When Is The Time To Plant Summer Bedding Plants

Summer bedding plants are a great way to add color and life to your garden during the warmer months. But when is the best time to plant them? The answer depends on a few factors, including your climate and the type of plants you're growing.

In general, it's best to wait until the last frost date has passed before planting summer bedding plants outdoors. This will help to prevent them from being damaged by cold temperatures. You can find your last frost date by using a frost date calculator or by checking with your local nursery.

Once the last frost date has passed, you can start planting your summer bedding plants. However, it's important to harden them off first. This means gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a period of several days. This will help them to adjust to the change in temperature and light and reduce the risk of transplant shock.

When planting your summer bedding plants, space them according to the directions on the plant tag. Water them well and fertilize them according to the directions on the fertilizer package.

With proper care, your summer bedding plants will thrive and provide you with months of enjoyment. Here are some additional tips for planting summer bedding plants:

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Prepare the soil by tilling it to a depth of 12 inches and adding compost or other organic matter.
Dig holes that are twice as wide as the root ball of the plant and just as deep.
Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove any air pockets.
Water the plant deeply and fertilize it according to the directions on the fertilizer package.
Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your summer bedding plants will thrive and provide you with months of enjoyment.