W
ant to make a great impression on potential buyers before they step inside? While many curb appeal ideas can be pricey and time-consuming, adding plants is an easy and low-maintenance way to boost your home's value. We spoke with three real estate experts to find out which plants are the most effective at enhancing curb appeal.

    Hydrangeas are a top choice for their large, dramatic blooms that add instant charm to any home. Corinne Smith, a Seattle-area real estate agent, swears by hydrangeas and uses them to boost curb appeal on her modern farmhouse-style homes. "The hydrangeas instantly add significantly more curb appeal and charm to the home," she says.

    Daylilies are another favorite among realtors, including Heather Myers of the Snyder Real Estate Group. They're hardy, low-maintenance, and bring long-lasting color to your yard. Myers recommends planting them along walkways or in front garden beds for a warm, welcoming feel.

    Lavender is also a popular choice, thanks to its pop of color and fresh scent. Taylor Lucyk, a real estate broker in Northern New Jersey, says it gives the landscaping a well-maintained and welcoming feel that enhances a homebuyer's first impression.

    Ornamental grasses are another great option for adding drama and texture to your yard. They can define borders, add touches of color, or conceal unsightly areas. You can start them in containers before transferring them to the ground.

    Boxwood shrubs are also a favorite among realtors, particularly Corinne Smith. They create elegant and tidy garden borders that give a sense of order to the home. However, they do require some lead time for establishment and regular watering.

    Annuals like petunias can also make a big impact on curb appeal, says Heather Myers. They're inexpensive, easy to swap out, and can be placed in pots or flower beds for bold visual interest.

    Perennials like lantana are another great option, as they return year after year and save homeowners time and money in the long run. Taylor Lucyk recommends growing lantana for its vibrant, sun-loving flowers that thrive in warmer climates.

    Finally, mixed color hosta plants can add variety to your gardens and landscape, says Corinne Smith. Lilac bushes are also a great choice, with their showy magenta, purple, and white blooms that catch the eye from far away and fill the air with sweet fragrance in the spring. Marigolds can add an instant splash of color and help deter pests when incorporated into a comprehensive pest management program.