gardening novice

OK, I usually leave the gardening/landscaping up to my DH but he is slammed at work. If I don't plant something, nobody will!

Soooo, where do I begin? I know that I want colorful flowers (like impatiens) but am not sure if it's too early/late in the season. Is there a rule for how far apart to separate the flowers? Do I need to get more soil? (we have the beds already with dirt). Do I water after I plant? Mulch required or just for show?


ETA: If you know a place on the SS of LI in Nassau that's good to get the flowers that would be a help, too.

Help!

Message edited 4/23/2014 10:44:29 AM.

gardening novice

Great thread! I was going to ask the same questions! Maybe someone can help us LOL

Re: gardening novice

Typically, the best time to plant flowers is after Mothers Day, when the threat of frost has passed.

You will need to prepare your beds for planting by tilling (turning) the existing soil. I use a culivator (3-prong toil with long handle) to achieve this. I would also add more soil (either top or garden or a mixture of both) before planting.

You mentioned Impatiens. You should check with whoever you buy your flowers from if they will be available this year because the suffered disease last year and weren't available. You can plant New Guinea Impatiens which are a larger plant with a darker hardier leaf. I typically plant my flowers 6-8" apart (I like a full, tight bed). However, depending upon the type of flower you choose they usually come with a little plastic tab that will tell you the best way to plant them. Do not pack down the roots of the flowers into the soil leave a little space in there and then lightly spread some of your new soil over the top of the area where you just planted. I would LIGHTLY water your flowers/plants after planting them. Also, you should never water your flowers at the height of a hot, sunny day. I always water either very early in the morning or in the early evening.

gardening novice

Great post. I need help too.

Re: gardening novice

I love impatients, but I was told by many places last year they won't be available for 3 years!

It will tell you how much sun/water and how far apart to plant them on the tags

Message edited 4/23/2014 8:04:11 PM.

Re: gardening novice

Begonias are good for a pop of color, they do like a bit of shade.
Coleous is also good for color, they have different colored leaves.

I like Salvia for height, come in red/white/purple colors.

Snapdragons are also good for color, they come in different heights.

For a perennial, I love my butterfly bush. Has lilac type flowers that bloom all summer long. Needs to be trimmed because it grows tall and wide.
A Clematis vine in a sunny spot will bloom all summer, come back every year.
For the shady spots, hostas in different leaf colors.