SOIL PREPARATION
If you are unable to set out your bedding plants immediately after purchase, keep them in a semi shaded spot, protected from drying wind. Never let plants dry. Spread at least a 1" layer of humus such as composted cow manure, peat humus or Complete Planting Mix on the flower beds. Add 1 to 2 lbs. ground limestone per hundred square feet, and a garden fertilizer such as 10-10-10, Flower Tone or Osmocote. Dig or till your amendments in to a depth of 8".

SELECTION
Annuals are commonly used to add continuous color to your garden & yard all summer long. Be sure to consider color, growth habits and uses when selecting annuals. Most varieties like full sun, but will tolerate some shade, and others are best suited for full shade. We carry a wide range of annuals for all uses. Check the plant tags or ask a staff member for help with selection.

SPACING
As a general rule all dwarf ( 4-8") plants for foreground and edging should be spaced 6-8" apart . All medium tall plants up to 15" tall should be spaced 12-14" apart, and all tall plants for background planting and cut flowers should be spaced 16-18" apart. If unsure check the plant tags or ask our staff.

PLANTING
Plant annuals after all danger of frost is past.
Annuals will usually be purchased in 6 or 4 packs or in individual pots. Remove plant from its container and gently "tease" any compacted roots with your fingers. Dig a hole large enough for the root ball and set the plant in the hole the same height it was in the container or slightly deeper. Press soil firmly around roots. Do not cover stems and leaves. Water the beds well when all are planted ( at least 1 qt. per plant ).

WATERING
If weather is hot, sunny or windy, water annuals once a day ; twice a day is better. Do this for a week or until the leaves do not wilt anymore. After that, water to a depth of 6-8" once a week in cool weather, every 3-4 days in hot weather. Wilting weakens the plants and shouldn't be allowed to happen.
A mulch of pine straw, bark, buckwheat hulls or cocoa shells is excellent to conserve moisture, and also discourages weeds.

FEEDING
Fertilize regularly to ensure healthy, blooming annuals. Blooming plants take a lot of nutrients from the soil, which must be replenished. We recommend Peters Blossom Booster, Miracle Gro Bloom Booster, Osmocote , fish emulsion, liquid seaweed or Espoma Flower Tone .
Follow the instructions on the package for amount & frequency, or ask a member of our staff.

MAINTENANCE
Pinching makes plants bushier. Pinching out just the tip with a thumbnail when plants are 2-6" high encourages branching, resulting in compact plants with more flower buds. Most annuals can be successfully pinched back at planting time. Coleus, cosmos, impatiens, snapdragons, petunias and verbena especially benefit from this technique. Annuals can also be pruned or cut back if they become leggy or unmanageable. Cut back any straggly stems to a leaf axil as necessary. Hanging baskets or other container annuals that have been subjected to wind or drought can often be rejuvenated by cutting back. Cutting annual flowers makes the plants even more productive & long blooming. Cut flowers for bouquets in the morning when it's still cool. Cut stems at an angle with a sharp knife and place in a pail of tepid water until ready to use. "Deadheading" is the removal of faded or spent blossoms and is also good for annuals. This keeps plants neat and prevents seed formation, promoting flowering. Removing older vegetation also helps prevent fungal & other diseases.

PEST CONTROL
Pest control is essential to prevent damage to plants. Select vigorous, pest free plants. Keep plantings well watered & fed and free of weeds & debris. Don't overcrowd plants and avoid wet leaves at night. Inspect flowers frequently for signs of insects or disease. If you find insects or disease you can't identify, our staff can help you identify the pest and recommend a solution. Use all pesticides as directed and keep out of reach of children.

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