Trees

• Trees typically need less attention than other types of plants. Evergreen trees make good low-maintenance landscape plants because, unlike deciduous trees, they do not shed their foliage at the end of the growing season. Slow-growing trees need less pruning than their rapid-growing counterparts. Trees that are well adapted to your climate and soil conditions will need less care than those which need special attention, such as soil amendments. Select disease- and pest-resistant species or varieties to reduce the amount of time spent on addressing these problems.
  
  

Shrubs

• Evergreen shrubs also usually require less maintenance than other plants. You can plant evergreen shrubs with compact forms close together, which inhibits weed growth. For best results choose species suited to the planting site. Also, select plants that have an attractive natural shape so you will not have to do heavy pruning. Shrubs that thrive in various conditions, such as the Japanese laurel, which thrives in both sun and dense shade, can make good low-maintenance plants.
  
  

Ground Covers

• Evergreen ground covers, such as vinca, eliminate the need for mowing or fertilizer application, greatly reducing the amount of time spent on maintenance. Replacing turf grass with ground covers such as clover or moss will reduce the time spent watering. In addition to needing less maintenance than turf, many species of ground covers have colorful blooms that add visual interest to the lawn. Also, most ground covers do better in shade than the typical turf grass, according to the University of Missouri Extension.
  
  

Arrangement

• Growing plants in groups takes less maintenance than caring for individual plants grown randomly throughout the landscape. Trimming and edging around scattered single plants takes up considerable time compared to maintaining plants in beds. Group plants together that need similar conditions, such as full sun, partial shade or the same amount of water. Make your planting beds narrow for easy access. Use mulches to retain moisture and reduce time spent watering.