Planting flowers is an excellent way to add some vibrant color and visual interest to your garden. Unfortunately, when selecting when to plant depends on a number of factors that are out of your control.
Some flowers thrive better in the morning or late afternoon, while others require nighttime planting. The answer to this question depends on your climate and gardening conditions as well as which species of flower you select.
Early Morning
Planting flowers in the morning is an excellent way to take advantage of your garden. Temperatures and environmental conditions tend to be cooler than during other times of day, making this time ideal for most species.
However, when to plant flowers depends on your region’s climate and season. Be especially aware of how much direct sunlight and heat there is present.
Newly planted seeds require protection from the elements to avoid ‘transplant shock’, which is typically observed as wilting or drooping leaves.
Planting in the morning gives your newly sprouted plants a better chance to recover from transplant shock before facing downpours of rain. Furthermore, planting early helps guarantee that seeds have enough light to grow properly and push out new stems.
Late Afternoon
Most flower seeds should be planted in the spring after your region’s last frost date, giving the blooms time to settle and establish themselves before summer and winter weather arrives. Some perennials, such as begonias, can also be started indoors during late fall planting.
Perennial plants make excellent garden choices, as they can thrive in a range of growing conditions. Not only that, but these easy-care flowers also add color and interest while providing habitat for wildlife.
Additionally, many perennial flowers will bloom again after you remove their spent flower heads – especially daylilies and zinnias.
It is essential to plant flowers in a well-drained organic soil. Mulching the area with straw or bark can also keep the soil cooler during prolonged heat waves.
Night
Timing of flower planting has an immense effect on the health and growth of flowers. Some bloom better in early morning hours, while others thrive under late afternoon conditions.
Planting flowers in the evening gives them time to adjust and become comfortable without harsh sunlight, thus helping prevent transplant shock from taking place.
Some proponents of nighttime planting contend that the lack of light encourages flowers to grow faster than during normal daylight. Furthermore, it helps prevent soil from drying out due to excessive heat exposure.
However, this will largely depend on the climate in your region and what flowers you select for planting.
In general, warm-season annuals such as zinnias and marigolds should only be planted outdoors after the last frost date in your region. These include several other types of blooming flowers as well.
Spring
When it comes to planting flowers, spring is the time of year when you’re most likely to achieve a vibrant display. The increase in rainfall and sunlight from winter helps give plants the conditions they need to flourish.
Additionally, insects such as bumblebees and butterflies begin their annual return from hibernation, drawing pollinators towards spring flowers which provide them with nectar and pollen needed to restart their breeding cycles.
Planting flowers in the springtime adds a vibrant splash of colour to your garden, and you can also incorporate perennials that will return annually.
Local nurseries and mail order growers are ideal sources for spring flowering bulbs. They usually release their spring bulb plants a few weeks prior to when it’s best to plant them.
