Spring

Showy annuals full of flowers can be breathtaking. But how can you help yourself to assure success ?

Beautiful annual flower plantings begin with proper planning. It is important to observe your planting site at different times of the day to get a full appreciation for how much actual sunlight your bed area receives. This information along with soil type and how much care you anticipate giving, is the backbone of your decision making process. Prior to planting remember to amend the soil with compost, a balanced fertilizer, a little lime and incorporate to a depth of 6 – 8 inches. We would like to point out the ideal growing condition for some of the more commonly used annuals because a mismatch often results in poor growth and possibly failure.

Begonias

Begonias – A very versatile plant that can grow in sunny as well as shaded areas. This very durable plant is available with green or bronze leaves and white, or red flowers.

Marigold

Marigold – Like sunny conditions and well drained soil. They are available in a wide variety of heights from 10 inches to 2 – 1/2 feet. The most common colors are yellow and orange.

New Guinea Impatiens

New Guinea Impatiens – This group of plants is always one of my favorites. The color choice is wide and bold. You can find either solid green leaf or a variegated leaf, which adds distinctive character to the new Guinea Impatiens. This plant will do well in sun if moisture is ample and timely. The best results are achieved in part sun growing in a fertile well-drained soil.

Some good information to help with soil preparations. Add some compost to the planting bed and till to 6-8 inches. It is important to pick your plant to match your growing conditions. By this I mean do not put impatiens in full sun unless you are prepared to water frequently. The familiar flowers we know and love are always available, Impatiens, Begonia, Marigold, Salvia and Ageratum, in an ever-increasing array of color. I want to mention few lesser-used but appealing plant selections that can help you with more difficult areas to grow annual flowers.

Vinca Rosea

Vinca Rosea – Is a very drought tolerant sun-loving 12″ plant with pink or white impatiens like flowers. The leaves are a showy glossy green.

Gazania

Gazania – Is well suited for hot sunny conditions and is low growing so not to interfere with the monument or other plantings. Daisy-like flowers range in color from orange to pink and yellow.

Zinnia Linearis

Zinnia Linearis – Is a recent introduction to the Zinnia family we are familiar with from mom’s garden. this plant is 12-16″ tall and is very tolerant of dry soil conditions. The flowers are orange or white and the foliage is delicate in appearance.

These plants usually appear in garden centers in mid to late May. If you do not see them, ask for them by name. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

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