​With proper planting, your garden should thrive

Mother's Day will soon be over and according to an old adage, it's time to plant the garden. With proper planting, your garden will flourish and bring you a visual treat throughout the summer. 

First, you must choose the annuals or perennials that thrive in the conditions you have, whether it’s shade or sun, moist or dry soil.

Second, properly planted flowers perform much better than those that are set in the ground incorrectly.

Here are some tips on proper planting:
Water seedlings thoroughly several hours before setting them into their permanent locations. The ground should be damp but not wet.

Space the plants as recommended on the label.

They should be replanted at the same level they were grown before. You should then tamp the soil around the stem and water gently.

If you can, plant flowers in the evening or on an overcast day so they can adjust without having to face the drying sun.
If the weather is too warm, you should provide some shading from the sun for the first few days. Water lightly every day.

Mulching flowers with at least two inches of organic matter helps to eliminate most weeds  while keeping moisture in the soil.

The third consideration for outstanding flowers is proper water and food. This can mean the difference between good flowers and great flowers. You should water weekly if rainfall accumulation is less that one inch. Always water plants at ground level to avoid mildew on wet foliage.

Work some granular fertilizer into the soil before planting then feed your annuals once a month. If you use a liquid fertilizer, apply it every two weeks.

By following these simple tips, you will be the envy of all your neighbors with a summer garden overflowing with color, fragrance and beauty.

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