|
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
Annuals
Annuals can be sown directly into a garden or planted
as potted seedlings. Sewing directly is best for
morning glory, annual Sweet Peas annual Poppies
and others that are difficult to transplant. But
some, like Petunia, transplant well and since they
can take as long as 90 days to flower from seed,
potted seedlings are a better choice.
Buy bedding plants from a quality nursery source
to ensure healthy, pest-free plants, ready to bloom.
Plant tender annuals after the last predicted frost
date as the leaves of many are susceptible to frost
damage. Cold wet conditions are fatal to young seedlings,
so wait until the soil is warm to the touch.
Plant annuals in a well-prepped bed, placing root
balls in holes far enough apart to allow room for
growth. Fill in with soil and press down firmly.
Water generously and frequently to give plants a
good start.
Perennials
Prepare your perennial bed a season in advance,
if possible. The majority of perennials achieve
their best growth if they are set out as nursery
seedlings in late summer or early fall. Autumn weather
conditions are less likely to induce dehydration
or the other symptoms of root trauma. And perennials
seek to maximize root growth even in cold weather.
All perennials benefits from protective mulch during
the winter months. Plants that stay in the ground
year round are particularly susceptible to heaving
as the ground freezes and thaws.
To plant perennials dig a hole larger than the root
ball and sprinkle a handful of 6-12-12 fertilizer
in the hole. Carefully place the root ball in the
hole — be sure that it hasn't dried out before
you plant. Fill in with soil and gently tamp down.
Water frequently and generously until plant is established.
For more information
on planting and a wealth of garden tips and
techniques, refer to The
New Greener Thumb by Mark Cullen,
available at www.chapters.indigo.ca
along with other
Mark Cullen titles. |
| |
|
|
|
