1. Flower and Herb Gardening
Chapter 9
Flower and Herb Gardening

2. Flower Types
Flower gardening is organized by types as already discussed
Annuals
Perennials
Biennials
Cold-hardy bulbs
Summer bulbs

3. Site selection
Generally, a well draining site with lots of sun is sufficient
Raised beds can be used when soils are slow-draining
For flower production, several hours of direct sun is required
For shade plants, little or no direct sun will be required
Site should generally be viewable from one or more angles

4. Flowerbed Styles Border Freestanding bed Formal Beds Cottage garden
Viewed from only one side
Freestanding bed
Viewed from all sides
Important to have graduated plant heights
Formal Beds
Restricted, symmetrical style – European formal
Cottage garden
Informal mass of colors, species, sizes
Often have benches, walks, view areas
Species-type plants – non-dwarfing plants

5. Border

6. Freestanding Flower Bed

7. Formal Garden

8. Cottage Garden

9. Plant Selection Most gardens a mix of annuals, perennials, etc.
Base plant selection on the following criteria:
Height
Light requirements
Plan for continual bloom
Perennials flower usually for about 2 weeks
Pest and diseases
Careful planning of plants can reduce or eliminate certain pest problems – roses = powdery mildew and aphids
Water requirements

10. Site Prep OM can be added at initial planting
Reduce soil compaction as deeply as possible
Fertilizers added at planting
Most flower gardens need additional fertilizer
Install border edging to keep grasses or vigorous perennials confined
Plant transplants slightly above existing soil level to allow for settling

11. Maintenance Irrigation Mulching Fertilizing
Depth and frequency depends on plant type
Mulching
weed control
To retain soil moisture
Insulate roots and crowns in winter
Fertilizing
Necessary for fast-growing annuals
Perennials may need depending on soil type/climate
Topdressing most common application method

12. Maintenance Pruning Division Removal of annuals in fall
Cutting back of perennials in fall
Removal of damaged or diseased stems all season
Bulb pruning in spring/summer
Division
Most herbaceous perennials benefit from crown division every 2-4 years
Reduces competition and promotes flowering

13. Daylily fans ready to divide

14. Rock Gardens Combines rocks and plants for a natural look
Small plants individually placed
Weeds often a major concern
Drought tolerant plants
Irrigation can be drip or spray

15. Rose Gardens Many types of roses
Hybrid Tea – single flowers on long stems
Floribunda – clusters of smaller flowers
Grandiflora – x between floribunda & hybrid tea
Climbing/Rambling – long canes with flowers at ends
Tree roses –
Tea, floribunda, or grandiflora grafted onto hardy, long cane rose
Mini-roses – tiny blossoms in clusters, very hardy

16. Rose Gardens

17. Rock Garden

18. Container Gardens Instant garden spot
Fast growing segment of home horticulture
Soilless potting media is used
Limited rooting volume
Needs to drain well and resist compaction
Pot is exposed to wind and sun
Dry out quickly
Fertilizers required
High plant density in limited soil volume
Fast growing annuals
Don’t overwinter well above ground

20. Cut Flowers May be part of a cottage garden or a separate garden
Tall plants with long stems look unsightly
Use species with long stems and attractive for arrangements

21. Cut flower garden. Note how the plants are tall and open – long stems for cutting and using in arrangements or for drying

22. Herb Gardens Very old idea based on utilitarian usage
Can also be ornamental
Many herbs tolerate poor soils
Mint, thyme, rosemary
Full sun required for best flavor and fragrance
Essential oils used for perfume and food preparation
Fresh leaves used for tea and flavorings of food