One of the questions most frequently asked by beginner gardeners is how to start a flower and vegetable garden. The process involved is not as simple as many people may think. Vegetable gardens need to be planned from the ground up and often begin with a seedling plan. It’s important that you understand what needs to be done and that the process will take time and dedication to produce a successful garden. The following are some tips for successful flower and vegetable garden planting.
One thing to consider is the amount of sun your area receives. Annual flowers can usually handle some shade during the day but you need to evaluate where you live to determine what kinds of flowers will thrive in your area. Consider the geographical factors that will impact how your garden will develop; sun, shade, wind and access to water will all have an impact on how your flower garden will look and how it will eventually grow. An easy way to learn more about the different areas in your area is to do a landscape or garden design review. There are websites that offer this type of free consultation. A landscape analysis that considers all these factors is an essential first step in flower gardening.
Some of the best starting points for flower gardens are the Internet and local nurseries. There are several types of online sources available that can provide you with planting ideas, advice and suggestions for growing flowers and plants. You can also contact local nurseries and ask them specific questions about growing flowers and how to care for them. A good source for information is the National Gardening Association.
Perennials are generally used more in flower gardens than annuals. Annuals are generally thought of as having one growing season, usually from spring to fall, while perennials exist throughout the year. Perennials include many popular flowers such as roses, tulips, daffodils, hydrangeas, and gladioli. They are known to be the best choice for gardeners who are looking for plants that are relatively hardy and can survive cold weather. Annuals generally do well in most climates, however, and are available at many garden centers and mass retailers. Perennials can withstand some drought as well, but it is best to check with a local nursery before planting any to prevent soil loss due to the effects of drought.
When it comes to proper flower and vegetable garden design, knowing when to prune is crucial. Pruning shrubs and plants encourages new growth and makes the garden look beautiful. However, when it comes to how to prune your roses, it is important to do so in the winter. If you let your rose bush grow too long between pruning cuts, it will lose its fragrance and color. Cut away branches that are fraying or falling off.
Flowering plants, especially annuals, do better when planted a foot or two deeper than their planting location. If you are unsure about the depth, it is a good idea to dig a hole in the ground around the flower and place a stake inside the hole, three to four feet above the ground level. You will then be able to gauge how deep you need to go. The depth will dictate how much time you need to patiently wait for the flower to bloom. During the growing season, shallow flower beds will need more time to bloom compared to deeper ones.
Most perennial flower and vegetable plants are fairly easy to maintain. It is important to use fertilizer and water regularly to keep them healthy. Most annuals require less fertilization and watering, and they are also easier to prune. Some perennials, such as crocus and daffodils, can be troubled by bugs that destroy their leaves. These bugs can be a nuisance if you don’t get rid of them in time.
Most perennial plants can be cut back to the desired height after the first blooms fade. Cut back flower beds once they are about one-third of their height. Trim back shrubs after they bloom and before they flower. For many perennials, pruning is unnecessary because they do not need it in the beginning of the garden. However, the more often you trim back perennial plants, the more time you have on hand during the growing season so that you can prepare your flower and vegetable garden for the next planting period.