Georgia, with its diverse climate ranging from the cooler northern mountains to the warmer southern plains, offers a unique gardening experience. Selecting the right bedding plants is crucial for ensuring a vibrant and healthy garden. Here are 15 good bedding plants that thrive in Georgia’s varied climate:
Petunias (Petunia spp.)
Petunias are a popular choice due to their wide range of colors and their ability to bloom continuously from spring until the first frost. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for Georgia’s sunny gardens.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are hardy and low-maintenance, with bright, cheerful flowers that deter pests. They thrive in full sun and are tolerant of various soil types, though they prefer well-drained soil.
Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana)
Ideal for shady areas, impatiens offer vibrant colors and continuous blooms throughout the growing season. They need moist, well-drained soil and are perfect for adding color to shady spots.
Begonias (Begonia spp.)
Begonias are versatile and can grow in both sun and shade. They are known for their attractive foliage and bright flowers. Begonias prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Zinnias (Zinnia spp.)
Zinnias are heat-tolerant and come in a variety of colors and sizes. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for Georgia’s warm summers.
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
Coleus plants are prized for their colorful foliage and can grow in both sun and shade, depending on the variety. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and add a vibrant splash of color to any garden.
Lantana (Lantana camara)
Lantanas are drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun. Their clusters of bright flowers attract butterflies and bees, making them excellent for pollinator gardens.
Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Salvias are heat-tolerant and come in a variety of colors, from deep blue to bright red. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and their long blooming season makes them a garden favorite.
Vinca (Catharanthus roseus)
Vinca, or periwinkle, is a heat and drought-tolerant plant that blooms profusely throughout the summer. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria)
Dusty Miller is grown for its silvery foliage, which adds contrast and texture to garden beds. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil and is very drought-tolerant once established.
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Snapdragons are cool-season bloomers that can add height and color to garden beds. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant them in early spring for best results.
Caladiums (Caladium spp.)
Caladiums are known for their colorful, heart-shaped leaves. They thrive in shady areas with moist, well-drained soil and add a tropical feel to the garden.
Geraniums (Pelargonium spp.)
Geraniums are hardy plants that bloom throughout the summer. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their vibrant flowers and attractive foliage make them a garden staple.
Portulaca (Portulaca grandiflora)
Portulaca, or moss rose, is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in full sun. Its bright, rose-like flowers add a splash of color to dry, sunny areas in the garden.
Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)
Sweet Alyssum is a low-growing plant with clusters of tiny, fragrant flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it perfect for edging and borders.
When selecting bedding plants for Georgia, consider the specific climate and soil conditions of your area.
These 15 plants offer a variety of colors, textures, and growth habits, ensuring a beautiful and thriving garden.
By choosing the right plants and providing the proper care, you can enjoy a vibrant and diverse garden throughout the growing season.
Caring for Your Bedding Plants
Proper care is essential to ensure that your bedding plants thrive and provide continuous color and interest in your garden. Here are some general tips for caring for your bedding plants in Georgia:
Soil Preparation
Prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This improves soil structure, drainage, and nutrient content, providing a healthy foundation for your plants.
Planting
Follow the specific planting guidelines for each type of plant. Generally, it’s best to plant in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. Make sure to space the plants appropriately to allow for growth and air circulation.
Watering
Consistent watering is crucial, especially during the hot summer months. Most bedding plants prefer evenly moist soil, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Early morning watering is ideal to reduce evaporation and allow foliage to dry during the day.
Mulching
Applying a layer of mulch around your plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches, such as shredded bark or pine straw, decompose over time and add nutrients to the soil.
Fertilizing
Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer supports healthy growth and abundant blooms. Follow the recommended application rates and timings for the specific plants you are growing.
Deadheading and Pruning
Remove spent flowers regularly (deadheading) to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plants from putting energy into seed production. Prune back any leggy or overgrown plants to maintain their shape and promote bushier growth.
Pest and Disease Control
Keep an eye out for common garden pests and diseases. Use integrated pest management (IPM) techniques, such as hand-picking pests, using insecticidal soaps, and encouraging beneficial insects, to keep problems under control. Proper spacing and watering can help prevent fungal diseases.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring
Spring is the ideal time to plant most bedding plants in Georgia. The risk of frost has passed, and the soil is warming up. This is also a good time to divide and transplant perennials.
Summer
The summer heat can be intense, so ensure your plants are well-watered and mulched to retain moisture. Heat-tolerant plants like zinnias and lantanas will thrive during this time.
Fall
Fall is an excellent time to plant cool-season annuals like snapdragons and pansies. These plants will provide color throughout the cooler months and into early spring.
Winter
While many bedding plants go dormant in winter, some, like pansies and ornamental cabbages, can provide winter interest. Protect tender plants from frost with row covers or bring potted plants indoors.
Creating a beautiful garden in Georgia is rewarding with the right selection of bedding plants. By choosing plants suited to the local climate and providing proper care, you can enjoy vibrant blooms and lush foliage throughout the growing season. Whether you are an experienced gardener or a novice, these 15 bedding plants are a great starting point for a stunning garden that thrives in Georgia’s unique environment.
