Revitalize Your Outdoor Space: A Guide to the Best Plants for Amherst, NY

Are you tired of looking at a dull and boring backyard? Do you want to add some life and color to your outdoor space? Well, look no further than the plants you choose to incorporate into your backyard. Not only do they add aesthetic value, but they also provide numerous benefits to your overall well-being.

In this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the best plants for Amherst, NY, to help revitalize your outdoor space.

Benefits of Having Plants in Your Backyard

Before we dive into the specific types of plants for your Amherst, NY backyard, it is essential to understand the benefits that come with incorporating plants into your outdoor space. Firstly, plants improve the air quality around your home. They absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants, which results in fresher, cleaner air for you and your family to breathe.

Secondly, plants are proven to have a positive impact on mental health and mood. They can reduce stress levels and create a calming environment. This is especially important in today's fast-paced world, where people are looking for ways to relax and unwind.

Lastly, plants attract wildlife to your backyard. Birds, butterflies, and bees are essential for pollination and can help keep your garden ecosystem thriving.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Plants for Your Amherst Backyard

When selecting plants for your Amherst backyard, several factors should be taken into consideration. Firstly, the climate in Amherst, NY, is classified as humid continental. This means that the summers are hot and humid, while the winters are cold and snowy. As a result, it is important to choose plants that can withstand these weather conditions.

Secondly, the soil in Amherst is considered to be moderately fertile. Therefore, it is crucial to select plants that can thrive in this type of soil. Additionally, the amount of sunlight and shade your backyard receives should also be considered when selecting plants.

Lastly, it is important to consider the size of your backyard. Some plants may grow too large and overpower your outdoor space, while others may not grow enough and look out of place.

Native Plants for Amherst, NY

Native plants are always a great option when selecting plants for your backyard as they are already adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Some of the best native plants for Amherst, NY include:

• Red Oak (Quercus rubra) - A large tree that provides ample shade during the hot summer months. It is also known for its striking fall foliage.
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) - A beautiful yellow flower that blooms throughout the summer. It is low maintenance and attracts bees and butterflies.
• Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) - A small tree that produces pink flowers in the spring and attractive heart-shaped leaves in the summer.
• Blue Flag Iris (Iris versicolor) - A stunning purple flower that blooms in the spring. It thrives in wet soils and is perfect for a backyard pond or water feature.

Flowers for Amherst, NY

Flowers are a great way to add color and beauty to your backyard. When selecting flowers for Amherst, NY, it is important to choose ones that can withstand the hot summers and cold winters. Some of the best flowers for Amherst, NY include:

• Coneflowers (Echinacea) - These flowers are drought-tolerant and bloom throughout the summer. They come in a variety of colors such as pink, purple, and white.
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) - As previously mentioned, this flower is perfect for attracting bees and butterflies. It is low maintenance and blooms throughout the summer.
• Liatris (Liatris spicata) - This tall, purple flower blooms in the late summer and is perfect for adding height to your garden. It is also drought-tolerant.
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) - This beautiful purple flower blooms in the late summer and early fall. It is drought-tolerant and attracts bees and butterflies.

Trees for Amherst, NY

Trees are a great way to add shade and beauty to your backyard. When selecting trees for Amherst, NY, it is important to choose ones that can withstand the hot summers and cold winters. Some of the best trees for Amherst, NY include:

• Red Maple (Acer rubrum) - This tree is known for its brilliant fall foliage and can grow up to 70 feet tall. It is perfect for adding shade to your backyard.
• Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) - This evergreen tree can grow up to 80 feet tall and is perfect for adding privacy to your backyard.
• American Beech (Fagus grandifolia) - This tree is known for its smooth gray bark and can grow up to 120 feet tall. It is perfect for adding shade to your backyard.
• Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa) - This small tree produces beautiful white or pink flowers in the spring and attractive red berries in the fall.

Shrubs for Amherst, NY

Shrubs are a great way to add texture and beauty to your backyard. When selecting shrubs for Amherst, NY, it is important to choose ones that can withstand the hot summers and cold winters. Some of the best shrubs for Amherst, NY include:

• Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) - This shrub produces large, showy flowers in shades of pink, blue, and white. It is perfect for adding a pop of color to your backyard.
• Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) - This shrub produces fragrant purple or white flowers in the spring. It is perfect for adding a sweet scent to your backyard.
• Winterberry (Ilex verticillata) - This shrub produces bright red berries in the winter and is perfect for adding color to your backyard during the colder months.
• Spirea (Spiraea japonica) - This shrub produces small, pink flowers in the summer and attractive foliage in the fall.

Maintaining Your Backyard Plants in Amherst, NY

Once you have selected the perfect plants for your Amherst backyard, it is important to maintain them properly to ensure they remain healthy and beautiful. Some tips for maintaining your backyard plants in Amherst, NY include:

• Watering - Make sure to water your plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather conditions.
• Pruning - Regularly prune your plants to ensure they maintain their shape and do not grow too large.
• Fertilizing - Use a high-quality fertilizer to provide your plants with the nutrients they need to thrive.
• Pest Control - Regularly check your plants for pests and use a safe and effective pest control method if necessary.

Bring Your Amherst Backyard to Life Today!

In conclusion, revamping your Amherst backyard with the right plants can provide numerous benefits to your overall well-being. By taking into account the climate, soil, and sunlight conditions in Amherst, NY, and selecting the appropriate plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving outdoor space. Remember to maintain your plants properly to ensure they remain healthy and beautiful for years to come.

For more information or help bringing your Amherst backyard to life, contact our experts at Pool Brite today!