What Plants Are Best For Landscaping in Surrey, BC?
Landscaping in Surrey and thinking about sprucing up your garden this year? BC is known for its diverse climate which offers a variety of opportunities for homeowner and commercial landscaping. Atkinson does landscaping in Surrey, BC. Here is our advice on plants that thrive in our local climate.
If you live here and you're looking to improve your garden, it's important to know the types of plants best suited for landscaping in Surrey. Choosing the appropriate plants for your garden and your overall landscape design will save you time, money, and effort.
In this report, we’ll see BC’s climate zones and look closer at the different types of plants best suited for landscaping in Surrey and the surrounding Vancouver area.
What Are BC's Plant Climate Zones
British Columbia’s climate varies greatly, with distinct zones that tell what plants thrive best in different areas. BC is divided into different zones which are determined by factors such as average annual minimum temperatures, rainfall, and elevation.
Without getting into the fine details of the number system, here's the basics on zones.
Coastal Zones
The coastal regions of BC including Surrey and the surrounding Vancouver area, experience mild winters and cool, wet summers with heavy rainfall. This area is ideal for growing evergreen plants, ferns, and flowering shrubs that can tolerate moist conditions.
Interior Zones
The climate becomes more continental with hotter summers and colder winters, with significantly less rainfall compared to the coast. Plants that are drought-tolerant and hardy to colder temperatures thrive best in these areas.
Mountain and Northern Zones
These regions experience harsh winters and shorter growing seasons. Hardy perennial, evergreens, and native plants are best suited for these zones, as they can withstand the colder climate.
What Plants Are Native To BC?
Understanding the specific climate zone of your area in BC will help you choose plants that will thrive year-round, ensuring a beautiful and sustainable landscape. British Columbia is home to a wide variety of native plants that can enhance the beauty of your garden. Not only that, these plants also help preserve BC’s natural ecosystem. They require less water, are more resistant to pests and drought, and promote biodiversity.
Here are some examples of BC native plants:
Oregon Grape
A shrub with holly-like leaves and yellow flowers that attract pollinators. Oregon Grape is an adaptable plant which grows in full to part sun, and isn’t too fussy about soil.
Best Time to Plant Oregon Grape
The best time to plant Oregon Grape is in the fall or spring. Sow seeds in the fall, the same way to how you would pre-seed a vegetable garden. For spring, plant wet, pre-chilled seeds or sow seeds that have been cold stratified outdoors for at least three months.
How to Plant Oregon Grape
Sow seeds half an inch deep and three to six feet apart. Cover with an inch of mulch and keep the area moist. Mix compost into the soil to increase organic matter and help with water retention.
Sword Fern
This fern thrives in damp or dry areas. It has large, glossy fronds making it a beautiful ground cover for shade. They are among the easiest to grow in the garden especially in partial shade areas.
Best Time to Plant Sword Fern
Early spring is the best time to plant a sword fern in BC. This allows the plant to develop roots well before the summer heat arrives and ensures it has enough moisture throughout the growing season. Avoid planting during extreme heat as the young plants tend to die.
How To Plant Sword Fern
Sword ferns prefer well-drained, fertile soil that’s rich in humus. Consider adding 30%-40% bark dust or peat moss to the soil when planting. Water the fern deeply and regularly during the first growing season to help it develop a strong root system. Mulch the soil with organic materials like composted bark mulch, which has many benefits and gives back to the soil helping these plants thrive.
Red-Flowering Currant
This shrub produces vibrant pink flowers that bloom in early spring. Keep a well-drained soil with plenty of sunshine for better growth.
Best Time to Plant Red-Flowering Currant
Consider planting red-flowering currant in the fall or early spring when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild. You may also collect the seeds in mid to late summer and sow them in the fall.
How To Plant Red-Flowering Currant
Plant in full sun or partial shade in well-draining soil.
Prepare the soil by removing weeds and adding organic matter. Dig a hole that’s slightly deeper and wider. Be sure to prune at the end of the flowering season, and water deeply but frequently in the hot summer months.
Salal
Salal is an evergreen shrub that can grow in full sun or full shade. It is a good choice for a mixed border or ground cover. This shrub also provides food and habitat for wildlife, including birds, small mammals, deer, etc.
Best Time To Plant Salal
It is ideal to plant salal during early spring and fall. In the fall season, sow seeds in a pot of sterilized potting soil and place the pot in the garden. Cover the pot with wire mesh to keep out the animals. You can transplant the seeds in the spring season.
Tips for Growing Salal
Salal prefers to grow in rich, moist, acidic soil, but can also grow in shallow rocky soils, sandy soils, and peat. Plant in part-shade with well-drained soil. Space plants 2-3 feet apart, depending on how much cover you want. Water regularly in the summer until the plant is established. Apply a thick layer of mulch around the root area in the winter.
Drought-Tolerant BC Plants
Summer months in British Columbia can get very dry, especially in the interior regions. Here are some drought-tolerant plants that grow in BC:
Lavender
This aromatic and beautiful herb thrives in full sun and dry conditions. Not only is it great at repelling bugs and other insects, it also attracts beneficial pollinators. Adding lavender to your garden will attract butterflies, bees, and other helpful insects.
Best Time To Plant Lavender
It is recommended to plant lavender in early spring, after the last frost and when the soil has warmed to at least 15 degrees celsius. Planting in the spring gives the plant enough time to establish itself before it blooms in spring and summer.
Tips For Planting Lavender
Lavenders prefer well-drained, sandy soil mixed with compost and other organic matter. They also need at least six hours of sunlight per day in order for them to bloom beautifully and more fragrant. They don’t need to be watered deeply since lavenders can tolerate dry conditions. Prune lavender in late March to mid-August to give the plants more time to bloom.
Sedum
This succulent plant, also known as stonecrop, can retain water and is perfect for hot, dry conditions. This comes in various shapes, and colors, which is great for rock gardens. They can survive temperatures as high as 32 degrees celsius.
Best Time To Plant Sedum
Plant sedums in spring after the frost season has passed but before the heat of the summer. Always plant sedum when the plants are actively growing.
Tips for Growing Sedum
Grow sedum in well-drained, coarse soils. Space them out from six inches to two feet apart. They love sunshine so direct sun is ideal with at least six hours of direct sunlight a day. During the hot summers, water them every 7-10 days, and water every 2-3 weeks in the fall and winter.
Yarrow
A hardy perennial with clusters of tiny flowers in various colors. It can easily grow and thrive in average to poor soil. Yarrow can also withstand cold winters and hot, humid summers.
Best Time To Grow Yarrow
The best time to grow yarrow in British Columbia is in the spring after the last frost. Yarrow needs full sun to thrive, so choose a spot that receives sun for most of the day.
Tips For Growing Yarrow
Yarrow thrives best in well-drained, loamy soil. Space yarrow plants one to two feet apart and add compost to the surrounding area for extra nutrients. These plants need little watering. Only water the plants when the soil is dry about once a week.
Perovskia aka Russian Sage
It is known for its tall, silvery stems and purple flowers. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can add beauty to your garden. Perovskia can survive heat, drought, and poor soils.
Best Time To Grow Perovskia
The ideal time to plant perovskia is in the late spring when the soil is warm but before the weather is too hot and dry. If you plant later, remember to water frequently to keep plants from drying out.
Tips For Growing Perovskia
Choose an area in your garden that receives 6-8 hours of full sun. Russian sage thrives in hot, dry conditions. Water regularly through the first growing season to encourage deep root systems, but do not overwater once it’s established. You may add a little bit of supplemental fertilizer.
Shade-Loving BC Plants
Many regions of BC have dense forests, making shade a common condition in residential gardens. You’ll notice which spots in your garden are sunny and dry, where water or snow takes longer to disappear, and which areas stay shady. Many new gardeners feel unsure about shady spots, but these areas are perfect for escaping the summer heat and growing a variety of soothing plants. Here is a look at some of the most common plants that will thrive in low light:
Astilbe
This perennial with flower plumes that come in different colors is perfect in areas with low sunshine. Plant astilbe in groups or clusters alongside other shade-loving plants, such as ferns and hellebores.
Best Time To Plant Astilbe
Plant astilbe in the spring as early as possible while the soil is still cool. Planting in spring allows the plant to establish itself in warm but not hot weather. It also prevents the roots from being damaged by winter cold or spring frosts.
Tips For Growing Astilbe
Spread the roots when planting and plant the crown about 1-2 inches below the surface. Avoid burying the crown as it may cause rotting. Water astilbe several times a week during its first summer especially the young plants to promote active growth. Keep them under deeper shade during warmer months and water frequently.
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas bloom in spring and summer. This shrub has a large globe of flowers that may reach up to 15 feet in height.
Best Time to Plant Hydrangea
The best time to plant hydrangeas is in the fall, with early spring as the next best option. This allows the shrub enough time to develop a strong root system before it starts blooming. Planting is best done in the early morning or late afternoon, as the cooler temperatures help prevent heat stress. Be sure to keep new plants well-watered until they are fully established.
Where to Plant Hydrangeas?
Choosing the right location for hydrangea shrubs is a crucial first step. Many people plant hydrangeas near their homes or fences, as these plants enjoy the warmth of the morning sun but dislike the afternoon heat. The ideal spot is one that offers sunny mornings and shady afternoons, often found on the north or south side of your home.
How to Plant Hydrangeas
Prepare soil that’s abundant in organic material. Avoid soggy, poor draining soils as it can cause root rot. When planting hydrangeas, dig holes that are 2 feet wider than the root ball. Ensure the hole's depth matches the size of the root ball, so the plant sits level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Planting on a slight mound helps improve water drainage away from the base of the plant.
Hostas
Hostas are low-maintenance perennial that are perfect for borders and mass planting or even filling out gaps in the garden. It has distinctive, broad, ultra-vibrant leaves that make them a perfect addition into your landscape.
Best Time To Grow Hostas
Honestly, planting this perennial doesn’t have to be a time-sensitive task—you can do it anytime the soil is soft and workable. Summer can be a bit more challenging, as warmer soil may cause stress to your plants. However, since hostas are usually planted in fully shaded areas, the sun won’t heat the ground as much. For the best results, plant your hostas in spring or fall, and don’t forget to water them thoroughly after planting!
Tips For Growing Hostas
Hostas need regular watering especially during the dry months in summer. Apply fertilizer in spring through early summer. Mulching is also ideal to help conserve moisture and reduce weeds, but keep it low so small animals can’t hide in it. Trim damaged leaves and faded flower stalks to achieve a healthy look.
Evergreen Plants
Evergreen plants are a practical and beautiful choice for BC landscapes, providing year-round greenery, privacy, and protection from the elements. Their adaptability and low-maintenance nature make them ideal for creating sustainable and resilient outdoor spaces that thrive in BC’s diverse climate conditions. Let’s take a look at some of the most common evergreen plants you can plant in your gardens.
Cedar
Cedar trees are a popular evergreen choice for hedges and privacy screens in BC. They enhance your garden with year-round greenery and help block wind and noise. Not to mention these are perfect for hedges. Cedars thrive in BC's coastal climate, particularly in shaded or partially shaded areas with well-drained soil.
Tips For Growing Cedar
Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first few years of growth. Adding mulch around the base can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage dense growth, especially for hedges.
Douglas Fir
Douglas fir is one of BC’s iconic evergreen trees, known for its towering height and strong, conical shape. While typically found in forests, it can be used in large landscapes as a focal point or windbreak. It’s ideal for creating a natural, woodland feel in expansive gardens.
Tips For Growing Douglas Fir
For optimal growth, plant Douglas fir in well-draining soil in a spot that receives full sun. That's their favorite environment.
During the first few years, regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, to help the tree establish a strong root system. However, be mindful not to overwater, as Douglas fir thrives in soil that is moist but not waterlogged. To promote healthy growth, prune any dead or damaged branches as needed.
Boxwood
Boxwood is a versatile evergreen shrub commonly used for hedges, borders, and topiary in BC gardens. Its dense, glossy foliage provides a formal and structured look, making it ideal for classic or modern landscaping designs.
Tips For Growing Boxwood
To grow healthy boxwood, plant it in well-draining soil with partial to full sun exposure.
Water the shrub regularly, especially during dry periods, but take care to avoid water logging the roots. Light pruning helps maintain the desired shape and encourages dense, compact growth. Applying mulch around the base of the plant will help retain moisture and protect the roots from temperature fluctuations, ensuring the boxwood stays healthy year-round.
Landscaping in Surrey - Planting Service Pricing
How much does it cost to add some life to your gardens? Well, that depends on how many plants you need as well as a few other variables. The average size property with several garden bed can generally accommodate 30 - 40 plants. This work is generally achievable within a days work provided the garden beds are in decent starting condition.
A day rate of work plus the cost of plants can cost between $2500 - $3500. This includes picking up the plants and material, then bringing them to site. Usually there is some planning involved on plant positioning and other preferences.
Planting Service Process
When it comes to the work of planting, plots are prepared and the plants planted with new garden soil. A root fertilizer called bone meal is applied before each plant is put in the ground.
When planting is complete, the areas are topped up with composted bark mulch. See a previous Atkinson post on The Benefits Of Composted Bark Mulch. The finishing touches such as cutting a clean deep edge along the garden is also common. Newly planted plants need water right away. Atkinson Landscaping provides the initial watering. After that the work areas are tidied up and any waste is transported to the dumping location.
Other Consideration
There are a few things that can affect planting service pricing. It is becoming more common that people look to have rock gardens installed. Instead of the mulch top layer, this is a nice look. Usually modifying a garden to be rock garden will involved some degree of additional excavation to make space to contain a layer of rock. After the area is prepared for rock the plants are planted. Then landscape fabric is installed around the plants covering the garden bed surface. This prevents weeds from emerging from the soil below. On top of the fabric, river rock is installed to a depth of 4-6" in most cases. This can add additional cost as river rock is a more expensive product than mulch, and also takes longer to install.
The type of plants can have an effect on pricing as well. Atkinson charges $20-$35 per plant based on sizes from 1 gallon pots to 3 gallon pots. Larger plants will cost more due to the time the nursery has spent growing them. There are also cost difference between plants. Some plants are more rare and hard to come by, or have other factors that increase the costs nurseries incur growing them.
Finally, the condition of the garden beds can sometimes affect pricing. Neglected gardens can be overgrown with weed and other problems. In these cases, additional work must be done to prepare the garden. New garden bed development also increases the amount of work required. There are excavation and disposal costs to consider as well as installing adequate soil for planting.
Atkinson Landscaping - Landscaping Company Surrey
Atkinson has been landscaping in Surrey and the surrounding areas since 2014. Our estimator will work with you to choose plants for your garden that will do well and look good. We source our plants and other garden materials from our trusted nurseries and suppliers like Cedar Rim, Port Kells Nursery, & Arts Nursery. These suppliers have been our go-to place for high-quality plants.
Read more about plants: Atkinson Landscaping Planting