ProScape Solutions

As ProScape’s General Manager, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-maintained landscape elevates any property. With annuals blooming in May and June, it’s smart, consistent maintenance—not just planting—that keeps your displays impressive all season.

Best Practices & Best Timing for Planting Annuals

If you’re considering starting fresh or enhancing your current beds, timing is everything. In Ohio, the sweet spot for planting annuals is late spring—after the last frost, typically early to mid-May. Planting as soon as temperatures stabilize gives your annuals a strong start before summer heat sets in.

A few tips we share with ProScape clients:

• We can help you choose varieties suited for your property’s sun, shade, and soil conditions.
• Prep the beds well: loosen soil, add compost or slow-release fertilizer, and ensure proper drainage.
• Water new plantings thoroughly and keep the soil moist (not soggy) for the first few weeks.
  
  

Of course, planting is just the beginning. The real key to long-lasting, eye-catching annuals is what you do next.

Proactive Watering and Monitoring

As your annuals settle in, their water needs stand apart from more established plants. Consistency is crucial—aim for even moisture, especially with unpredictable Ohio weather. Water in the morning to prevent disease and help roots absorb moisture efficiently. If you rely on irrigation, now’s the time to double-check coverage so all beds and planters are getting the right amount. This small audit can prevent dry patches and unnecessary waste.

Feeding for Continuous Color

Annuals expend a lot of energy producing blooms, so they benefit from a little extra nourishment. After initial planting, be sure to fertilize every few weeks—preferably with a balanced, water-soluble formula. This sustains growth and vibrant color, keeping your property looking sharp for months.

Weeding: Foundation of a Tidy Look

Throughout the summer, keep beds tidy by pulling stray weeds and deadheading spent blooms weekly. A few minutes each week beats a time-consuming cleanup later—and deadheading reliably encourages more flowers.

Pest and Disease Monitoring

With warmer weather, annuals can attract insects and face occasional disease pressure. Get in the habit of checking beds and containers for aphids, mites, leaf spots, or fungal issues. Early detection helps prevent a minor issue from becoming a full-blown problem. Quick action—sometimes just removing affected plants—can save the rest.

Partner With ProScape

With the right start and steady attention, your annuals can be the crown jewel of your landscape all season. If you need advice choosing varieties, troubleshooting an issue, or just a walkthrough from a professional eye, we are always happy to help. At ProScape, we pride ourselves on being proactive, reliable, and focused on making your property look its absolute best year-round.

Let’s keep your grounds colorful, inviting, and thriving—one smart step at a time