If you’re plagued by an area of your garden where the wind never seems to let up, you’re not alone. The constant breeze can be detrimental to most plants, as it disrupts their ability to absorb essential nutrients from the soil. This can lead to costly efforts to keep struggling plants alive. However, there is a silver lining.
Certain plants thrive in windy conditions, offering solutions for everything from adding color and texture to your landscape to creating natural barriers against harsh weather.
How Wind Affects Plants
The impact of strong winds on non-wind-tolerant plants is multifaceted. Firstly, excessive movement caused by gusts stunts growth by disrupting the absorption of nutrients through the roots. This is a result of continuous root manipulation as the plant struggles to maintain stability. Furthermore, wind-induced evaporation of surface and leaf moisture forces plants to require consistent and significant watering.
It’s not uncommon to see small, sparse, and leggy plants in areas with persistent windy conditions due to these factors. Even moderate winds can cause damage to non-suited plants. In contrast, wind-tolerant species have flexible leaves and stems that allow them to flex without sustaining harm. These characteristics enable them to thrive in windy environments.
Wind Tolerant Flowers
Don’t assume that windy spots are inherently dull and lacking in color. With the right plant selection, even the most exposed areas can be transformed into a vibrant oasis. The key is to choose flora that thrives in windy conditions and provides visual interest through varying shades, textures, and colors. By doing so, you can create a stunning display that rivals even the most meticulously designed walled garden.
Shasta Daisies
A perennial favorite of mine is the Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum), which bears a striking resemblance to its wild counterparts. Noted for their sturdy stems, these blooms are robust and well-equipped to thrive in a variety of conditions. Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, they burst forth with vibrant colors during the summer and fall seasons, forming clumps that can reach up to three feet in width and two feet in height.
While Shasta daisies do possess an attractive charm, it’s essential to note their tendency towards aggressive growth. To mitigate this issue, consider planting them in raised beds or maintaining a consistent regimen of deadheading to keep them under control.
Marigolds
Tagetes spp., those vibrant orange, pink, and yellow annuals, thrive in windy areas when given full sun and direct sowing of seeds in the soil. These Marigold blossoms are a hardy bunch, continuing to bloom through spring, summer, and fall, making them an excellent choice for USDA Growing Zones 2 to 11.
Zinnias
When it comes to planting zinnias (Zinnia spp.) in windy areas, it’s essential to choose low-growing varieties that can withstand gusts without sustaining damage. While I’ve had success with long-stemmed zinnias in breezy spots, stronger winds can still cause them to suffer. Fortunately, there are numerous dwarf varieties available, so be sure to check with your florist or supplier to find the perfect one for your needs.
Portulaca
Purslane (Portulaca spp.), an exceptionally resilient edible ground cover, boasts impressive wind tolerance. Its thick, fleshy leaves prevent surface evaporation, a characteristic not commonly found in other plants. This hardy species is not only well-suited to windy conditions but also thrives in drought-prone and scorching hot environments. As an added benefit, purslane is a prolific self-seeder, returning year after year with minimal maintenance.
African Daisies
In the warm and sunny regions of USDA Growing Zones 9 to 11, African daisies (Gazania spp.) thrive with their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. Specifically, they relish hot and arid environments, making them well-suited for areas exposed to strong winds.
Nasturtium
The nasturtium plant’s remarkable ability to spread rapidly doesn’t discriminate against windy locations. In fact, it thrives in these environments, quickly covering the ground and filling gaps with its vibrant foliage. As a result, this spreading plant can become quite dominant, potentially taking over areas if left unchecked. To maintain control and contain their growth, consider planting nasturtiums in raised beds or utilizing their natural ability to fill in bare spots in windy areas.
Daylilies
Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.) thrive in USDA Growing Zones 4-9. Initially, these plants require modest watering – just once a week while establishing themselves. Typically, rainfall is sufficient for their needs, and they can self-sustain unless you’re experiencing drought conditions.
Their flowers have a fleeting existence of just one day, which means it’s essential to plant a substantial area to enjoy continuous blooms.
Notably, daylilies are surprisingly resilient in windy areas of your garden or homestead, making them an attractive choice for those with exposure concerns.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a resilient flower that thrives in windy environments. Despite its tendency to sway back and forth with the gusts, it continues to bloom profusely. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option for your garden, coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.) is an excellent choice, suitable for USDA Growing Zones 2-10. Its ability to attract pollinators and butterflies makes it a great addition to any windy area.
For the best results, consider low-growing varieties like ‘Nana’, ‘Zagreb’, or ‘Moonbeam’.
Azalea and Rhododendron
While azaleas (Rhododendron spp.) are well-suited to windy areas with partial shade, they do require some level of sunlight protection. Fortunately, their ability to thrive in such conditions makes them an excellent choice for gardens that receive moderate wind and filtered light. In fact, the gentle breeze can even enhance the vibrant colors of these flowering shrubs, making them a stunning addition to any outdoor space.
Wind-Resistant Shrubs
In regions characterized by strong gusts, shrubs serve as a vital tool for mitigating the negative effects of wind on vegetation and structures alike. By acting as natural barriers, these plants shield smaller flora and architecture from the harsh conditions brought about by wind, thereby promoting a healthier and more stable ecosystem.
Elderberry
When selecting elderberries (Sambucus spp.), consider planting them in USDA Growing Zones 3 to 9, where they can thrive despite windy conditions. These hardy plants are well-suited for windy areas and can withstand significant movement, making them an excellent choice for productive landscaping.
Not only will they provide a bounty of flowers for crafting drinks and berries for culinary and medicinal uses, but they’ll also attract pollinators and birds to the area, adding a touch of natural beauty to your landscape.
Common Lilac
Lilac (Syringa spp.) is renowned for its remarkable resilience and ability to thrive in challenging conditions. In fact, this stunning shrub can not only withstand but also flourish in areas with strong winds, making it an excellent choice for USDA Growing Zones 2 to 7.
By planting a mix of white and purple lilacs, you’ll not only enjoy a vibrant display of flowers in the spring but also create a reliable windbreak that provides valuable protection during the harsh winter months when temperatures drop.
Bayberry
This east coast native, Myrica spp., boasts a unique fragrance that can be enjoyed even on windy days. As you plant it in areas prone to gusts of wind, you’ll notice the sweet aroma swirling around you. The dense foliage provides shelter for birds seeking refuge from harsh weather conditions, and its varying shades of green leaves transform into a beautiful bronze hue during the winter months.
Notably, this hardy shrub not only thrives in windy environments but also tolerates drought-like conditions, salty air, and exhibits flexibility when it comes to soil quality. In fact, bayberry plants can be successfully cultivated in USDA Zones 3-9.
Fragrant Sumac
The Rhus aromatica, also known as the fragrant sumac, is a perennial that stands out for its remarkable color transformations. A favorite among butterflies, this plant typically blooms before its foliage emerges. If you live in an area prone to strong winds or deer activity, the fragrant sumac is an excellent choice, particularly for slopes and banks in USDA Growing Zones 2-8.
Boxwood
Boxwood (Buxus spp.) plants are renowned for their adaptability and ability to thrive in a wide range of environments, including areas with extreme temperatures. Their versatility also makes them an excellent choice for windy locations. The plant’s foliage is characterized by its bright green and glossy leaves, while the flowers grow in tight clusters. When it comes to planting, Boxwoods are suitable for USDA Growing zones 5 to 9.
However, it’s essential to note that the plants contain toxic compounds that can be harmful to most pets. For those looking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor space, consider opting for a dwarf or compact variety, as larger specimens may not have the same level of root depth as other wind-resistant plants.
Artemisia
When seeking foliage that can brave the gusts, Artemisia or wormwood (Artemisia spp.) is an excellent choice. For optimal growth, plant these hardy herbs in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked in USDA zones 4 to 10. They thrive in full sun and exhibit flexibility when it comes to soil quality. While larger varieties may also withstand windy conditions, look for smaller cultivars that will add a touch of elegance to your landscape despite the tempests.
Wind-ResistantTrees
When selecting trees for areas prone to windy conditions, it’s crucial to consider their root structure in addition to their above-ground size. Tall trees are often more susceptible to toppling due to their shallow roots, so don’t assume a tree’s stature is an indicator of its stability.Some tree species are naturally better equipped to withstand strong winds than others. Those that can thrive in windy environments include…
American Beech
The American beech (Fagus grandifolia) is a resilient hardwood tree that can thrive in the face of strong winds. Its adaptability extends to its growing conditions as well, making it suitable for USDA zones 4 to 9. While not particularly discerning when it comes to soil quality, this species does have one key requirement: ample moisture.
To achieve optimal growth, beech trees prefer well-draining soil with a consistent supply of water, or can be planted in areas that naturally receive sufficient moisture.
Persimmon
When it comes to persimmon trees, having a wind-resistant one is just the beginning. To reap a bountiful fruit harvest, you’ll also need to ensure you have a mix of male and female trees, specifically the American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana). Proper watering is crucial too – make sure they receive adequate moisture from budburst onwards until harvest time. With a hardy range spanning USDA Growing Zones 4 to 9, these trees are well-suited for either full sun or partial shade conditions.
Bald Cypress
Bald cypresses, scientifically known as Taxodium distichum, are ideal for areas with wet conditions and frequent wind exposure. This deciduous species boasts a vibrant autumn display of reds and oranges. With the ability to reach heights of up to 100 feet, bald cypress trees thrive in USDA Growing Zones 4 through 10.
Basswood
The Basswood tree (Tilia americana) stands out as a top choice for attracting honeybees, boasting numerous small yellow or white flowers that are sure to draw these busy pollinators in. As a drought-tolerant species, it requires minimal upkeep unless the dry spell persists for an extended period, at which point some supplementary irrigation will be necessary.
This versatile tree thrives in USDA Growing Zones 3 to 8 and can grow up to 80 feet tall, making it an excellent addition to many landscapes.
Chinese Juniper
The Juniperus chinensis, with its distinctive conical shape, is an excellent choice for providing wind protection year-round due to its retention of needle-like foliage. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of environments. While some varieties grow as compact shrubs, others can reach towering heights of up to 60 feet tall.
For the best results, consult with your local nursery or supplier to determine which specific cultivars or hybrids will thrive in your area, as it is well-suited for zones 3-9.
Crape Myrtle
Crape myrtles, scientifically known as Lagerstroemia indica, are a type of medium-sized shrub or small tree that’s renowned for its striking flowers resembling crape paper. The delicate, wrinkled petals of these blooms are a vibrant pink hue, making them a standout feature in any garden. Even when not in bloom, the deep green foliage provides an attractive backdrop, while autumn brings a kaleidoscope of colors as the leaves turn bright shades of yellow, orange, and red.
As a bonus, crape myrtles are well-suited for growth in Zones 7-10 and have the added benefit of being wind-resistant, making them an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance yet visually appealing additions.
Douglas Fir
Native to many regions across North America, Douglas firs (Pseudotsuga menziesii) are adaptable evergreens that can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-6. Standing tall and proud, these trees can reach impressive heights of up to 70 feet when provided with optimal conditions. While they exhibit remarkable resilience against strong winds, it’s essential to ensure they receive adequate water, as drought can have detrimental effects on their growth.
Norway Spruce
Picea babies, often referred to as the fastest-growing spruce species, boasts exceptional resilience in the face of wind. Its hardiness is further underscored by its ability to thrive across a wide range of climates, specifically USDA zones 3-7. This adaptable evergreen also showcases impressive drought tolerance, allowing it to flourish even in areas with limited rainfall.
Moreover, Picea babies can reach remarkable heights of up to 60 feet, featuring a natural pyramidal growth habit that effortlessly adds structure and visual interest to any garden landscape.
Olive
The European olive tree (Olea europaea) is a remarkable species that exhibits impressive resilience. Its capacity to thrive in harsh conditions, such as drought and strong winds, makes it an attractive option for gardeners seeking low-maintenance flora. The tree’s ability to produce the iconic fruits we all cherish is merely one of its many charms. Furthermore, with cultivars suitable for USDA Hardiness Zones 8-12, this versatile species can flourish in a wide range of environments.
Flowering Dogwood
Flowering dogwoods (Cornus florida) are a native treasure in certain regions of the United States. These stunning trees can reach heights of up to 25 feet and burst forth with vibrant pink blooms in the spring, making them a prized addition to any landscape. For those residing in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, flowering dogwoods offer an excellent option for creating a dramatic display that can withstand gentle breezes.
