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Spring Planting Plants: A Guide to a Thriving Garden

Spring is the perfect time to bring your garden to life with vibrant and beautiful plants. To create a bountiful Spring garden, select the right Spring planting plants for your garden, understand their specific care requirements, and prepare your soil to create ideal growing conditions. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of Spring planting, helping you create a garden that will thrive throughout the season.

Selecting the Right Spring Planting Plants

When it comes to selecting the right Spring planting plants, there are a few key factors to consider: the climate, sunlight requirements, soil type and moisture needs, and the type of flowering plants to be planted.

Climate and Hardiness Zone

Take into account your region's hardiness zone. This will help you choose plants that are well-suited to your specific climate and will have a better chance of thriving in your garden. 

The United States has 13 hardiness zones, ranging from Zone 1 (the coldest region with an average minimum temperature of -60°F) to Zone 13 (the warmest region with an average minimum temperature of 60°F). Each hardiness zone covers a specific geographic area and includes a range of temperatures that help determine which plants are best suited for that region's climate.

To determine your region's hardiness zone, you can check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. This online map offers an interactive way to find your zone based on your zip code. 

Sunlight Requirements

Different plants have varying needs when it comes to sunlight exposure. Some plants thrive in full sun, which means they require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Other plants prefer partial shade, which means they can tolerate some shade during the day, typically 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight. 

Some plants prefer shade, which means they thrive in areas that receive limited direct sunlight, usually less than 4 hours per day.

Soil Type and Moisture Needs

Soil can be classified into various types, such as sandy, loamy, or clayey. Each soil type has distinct characteristics that affect its drainage capacity, fertility, and nutrient content. 

Some plants thrive in sandy soil, which drains quickly and doesn't retain much moisture. Others prefer loamy soil, which has a balanced texture with good drainage and moisture retention. Some plants do well in clayey soil, which tends to be heavy and retains more moisture.

To determine your soil type, you can conduct a soil test or simply observe the texture and drainage of your garden soil. Once you know your soil type, choose Spring planting plants that are well-suited to that type. 

The Best Spring Plants for Your Garden

Consider popular Spring planting plants that are known to thrive in various regions. Some examples include coneflowers, pink primrose, blanket flowers, trumpet vines, Maximillian sunflowers, and the Black Eyed Susan. These flowering plants are sought after for their vibrant colors, ability to attract pollinators, and resilience in different growing conditions.

Coneflowers

Coneflowers, also known as Echinacea, are popular Spring planting plants known for their vibrant colors and ability to attract pollinators. They produce large, daisy-like flowers in various shades of purple, pink, and white. 

These plants are excellent for Spring planting because they are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. They also attract bees and butterflies, making them a valuable addition to pollinator gardens.

Pink Primrose

Pink primrose, a member of the Onagraceae genus, is a Spring planting plant that offers beautiful pink flowers and resilience in different growing conditions. Pink primrose plants open their flowers in the evening and close them during the day. They are deer-resistant and drought-tolerant, making them a great choice for Spring planting in regions with varying weather patterns.

Blanket Flowers

Blanket flowers, also known as Gaillardia, are vibrant and colorful Spring planting plants that are known for their ability to attract pollinators and tolerate hot and dry conditions. They produce eye-catching daisy-like flowers in shades of red, yellow, and orange. Blanket flowers are easy to grow and are well-suited for Spring planting in regions with full sun and well-drained soil.

Trumpet Vines

Trumpet vines, scientifically known as Campsis radicans, are vigorous climbing plants that produce large trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. They are excellent for Spring planting as they add vertical interest to gardens and attract hummingbirds with their nectar-filled blooms. Trumpet vines are adaptable to various growing conditions, including full sun to partial shade.

Maximillian Sunflowers

Maximillian sunflowers, or Helianthus Maximiliani, are tall and showy sunflowers that are perfect for bringing a splash of bright yellow color to gardens in the Spring. They are known for their resilience, drought tolerance, and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Maximillian sunflowers can reach heights of 5 to 10 feet, adding a striking vertical element to gardens.

Black Eyed Susan

The Black Eyed Susan, also known as Rudbeckia, is a popular Spring planting plant that adds a burst of sunny yellow and orange to any garden. With its distinct black center, these flowers are not only aesthetically pleasing but also attract butterflies and bees. Black Eyed Susan is a hardy plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for Spring planting.

Care Requirements for Spring Planting

Each plant has its specific care requirements, and understanding them is crucial for their successful growth. When selecting Spring planting plants, consider factors such as watering needs, sunlight exposure, and soil pH requirements. Some plants may require regular watering, while others may prefer drier conditions. 

Always Work with Proper, Healthy Soil

Properly preparing your soil ensures the success of your Spring planting. Here's how you can prepare your soil for Spring planting:

Clear the Area

Before planting, clear the designated area of any weeds, rocks, or debris that may hinder plant growth. Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients and space, so removing them will give your Spring plants a better chance to thrive.

Loosen the Soil

Soil compaction can restrict root growth and water penetration. To improve aeration and drainage, use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil. This will also make it easier for the roots to establish themselves and access nutrients.

Amend the Soil

Consider the nutritional requirements of the plants you will be planting and amend your soil accordingly. Adding compost or other organic matter to the soil will improve its fertility by providing essential nutrients. Organic matter also helps improve soil structure, water retention, and microbial activity, creating a healthier environment for your plants.

Test the pH Levels

The pH level of your soil can greatly impact the availability of nutrients to your plants. Most plants prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. Testing the pH of your soil with a soil test kit will help you determine if any adjustments are needed. If the pH is not within the optimal range for your plants, you can make amendments with materials like lime or sulfur to bring it to the desired level.

Plant Your Spring Plants the Right Way

After preparing your soil, follow proper planting techniques to ensure your plants are established successfully and grow strong. Here are the key steps to planting your Spring plants:

Dig a Hole

Create a hole that is twice the width and depth of the plant's root ball. This will give the roots enough room to grow and establish themselves in the soil. You can also loosen the sides and bottom of the hole with a garden fork to provide a conducive environment for root penetration and expansion.

Place the Plant in the Hole

Gently place the plant into the hole, making sure it is at the same level as the surrounding soil. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil surface. If planting multiple plants, make sure to space them out according to their mature size recommendations to avoid overcrowding.

Backfill the Hole

Add some soil back to the hole, making sure to fill in any gaps and air pockets. Pat down the soil to ensure that the plant stands upright and is well-supported. After backfilling the hole, you can also create a small circular mound of soil around the base of the plant. This will help to direct water towards the roots and prevent runoff.

Water the Plant

Water the newly planted plants thoroughly to help them establish their roots. A deep watering will encourage the roots to grow downward and anchor themselves into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged as your new plants start to grow.

Mulch the Area

Adding a layer of organic mulch around the base of new plantings can help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture while providing essential nutrients for plant growth. Be sure to leave a small gap around the plant stem to avoid potential disease issues.

Maintain Your Garden for Longer Blooms

To keep your Spring garden healthy and flourishing, provide regular maintenance. Here are some key aspects of maintaining your garden: proper watering, regular weeding, deadheading spent blooms, and applying organic fertilizers to promote continuous blooming throughout the season.

Watering

Check the moisture levels of the soil regularly and water your plants according to their specific needs. Some plants may require more frequent watering, while others may prefer drier conditions. Water deeply and thoroughly, ensuring that the water reaches the roots. It's best to water in the morning to allow the leaves to dry before evening, reducing the risk of diseases.

Weeding

Regularly inspect your garden for weeds and remove them promptly. Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients, sunlight, and water, so it's important to keep them in check. Removing weeds at their early stages will be easier and prevent them from going to seed and spreading.

Mulching

Consider applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of your plants. Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, reduces weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. It also improves the overall appearance of your garden. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or compost, being careful to keep it a few inches away from the crown or stem of the plants to prevent rot.

Fertilizing

Depending on the specific needs of your plants, you may need to provide additional nutrients through fertilization. Read the instructions for your plants or conduct a soil test to determine if fertilization is necessary. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are generally preferred as they improve the soil structure and promote long-term soil health.

Deadheading and Pruning

Regularly remove spent flowers (deadheading) to encourage continuous bloom and prevent the plants from putting energy into producing seeds. Also, consider pruning your plants as needed to remove dead or damaged branches and promote healthy growth and shape. Be sure to use clean and sharp pruners to avoid causing any damage to the plants.

Pest and Disease Management

Monitor your plants for any signs of pest infestations or diseases. Whenever possible, use organic and environmentally friendly methods, such as handpicking pests, introducing beneficial insects, or using homemade pest control remedies.

Start Planting for Spring Today

With proper planning and care, your Spring garden can flourish with vibrant colors and fragrant blooms. Selecting the right plants, understanding their specific care requirements, and preparing your soil will create the ideal conditions for a thriving garden. 

Now that you are equipped with the knowledge to bring your garden to life, you can now start planting and enjoy the beauty of Spring.

Ready to get started on your Spring planting? TN Nursery offers high-quality plants to help you create the garden of your dreams. Shop for Spring planting plants today!

Coneflower Plant - TN Nursery

Coneflower Plant

Coneflower perennial is known for its distinctive daisy-like, purple flowers with a prominent cone-shaped center, attracting pollinators and adding color to gardens. Take Advantage of The Coneflower Plant Prolonged Blooming Period Coneflowers, which resemble daisies, typically bloom in the middle to end of summer. Certain types may begin blooming earlier or continue into the autumn. They are available in a rainbow of hues, from yellow to deep pink, and with both single and double blooms that are extremely vibrant. Magnus Superior variants bloom from the end of spring until the end of summer with rosy-violet rays that can reach a diameter of seven inches. These plants respond exceptionally well to deadheading. Enjoy a Naturalizing Effect With a Coneflower Plant They spread gracefully, like a wildflower, thanks to their abundant seed production and self-sowing capabilities. Their delicate branches and colorful flowers make them perfect for gardens, where they provide visual interest without drawing attention to themselves. Not only does this naturalizing effect make the plant look better, but it also works well for filling in gaps between flower beds. Add Diversity to Your Garden With The Coneflower Plant They are a great way to add variety to your landscape because of their unusual shape and composition. Their unique cone shapes also make them eye-catching accents among other garden plants. They provide textural variety to a garden by growing erect, which contrasts wonderfully with trailing or mounding plants. In expansion, they can adjust to a broad range of soil types and light levels, so you have more alternatives for planting them. Invite Pollinators to Your Yard with Coneflower Plant Since they produce both nectar and pollen, many pollinators rely on these flowers for sustenance. Each of the 250 to 500 blooms that make up it's black, cone-shaped flower head serves as a little cup of nectar for the pollinators. Bees, and hummingbirds are just a few of the pollinators that love it. This variant can grow up to three feet tall and typically blooms between the middle of summer and the beginning of September each year. Because they produce seeds, they are a popular nectar source for birds as well.

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Pink Evening Primrose - TN Nursery

Pink Evening Primrose

Pink Evening Primrose is a perennial wildflower with large, cup-shaped, bright pink flowers and basal rosettes of lance-shaped leaves, adding a vibrant splash of color to gardens and meadows in spring. Its delicate beauty and adaptable characteristics offer a range of advantages when integrated into landscaping designs. Its unique attributes provide a harmonious blend of aesthetic, ecological, and functional benefits, making it a sought-after choice among landscape designers and homeowners. Aesthetically, it introduces a touch of enchantment to landscapes. Pink Evening Primrose's soft pink blossoms that opens in the late afternoon and remain through the evening. These delicate blooms create a serene atmosphere in gardens and outdoor spaces, enhancing the overall visual appeal. This is a subtle yet captivating beauty that contrasts with the fading daylight. Ecologically, our beautiful pink primrose plants contribute to the local ecosystem. Its flowers attract pollinators, fostering biodiversity and supporting vital ecological interactions. The plant's ability to attract these essential pollinators contributes to a healthier and more balanced environment. Functionally, it offers practical benefits as well. Its adaptable nature allows it to thrive in various soil types and growing conditions, making it a versatile choice for landscaping projects. Its low-growing habit and spreading growth pattern make it suitable for ground cover or as an accent plant in flower beds and borders. Furthermore, pink primrose's extended blooming period gives longevity to its landscape impact. The flowers grace the garden from late spring through late summer, providing a consistent source of color, beauty, and food for the bees and butterflies. This can be particularly valuable in creating visually appealing and dynamic outdoor spaces. In conclusion, it brings various benefits to landscaping designs. From its delicate aesthetic allure and ecological contributions to its practical versatility and prolonged blooming period, this plant enhances outdoor environments. Its capacity to infuse landscapes with subtle beauty, attract pollinators, and provide aesthetic and ecological value establishes it as a favored choice among those seeking to create visually pleasing and ecologically vibrant landscapes. Get your Pink Evening Primrose at TN Nursery The Pink Evening Primrose, scientifically known as Oenothera speciosa, is a charming and delicate wildflower that graces the landscapes of North America with its captivating beauty. This perennial herb is beloved for its ethereal pink blossoms and distinctive growth habits, making it a cherished sight in gardens, meadows, and open fields. Standing at about 12 to 18 inches, pink primrose's unique growth pattern sets it apart from other wildflowers. Its slender, lance-shaped leaves form a rosette at the base of the plant, while its slender stems shoot up, adorned with striking pink blooms. These blossoms, measuring about 1 to 2 inches in diameter, consist of four heart-shaped petals that give the flower its characteristic look. Its habit of unfurling its petals in the late afternoon or early evening makes it enchanting, creating a magical transformation. Pink Evening Primrose Does Great in Rock Gardens This wildflower is an exquisite symbol of resilience, as it thrives in various habitats, from rocky slopes to sandy soils and prairies to roadsides. Its adaptability and hardiness have made it a dearest among gardeners wanting to add a touch of grace to their outdoor spaces. It is visually appealing and an invaluable help for pollinators such as bees, providing them with a nectar source. Pink Evening Primrose Is A Very Long Bloomer Its bloom season typically spans spring to summer, depending on the region and climate. During this time, it graces the landscape with a profusion of pink petals, creating a picturesque scene that attracts both human admirers and nature enthusiasts alike. In summation, the Pink Evening Primrose is a splendid wildflower that adds a touch of ethereal beauty to the natural landscapes of North America. With its graceful appearance, unique growth habits, and evening blooms, it continues to captivate the hearts of those who encounter it, reminding us of the wonder and elegance found in the world of native flora. If you have any questions about our Pink Primrose, please feel free to contact us!

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Blanket Flower - TN Nursery

Blanket Flower

Blanket flower is perennial wildflower known for its vibrant, daisy-like blooms with red or yellow petals and dark center disks.Often found in prairies and gardens, they are known for attracting pollinators and adding a splash of color to landscapes. Blanket flower is the perfect choice when you’re craving warmth. This radiant wildflower with an extended blooming season will light up your garden with a kaleidoscope of glowing colors. How Did Blanket Flower Get Their Name There are roughly 30 species of the genus Gaillardia. Multiple legends surround the name. The simplest indicates that it comes from the tendency of these plants to quickly blanket the ground with vibrant blooms. Another suggests that the name comes from the way thriving patches of these plants are reminiscent of brightly patterned Native American blankets. One story links the inspiration for the plants name to the gorgeous blooms that repeatedly appeared on the grave of a talented Native American weaver who was famous for creating richly hued blankets. What Colors Can You Expect With Blanket Flower They are available in an array of hot colors. Yellows, oranges, peaches, reds, maroons, and burgundies are common. The flowers are intensely colored and framed by silver-green foliage that’s slightly hairy. The color is vivid and long-lasting. These plants bloom repeatedly throughout the summer and into the fall. What Does Blanket Flower Look Like Generally, they have daisy-like flowers that feature multiple rays around a central disc. These rays can be in a single or double layer. There may be flat or trumpet-shaped petals. Some flowerheads offer a single, vibrant hue. Others boast bands of colors, resulting in a striking ombre effect. They send up stems that feature a single bloom measuring between two inches and four inches. The plants typically reach heights of 12 inches to 18 inches, but they can grow up to 36 inches tall. Why Should I Plant Blanket Flower They are a wonderful way to add more color to any space, and their blooms last well in both gardens and vases. They are heat- and drought-tolerant, and they withstand deer, rabbits, and groundhogs while attracting bees, butterflies, and birds. Their ability to blanket the ground with a carpet of color makes them a popular choice for borders, roadside plantings, and ground covers. They also thrive in rock gardens, cottage gardens, and pollinator gardens.

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Trumpet Vine - TN Nursery

Trumpet Vine

Trumpet Vine is a vigorous, deciduous woody vine known for its showy, trumpet-shaped orange or red flowers and ability to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It is a popular choice for covering fences and trellises. It offers many benefits when integrated into landscaping projects, enhancing outdoor spaces' visual allure, ecological diversity, and functionality. This deciduous woody plant presents unique qualities that contribute to various dimensions of landscape design. One of the standout benefits of using it in landscaping is its striking floral display. They have their place in any yard, and there are some that produce stunning flowers that are quite hard to ignore. If you've been looking for the right one, look no further than the trumpet vine. Also known as the trumpet creeper, these gorgeous plants have a wide range of purposes some may forget. Here's what these unique plants have to offer that you'll be sure to love. The Spectacular Flower Display Of Trumpet Vine They produce a wonderful flower show that begins in May and lasts until about August. As the name suggests, these trumpet-like flowers burst out of the foliage and announce themselves with a dazzling red-orange display that coats almost the entirety of them. No matter where they're growing, they're sure to catch your attention once they're ready to make themselves known. Trumpet Vine Is an Excellent Addition to Vertical Decor Finding the right plants for vertical decor can be difficult, and not everyone wants to fill their spaces with hanging plants or plants that are in pots attached to the wall. This is where they come in. These gorgeous trumpets easily climb up vertical decor like trellises to provide you with the coverage you're looking for. Hardiness Keeps Trumpet Vine Going and Growing They are extremely durable and will grow quickly, making them the perfect plan for those who are looking to cover certain areas fast without having to worry too much about making mistakes along the way that put them at risk. Trumpet Vine Is Great for Erosion Control and Other Environmental Benefits Planting them can be an excellent way to reduce soil erosion, especially in sloped areas where you're concerned about the stability of certain objects or other plants. They create networks of roots that keep soil in place. They also offer other benefits for your yard, like attracting essential pollinators such as birds and butterflies as well as acting as a space where ants can build a habitat. If you want a plant that provides a host of benefits to the surrounding area, consider this one.

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Maximilian Sunflower - TN Nursery

Maximilian Sunflower

Maximilian Sunflower is a tall, native perennial with bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and narrow leaves, often forming impressive colonies and attracting pollinators in late summer and fall. They are remarkable and versatile plants that offer a range of benefits when used in landscaping. Their vibrant color and adaptability can add aesthetic value and functional advantages to various outdoor spaces. The Maximilian Sunflower is a radiant North American perennial known for its impressive stature and vibrant yellow hue. With a propensity to form dense colonies, these stunningly dynamic plants provide rich visual appeal to any landscape or garden. Their sublime and livening presence innately offers rich levels of enchantment for the gaze of onlookers. Why is the Maximilian Sunflower so Iconic These gorgeous natural creations intrinsically reach toward the sky. Standing erect, they often reach a looming height of around 10 feet. The towering beauties possess uniquely slender stems decorated with long lance-shaped leaves. Underneath the flower head, dark green phyllaries stick straight out before subtly curling at the tips. The bright golden petals delightfully evoke luminescent rays of sunshine. A jagged alternation pattern creates intricate layers of pleasing asymmetry. Their wispiness embodies an illustrative quality that summons a beatific repose. This flower’s center is packed with circular bronze florets. These discs often showcase a fractalized pattern that is simply mesmerizing. Meanwhile, the circumference is embedded with sleek light-yellow florets that create a glorious juxtaposition. The Maximilian Sunflower Can Cultivate a Blissful View Their relatively late blooming period is a very happy presence in summer and early fall. Thus, they can become the cornerstone of any idyllic scenery. Unlike many other growths from the same genus, these sunflower stems can support several clusters each. As a result, these durable plants make for a divine ornamental selection with downright transformative effects on the landscape. Humans Aren’t the Only Ones Who Love the Maximilian Sunflower Wildlife tends to fancy this flower, too. Their abundance of nectar is considered irresistible to local pollinators, so they are often associated with a thriving ecosystem full of bees and butterflies. Later in their flowering stage, the seeds occasionally attract a diverse ornithological scene, much to the delight of birdwatchers. Why is it Called the Maximilian-Sunflower These regal plants derive their namesake from Prince Maximilian of Wied-Neuwied. The famed German explorer first came upon these magnificent flowers during his North American expeditions, and they were dubbed Helianthus maximiliani in his honor. It is a suitable title, especially since any outdoor environment is lucky to be bestowed with these golden gems.

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Black Eyed Susan - TN Nursery

Black Eyed Susan

Black Eyed Susan has vibrant yellow petals and dark, contrasting centers, is a popular and delightful addition to any landscaping project. This native North American wildflower offers a host of pleasing attributes that make it a sought-after choice for gardens and outdoor spaces. From its adaptability to its visual appeal and ecological benefits, it stands out as a versatile and attractive plant. Black eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is a type of long-flowering Rudbeckia in the aster family Asteraceae. It's also called "brown Betty," and "gloriosa daisy." This upright, fast-growing plant is native to eastern and central North America, with angustifolia, Florida, hirta, and pulcherrima varieties growing in separate regions of the continental United States. Their yellow and gold blossoms tend to bloom from June until after the first frost. Black eyed Susans: Cultivation If you're looking for a flower that's versatile enough to grow well in everything from containers to flower beds to more naturalistic landscapes, they are the perfect choice. Their bright, cheery, and prolific blooms are attractive in garden borders, butterfly and wildflower gardens, and meadow plantings. They also make beautiful cut flowers with a vase life of up to ten days. Black eyed Susans: Size, Shape, and Color Most varieties grow 1'–3¼' tall and 1'–1½' wide. Their long, bristly leaves grow near the base of the plant, while their daisy-like flowers rise high above the foliage. Each 2"–4" wide blossom features eight to thirty yellow-gold florets that radiate from a dark brown, black, or greenish-colored cone-shaped seed dome. Black eyed Susans: Pollinators and Birds To attract pollinators like butterflies and bees throughout the summer, be sure to include black eyed Susans in your landscaping plan. These flowers are also loved by mosquito-eating dragonflies and birds. Pollinators enjoy the flowers' nectar as they move from plant to plant, causing them to grow seeds that birds eat in winter. When left alone, their seed pods usually dry out and disperse nearby, which may open areas and roadsides with new flowers the following year. Black eyed Susans: Longevity Some varieties will start to flower the same year, in June, while others bloom later. Removing faded flowers, also called "deadheading," can prolong the blooming season. However you select and maintain your plants, you're sure to love the way they brighten your garden.

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