Connections in the Garden

Spring 2025 was late and unpredictable; at the beginning of June the ground was still soggy and cold.  New transplants, whether annuals, perennials, herbs or vegetables, sat stagnant in the soil with little growth and little root development.  The Summer sun is now beginning to shine and the ground has warmed up, but what are we to expect from our plants with this “odd-ball” start to the gardening season?

A cold Spring brings many challenges to the Summer  garden.  Newly planted annuals in pots and planters might have been moved repeatedly indoors and out (or been touched by frost) and have lackluster growth and bud development from the constant changes; plants, like young children, love consistency.  Annuals in the ground need to develop new roots in quality, well-draining soil.  Take a walk through your garden after watering or a rain event and ensure the soil is draining and water is not pooling at the base of each plant.  When the sun is shining and it is evident the plants are responding to the warmer weather and growing, fertilize with a water soluble product like 20-20-20 or Miracle Grow or use an organic manure tea formula.  Maintain a bi-weekly fertilization schedule throughout the summer for superb growth and blooms.

Perennials that made it through the very cold winter and soggy soil will either be strong varieties that liked the damp, dull Spring or will be barely there, limping through best they can.  Many varieties like ornamental grasses, butterfly bushes and perennial hibiscus, which are traditionally late to emerge, will be very late to flourish this year.  Add some compost to the base of each perennial and be sure to cut away all foliage and stems from last year so the sun can get to the heart of the plant.  If creating a new flower bed this summer or adding in new perennials, be sure to amend the soil with compost, well-aged manure or triple mix.  Healthy soil is the key to strong plants – and plants that get a hard start in life (like those this tricky Spring), need good care to thrive and make you smile from your deck or patio all Summer.

By Vikki Whitney, Owner of Griffin’s Greenhouses
705-652-8638
www.griffinsgreenhouses.com