Flowers in Florida - Annual Flower Beds
Growing flowers in Central Florida is different than in other states. As far as flowers are concerned, Florida doesn’t have four seasons, it only has three. Cool nights and an occasional freeze are typical in winter. Most often spring has cool nights without any freezing. Summer and early fall consist of high nighttime temperatures, frequent rains and high humidity.
Flowers that can grow for many years are called perennials. Perennials typically bloom for only part of the year. Flowers not considered perennials are known as annuals or bedding plants. Annuals are replaced often, at the beginning of each season. Replacement is done to match the type of flower to the conditions of that season. When done well, annual beds can be in almost continuous bloom throughout the year.
Flower growing in Central Florida, especially growing bedding plants, provides advantages and disadvantages. Lots of sunshine and fairly mild winters are definitely advantages. Sandy soils, plenty of pests and frequent summer rains are disadvantages. The bottom line is that these problems combine to necessitate frequent monitoring and treatment of pests.
Planting successful flower beds in Central Florida requires matching the right bedding plants to the right season. Those flowers that prefer cooler night time temperatures, such as pansies, petunias and snapdragons will be most successful when planted in the fall, winter and early spring. Those flowers that thrive in warmer conditions and higher humidity like marigold, gazania, amaranthus, celosia, crossandra, impatiens, vinca and coleus are best planted from late spring to early summer. Wax begonias and salvias do well year-round in Central Florida
Planning the use of flowers in the landscape is important. Bedding plants should be used only as an accent, not as a central feature. The use of annuals should harmonize with the rest of the landscape, the home and other flower beds. Use of too many different colors or kinds of flowers will diminish the appearance. Flower beds consisting of only one type of flower are common.
In most cases, the flower beds should be prepared and ready several days before purchasing the plants. Several inches of peat or compost should be added and the soil turned to a depth of at least 6 inches. Plant all flowers soon after their purchase. The longer they’re held prior to planting, the greater the risk of problems. Flower beds can be fertilized at the time of planting and monthly afterwards.
When purchasing, look for good quality plants. Good plants will have dark green leaves and will be free of insects and disease. Plants do not need to be blooming when purchased. Flowers that have been neglected and put on sale are not bargains. They rarely recover fully. Healthy plants always offer superior performance.
Flowers are typically offered in either cell packs, also called flats, or in 4-inch pots. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Cell packs are cheaper but the plants are smaller. 4-inch pots are more expensive but their larger size means they will bloom more quickly, produce for more of the growing season and cover the bed more quickly.
