By John and Diane Vafis, UC Master Gardeners
The warmth of Spring is drawing us out to the garden as is the arrival of colorful garden catalogs. Garden centers are beginning to lure us with displays of new arrivals. How do you make the best selection for your garden?
We have to be careful with the temptations of the photos in the catalogs which can be deceiving. Small flowers may be photographed up close and appear much larger than in reality. Also, the displays in the garden center may be charming, but the plants may not thrive in our area.
Choosing the right plant for a space makes a huge difference in the success of your garden. Be aware of the growing conditions in your garden. We garden in zone 9 which means the plant must thrive in dry summer heat and mild winters. More specifically in your space you need to be aware of the soil type (clay, sandy, or loam) and the sun/shade patterns. So, when making a plant selection it must be heat tolerant and drought resistant and fit the conditions in the space where they will be planted. If the plant is not drought tolerant, be sure to understand the water needs of the plant. If the plant can’t take full sun, how will you provide the shade it requires?
Other considerations when making a plant selection would include invasiveness and size. Is the plant a garden thug? Will it spread uncontrollably and overcome other plants around it? What is the size of a mature plant? Will that small plant in the nursery container grow to eight feet?
Read the plant descriptions carefully to answer these questions. Above all, take time to enjoy the blessings of this season.