Soil

Annuals need crumbly and well drained soil. Dig the soil to about 15cm and spread a layer of well rotted compost or manure over the area and fork it lightly over the top. Peatmoss will help the soil retain moisture.

Transplanting Annuals

Before transplanting be sure the soil in the pot or punnet is damp so that the soil will cling to the seedlings when removed. Lift each seedling retaining as much soil as possible. Place the seedling in a hole wide and deep enough to allow the roots to spread naturally. The seedlings should be planted at the same level they were in the pot or punnet. If the seedlings are planted too deep the stems may rot away. Seedlings transplanted in hot weather should be shaded for a few days until they are established.

Watering

It is important to keep newly transplanted seedlings damp. Water lightly and thoroughly. Do not allow the soil to dry out until they are established. Once they are growing well, allow the top 3cm of the soil to dry out before watering again.

REMEMBER: DO NOT WATER IF THE TOP 3CM OF THE SOIL IS DAMP

DO NOT WET THE SURFACE ONLY OR THE ROOTS WILL REMAIN NEAR THE SURFACE

Additional Care Hints

To improve flowers and prolong the flowering period apply liquid fertiliser when the buds are forming.

To ensure the maximum flowering season, remove dead and faded flowers. When they are not removed, the plant diverts its energy to producing seed resulting in a shortened flowering period.