Nebraska's diverse climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters, provides a unique environment for growing a variety of beautiful and resilient flowers. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out, selecting the right flowers can transform your garden into a vibrant oasis of color and fragrance. Here’s a guide to some of the best flowers to grow in Nebraska!
Coneflowers
Coneflowers are a favorite among Nebraska gardeners for their hardiness, long bloom period and ability to attract pollinators. These perennial flowers come in various colors, including pink, purple, white and yellow, and they thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Coneflowers are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned gardeners. Their daisy-like blooms add a cheerful touch to any garden, and their ability to attract butterflies and bees helps support local ecosystems.
Black-eyed Susans
Black-eyed Susans are another hardy perennial that thrives in Nebraska’s climate. With their bright yellow petals and dark brown centers, these flowers bring a burst of sunshine to any garden. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and are relatively drought-tolerant once established. Black-eyed Susans bloom from mid-summer to early fall, providing long-lasting color. They also attract pollinators and are resistant to most pests and diseases, making them a reliable and attractive addition to your garden.
Daylilies
Daylilies are known for their stunning blooms and adaptability to a wide range of soil conditions. These perennials are available in an array of colors, from vibrant yellows and oranges to soft pinks and purples. Daylilies prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade and require well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, with each bloom lasting just one day but the plant producing flowers over several weeks. Daylilies are excellent for creating colorful borders or mass plantings and can thrive with minimal care.
Peonies
Peonies are beloved for their large, fragrant blooms and longevity. These perennials can live for decades, providing stunning flowers in shades of pink, white, red and yellow. Peonies prefer full sun and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. They require a cold period to bloom, making Nebraska’s winters ideal for their growth. Peonies bloom in late spring to early summer and make excellent cut flowers. Although they can take a few years to establish, their breathtaking blooms are well worth the wait.
Liatris
Liatris, also known as blazing star or gayfeather, is a native perennial that adds vertical interest to your garden with its tall spikes of purple or white flowers. These flowers thrive in full sun and well-drained soil and are drought-tolerant once established. Liatris blooms from mid-summer to early fall, attracting butterflies and bees with its nectar-rich flowers. Its unique, feathery blooms make it a striking addition to any garden, and it pairs well with other perennials like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans.
Sedum
Sedum, or stonecrop, is a versatile perennial that thrives in Nebraska’s climate. These succulent plants come in various forms, from low-growing ground covers to upright varieties with star-shaped flowers in pink, red, yellow and white. Sedum prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is exceptionally drought-tolerant, making it ideal for rock gardens and xeriscaping. Sedum blooms in late summer to fall, providing a valuable nectar source for pollinators. Its fleshy leaves and bright flowers add texture and color to your garden with minimal maintenance.
Find the best flowers to grow in Nebraska at the Gretna Farmers Market
Nebraska’s climate provides an ideal setting for a variety of hardy and beautiful flowers. These best flowers to grow in Nebraska not only bring color and beauty to your outdoor space but also support local wildlife by attracting pollinators. Whether you’re enhancing an existing garden or starting a new one, these resilient and stunning flowers are sure to thrive right here in Nebraska!
We hope to see you at the Gretna Farmers Market this weekend, located in downtown Gretna on McKenna Ave. Visit our website for parking and directions!
