Bedding Plants - Selection and Preparation
Bedding plants offer many choices of colorful flowers such as Annuals and Perennials and complete any Florida landscape. They add beauty and value to your home when done the right way. They offer a rewarding feeling that is pleasurable for everyone of all ages. It is fun and relaxing to work in your garden, getting outside and closer to nature.
Florida has three climate zones, the North, the Central, and south or Southern regions. This makes the state open to many different varieties giving versatility and flexibility. You will find choices for your area all year long no matter what the season at your local nursery and garden center.
Annuals and Perennials
Bedding plants are Annuals and Perennials. There is a difference between the two so you can make a choice for yourself. Annuals are most widely use because of the many varieties during the seasons during the year. There are many choices and types that grow in the spring, summer, fall, and winter with lots of color.
Annuals are grown from seed producing flowers and eventually die at the end of each growing season. they need to be replaced with new ones at the end of their growing cycle.
Perennials bloom once during a season and last up to one or two months, depending upon the type. They will live for three years or more. When they become extra tall they can be divided to create separate plants.
Choosing a Location
Bedding plants are used as an accent and not as a dominate feature in the landscape. Place them in front of the home harmonizing with the total setting. Colors should blend with each other and with the house. It is not recommended to have large islands in front with bedding plants. They are used as borders along Shrubs and Fences.
Use them as small flower beds standing alone. Place them as edging along side walks and driveways. They are good under porches, decks, and along patios. Even if you don’t have area’s such as listed above, plant them in Pots, Tubs, Planters, or Hanging Baskets. no matter what situation, you can have colorful flowers to add beauty to your home.
Selecting and Purchasing Bedding Plants
As in all plants, light requirements need to be considered. They will require either Full Sun, Partial Shade, or Full Shade, depending on the type. Read the Tags or Labels found on the plant or pot for this information when shopping for them at your local nursery or garden center. Healthy plants are important when purchasing them which can depend on the grower. Choose a seller that carries good quality plants.
Here are some tips that will be helpful when purchasing bedding plants. Buy plants that are Not in full bloom. Look for plants that that have New Buds nice and thick. Pick ones that are young with dark green foliage. Choose ones that are Not tall and sparse with stems looking spindly. Look for stress such as, under-watering, wilting, or over-watering. Also look for damage such as broken stems which may occur from improper handling or shipping.
Grouping Colors and Types
Limit your choices for each area to a few kinds and colors. In bedding areas, plant one or two types of flowers to create a theme. Plant the same types and colors grouping together forming a separation. Mixing them together can become distracting and confusing for the naked eye to see.
Always place flowering plants according to their mature height. Plant smaller growing plants in-front of taller ones. The Tag or Label will tell you their eventual height.
Water conditions are important when planting them together. Most bedding plants need well-drained soil and do bad in wet conditions. Some can survive in wet and shady locations but most can’t. Impatients are generally used in this type of situation. Once again, read the Tags and Labels for information pertaining to each bedding plant you are choosing.
Site Preparation
Before planting your areas, they should be prepared at least a week prior to planting. It is better to get your locations ready first and then purchase plants when it is time to plant them. Do Not let them sit around for for sometime waiting to be installed. I know it is hard because of availability and they do sell quickly at at your local nursery or garden center so it is best to have your spot ready to go.
Here’s how to prepare your site.
First remove all weeds and grass using a shovel and rake to clean out the area. Do Not use a Weed and Grass Killer for it can be harmful to your new plants. Beds should be spaded or tilled at least six inches deep turning over the soil. Do to the sandy soil in Florida, Mix in ground organic material so the plants will receive the proper nutrients needed to be healthy.
Use “Organic Peat” or “Compost” to increase nutrients and for water-holding capability. I recommend to mix 1-part “Organic Peat” to 2-Parts Top Soil.
Conclusion
Flowering plants go great in a Florida landscape adding lots of color creating an eye appealing home garden. Whether placed in beds, borders, edging or pots and hanging baskets, you can have a choice fulfilling your needs.
Now, lets get outside, enjoy nature and as always…
Keep on Growing!
Kurt Kmetz
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