We have just come through one of the most brilliant blooming seasons in recent history. This spring was amazing. There was a little too much rain, but the temperatures were as close to normal as we have seen in quite a while. Customers have been bringing us pictures of the amazing color show, and a Sunday drive to take in the magic of spring was not out of the question.
The abundance of blooms has sparked a renewed enthusiasm to improve landscaping, or for some, to start a new garden. There are several things important to know before expanding or starting fresh. Your success will depend on knowing these three basics.
Three Things to Know Before You Plant
- Sun or shade. How many hours of sun does your garden get? In many areas of the Mid-South, our landscape receives little or no sun during late spring through summer. Planting sun-loving plants in this environment will not produce the results you are expecting.
- Water. Does your garden area stay wet? Is it under irrigation? Will your gutter system flood the beds where you are planting? Fixing water issues before you plant can keep your garden looking beautiful throughout the season.
- Soil. We have very heavy clay soil here. Amending your soil before you plant to improve drainage, and continuing to add organic material, will improve the health and appearance of your landscaping. Soil pH is critical for some plants. Bring us a sample and we can test it and make recommendations to change the pH, or suggest what to plant to match the pH in that specific area.
Planting for Bees and Pollinators
Over the last couple of years there has been increased interest in planting to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. The controversy over the disappearance of the honeybee still rages on. However, the one point the experts agree on is that the natural food source for the honeybee is rapidly disappearing. We can help restore this critical food source by planting, or not killing off, plants like clover and dandelions. Adding lavender, geraniums, zinnias, alyssum, and herbs such as thyme, sage, and cilantro will not only provide food for honeybees but will also increase the bee population, which in turn increases pollination of other desired plants.
Attracting Butterflies
Planting to attract butterflies and hummingbirds adds brilliant color to your landscape and provides an endless source of entertainment. We carry a wide variety of plants specifically chosen for this purpose. Plants listed below are subject to seasonal availability.
- Mint
- Parsley
- Bronze Fennel
- Buckeye
- Buddleia (Butterfly Bush)
- Viburnum
- Yarrow
- Wormwood
- Milkweed
- Asclepias Tuberosa (Milkweed, host plant for Monarch butterfly)
- Coneflower
- Lantana
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Bee Balm
- Passion Flower
- Black-Eyed Susan
- Pincushion Flower
- Veronica
- Verbena
- Zinnia
Attracting Hummingbirds
- Hummingbird Mint
- Althea
- Columbine
- Asclepias Tuberosa
- Buddleia (Butterfly Bush)
- Canna Lily
- Day Lily
- Coral Bells
- Hibiscus
- Hosta
- Lobelia Cardinalis
- Liatris
- Monarda
- Penstemon
- Phlox
- Mexican Bush Sage
- Million Bells
- Cleome
- Petunia
- Pineapple Sage
- Mandevilla
Stop by the garden center and we will be happy to show you all the specific varieties to plant in your garden to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Remember, plants that are heavy bloomers are heavy feeders. For best results, feed with Espoma Plant-Tone, Flower-Tone, or Rose-Tone.
Happy Gardening