Site Selection is the Key

One of the major components in a successful flower garden is site selection. This selection process should include factors such as, soil moisture and drainage, sunlight, and temperature. We will touch briefly on each of these areas and how they combine to make a great site for your flower garden.

Soil moisture is an ingredient that most home gardeners overlook. Three factors of soil moisture that are interrelated are drainage, moisture retention, and soil aeration of the site. An area that has received periods of heavy rains and is poorly drained causes a couple of problems that hamper a successful venture. First of all the excessive moisture causes limited air space in the soil. This lack of aeration hampers the growth of any plants that are introduced. Secondly, it increases the chance of root rot. One way of checking if your site has adequate drainage is a tried and true method. Dig a hole about six inches in circumference and about ten inches deep and fill it with water. When the water drains, refill it. If the hole drains in 8 to 10 hours then the site has adequate drainage for most flowers you intend to plant.

The next step in site selection is to gauge how much and what type of sunlight the area will receive. By type of sunlight, we mean the intensity and what part of the day the flowers will be exposed to it. Simply stated, three hours of sun during the morning is quite a bit different than three hours during the heat of the day. Consider what shade will be available to plants and at what point during the day this shade is available. The major reason for sunlight considerations for your site, is the effect it will have on their growth. Too much shade and plants become leggy and experience reduced flowering. Too much sun can fade, or in some cases, burn the foilage of shade loving plants.

The last component we will look at is temperature. A great tool for determining what plants will work best in your part of the country is the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. This useful tool helps the home gardener select plants well suited for their region based on temperature variants. There are some species of flowers that thrive during cooler temps and those that prefer hotter climates. By using this Hardiness Zone Map and comparing the temperature requirements for the flowers that you would like to plant, you will make more informed decisions as to site selection.

In closing, many factors need to be considered for a successful site selection for your flower garden. We feel that by closely examining these areas, soil moisture and drainage, sunlight and temperature, your chances of experiencing a beautiful flower garden are much higher. By following these guidelines in determining your site, you can be assured of having a garden that will bring many hours of happiness and delight. After all, isn't that what it's all about? Happy gardening.