Need help with planting flowers outside

**SuzyBee** · 05-28-2008, 12:36 PM

I really have a "black thumb" when it comes to planting flowers outside or even in pots outside.

I want to do it right this year! I live in Delaware. Where I live, the condo association puts mulch down and trims the bushes, but we're on our own as far as planting flowers. I bought some zinnias and some geraniums (for planters). How should I plant the flowers? Do I move all the mulch that was put down and do I need to buy potting soil? How should I plant the flowers so they won't die on me?

I also have problems with flowers that are already in hanging planters. They look so beautiful when I buy them, but after a week or two they die off. Any pointers on hanging planters? What and how do I use fertilizers for the flowers? I hope you all can help. (I bought the flowers 2 weeks ago, but I've been afraid to plant them because of my bad luck!)

**ShawnaRae** · 05-28-2008, 04:14 PM

I would move the mulch out of the way, dig an oversized hole, mix the soil with compost, partially fill the hole with soil/compost, plant your zinnias with the remaining soil/compost, water, and spread the mulch around the base of plants. You could buy a bag of compost at any garden center if you don't have any.

Zinnias don't need a lot of feed, but if you want to use fertilizer, go for it. Just don't use too much or they will burn. I use Alaska Fish Fertilizer. My plants seem to love it and it is very hard to over do it. It's a bit smelly, but the smell doesn't last long.

I think zinnias are one of the easiest flowers to grow, I grow them every year and I have planted them in different areas with a range of soil conditions. I would harden them off for a few days before actually planting. Just put them outside during the day so they can adjust to the light and breeze.

I'm sure you will get better tips, but this is how I usually do it and I never have problems. Have fun and good luck!

I don't have a lot of experience with hanging baskets, I will be happy to read those tips as well!

**Momto2Boyz** · 05-28-2008, 11:00 PM

Ok, I also have a black thumb, but that is because I don't take the time to water my flowers properly!

Totally my fault, I know!

I've found that in order for the plants to survive, you really have to water them every day for the first week or so. If not, they start to droop and eventually keel over! I just transplanted lilies that a neighbor gave me. I very consciously watered them every single morning for 2 weeks and a month later they are thriving!

So, I know that sounds like a dumb tip...but hey, it's the mistake that I made. I was always afraid to over water them, so I just didn't water them enough in the beginning when they really needed it!

Good luck, I hope you end up with a beautiful yard this year!

**SuzyBee** · 05-29-2008, 06:43 AM

Thanks, everybody, for your help. ShawnaRae, I'll pick up some potting soil at the garden store and some fertilizer. Momto2Boyz, that's my problem, also. I think I don't water the plants enough, especially the hanging ones. Do you usually water them in the early morning or wait until when the sun goes down? I heard that you shouldn't water plants when the sun is out because it will burn their leaves. Is that true?

**Darlene** · 05-29-2008, 07:00 AM

I water in the morning, gets my plants ready for the heat of the day. So far today the veggie garden has been watered and I'll be doing the flowers in a couple minutes. I think doing it in the evening just keeps them wet and adds to possible mildew & pest problems.
As far as water on the leaves during the day burning them, I think it's worse if they are wilty due to lack of water.

Enjoy those zinneas, one of my all time fav plants. They are great as cut flowers cheering up any room you put them in.