by Gayle Parks

Created on: April 18, 2008   Last Updated: May 27, 2008

Starting bedding plants can be as easy as getting your hands muddy. You just need to remember a few basics. Things like; plant health at time of purchase, and soil, water and sunlight requirements.

One of the most important things to remember is to always buy healthy plants. Plants should be vibrant in color and have sturdy and well attached stems and leaves. Avoid faded, wilted, discolored plants or plants that have lost some leaves. Neither buy very young nor very mature plants. Stick to the middle-of-the-road plants. These plants look like they have a good, strong root system but have not produced any blooms yet. Give the stems a gentle tug. If there is too much play move on to the next plant.

Next, consider the type of soil your new plants will need. Most bedding plants you buy at a nursery or gardening department will have tags attached which state their soil requirements. Do they need sandy soil? Clay based soil? Well-drained? Very moist? You many need to buy extra sand or clay to mix in with your soil before you re-pot or set out your plants.

Another important thing to consider is water and sunlight requirements. Plants do not live on dirt alone, they must have water and sunlight but how much? How deep do you need to plant your new little ones? A general rule of thumb is to be sure and cover the roots well but do not bury your plant so deep that the bottom leaves touch the ground. These requirements should also be noted on the attached tags but when in doubt ask the nursery or garden department clerk.

Lastly, be sure and buy a good all-purpose potting soil to use when re-potting your plants or to add in when setting them out in the garden. Pot up or set out your new plants and with a little well planned TLC you should have flowers and veggies galore!

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