What to Plant This Spring
Choose Resilient Trees
Tough weather conditions demand equally tough plants. The fluctuating extremes of winter can take their toll on fragile flora—Japanese Maples, Holly, Wisteria, or European Mountain Ash simply won't withstand the challenges in our region. Instead, focus on native varieties that thrive in Nebraska and Iowa. Here are a few underutilized, climate-appropriate trees we recommend:
Native Chinkapin Oak: A robust, large shade tree with smaller leaves than most oaks, making fall cleanup a breeze.
Native Swamp White Oak: Known for its upright, stately appearance with uniform branching. This tree holds its leaves all winter, adding unique seasonal interest.
Native Northern Pecan: A standout for its bright yellow fall color and upright shade canopy, plus the added bonus of fresh pecans!
Red Jewel Crab: Perfect for small spaces, this tree bursts with early blooming white flowers, bringing life to your landscape in spring.
Order your trees now! Each 2" caliper tree, measuring 8-10 feet tall, is available. Visit our nursery in person or online to see more options.
Choose Plants That Will Thrive
Selecting plants well-suited for Nebraska's climate is crucial to achieving a beautiful, enduring landscape that will flourish year after year. Jensen Gardens specializes in sourcing plants proven to thrive in our challenging weather. Here are a few hardy shrub options we love:
Indestructible Shrubs:
Hydrangeas, including ‘Quick Fire,’ ‘Bobo,’ and ‘Limelight’
Dwarf Korean Lilac: Compact and fragrant, perfect for smaller gardens.
Viburnum ‘Blue Muffin’: Features glossy foliage and stunning blue berries.
Chokeberry ‘Iroquois Beauty’: A reliable shrub with white spring flowers and bold red berries.
Dogwood ‘Arctic Fire’: Vibrant red stems add winter interest.
Birchleaf Spirea: Dense, drought-tolerant, and easy to maintain.
Juniper ‘Calgary Carpet’: A low-growing evergreen ideal for ground cover.
Ninebark ‘Copper Amber Jubilee’: A striking shrub with multi-season appeal.
Need Expert Help?
Jensen Gardens' Healthy Landscapes Program takes the stress out of maintaining your yard. This comprehensive service ensures your trees and landscape stay in peak health and beauty year-round. The Healthy Beds Program focuses on ornamental beds and weed control, while the Healthy Lawns Program includes mowing, fertilization, and weed management.
Choose the Healthy Landscapes Program for a truly maintenance-free yard all season long. Contact Jensen Gardens today, and let us handle the details—from clearing debris to bed refinement, pruning, and shaping—providing you with peace of mind and a thriving, picturesque garden.