If you’ve always considered yourself the Grim Reaper of plants, we’ve got good news—you’re not alone. But the secret to having a plentiful backyard isn’t always being born with a green thumb. Instead, Carrie Engel, retail greenhouse manager at Valley View Farms, suggests adhering to the following formula: “Right plant, right place—and like what you’re doing.”

And Robert Jenkins, nursery manager at Herring Run Nursery, says a little maintenance can go a long way—prep the soil, add compost, and water regularly for the first few months. “Beyond that, you just sit there and watch Mother Nature do what Mother Nature is supposed to do,” he says. Engel also suggests simply walking around your yard. “The people who are successful, they’re the ones who go out in the morning with a cup of coffee and see what’s going on.”

Here are 14 plants that will be really hard for you to kill.

SPRING BLOSSOMS

Woodland phlox: This is a native plant with fragrant, soft-colored petals. “I think it’s one of the most attractive spring-blooming shade plants there is,” Jenkins says. Once established, it becomes a low-maintenance perennial.

Moss phlox: A fun, tolerant, and straightforward bloom, moss phlox is available in many different colors. A low-growing groundcover, it will thrive in sunny spots and present semi-evergreen foliage throughout the season.

Virginia bluebells: While this early native bloomer is quick to come and go, its spectacular color has earned it the top spot among many experts, including Jenkins. Buds fill shady garden floors then gracefully disappear until next year.

SUMMER STARS

Black-eyed Susans: Maryland’s state flower is as tough as it is cheerful. Engel says it’s a “wonderful native [but] a later bloomer” that is drought-tolerant and pollinator-friendly.

Foamflower: If you’re searching for a native groundcover alternative to pachysandra—considered invasive by many—check out foamflower. Known for its white flowers, it makes for a great filler in shady woodland spaces.

Goldenrod: These bright yellow, deer-resistant native wildflowers are an underrated late-summer standout. Jenkins calls it, “One of the best plants to have in your garden” for fall pollinator support.

Mountain Mints: Plentiful but valuable, Jenkins says that “mountain mints are great for pollinator support in the summertime” and thrive in Maryland soil. Mountain mint smells more sharply than traditional mint and is usually grown to attract bees and butterflies.

RIPE VEGGIES

Green Beans: “Beans are very easy,” Engel says. Just be sure to harvest frequently to encourage more production. Planted from seed, expect to see direct results within a matter of weeks.

Radishes: “If you have kids who are wanting to get into gardening a little bit, plant a radish seed,” Engel says. In about 21 days, they should be ready to be pulled right out of the ground.

Kale & other cool-season greens: The base for many salads requires little preparation. Planting greens in the cooler weather will ensure a more reliable crop. “Don’t try to plant broccoli in the summertime,”  Engel cautions.

Bush (Determinate) Tomatoes: Engel recommends full-sun, compact bush tomatoes for beginners. They’re easier to manage than the towering alternatives and produce most of their tomatoes at once.

NON-NEEDY HERBS

Oregano: Once established, oregano shrugs off high heat and inconsistent watering, making it ideal for beginners. As a bonus, you will have made the perfect addition to any pizza or pasta.

Lavender: A calming fragrance is just one of the countless benefits of planting lavender. In order to improve success, it requires plenty of drainage, a sunny spot, and minimal fertilizer.

Mint: Mint is one plant that is nearly indestructible. Plant in pots unless you’re prepared for it to spread—it’s perfect for patios.

It’s officially time to break out your gold and green. Home to our deep-rooted Irish community—plus traditional pubs, live music venues, bar districts, and the first of only two Guinness breweries in the United States—Baltimore is as magical of a place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as any.

Whether you’re in the mood for a pint of beer, traditional Irish eats and treats, a live Celtic rock show, or family-friendly activities, the (Lucky) Charm City scene has something for everyone. 

Bar Blarney 

3/1-17: 17 Days of St. Patrick’s Sláinte Irish Pub
Per tradition, the Fells Point watering hole counts down to the big day (where it opens bright and early at 6 a.m. for an all-out party) with daily specials, tastings, trivia nights, movie nights, live music, and more fun. Keep up with happenings on Slainte’s social channels. 1700 Thames St.

3/7-8, 14-15, 17: The Irish Village at Guinness Open Gate Brewery 
What’s better than drinking a pint of Guinness? Sipping one straight from the source. Naturally, March at Guinness in Halethorpe means two full weekends of jam-packed programming. Grab a pint and stake out a spot on the front lawn for live music, Irish food stalls, vendors, and activities.

For those looking to level up their beer IQ, ticketed events include guided tastings, food and beer pairings, pint-pouring lessons, and a history session inside The Hidden Harp—a tiny countryside pub set up on the property. Of course, the village will be in full swing on March 17, as well. 5001 Washington Blvd, Halethorpe

3/14: Tenth Annual St. Paddy’s Day Block Party at Delia Foley’s
Delia Foley’s shuts down the block with its annual St. Patrick’s Day fest on South Charles Street in Federal Hill, which is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this March. Take advantage of four bars, Crush stations, food specials, corn hole, giveaways, and live music—both in the tents outside and upstairs on the second floor. 1439 S Charles St. $10 cash cover

3/14: Fed Hill Irish Stroll 
Who needs a green river when you can dive headfirst into a sea of green-clad revelers in Federal Hill? Perhaps the rowdiest area in town on St. Paddy’s weekend will once again host this self-guided stroll around the bars surrounding Cross Street Market.

Drink specials on deck this year are $4 Ultras, $5.00 Nutrls (lime, of course), and $6 Surfsides at all of the go-to bars, including The Perch, Crossbar, and One Star. (If you’re a fan of Wayward and Liv’s Tavern, check out a separate wristband deal, here.) Check in at 1113 S. Charles St. $16.65

3/14: St. Patrick’s Weekend at Pooles
If your St. Paddy’s plans call for craft beer over chaos, head to Pooles Island Brewing Company. The Middle River taproom is rolling out a fresh Irish stout, festive cocktails, live music, and enough boozy slushies to make you temporarily forget it’s still technically March. Pooles Island Brewing Company, 11695 Crossroads Circle, Middle River. 12-10 p.m.

3/17: St. Patrick’s Celebrations at Looney’s Pub
The homegrown pub chain operates four different venues in Maple Lawn, Perry Hall, Bel Air, and College Park, which are all gearing up for their own bar bashes complete with live music and specials. In Perry Hall, for example, patrons can order off of the Lucky Libations (Irish coffees and Leprechaun Crushes) menu leading up to the big day—which will kick off with a bacon and beer breakfast at 6 a.m. Multiple locations including 8706 Belair Rd. 

3/17: Shamrocked & Shenanigans St. Patrick’s Day at The Point
Clear your schedule for March 17—and maybe plan for a slow morning on the 18th—and head to The Point in Fells to party from dawn to dusk. Expect high-energy music and flowing pints against the backdrop of unbeatable waterfront views. The Point in Fells, 1738 Thames Street, 10 a.m.

Emerald Eats

3/10-17: Kelsy’s Restaurant
Get your shamrock on at this Ellicott City stalwart, which highlights daily events for the entire week leading up to St. Pat’s. A special family day on March 15 will offer balloon art and live music. On March 16, raise an early toast to St. Patrick’s Day on Irish time (7 p.m.) to get little ones (and yourselves) home at a reasonable hour. On the actual day, the pub will open at 8 a.m. for kegs and eggs, followed by bag pipers and a lineup of live bands. 8480 Baltimore National Pike.

3/15: Mick O’Shea’s Irish Pub
On parade day, Mt. Vernon’s beloved neighborhood haunt opens all of its doors and windows, fires up its grill, and pours countless pints as the floats and marching bands pass by on North Charles Street. Stop by to enjoy classics like corned beef and cabbage, Shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and beef stew. 328 N Charles St.

3/17: James Joyce Irish Pub
There’s no better time to pay a visit to this hallowed Harbor East pub, which will host a full rager on the big day. Fuel up with classics like bangers and mash and Guinness stew while you stomp your feet to the Richard Osban Group, Eagan & Hearn, the Baltimore City Pipe Band, and more. Keep your eyes peeled for Irish dance performances throughout the day from Teelin Irish Dance and the Loyola Maryland Irish Dance Team. 616 President St. 10 a.m.

Looking for a more classic Irish pub experience? Check out even more spots to hit, here.

Family-Friendly Fun

3/7: Irish Music Festival
The Baltimore County Department of Recreation & Parks is hosting this jam fest headlined by local Irish party band The ShamRogues. Bring the whole family to enjoy vendors, food trucks, and themed activities. 13401 Beaver Dam Road. 1-6 p.m. Free-$20

3/15: St. Patrick’s Day Parade
At Baltimore’s 64th-annual St. Patrick’s Day parade, thousands of spectators from the region will crowd the downtown streets and sidewalks to celebrate Irish culture, music, songs, and dance. The parade step off from the Washington Monument, proceeds south on Charles Street, and continues east toward the Inner Harbor. 2 p.m.

3/15: Crazy Mason Cookie Decorating Class
Bring the fam to frost your own sugar shamrocks—and sprinkle them with the requisite edible gold glitter—at the Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar in Ellicott City. While you’re there, sip a special Lucky Float topped with Lucky Charms, green whipped cream, and rainbow sour belts. 8225 Main St. Ellicott City. 2 p.m. $60. 

St. Paddy’s Performances

3/13: Saint Shrektrick’s Rave
House music fans will be happy to hear that Soundstage is hosting a heart-thumping party in honor of everyone’s favorite green ogre. Throw on your best Shrek-themed ‘fit for a romp in the swamp that will let your mind wander to a land far far away. 124 Market PI. 9 p.m. $25

3/13-14: Claddagh Pub’s Annual Meet in the Street
The countdown is on for the tented, two-day tradition on O’Donnell Square, which will feature nonstop live music by multiple groups including local faves Starcrush, Crushing Day, Bryan O’Boyle, and Swarm of Bees. 2918 O’Donnell St. 9 a.m. Free admission

3/17: Ye Olde Emerald Tavern
This historic tavern is as close as you can get to the Emerald Isle in Parkville. Like always, St. Patrick’s Day will offer drink deals, hearty food (think: bangers and mash, Irish potato soup, corned beef and cabbage with potatoes, and Guinness-glazed wings) and lots of live music. Get pumped for sets by Good Noizz and Alter Ego Band. 8300 Harford Road, Parkville.

3/20: St. Patrick’s Day Celebration 2026
Wrap up your St. Paddy’s week with an evening of traditional Irish music at the Creative Alliance. Local supergroup Celtic Corridor and duo Collins & Vocke will take the stage for a night of timeless tunes, lively fiddle, and rich Celtic harmonies that will have you toe-tapping long after the final set. Creative Alliance, 3134 Eastern Ave. 7:30 p.m. $18-$35

Historically, Valentine’s Day got major eyerolls from anyone without a partner. But as Galentine’s Day has caught on as a tradition of its own throughout the years (thanks, Parks & Recreation), more people have come around to the season as a time to celebrate love and friendship in every way. Locally, there are tons of fun activities planned throughout February to help you spend time with your nearest and dearest—whether you want to catch up over drinks, shop, dance, or get creative with a craft or workshop. 

Here is just a fraction of what’s happening around the city to help you feel the love with your girl gang this month.

2/7-8: Galentine’s Day Brunch at Prima Dopo
While brunch is always a Galentine’s go-to, Prima Dopo is hosting more than just a mid-morning menu. Treat yourselves to permanent jewelry by Ava Waves & Co, a Champagne tower, a photo booth, and a DJ, all with an Espresso Martini in hand. Prima Dopo Cucina & Cocktail House, 1724 Thames St. 12-3 p.m.

2/9: Galentine’s Day Flamingle
Friends who flock together, stay together. On the Zoo’s historic Mansion House Porch, help yourself to an open bar while enjoying a one-of-a-kind drag brunch, zoo admission, crafts, a chance to have your fortune read, and so much more–including the famous flamingos. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, One Safari Pl. 12-4 p.m.

2/9: Blooms & Bubbles: A Floral Design Workshop at Cafe Luli
What’s better than getting flowers on Valentine’s Day? Designing your own arrangement—preferably with a glass of bubbly in hand. Join Brookfield Blooms at Stevenson’s Cafe Luli to nibble on appetizers and sweets as you learn the ins and outs of garden-inspired bouquets. Tickets include all supplies and entry with the chance to win a curated Galentine’s gift bag. 10423 Stevenson Rd. 6-8 p.m. $105.

2/10: Galentine’s Day Pizza Making Class at Verde
If you prefer carbs over chocolate, learn about the history of Neapolitan pizza while enjoying delicious house-made mozzarella, bread, two glasses of wine or beer, and a hands-on dough tutorial at Verde in Canton. Verde. 641 South Montford Ave. 6-9 p.m. $95.

2/12: Galentine’s Day Paint & Sip at Kneads
Grab your group and make your way to Harbor East to paint two of your own stemless wine glasses with an instructor while sampling appetizers, desserts, and two complimentary drinks. And be sure to stop by the flower bar for a free bouquet before you head home. Kneads Bakeshop & Cafe, 506 S Central Ave, 6:30-9:30 p.m., $44.

2/12: Sagamore Spirit Chocolate and Whiskey Pairings
Take regular boxed chocolate to the next level at Sagamore Spirit. After a guided a tour of the Baltimore Peninsula distillery, settle in for four different chocolates each paired with a unique whiskey. Sagamore Spirit Distillery, 321 E Cromwell St.

2/12: Brushes, Bubbles & Besties at Nick’s Fish House
In keeping with the name of the event, pals will enjoy the three b’s along the waterfront at Nick’s Fish House, sipping bubbly, snacking on charcuterie, and painting their own oyster shells. No artistic experience required. Nick’s Fish House, 2600 Insulator Dr, 7-9 p.m., $50.

2/13: Ammoora’s Galentine’s Celebration
Looking to play up the elegance? Then slip into your finest pink and red attire and find your way to Ammoora in the Inner Harbor. There, you and your crew will sip Champagne, snack on passed mezzes, groove to live tunes, and end the night with a round of Espresso Martinis, if you choose. Ammoora, 751 Key Hwy, 9-11:30 p.m. $50.

2/13: My Bloody Valentine’s Horror Market
Stop by Blue Pit BBQ for Bmore Horror Club’s second-annual Valentine’s market. Shop jewelry, art, tarot, and more from local businesses. You’ll have a scary good time picking out handcrafted horror Valentine’s cards, bath bombs, and other self-care products. Blue Pit BBQ & Whiskey Bar. 1601 Union Ave. 6-9 p.m.

2/13: Galentine’s Day at Golden West
The team at Golden West is hosting this special fundraiser for the Maryland SPCA. If you bring a new, unused food or toy donation ($35 value), you’ll get signed up for a free tattoo. The benefit bash will also highlight permanent jewelry, a photo booth, eats and drinks, and DJ AAVE’s FRIENDZY (7-9 p.m.)—which mimics speed dating, but for new best friends. Golden West Cafe, 1105 W. 36th St. 4-10 p.m.

2/13: Gal Pal Galentine’s Day Dance Party at Old Line 
This feel-good fête will offer eats from Fishnet, music from DJ Saucee, and the knowledge that your ticket supports Helping Up Mission. For every cocktail sold, Old Line Spirits in Highlandtown will donate $2 back to the cause— so drink up. Old Line Spirits, 200 S Janney St., 7-10 p.m., $25.

2/13: Just Like Frens Galentine’s Social at Vessel
Dress to the nines (pink and red encouraged) and head to Vessel at Baltimore Peninsula for eats, drinks, and live music spun by Ty Alexander and Coco Spinelle. Vessel Baltimore, 2460 Terrapin Wy, 6:30-10:30 p.m.

2/13: The Birds & The Bees R&B Party at Bar V
Classic and contemporary R&B will set the mood for this romantic rager at Bar V—which will highlight DJ P Drama and a live performance by Makenna. Bar V 2.0, 2424 Distillery St.

2/14: Cheers to The Girls: Galentine’s Day Bar Stroll
Branded swag and $2 Espresso Martinis, Crushes, mimosas, Surfsides, and craft beer? Sign us up. Throw on your most festive getup and stroll through Fells with stops at The Choptank and Waterfront Hotel. You’ll also get to enjoy exclusive brunch specials and live music from female artists. The Choptank, 1641 Aliceanna St., 12 p.m. $30.

2/14: Find Your Valentine Lock & Key Singles Party
Take the intimidation out of finding a Valentine by heading to Canton with your pals for this happy hour mixer. Singles ages 24-49 are invited to ditch the apps for the night and break the ice with games meant to eliminate the awkwardness of meeting new people. Even if you don’t meet the love of your life, you’ll get a great story out of it. The Greene Turtle, 3803 Boston St., 7 p.m. $16-32.

2/14: Cupid’s Takeover ft. Enslow
Say goodbye to gushy romance and hello to girl power at Angels Rock Bar, where Baltimore’s own pop princess Enslow will serenade the crowd. Shred a photo of your ex at the door for a free shot; take advantage of a one-hour open bar from 7-8 p.m.; and down discounted beer, bombs, and Surfsides the rest of the night. Angels Rock Bar, 10 Market Pl, 7 p.m., $15.

2/15: Girls Who Walk Baltimore: Galentine’s Walk
Bring your friends or just bring yourself for this themed stroll with Girls Who Walk Baltimore. Before you get some fresh air along the Jones Falls Trail, warm up with Moving History’s stepping workshop in honor of Black History Month. Jones Falls Trail North, 5051 Greenspring Ave., 8:30 a.m. Free.

2/21: Golden Girls Galentine’s Day Drag Brunch at The Brass Tap
The Golden Gays, the lauded group of Golden Girls drag devotees, is bringing this sidesplitting show to The Brass Tap in Bolton Hill. Enjoy brunch fare and celebrate love and friendship with perhaps the most notable girl group there ever was: Dorothy, Blanche, and Rose. The Brass Tap, 1205 West Mount Royal Avenue. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $20.

2/22: Pretty, Paid, & Pouring: Pretty Girls Brunch at Avenue Kitchen
Gather the girlies in the heart of Hampden to party with DJ Hi Def. Dress code is red and pink attire, and signature cocktails, including “Main Character Energy” and “The Direct Deposit,” will be flowing throughout the meal. Avenue Kitchen & Bar, 911 W. 36th St. 12-5 p.m.

Ongoing: Dollars for Dung Fundraiser at the Maryland Zoo
Recently got dumped? Return the favor by naming a literal dump after your ex for a $5 donation to the Maryland Zoo. Not only will it hopefully bring a sense of closure, but you can also feel good about supporting animal care and global conservation efforts for endangered Panamanian golden frogs and African penguins. You’ll receive a PDF certificate to commemorate your charitable revenge. $5-20.