Preparation for planting

Question 1

Describe the soil preparation for a hardy annual border and seasonal bedding displays

Answer 1

1 - Remove previous bedding and weeds
2 - Autumn digging should be carried out
Work an organic feed or inorganic fertiliser into the soil
Single dig the bed - The top spade depth should be inverted and broken down.
Final cultivation breaks down the soil with a garden fork.
Rake to required levels
3 - In spring, tread and rake the soil level to create a firm seed bed

Question 2

Describe the sowing of a hardy annual border

Answer 2

1 - Mark out the bed with dry sand. Mark out where the groups of plants will go.
2 - Within each area, seed drills are placed approx. 30cm apart and 1cm deep. The seeds of the relevant groups are sown along these lines, evenly and thinly.
3 - Drills are covered over and gently firmed with the rake back.
4 - Thin plants as needed.
5. Seeds can also be broadcast sown on the surface and raked in and firmed.

Question 3

Describe the planting out of a hardy annual border or a seasonal bedding display.

Answer 3

Harden off plant plugs or plants in small pots prior to planting. Plant on a cool, cloudy day.
Mark out design with dry sand.
Place plants in their final growing position and dig an adequately sized hole for the roots of the plant.
Insert plant so it grows at the same depth as it was in the pot, firm soil around the root of the plant and water in well. Water daily until established.

Question 4

Describe the growing media preparation for a container

Answer 4

1. Remove all previous plants from the container.
2. Remove any old potting compost.
3. Clean container with disinfectant and rinse well.
4. Ensure there are drainage holes and add crock to the bottom of the pot.
5. Add a good compost mixture which contains water retaining granules and a slow or controlled release fertiliser.

Question 5

Describe the planting of plants in a container

Answer 5

1. Water plants prior to planting
2. Carefully remove the plant from the pot and place in the desired position.
   3.Either plant the outer edge first or start at the centre.
3. Plants should be about 30cm apart.
4. Firm in and water.

Question 6

Describe the growing media prep for a hanging basket

Answer 6

1. Remove any existing plants
2. Remove old compost and liner
3. Clean with disinfectant and rinse.
4. Line hanging basket with sphagnum moss that has been soaked over night.
5. Add a layer of plastic or polythene to the inside of the basket
6. Place basket in a container for support while planting
7. Add a suitable compost, with water retaining granules and a controlled release feed.

Question 7

Describe how to plant a hanging basket

Answer 7

1. Add compost to within 3cm of the rim and make all planting through holes in the walls of the container from the outside.
   OR
2. Add only a shallow layer of compost and add plants throughout the bottom and sides of the container by pushing the top portion of the plant carefully through the holes in the basket from the inside out. Bundle shoots and leaves in paper for protection. Add more compost and repeat until the whole basket is planted and the compost is 2cm from the top of the container.

Ensure compost is firmed around the root balls of the plants and water.

Question 8

Describe the routine maintenance of seasonal bedding and containers

Answer 8

Protect frost sensitive plants with horticultural fleece
Water when required either by hand, with drip systems or with sprinklers.
Deadhead plants
Feed throughout the season if there isn’t a controlled release feed in the soil/growing media.
Hoe annual weeds in borders and remove perennial weeds by hand as soon as they appear.
Stand winter containers on feet/bricks for drainage and wrap pots in insulating material.