Planting your first flower garden from scratch is exciting – and a challenge! Start out right with this simple guide to selecting the best possible site for your garden.
My earlier article on Flower Garden Basics provided an overview of planting a new flower garden from scratch. Here's more detail on siting your garden, be it for annuals or perennials, in a favorable location and microclimate with the best odds for success.
Sunny Spot
As a general rule, most flower gardens are located in a sunny spot because so many flowers need ample sun to grow and bloom their best. A spot with direct sun for at least half the day should be sunny enough for most sun loving plants; all day sun is fine.
Flat Ground
A flat, level area is easier to work on than a hill. Avoid a location that is especially wet or soggy after it rains (a low spot) or a spot that is extra dry (on a hill.)
Avoid Wind
Avoid a spot that is exposed and extra windy, or else provide a windbreak. Excess wind is drying in summer and also harmful in winter.
Less Competition
Don't plant under a tree or next to a hedge where there will be competing roots underground. The roots of those larger plants will steal moisture and nutrients from your flowers, and tree branches especially will prevent rain and sun from reaching the ground. Tree roots make soil preparation difficult, too.
Miss Utilities
Check for hidden, buried utility lines or pipes underground where you plan to put your flower garden. Hitting a line (for example cable, telephone, electric, water, sewer, gas, septic) when you dig to prepare the soil can be dangerous not to mention inconvenient and expensive to repair.
In many areas, there is a toll free number to call to request on site verification of utility lines. It can take a few days for them to send someone out; usually they will mark the lines with spray paint on the ground. In some areas it is illegal to dig without verification and you could be in big trouble if you hit something you shouldn't. So be sure to contact your utilities.
Garden Design Notes
In siting your flower garden, think about how it fits into your overall landscape. In practical terms, don't put your flower bed in a spot where the kids usually play or the dog loves to dig. Place it in a location where you will be able to see it and enjoy it from your deck or patio, or from an often-used window. Place it with a pleasant back ground behind it, rather than in front of an eyesore such as the trashcans or the neighbor's dog pen. Be sure there is a handy water source.
Starting your first flower garden? Don't miss
All Flower Gardens Articles So Far
Copyright 2006 Barbara M. Martin
