backdrop!
30. Winter Jasmine
Brighten winter days with the cheerful blooms of Winter Jasmine. Known for its yellow flowers, it’s a winter wonderland staple.
Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil to see it thrive. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for cascading over walls!