Year-Round Outdoor Plants

TOP 3 outdoor plants that are resistant all year round

When designing gardens and outdoor spaces, selecting plants that can withstand year-round weather conditions is crucial. Three excellent options for this purpose are lemon trees, boxwood trees, and olive trees. These plants not only add beauty and structure to any garden, but are also known for their durability and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. Below, we explore the characteristics and essential care for these year-round hardy outdoor plants.

The best outdoor plants to last a long time

1. Lemon tree (Citrus limon)

The lemon tree is a fruit tree highly prized for both its fruit and its ornamental appeal. It can withstand a variety of climatic conditions, although it prefers warm, sunny climates.

Characteristics:

• Foliage: Evergreen, with shiny, deep green leaves.
• Flowers: Small and white, with a fragrant aroma.
• Fruits: Lemons, which can be harvested several times a year in suitable climates.

Care:

• Watering: Requires regular watering, but avoid waterlogging. Reduce the frequency in winter.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils.
• Exposure: Full sun, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Protection: In regions with very cold winters, it is advisable to protect it with a thermal blanket or move it to a sheltered location.

2. Buxus (Buxus sempervirens)

Buxus, or boxwood, is an evergreen shrub widely used in gardening for its ability to be pruned into various shapes and its resistance to different climatic conditions.

Characteristics:

• Foliage: Evergreen, with small, oval, dark green leaves.
• Shape: Dense and compact, ideal for hedges and topiaries.
• Growth: Relatively slow, which makes it easy to maintain.

Care:

• Irrigation: Moderate, avoiding both prolonged drought and excess water.
• Soil: It prefers calcareous and well-drained soils, although it is quite tolerant of different types of soil.
• Exposure: Full sun or partial shade. Adapts well to a variety of lighting conditions.
• Pruning: Regularly maintain desired shape and promote healthy growth.

3. Olive tree (Olea europaea)

The olive tree is an emblematic tree of the Mediterranean, known for its longevity and resilience. Its silvery foliage and twisted trunk make it highly ornamental, in addition to its ability to produce olives.

Characteristics:

• Foliage: Evergreen, with long, narrow, greyish-green leaves.
• Flowers: Small and white, grouped in clusters.
• Fruits: Olives, which can be used for direct consumption or oil production.

Care:

• Watering: Moderate. Olive trees are very drought-resistant, but regular watering promotes better fruit production.
• Soil: It prefers well-drained, calcareous soils, although it can adapt to poor soils.
• Exposure: Full sun. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Pruning: Annual to maintain shape and promote fruiting.

Here we leave you a comparative table on this TOP 3 of outdoor plants resistant all year round

Feature	Lemon tree (Citrus limon)	Buxus (Buxus sempervirens)	Olive tree (Olea europaea)
Plant Type	Fruit tree	Evergreen shrub	Fruit and ornamental tree
Preferred Climate	Warm and sunny weather	Adaptable (sunny/shady)	Warm and sunny weather
Cold Resistance	Moderate, requires protection	Tall, frost-resistant	Moderate, can withstand mild cold
Soil Requirements	Well drained, rich in organic matter	Well drained, wide pH range	Well drained
Irrigation	Regular, avoiding puddles	Regular, especially at the beginning	Regular in the early years
Pruning	Necessary for form and production	Regular to maintain shape	Annual, for health and production
Maximum Height	Up to 6 meters	Up to 5 meters	Up to 10 meters
Bloom	Spring	Not highlighted	Spring
Fructification	Produces lemons	Not applicable	Produces olives
Main Uses	Fruits, ornamental, aromatic	Ornamental, hedges, topiaries	Fruits, ornamental
Advantages	Tasty fruits, pleasant aroma	Versatility in gardening	Longevity, olive production
Special Care	Cold protection, regular pruning	Regular pruning, watering in the first years	Protection against severe frost

General Tips for Caring for Hardy Outdoor Plants

To ensure these plants thrive in your garden year-round, consider the following tips:

• Proper watering: Adjust watering frequency according to the season and the specific needs of each plant.
• Well-drained soil: Make sure the soil drains well to avoid waterlogging, which can damage the roots.
• Protection from the cold: In areas with severe winters, consider protective measures such as blankets or temporary relocation to more sheltered areas.
• Regular Pruning: Keep plants healthy and aesthetically pleasing by pruning regularly, removing dead or damaged branches and shaping as needed.

In summary

Choosing hardy outdoor plants like lemon trees, boxwood trees, and olive trees not only beautifies your garden but also makes it easier to maintain. These plants are ideal for those who want to enjoy a vibrant, green space year-round without constantly worrying about weather conditions. Incorporating these plants into your garden is a long-term investment that will allow you to enjoy nature and its beauty on a sustainable basis.

Dare to transform your outdoor space with these plant wonders that will undoubtedly stand the test of time and the seasons, bringing a touch of freshness and vitality to your home all year round.