1. Hardy Perennials: Calgary's fluctuating temperatures and short growing season make hardy perennials a must-have for any garden. Plants like peonies, daylilies, and rudbeckia can withstand the city's harsh winters and bloom beautifully year after year, adding a splash of colour to your garden beds.
2. Cold-Hardy Vegetables: Embrace Calgary's cool climate by growing cold-hardy vegetables that thrive in cooler temperatures. Consider planting crops like kale, spinach, carrots, and radishes, which can be sown early in the spring and harvested throughout the summer and fall.
3. Herbs: Fresh herbs are a kitchen essential, and luckily, many herbs flourish in Calgary's climate. From classic favourites like basil, thyme, and parsley to more unique varieties like lemon balm and lavender, herbs are easy to grow and add flavour to your culinary creations.
4. Native Plants: Incorporating native plants into your garden celebrates Alberta's natural beauty and supports local ecosystems. Look for native species like wildflowers, grasses, and shrubs that are well-adapted to Calgary's climate and provide food and habitat for local wildlife.
5. Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes: While Calgary's climate can be challenging for fruit production, there are still options for growing delicious fruits in your garden. Look for cold-hardy fruit trees like apple, cherry, and pear and berry bushes such as raspberries and Saskatoon berries, which can thrive with proper care and protection.
6. Seasonal Annuals: Add seasonal colour to your garden with annual flowers that can be planted each year. Choose from various colourful blooms like petunias, marigolds, and pansies to brighten your outdoor spaces and create stunning floral displays.