Spring Gardening for Successful Summer Blooms
At the beginning of June the ground is still soggy and cold. New transplants, whether they are annuals, perennials, herbs or vegetables, are sitting stagnant in the soil, with little growth and little root development. The sun will shine again and the ground will warm up, but what are we to expect from our plants this “odd-ball” season?
A cold Spring brings many challenges to the garden. Newly planted annuals in pots and planters might have been moved repeatedly indoors and out and have lackluster growth and bud development from the changes; plants, like young children, love consistency. Annuals in the ground will need to develop new roots in the soil; ensure the soil they are planted in is well draining and water is not pooling at the base of each plant. When the soil is dry, 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. Maintain a bi-weekly fertilization schedule throughout the summer for superb growth and blooms.
Perennials that made it through the 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. Wait until the middle of June this year to decide if a plant has not made it through the winter. Many varieties like ornamental grasses, butterfly bushes and perennial hibiscus, which are traditionally late to emerge, will be very late 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 choose areas that drain freely and have amended soil (compost or triple mix). Ask at your local independent garden centre for recommendations of perennials and flowering shrubs that are well suited to our zone and are easy-care.
By Vikki Whitney, Owner of Griffin’s Greenhouses
705-652-8638 or 1-877-647-4334
www.griffinsgreenhouses.com
