Annual Bedding Plants: Planning for Success

Soil Preparation for Annual Bedding Plants

• Remove all old growth and examine roots
• Add organic material (amend soil to 30-50% in total volume)
• Add Dolomite lime, slow release fertilizer (i.e. 17-17-17 at 3-6 month release), bone meal

Selection and Installation of Annual Bedding Plants

• Consider colour
• Install quickly and accurately
• Dead-heading bedding plants at planting is useful
• Choose correct time**
• Water frequently and lightly**

In Victoria B.C. plant bedding plants after May long weekend to avoid wind injury, late September to provide for maximum fall growth.

Annual Bedding Plant Care and Maintenance

• Once bedding plants are established – deep, infrequent watering
• Keep leaves dry when possible
• Control weeds
• Add fertilizer – mid season (A lawn fertilizer will do.)