Here in Seattle, we get plenty of rain, but we often come up short in the sunshine department. While there are plenty of plants that thrive in our rainy, cloudy climate, there are many others that simply aren’t suited for our particular weather conditions. Nobody wants to go to all the trouble of planting a garden only to end up with plants that wither away. Learning a little bit more about how to select plants for the Seattle climate before buying plants at a hardware store in Seattle, WA gives you a much better opportunity to enjoy a garden that thrives.
Assess your space
Not all yards in Seattle have the same exposure to cold temperatures, sunshine and precipitation, so you should start by assessing your individual space. Go outside and take a look at the space in your yard where you want to plant. Monitor how much shade this space gets over the course of the day. You should also consider whether there are any mature trees that might shield your new plants from some rainfall.
Another aspect of assessing your space is considering your vision for your garden. Do you want to focus on blooming perennials that will add color to your yard, or are you interested in a vegetable garden where you can grow your own food? Think about your goals for your garden so you know what ratio of edibles to ornamentals you should aim for.
Below are some of the plants that thrive in the Pacific Northwest:
- Ferns: You’ve probably spotted plenty of ferns growing in forests in the Pacific Northwest. These plants tend to thrive in rainy weather, especially under a canopy of mature trees. Ferns stay green for the whole year and have unique textures that make them a great addition to any garden.
- Squashes: Pumpkins and summer squash do well in Seattle. These plants develop sprawling vines that flower and then begin producing fruit. They require quite a bit of space, but are relatively low-maintenance and can yield quite a bit of fruit.
- Dahlias: Dahlias are one of the most versatile flowering plants, and come in hundreds of different varieties. The vibrant colors of dahlias can add considerable visual interest to outdoor spaces.
- Leafy greens: Spinach, lettuce and kale grow very well in rainy places like Seattle. They don’t take up too much space, and they are a great way for a novice gardener to get started with planting.
- Lupine: Lupine has distinctive upright flowers that appear rigid and geometric. It comes in a wide range of colors, and the plants can grow to be about three feet tall by one foot wide.
If you’re looking for more advice about planting a beautiful garden that thrives in the Seattle climate, stop by Stewart Lumber & Hardware Co. Our hardware store in Seattle, WA has been in business since 1926, and has built a reputation in the community for excellent service. While our selection of hardware products, building materials and gardening tools has changed a lot over the years, our dedication to quality has not. We have experience working with contractors and builders as well as do-it-yourself homeowners who want to improve their space. Whatever you need, our team is here to help you find it!