Both annuals and perennials have their place in the garden. Annuals are best for beginning gardeners since these plants offer instant gratification and ample variety, and they're also easy to grow. Shallow-rooted, these plants don't require a lot of deep soil preparation before you set them out. They bloom only once, however, and must be replaced at the end of the season. Perennials will return each season for years to come, but they also require a lot of deep soil preparation before planting plus some upkeep, and they bloom for only a few weeks.
Planting and Growing Annuals:
- Annuals should not be planted until after the last frost (usually in early spring). Get a reliable estimate of this date before planting.
- In early spring, start some plants from seeds indoors. After the last frost, set out seedlings that have begun growing indoors and sow other types directly in the garden.
- Since most annuals are shallow-rooted, it isn't necessary to dig the soil too deep. Annuals like a fertile soil that is somewhat richer than the types used for perennials. Fertilize well.
- Check the soil acidity; most annuals will do well with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.
- Plant sun-loving annuals in an area that gets at least six hours of sun per day.
- Don't plant annuals in an area where tree roots take up space and rob the soil of moisture.
- If soil drainage is poor, plant the annuals in raised beds.
Planting and Growing Perennials: - When planting perennials, first determine the desired blooming season--spring, summer or fall. This decision will determine which perennial varieties the garden will include, as well as where plants will be located.
- Select a sunny spot for the garden. Most perennials are sun-loving and need at least six hours of sun per day to grow and bloom well. The site should also have good drainage, since most perennials will rot if water collects around them and sits for any length of time. If the selected site is a wet area, plant a raised bed.
- Prepare the perennial bed in the fall and allow it to settle.
- Dig beds to a depth of almost two feet, since perennials are long-term residents, not short-term tenants. Then add generous amounts of rotted manure and peat to the subsoil layer, combined with a handful of wood ashes and super-phosphate for each three to four cubic feet of soil. (This will eliminate the need for added fertilizer.)
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