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If you love the look of a lush garden but you don't have much time to spare, then you'll need alow-maintenancegarden. However, it can be challenging to know exactly what plants will go well and need little intervention from you.

That's why gardening expert Patrick Martin fromFrantoio Grove, a California-based olive farm, has done the hard work for you. He has revealed the four plants that do best with the least effort, as well as other tips to keep your garden blooming without hiking your water bills sky high.Patrick said: "Aside from being decorative, your garden is part of your home's ecosystem.

"With a few strategic changes, you can cut both water and heating costs without spending a fortune or compromising your garden's health."

According to Patrick, the four best plants for minimal watering are things like lavender, rosemary, sedum and ornamental grasses. They look impressive, but really require very little once established.

He said: "These plants are designed to thrive with less water.

"Once they're settled in, they'll need very little from you, which means lower water bills and less time spent with the hose."

To lower your watering needs even further, Patrick recommends mulching everything in your garden. Efficient mulching can reduce water needs by up to 50%.

He said: "Mulch acts like a blanket for your soil.

"It keeps moisture where your plants need it, meaning you'll water far less often. You can use affordable options like homemade compost, shredded leaves, or even grass clippings. It doesn't have to be expensive."

By covering soil with a layer of organic material like wood chips, bark, or compost, you create a barrier that locks in moisture and prevents evaporation.

To further lower the frequency of watering, make sure you choose the right time of day.

In the summer months, or sunny days, then it's best to water the garden in the early morning or evening, This stops water simply evaporating before it reaches the roots of your plants.