Designing a thriving landscape in New Jersey requires more than choosing pretty plants, but it demands an understanding of local climate, hardiness zones, soil conditions, and native flora. At Giovine Landscaping, we’ve guided homeowners across the Garden State toward sustainable, beautiful outdoor spaces. Here’s how to landscape specifically for New Jersey to get year-round beauty and low maintenance.
Understanding New Jersey’s Climate & Hardiness Zones
New Jersey falls primarily within USDA hardiness zones 6b to 8a, meaning winter lows typically range between –5°F and 15°F. Because of this, many plants that thrive further south may struggle here, while truly hardy species are essential.
We also have distinct seasonal extremes: hot, humid summers; chilly winters with snow; spring and fall periods of heavy rain. Drainage, sun exposure, and protection from winter winds should inform your design.
Why Use Native Plants in Your Garden?
Native plants are adapted to the local ecosystem. They naturally handle NJ’s soil, rainfall, pests, and seasonal shifts. That means less watering, fewer fertilizers or pesticides, and a landscape that supports local wildlife. They also help manage stormwater runoff (very important in NJ’s suburban and urban settings) by allowing better infiltration and filtering pollutants before they enter streams and rivers. To learn more about sustainable landscaping, check out our previous blog post!
Top Native Plant Picks for New Jersey Landscapes
Below are examples of native plants that do well in NJ, grouped by sun and moisture conditions.
For Full Sun / Drier Sites
- Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa): bright orange flowers, great for pollinators, and drought-tolerant once established.
- Coreopsis lanceolata (Tickseed): hardy and colorful.
- Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium): a native grass that tolerates heat, dryness, and poor soils.
For Moist / Wet / Rain Garden Areas
- Great Blue Lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica): thrives in moist soil, partial sun to full sun.
- Joe-Pye Weed (Eupatorium maculatum): tall and lush, ideal for wet borders.
- Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata): for wetter areas, supports pollinators.
Shrubs & Trees
- Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra): classic shade tree, great for wildlife.
- Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra): evergreen shrub good for hedges, part shade to sun.
- Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia): beautiful flowering shrub for partial shade.
When selecting, always match the plant’s sun, moisture, and soil tolerance to the spot you choose. Avoid forcing plants into settings where they won’t thrive.
Why Choose Giovine Landscaping for Your New Jersey Yard?
At Giovine Landscaping, we specialize in landscapes built to flourish in New Jersey’s unique conditions. We know the local hardiness zones, soil challenges, microclimates, and best native species. Whether you want a pollinator garden, a low-maintenance yard, or a full backyard redesign, we create sustainable, beautiful spaces that resonate with the Garden State.
Do you live in West Orange, South Orange, Montclair, Roseland, Millburn, Livingston, or other nearby New Jersey cities? Contact Giovine Landscaping today, and let’s work together to plan a yard that’s not only beautiful but ecologically thriving.