An Introduction To Annual Flowers

Annuals flowers provide gardeners with an inexpensive way to add diversity and an array of long lasting colorful flowers to the landscape. Although they will flower all season long, annuals sprout from seed, produce their flowers, set their seed and die within a single growing season.

Annuals need to be planted in the spring after there is longer a threat of frost. You should know your local environment before you plant as well as the requirements of the individual flowers. Most annual flowers prefer between part sun and full sun. There are a few annuals, though, such as impatiens and begonias, which can tolerate shade conditions.

With their vibrant colorful flowers, annuals can be planted on their own as bedding plants. Annuals can also be panted to provide color to the herb garden or fill in thin spots and gaps in the perennial bed where they can compliment other flowers.

Proper site preparation is important to a successful and healthy flower garden. Mix into the existing soil compost and other organic matter to increase water retention in sandy soils. Clay soils, on the other hand, retain too much water, so add compost and sand to improve drainage. To prepare the garden for planting, till the soil to the depth of about 1 foot and add the appropriate soil conditioners. When planting, add to the soil a slow release fertilizer so the plants are fed throughout growing season. To promote healthy growth water thoroughly. Let the soil dry out before watering again, soil which is too wet will often result in root rot. Nutrient rich soil will help annuals establish themselves quickly. This is especially important in regions which experience short growing seasons.

Once the annuals start to bloom be sure to deadhead. This the process of pruning off a plant's spent blooms. It allows annuals to their energy will go into producing more flowers.

Light mulches, such as buckwheat hulls, will help reduce weeds in the garden. They'll also help the soil retain moisture. Be sure to remove any weeds that do appear since annuals do not like competition for water and nutrients. Cultivating the garden soil throughout the season will loosen compacted soil and allow moisture and nutrients to penetrate the garden surface.

As soon as the weather permits, plant your annuals. Though they only last a year the continuous colorful flowers from spring through autumn, makes annuals worth the effort.