A beautiful, colorful flower bed is a wonderful addition to any garden, but maintaining one can be a challenging task.
However, with a little planning and care, you can create a garden bed that blooms continuously from early spring to late fall, filling your outdoor space with vibrant colors and scents.
In this article, we will discuss what to plant and how to care for a continuously blooming flower bed in the garden.
Choosing the Right Plants
The first step in creating a continuously blooming flower bed in the garden is the right choice of plants.
The goal is to have a variety of plants that bloom at different times of the year so that your garden bed is always in bloom. Here are some of the plants that can be included in your non-stop blooming garden bed.
Spring-flowering bulbs: These include tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and crocuses. Plant bulbs in autumn so they can flower in spring, and consider layering them for a more voluminous effect.
Perennials: Perennials return year after year, and many have a long blooming season. Some of the best perennials to plant are black-eyed Susans, coneflowers, and Shasta daisies.
Annuals: Annuals have a shorter blooming period than perennials, but they can add a splash of color to your garden bed. Some great annuals to consider include marigolds, petunias, and zinnias.
Flowering Shrubs: Flowering shrubs are a great way to add height and structure to your garden bed. Some good options for continuously blooming shrubs include hydrangeas, lilacs, and roses.
Caring for your garden bed
Once you have selected your plants, it is important to properly care for the bed so that it blooms continuously. Here are some tips for caring for your non-stop blooming garden bed.
Watering: Regular watering is essential for a healthy garden bed. The amount of water your plants need will depend on the type of plant and the weather. Check the soil regularly and water deeply when the soil is dry.
Fertilizer: Fertilizer can help your plants grow strong and healthy. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Deadheading: Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, is essential to keeping your garden bed blooming. It encourages the plant to produce new flowers instead of wasting its energy on seed production.
Pruning: Pruning is important to maintain the shape and health of your flowering shrubs. Prune them in late winter or early spring before they begin to bloom.
Mulching: Mulching can help retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds. Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or leaves, around your plants.
