HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2006-05-04, Page 17"
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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, MAY 4, 2006. PAGE 17.
HOME IM ROVENA V
Simple formula makes planters perfect
Another option is a slow release
fertilizer that you sprinkle on top at
the beginning, and that will last a
few months. "By August sprinkle on
more or supplement with a water
fertilizer."
Some plants require deadheading,
the removal of flowers so they don't
go to seed. A light pinching or
trimming back often encourages
more branching of the plant resultlitg
in a fuller looking container.
Snipping trailers will often
encourage new growth, said Nonkes.
Take care of you plant and you can
enjoy their beauty into September.
We have everything
you'll need for
NI shovels • lattice
• bagged potting soil, mulch & organic fertilizer
111 mini ties • rakes • brooms
• treated deck & fence materials
• paint, stains, rollers, brushes
n picnic tables - pressure treated & spruce
Spring blooms
The colours of the season
(Bonnie Gropp photo)
Continued from page 16
plant.
"Then you have a pot that's
balanced. It's the simplest formula
to use."
Some suggestions for a sunny
location would be a spike,
surrounded by geraniums, then the
trailing ivy, vinca, bacopa, petunias
or verbenas. For the shade, try a
spike surrounded by begonias or
impatiens, alternating with ivy,
lamium, nemesia or browallia.
Herbs and other edibles also grow
well in baskets. "Try planting an
herbal medley combining thyme,
oregano and parsley with red leaf
lettuce and violets."
Nonkes also recommends placing
the plants close together, about four
inches apart, to achieve a nice full
look. "If there is too much space you
will have to wait longer for that full
look."
Another way of getting that
fullness early in the season is to buy
are beautiful but so many choices
plants in four-inch containers as they
are "already on their way".
Experimenting is always fun.
Nonkes said coleus has become
popular over the past few years and
its adds lots of colour. It's tolerant of
both sun and shade and can be used
as a tall plant in the centre with
dragon wing begonias, ivies and
geraniums.
"You can also add little ornaments
to reflect personal style."
To put the pot together, dampen
the soil in the pot and make sure the
plants are moist as well to make for
easier removal from the pack and to
reduce transplanting shock.
If the root ball is quite tight,
loosen it a bit. Put the plant in the
hole at the same depth or just a little
deeper than it was in its original
container. "Do not get the leaves
stuck down in the soil as they will
turn yellow. Firm in soil, but do not
pack too much."
Finally, water the plants in with a
can often overwhelm the novice.
gentle, flowing shower.
Once planted, remember that the
plants depend on you to flourish. In
the early spring, cool winds or frost
may damage them. If the weather
calls for harsh conditions bring
plants inside overnight.
Containers can dry out very
quickly, especially hanging baskets
in a windy or hot site. "Check daily
to determine whether or not the
potting mix feels dry one inch below
the surface. If so water thoroughly."
Fertilize - every week for wave
petunias or ever other week for most
others with a water soluble fertilizer.
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