With much of the snow melted and spring in effect, many are eager to get their gardens and flower beds started. Lynn’s Plants and Things in Benito has been preparing for this year’s gardening season and things have been growing in full force.
“The greenhouse has been buzzing with planting flowers, herbs and vegetables, ordering new and old favourites including succulents, and perennials, organizing and brainstorming containers and workshops and most of all working to make our customers have an amazing and warming experience,” said Lynn Coupland.
Coupland notices that every year, there are certain plants and flowers that are high in demand or popular with gardeners.
“Our most popular flower would have to be the Proven Winner Supertunia Vista in six different colours and Colour Rush has five,” said Coupland. “We also have a huge selection of hot peppers, including Carolina Reapers, Habanero, Scotch Bonnet, plus other varieties.
“There is also a huge selection of Coleus that accessorize any plants you wish to purchase. Another popular purchase is fruit trees and shrubs that, when they arrive, are in bloom.”
It’s hard to predict the growing season when water is still on the ground, but it never hurts to reach out to those avid gardeners to give you tips and pointers for each type of weather condition.
“Every season is different depending on weather and other factors,” said Coupland. “I’ve learned from others and encourage people to seek advice from experienced gardeners or local gardening experts.
“Container planting can be challenging due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of what plants go together. Please do not hesitate to ask staff questions, as they are always there to help. Or you can come to a workshop usually scheduled in the evenings to design your planter with a helping hand. Check the Lynn’s Plants & Things Facebook page for dates or call.
“Another option can be to drop off your containers, or buy new containers and let staff design and plant them with your colour choices or your favourite flowers,” said Coupland. “Be flexible and willing to adjust your plans as needed, especially in response to weather conditions or unforeseen problems.”
Lynn’s Plants and Things has some new plant and flower varieties for gardeners to check out this season.
“We have some new plant and flower varieties this year,” said Coupland. “We ordered plumbago that is grown in containers and has true blue flowers. A new snapdragon that is tall and can be used as a cut flower. And a new annual that attracts butterflies.
“There are just a few, but there are more new plants in the greenhouse. Aside from flowers, we have ordered two new series of pots. One is called soil savers that use less dirt, the second one is called water saver that holds water so you don’t have to water as often.”
Most gardeners have started their plants indoors already, eagerly anticipating warmer weather for transplanting. Now is a good time to go to your greenhouse and check out what is available this season for your flowerbeds.
“Planting schedules do vary,” said Coupland. “We have started vegetables in the first week of March and some as late as the end of April. Make sure to read the directions on your seed packages or don’t hesitate to call the greenhouse and ask us questions, we are always happy to help. Slowly introduce your seedlings from indoors to outdoors so that they can adjust to cooler temperatures and are ready to be planted in containers or directly into your garden or flowerbeds.
“We opened up on April 16, and our hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week.”