.jpg){kind=small}
It is tempting to stick a plant in the ground any place you find convenient to your needs, but alas, it is the plant's requirements that must be considered first. The key that unlocks the beauty in the plant is preparation.
Whether done by human hands or by Mother Nature, a plant will flourish in the right circumstances. This involves having the right type of soil, with the correct pH and sufficient nutrients. The pH is important because it will help determine the availability of the soil nutrients for plant use. For help, contact your local extension agent for a soil testing kit and advice. This test will tell you what amendments need to be added to the soil to promote plant growth. Organic amendments, that "treat the problem," will improve the soil which in turn feeds the plants. Synthetic amendments, that "treat the symptoms," will be faster acting for the plant but do not necessarily improve the soil. Grinding up leaves and digging them into the soil will do wonders.
Add enough moisture. Determine the water needs of the plants. Try to group plants of similar needs together. A drip system is ideal for water conservation. Use mulch that is 2-3 inches thick to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Sunlight or shade is important. Decide if you need plants for full sun, partial shade or full shade. If a plant is spindly or floppy, it may not be receiving enough sun, or if leaves seem scorched then it is receiving too much sun.
Be confident that the plant is adapted to the temperatures it will encounter during the year. Plant cold hardiness is rated by zones. Our zone is 8. Tropicals will do well in the summer, but not usually survive the winter.
It is important that the plant's mature size is right for the space allotted and will be congenial to surrounding plants. Many shrubs and trees are planted too close together because their mature sizes are not taken into consideration. It may seem bare at first if you plant a one gallon size plant in a space that requires a 3-4' plant but it will quickly fill in.
Find a reputable nursery with healthy plants and long term workers with extensive knowledge. Read and follow instructions on the labels or cards on plants or their containers. This can be a magnificent journey with many stops to smell the flowers along the way.
Juanita Price, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas AgriLife Extension Service