Annual Flowers From Transplants

Knowing what grows best from seed or transplant…

Using young plants instead of seed is especially beneficial when growing annuals that are slow to germinate or require several months to bloom.

Annual flowers started from transplants that have been grown in pots, trays, or packs will usually give you flowers several weeks earlier than those planted as seed.

Using Seeds…

Using young plants instead of seed is especially beneficial when growing annuals that are slow to germinate or require several months to bloom. Annuals such as candy-tuft, gaillardia, begonia, rud beckia, verbena, and salvia fall into this group. Marigolds, zinnias, flowering tobacco, portulaca, nasturtiums, and many seeds may be easily planted directly to the flower bed, planter box, pot or tub.

Selecting Transplants

Transplants grown and sold in pots, trays, or packs should be carefully selected. Too often the gardener wants the largest plant possible and already in flower. Size is not the best criteria to use in selecting your plants. Look for plants that are short and sturdy not tall and lanky. Make sure they have a good green color typical of a plant of that species. Make certain the tray or pack has the designated number of plants per tray or pack. Look for insects and diseases.

After purchasing

…keep your plants fairly moist and transplant them as soon as possible. Carefully remove the transplants from the pot, tray, or pack. In case the transplants have a well developed intertwined root system, it may be wise to cut them apart rather than pulling. Try to leave a small clod of soil with each plant. Plants in peat pots should be planted with pots intact. You may wish to punch a few holes in the sides or bottom of the pot. When setting the pot make certain the rim of the pot is planted below the soil surface.

For better growth, it is usually advisable to pinch out any flowers or flower buds. Be prepared to keep a close check on water - it will be very critical during the first 10 days to two weeks after planting.

For more information on annual flowers from transplants contact your local county Extension office.