Modern Garden Ideas for Des Moines, Iowa

Discover contemporary garden landscapes in the heart of Des Moines, Iowa.
By Sarah · July 14, 2023
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Transform your outdoor space with cutting-edge Des Moines modern garden designs and elevate your Iowa garden design to new heights. Whether you're planning backyard landscaping or revamping your front yard, these ideas blend style with functionality.

Climate Considerations: Zone 5b in Des Moines, Iowa

Understanding the climate of Des Moines is crucial for effective garden design. Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, Des Moines experiences cold winters and warm summers, making it important to select plants and materials that can thrive in this environment.

Design Considerations

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Local Plant Recommendations

Selecting the right plants is essential for a thriving Des Moines modern garden. Consider the climate and hardiness zone 5b to ensure your plants will not only survive but flourish. Here are some top plant recommendations tailored to this region and garden style.

Perennial Plant Recommendations for Des Moines Modern Gardens

Daylily (Hemerocallis)

Daylily (Hemerocallis)

Daylilies offer vibrant colors and low maintenance, making them perfect for modern gardens in Des Moines, Iowa.

Hosta (Hosta spp.)

Hosta (Hosta spp.)

Hostas provide lush foliage and thrive in shaded areas, ideal for contemporary garden designs.

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

These cheerful flowers are drought-tolerant and add a pop of color to any modern garden space.

Catmint (Nepeta spp.)

Catmint (Nepeta spp.)

Catmint's lavender blooms and resilience make it a great choice for modern gardens in Des Moines.

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

Purple Coneflowers are hardy and attract pollinators, fitting well in sustainable garden designs.

Sedum (Sedum spp.)

Sedum (Sedum spp.)

Sedums are drought-resistant succulents that complement modern landscape aesthetics.

Ornamental Grasses for Des Moines Modern Gardens

Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora)

Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora)

Feather Reed Grass adds vertical interest and texture, perfect for modern garden landscapes in Des Moines.

Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca)

Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca)

Blue Fescue offers a compact, modern look with its bluish-grey foliage.

Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra)

Japanese Forest Grass (Hakonechloa macra)

This ornamental grass thrives in shaded areas and adds a soft, flowing element to modern gardens.

Tree Recommendations for Des Moines Modern Gardens

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

Serviceberry trees offer multi-season interest with their flowers, fruit, and autumn color, fitting modern garden designs.

River Birch (Betula nigra)

River Birch (Betula nigra)

River Birch trees provide striking, exfoliating bark and thrive in the Des Moines climate.

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Red Maple (Acer rubrum)

Red Maple trees are known for their vibrant fall colors and adaptability, enhancing modern landscapes.

Practical Advice

Closing Thoughts

Creating a modern garden in Des Moines involves understanding the local climate, choosing suitable plants, and incorporating stylish design elements. By following these tips, you can achieve a stunning and sustainable garden design in Iowa that will be the envy of your neighborhood.

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