We all appreciate the beauty of a lovely flower garden. To help you get started on designing flower beds, our friends at the National Association of Landscape Professionals have some tips for you.
CHOOSE A SUNNY SPOT THAT IS EASY TO WATER
Prepare the flower bed by turning over the soil and removing as much grass and weeds as possible. Applying herbicide a few days beforehand can help. The flower bed will need to be watered regularly, so it is best to have a garden hose or water source nearby.
MAINTAIN THE SOIL
Well-aerated soil retains moisture better and drains more easily, which is why it should be enriched with organic matter. A large bag of potting soil will be perfect for a flower bed. You need about 3 in. (deep) of enriched soil.
FEATURED FLOWERS
The flower bed should be angled toward the viewing area so that every flower is visible. If the flower bed is flat or angled away from passersby, only the first row of flowers will be showcased.
MAXIMIZE THE IMPACT OF THE FLOWERS
- Plant the flowers in masses. Not just one here and there.
- Bright colors stand out better, but avoid mixing too many different colors. Choose flowers with tones that complement each other.
- Pale colors make flower beds look larger, while dark colors make them look smaller.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SOURCE
- Buy flowers from a place that sells a lot of them to ensure their freshness.
- Ask for advice on the best choices for your location and the time of year.
- The pot size is up to you. Flats are more economical, but 4-6 in. pots produce mature flowers more quickly.
- Remove the plants from the pots or flats to check that their roots are well developed.
- If possible, plant the flowers the same day you buy them.
PLANTING IS SIMPLE, BUT THERE ARE CERTAIN IMPORTANT BASICS TO REMEMBER
- Leave 8-10 in. between plants from flats and 12-18 in. between plants in 4-6 in. pots.
- Form a triangle starting from the front of the flower bed toward the back. If you do it correctly, the rows will not be visible from the main viewing area.
- Gently spread out the roots of each plant before putting them in the ground and plant them deep enough so that the top of the roots protrudes slightly above the soil surface.
- Leave a border around the flower bed so that the flowers do not grow over the sidewalk or lawn once mature.
- Fertilize generously with a slow-release fertilizer and leave it on the soil surface.
WATER AND ENJOY
Keep the soil moist without flooding it by watering frequently until the plants are well rooted. If you lose some plants in the front, you can always replace them with a few from the back row.
Remember that landscaping professionals are a valuable resource to help you with plant selection and maintenance. Find a professional in your area for advice and assistance.