If you have an open, sunny spot, why not plant a flower garden? Marigolds or zinnias make great displays that add vibrant splashes of color.
An impressive flower garden can be the focal point of any yard. When creating one, keep these elements in mind: shape, color and height of flowers you’d like to include.
Location
Location is of critical importance in maintaining the health of a flower garden, so make sure yours is situated near enough sunlight (at least six hours a day) as well as easy watering access so your blooms receive all of their necessary moisture.
Plant both annuals and perennials in your flower garden for optimal blooming from spring until frost. Native varieties may also help make your space bee, butterfly and hummingbird friendly as they require less care than exotic varieties.
Before planting your new flower garden, first clear away all grass and weeds using a shovel. After this is completed, dig holes for each plant depending on their specific growing requirements, with focal flowers such as roses being placed at the back while fillers like snapdragon and feverfew can be scattered throughout.
Soil
Garden soil should be tailored specifically for the types of flowers you’re planting, so make sure it can support their needs. Most flowering plants flourish best in rich, loamy soil that drains well; if the area you want to plant in has poor drainage, alternative locations might be required.
Locate an area that receives at least six to eight hours of daily sun for optimal flower growth and bloom times. Failure to do so could affect most flowering plants’ development and may prevent them from reaching their maximum bloom time potential.
Gardening perennial flowers in full sun conditions is ideal, though you can create one in more shady conditions by including shrubs or other shade-loving plants in your planting area. As different varieties require different levels of moisture and fertilization – consult seed packets or plant tags for advice – consider also conducting a soil test to ascertain pH levels and other factors which might hinder its performance.
Water
Flowers require water in order to thrive and bloom, but too much can be detrimental. Too much moisture can cause flowers to rot or choke out their roots, ultimately hindering their progress and blooming potential.
Select a location within easy reach of your garden hose so you can water easily without uprooting your blooms. Also ensure the flower bed has proper drainage to avoid standing water becoming stagnant or even leading to plant death.
Prepare the soil for planting by clearing away weeds and adding in lots of organic matter – this will enrich and keep moisture at an ideal level, which will be essential for your flowers. Next, dig holes that match what type of flowers are being planted: seeds, seedlings or bulbs. Check with each flower packet’s planting instructions as to how deep of a hole needs to be dug; typically one that’s only slightly deeper than their rootball should do the trick.
Light
No matter where or what you plant, sunny locations are key to the success of any project. Spend some time outside observing how much sun and shade a specific spot receives over a 24 hour period – this will have an enormous effect on what types of flowers can be grown successfully in that spot.
Plant a combination of perennials and annuals. Staggered bloom times of perennials will ensure a constant show, while annuals with their quick color change provide instantaneous pop. Don’t forget foliage plants as these provide color and texture long after flowers fade.
When planting for pollinators, choose native species over fancy hybrids. Natives provide more reliable pollen and nectar sources that bees, butterflies and hummingbirds depend on as food sources. Also planting mass plantings of 3 to 5 same-species flowers makes foraging easier as flower constancy reduces how many species must be visited on each trip foraging for food.