Chapter 9 Flower and Herb Gardening Flower Types

Chapter 9 Flower and Herb Gardening

Flower Types • Flower gardening is organized by types as already discussed – Annuals – Perennials – Biennials – Cold-hardy bulbs – Summer bulbs

Site selection • Generally, a well draining site with lots of sun is sufficient – Raised beds can be used when soils are slow-draining • For flower production, several hours of direct sun is required – For shade plants, little or no direct sun will be required • Site should generally be viewable from one or more angles

Flowerbed Styles • Border – Viewed from only one side • Freestanding bed – Viewed from all sides – Important to have graduated plant heights • Formal Beds – Restricted, symmetrical style – European formal • Cottage garden – Informal mass of colors, species, sizes – Often have benches, walks, view areas – Species-type plants – non-dwarfing plants

Border

Freestanding Flower Bed

Formal Garden

Cottage Garden

Plant Selection • Most gardens a mix of annuals, perennials, etc. • Base plant selection on the following criteria: – Height – Light requirements – Plan for continual bloom • Perennials flower usually for about 2 weeks – Pest and diseases • Careful planning of plants can reduce or eliminate certain pest problems – roses = powdery mildew and aphids – Water requirements

Site Prep • OM can be added at initial planting • Reduce soil compaction as deeply as possible • Fertilizers added at planting – Most flower gardens need additional fertilizer • Install border edging to keep grasses or vigorous perennials confined • Plant transplants slightly above existing soil level to allow for settling

Maintenance • Irrigation – Depth and frequency depends on plant type • Mulching – weed control – To retain soil moisture – Insulate roots and crowns in winter • Fertilizing – Necessary for fast-growing annuals – Perennials may need depending on soil type/climate – Topdressing most common application method

Maintenance • Pruning – Removal of annuals in fall – Cutting back of perennials in fall – Removal of damaged or diseased stems all season – Bulb pruning in spring/summer • Division – Most herbaceous perennials benefit from crown division every 2 -4 years – Reduces competition and promotes flowering

Daylily fans ready to divide

Rock Gardens • • • Combines rocks and plants for a natural look Small plants individually placed Weeds often a major concern Drought tolerant plants Irrigation can be drip or spray

Rose Gardens • Many types of roses – Hybrid Tea – single flowers on long stems – Floribunda – clusters of smaller flowers – Grandiflora – x between floribunda & hybrid tea – Climbing/Rambling – long canes with flowers at ends – Tree roses – • Tea, floribunda, or grandiflora grafted onto hardy, long cane rose – Mini-roses – tiny blossoms in clusters, very hardy

Rose Gardens

Rock Garden

Container Gardens • Instant garden spot • Fast growing segment of home horticulture • Soilless potting media is used – Limited rooting volume – Needs to drain well and resist compaction • Pot is exposed to wind and sun – Dry out quickly • Fertilizers required – High plant density in limited soil volume – Fast growing annuals • Don’t overwinter well above ground

Cut Flowers • May be part of a cottage garden or a separate garden – Tall plants with long stems look unsightly – Use species with long stems and attractive for arrangements

Cut flower garden. Note how the plants are tall and open – long stems for cutting and using in arrangements or for drying

Herb Gardens • Very old idea based on utilitarian usage – Can also be ornamental • Many herbs tolerate poor soils – Mint, thyme, rosemary • Full sun required for best flavor and fragrance • Essential oils used for perfume and food preparation – Fresh leaves used for tea and flavorings of food