Smoke Bush

- They require minimal pruning (once established they may need in late winter or early spring)

- They do well in almost all soil

- They do best in direct sunlight

- Young smoke bushes should be watered 1-2 times a week

- Mature smoke bushes can withstand dry conditions well and do not require regular watering

- They can be grown as bushes or small trees

Butterfly Bush

- They do well in full sun, but some shade is ok

- They require minimal pruning (prune all of the previous years growth off each spring)

- Young butterfly bushes should be watered once a week

- Mature butterfly bushes do not require regular watering

- Mature butterfly bushes can withstand short periods of drought

Fountain Grass

- They are very adaptable so can do well in many climates

- They do best in full sun

- They should be watered once a week in warmer months

- Reduce watering during colder months

- They are typically drought tolerant

- They can do well in many different types of soil

Panicle Hydrangea and Smooth Hydrangea

- They do best in moderately sunny locations

- They require moist soil so should be watered deeply but infrequently

- Panicle hydrangeas should be pruned lightly once a year in early spring

- Smooth hydrangeas should be hard pruned once a year in early spring

Sword Fern

- Native to BC

- The soil should be kept moist year-round

- Full shade is best, but some sunlight is okay

- They will do best in acidic or slightly acidic soil

Bird’s Nest Spruce

- They do well in moderate climates (like Victoria)

- Full sun is best but partial shade is ok

- They will do well in most soil types

- They are not very tolerant to hot weather so should be watered more frequently during droughts

- Soil should be kept slightly moist

Hosta

- They should get partial sun

- They do well in most soil types

- They should be kept in slightly moist soil

- They should be cut back in late fall

Low Maintenance Plants for Victoria, BC