A commercial facility can be bustling with activity. Whether it’s employees heading into an office park or customers visiting a retail center, commercial properties in Greater Chicago experience significant foot and vehicle traffic every day.
That’s why the landscaping must be both resilient and low-maintenance. You need plants that can handle Midwest weather, seasonal salt exposure, and daily wear—without demanding constant attention or expensive upkeep.
In this article, we’ll walk you through:
If you want to enhance your property’s curb appeal without increasing maintenance costs, you’ll find plenty of plant ideas and landscaping insights tailored specifically for Chicagoland’s commercial environments.
From high-end HOAs to industrial complexes and medical campuses, facility managers across Chicagoland are looking for ways to reduce ongoing landscape upkeep without compromising curb appeal. The right plants offer:
Let’s look at what to consider when selecting plants—and some of the top performers we recommend for commercial landscapes in the Chicago area.
Before selecting plants, evaluate your site’s:
Boxwoods are evergreen workhorses that add structure and year-round greenery to commercial beds. They can be shaped and maintained at around 30 inches with selective pruning, or left to grow up to 4 feet for more coverage.
Try these varieties:
Looking for an alternative? Consider Inkberry Holly ‘Shamrock’, which offers similar texture and size with a unique look.
‘Fire Chief’ Globe Arborvitae delivers a pop of orange to red foliage that brings high contrast and color to your landscape design. It grows to 3 to 4 feet tall and offers a unique twist on the traditional arborvitae, making it perfect for commercial landscapes seeking standout features.
Hydrangeas are ideal for low-maintenance commercial landscapes thanks to their large, colorful flower heads that bloom throughout the summer.
Top Hydrangea picks:
Being creative is part of the fun of incorporating low-maintenance plants for commercial landscapes in Chicago.
Combining plants with contrasting foliage and forms can make even low-maintenance landscapes feel dynamic and custom.
Try this plant combo:
These combinations provide year-round interest with minimal care, ideal for Chicago’s four-season climate.
What are the best low-maintenance plants for winter weather in Chicago?
Boxwoods and globe arborvitae are evergreen and resilient. Hydrangeas, especially ‘Annabelle,’ handle cold well and come back year after year.
How do I reduce landscape maintenance costs?
Start with the right plant choices and proper placement. Durable plants that don’t need frequent pruning, watering, or replacement lower long-term costs.
Are these plants safe for high-traffic commercial areas?
Yes—these options are selected for their compact growth, low care requirements, and resilience in public-facing spaces.
A great commercial landscape doesn’t have to be high maintenance. With smart plant choices, you can reduce upkeep while creating an environment that welcomes tenants, customers, and guests.
If you’re not sure which plants are right for your property—or how to design a landscape that balances beauty with budget—KD Landscape can help.
You don’t have to navigate plant selection or site planning alone. At KD Landscape, we help commercial property managers across Greater Chicago design landscapes that look great year-round—without driving up maintenance costs.
Whether you're planning a refresh or a full redesign, our team can guide you to the best plant choices for durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Request your free consultation today and discover how a low-maintenance landscape can elevate your property while protecting your budget.
Image Source: Hydrangea, Globe Arb