There is still plenty of time to plant annuals, perennials, groundcovers, shrubs and trees with good results before hot weather. The key to planting success is proper soil preparation since this part of Georgia has some of the poorest soil in the state. For annuals and perennials, mix the existing soil with a good quality soil amendment such as professional growers mix, Natural Helper, or Jiffy Potting Mix. Make sure the soil is well mixed. You add in a quality flower fertilizer to promote healthy plants that will produce beautiful flowers. When planting annuals and perennials make sure you know their mature heights and blooming time to help determine what type of plant will work best for your situation.

When planting ground covers you can prepare the soil for the entire area or just the area where the plant is. Prepare soil the same as for annuals and perennials. This will improve the chance of having a healthy plant. Use Landscape and Nursery Fertilizer when fertilizing ground covers.

Shrubs need similar soil amendments. Dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball, mix the soil amendments with existing soil then break up the roots on the outside of the ball if needed and plant the shrub with the root ball approximately one inch above the existing soil line. If the soil is dry add water to the hole with the plant in it and let it seep into the existing soil, then add the soil mix to fill in the hole around the plant.

For trees, prepare the soil the same as above. Dig the hole at least six inches wider all the way around than the root ball. Plant the tree root ball one to two inches (depending on ball size) above the existing ground level. Like shrubs, fill the hole with water and allow it to soak into the ground before filling the hole with soil mix.

If you have any questions about planting practices for good plant survival ask a garden center professional to explain it to you. While you are there check out all the annuals, perennials and shrubs that are now available for planting.

Happy gardening.