2torial #0970:
Learn2 Make a Flower Bed (continued)

Water, weed, and watch

Plant roots seek water. Therefore, short and superficial watering will encourage only shallow root development. You should water thoroughly, a technique that's called "deep watering," so the water reaches the roots; this will ensure your roots grow outward and downward. Water should enter the ground slowly and steadily, without battering your plants or causing run-off.

How often you water depends on your garden. Test by putting your finger about 2 inches (5 centimeters) into the ground. The soil should feel moist. If the soil is dry below the surface, it needs water.

Weeds compete with your flowers for nutrients, water, and sunlight. At least once a week, pull out all suspect-looking plants, roots and all. Try not to disturb the roots of your flowers while pulling out the weeds.

You'll also want to pay close attention to your flowers and the weather. If it's unusually dry and hot, water your flowers more than you normally would. If it's been rainy, hold off for a day or two.

After your first spring of watching your flowers grow, you'll probably realize why gardening is so addictive. Don't be too upset, though, when your precious flowers die out in the late summer and fall--one of the best parts about gardening is watching the cycle repeat itself year after year.

-end-