Flower gardening can be an engaging hobby. With so many plants to choose from and endless ways of combining them, there’s sure to be something out there that sparks your interest!
Before planning a flower garden, take into account its soil conditions and environmental influences that may impact it. Flowers such as perennials often do well when grown in loose, well-drained soil amended with compost. Also important is sunlight – make sure that at least six hours of direct sunlight reachs your flowerbed daily!
Choose Your Plants
When creating your flower garden, be sure to select flowers which suit the local environment. Plants which thrive in full sun may quickly die in shaded locations while those which need rich soil may perform poorly in sandy or clay-rich dirt.
Start small: Start by planting seeds indoors before placing directly in the ground after all risk of frost has passed. For instant color, however, purchase pre-mixed planting mixes containing optimal nutrients that support rapid growth.
Once you have located the ideal spot for your garden, prepare the bed by clearing away grass and weeds before adding ample compost to boost soil health. Rake smooth before planting to allow your flowers ample room for healthy root development. Consider also creating an appealing layout by including pathways, benches or fences as frames for your blooms that make maintenance enjoyable and exciting!
Dig the Bed
Once you’ve chosen beautiful blooms to add vibrancy and texture, take time to learn more about each. Read plant tags and descriptions carefully so you know if the flowers are annuals (which only bloom for one season), or perennials (which return year after year).
Determine how much sunlight your flower garden will receive; avoid areas receiving shade most of the day as this can significantly shorten bloom times. Also think about whether you want the flowers close or far from other landscape elements.
Dig holes for every flower that needs planting, whether cuttings from previous seasons or seeds/seedlings from seed packs. Remove any large clumps of dirt and incorporate organic matter such as compost, manure or leaf mold into the mix – this will help the soil retain moisture while also providing essential nutrients. Finally, spread a layer of mulch over the area to protect the ground while adding an extra touch. It keeps weeds at bay as well as protecting flowers from being trodden upon during backyard barbecues!
Water
Watering is an indispensable garden task that can also be time-consuming. However, there are various techniques you can employ to streamline this task and minimize water consumption.
First, choose flowers that suit your climate, soil type and sunlight conditions. Avoid flower varieties known for sucking up water excessively; look instead for those labeled drought resistant or native to your area.
Utilize a rain gauge or soaker hose to avoid overwatering your plants, as these tools evenly disperse and decrease evaporation rates. Watering early morning when temperatures are cooler helps ensure moisture retention by the plant roots.
Planting perennials and annuals with staggered bloom times will create a vibrant flower garden year-round. Perennials (peonies, lilyturf and tulips) typically reach their bloom time during spring bloom. Petunias, geraniums and pansies offer constant color throughout summer and fall blooming periods; add bulbs at the end of fall to extend its bloom period into winter and spring!
Fertilize
Flower gardens add beauty and blooming plants, but require ongoing care for maximum success. Maintenance depends on what flowers you select for planting – some varieties prefer full sun while others may prefer partial or mixed shade conditions.
If you need guidance when choosing what plants to plant, visit your local garden center or nursery. Take photos of flowers you like, compile an inspiration board to guide your decisions, consider their height and spread, bloom time and foliage color before making your selections.
Strive for a balanced mix of flowers that boast varied textures and hues. Use the color wheel as a guide in selecting complimentary hues; bright flowers like peonies and daisies pair well with soft hues like blues, lavenders and mauves; furthermore flowers with staggered bloom times can ensure you an uninterrupted show throughout the season.