8 Smart Ways to Put Your Garden on Autopilot

You’ve surely heard of the self-cleaning oven, but self-cleaning plants? These varieties boast blooms that naturally fade and fall off, meaning there's no need to deadhead or prune away withered flowers. Columbine and baptisia are just two examples of self-cleaners that will always look fresh, without your having to do a thing! 

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A thick layer of mulch helps garden beds retain precious moisture and prevents weed growth, so you'll be able to spend less time watering and weeding and more time relaxing. Buy bags of mulch from your local garden center, or make your own using materials in your own backyard. 

Related: 11 Age-Old Gardening Tips to Ignore Completely

A weed barrier provides a layer of protection between you and the weeds lurking in your soil. By laying down sheets of newspaper or landscaping fabric prior to mulching, you can greatly reduce your weeding chores. Keep in mind that newspaper breaks down, so you'll need to replace it as it decomposes to continue to reap its weed-fighting benefits. 

Related: Keep, Don't Kill: 9 Weeds to Welcome

If you want to be able to neglect your landscaping during busy summer days, choose your plants carefully. Check each plant's water requirements before you buy to ensure you're making a garden you can sustain. Drought-tolerant plants don’t really need to be watered much once established, so they’re easier (and cheaper!) to maintain. From lavender to butterfly bush, there are lots of beautiful choices.

Related: 14 Sneaky Ways to Save Money on Your Water Bill

For plants that do require regular watering, add a moisture-retaining material like vermiculite or perlite to the soil prior to planting. This simple step will help tender plants go longer between waterings without wilting in the heat.

Related: 12 Clever Ideas for a Space-Smart Garden

The secret to keeping front yard foliage looking tidy without constant attention? Go slow! Slow-growing shrubs require less frequent pruning than faster-growing varieties do. Not only are these shrubs less work to maintain, but you can enjoy them for years without worrying that they’ll outgrow your garden.

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