What to Plant This Spring in the Texas Panhandle

audreyjanecreative
May 1
3 min read

Updated: May 8

A Local Guide to Thriving Gardens and Landscapes

Spring in the Texas Panhandle is full of opportunity. After enduring months of dry soil, gusty winds, and unpredictable temperature swings, your yard is ready to thrive. Successful planting in our region takes a little background knowledge, including the proper selection of hardy, well-adapted plants. Whether you're building a colorful flowerbed, refreshing your landscape, or finally filling in your porch pots, this guide will help you choose plants that love our Panhandle conditions as much as you do.

Flowers That Flourish in a Panhandle Spring

At Custom Gardens, these are some of the most popular and reliable flowers we’re planting right now across Amarillo, Texas. These tried-and-true choices are well-suited for our spring conditions and are making local landscapes pop with color.

Annuals: Longer Blooming Periods, Require Replanting Every Year

Purple petunias – one of many varieties!

Marigolds – Sun-loving and resistant to many pests, these gold and orange blooms thrive in tough conditions.
Zinnias – Drought-tolerant and brilliant, ideal for hot, sunny beds or pollinator gardens.
Petunias – Easy-care with loads of color; perfect in containers or hanging baskets.
Geraniums – Classic and versatile, great for pots or borders in sun or part-shade.
Angelonia – Known as summer snapdragon, this upright bloomer loves the heat.
Portulaca (Moss Rose) – Low-growing and tough, ideal for hot spots and rock gardens.
Impatiens – Great for shady spots with steady moisture.
SunPatiens – Perfect for areas with filtered or dappled sunlight.
Lantana – Heat- and drought-resistant, with clusters of blooms that attract butterflies.
Pentas – Butterfly magnets with star-shaped flowers in vibrant colors.
Begonias – Many varieties available; some love shade, others thrive in sun.

Perennials: Shorter & Specific Bloom Times, Come Back Every Year

Salvia ‘May Night’ – A deep purple showstopper that’s beloved by bees and butterflies.
Red Salvia – Adds a vertical pop of color and attracts hummingbirds.
Coreopsis – Cheerful daisy-like flowers that bloom for months.
Daylilies – Reliable, low-maintenance, and available in many color options.
Russian Sage – Airy lavender blooms, fragrant foliage, and excellent wind resistance.
Nepeta (Catmint) – A pollinator favorite with silvery leaves and soft purple blooms.
Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan) – Tough and sunny, with golden petals and dark centers.
Yarrow – Hardy, drought-tolerant, and available in a rainbow of soft hues.
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) – Bold, warm colors that love our full sun and well-draining soils.

Tips for Successful Spring Planting in the Panhandle

Watch the Weather – Late frosts can surprise you into late April. Cover new plants as needed.
Water Wisely – Remember that we live in a semi-arid climate with lots of wind! Morning watering helps plants soak it in before the heat kicks up. Read more about our irrigation systems service if you want help with sustainable watering.
Mulch Matters – Keep roots cool, conserve moisture, and cut down on weeds with a good mulch layer.
Go Native When You Can – Native or drought-tolerant plants will reward you with long-term success and less maintenance.

Looking For More Assistance?

Custom Gardens has spent over 20 years planning, planting, and maintaining landscapes in Texas Panhandle soil. We know what thrives here—and what doesn’t. Whether you're aiming to enhance your business's curb appeal or transform your backyard into a personal paradise, we're eager to roll up our sleeves and make it happen.