Annual and Veggie Care
Annuals and veggies can be planted outside once the plants can fully handle the weather. Each plant has a different cold threshold. Some may be able to handle -5 while others only survive in frost-free conditions.
Water when you plant. Plant in moist soil. Check watering regularly, rain may alleviate a couple days of watering, but always make sure to double-check that your plant is not dehydrated. If you use your finger as a dipstick and the soil is dry 2” down and hardening, water is needed. If the soil is damp 2” down or can be rolled into a ball there is no need for water.
Fertilizing a flower bed or veggies garden can be done in several ways, here are some examples:
- Use a well-decomposed compost/manure and work into the soil before you plant.
- Use a granular fertilizer monthly during the growing season (always before a rain or water afterwards to activate)
- Use a water-soluble fertilizer in your watering can or an attachment with your garden hose – Several different products are available
Fertilizing can make the difference between having a few tomatoes or a plant full of fruit. Flowers will also be more prolific if “fed” well.
When planting, plant at the existing root/soil level of the plant. Planting too deep will result in rotting.