Maintenance

The nutrient that most frequently limits plant growth is nitrogen.  It is unfortunate that it is the most difficult nutrient to manage.  Most of the time, soil test for nitrogen are not dependable and nitrogen is easily leached from the soil.   What need to be attained are adequate nitrogen levels that meet the plant requirement without damaging the plants and the environment.  The need for additional fertilizer application during the growing season can be guided by growth rate and foliage color.

Some flowers can tolerate moderate periods of dry weather but others would need a continuous supply of water.  It will be observed that the flowering of most annuals slow or stop during extended hot, dry summer weather.  Supplemental irrigation may be needed sometime during the growing season.  The most effective method for watering is a soaker hose while the least effective is the hand-held nozzle

Weed problems can be minimized by using mulch and spacing plants in such a way that they produce a solid canopy.  It can also be controlled by cultivation or use of herbicides.  Some weeds will need to be pulled by hand and this is easier done after a rain or irrigation.

Tall annuals may need support to protect them from strong winds and rain.  Staking can be done when plants are about one-third of their mature size with the use of wire cages, bamboo stakes, tomato stakes, twiggy brushwood or wire rings.  It is important to remove spent flowers and seed pods to maintain vigorous growth and neatness.