Adequate Plant Care

Many annual flowers require maintenance throughout their lifespan. Flowers such as marigolds, geraniums, dahlias and zinnias must have dead flowers removed. This keeps the plants looking at their best while also protecting them from disease. It also prevents the plants from seeding, thus increasing the amount of energy the plant can use for additional flower production.

Typically, annuals do not attract many diseases or insects. However, if the leaves remain wet with poor air circulation, fungus may grow requiring chemical intervention. Insects like aphids, spider mites or white fly may also cause problems for the plants. Some insects can be kept at bay with proper watering. Slugs, snails or grasshoppers may delight in eating tender plants. High temperatures contribute to the growth of insect populations, increasing the potential for insecticide treatment.

Weeds are always a possibility, despite taking preventative steps by using preemergents and mulch. They should be removed quickly to avoid loss of water and nutrients that the young annuals need to grow and produce abundant flowers.

Return to Color Rotation and Bed Maintenance