Some flowering plants sprawl on the ground and they look their best when left to grow naturally. But there is nothing attractive about a peony or lily lying flat on its face after a strong wind or hard rain. You can prevent flopping flowers by staking them as soon as the flower stalks emerge.
Use Bamboo, Plastic or Metal Plant Stakes
Don’t worry about ugly stakes detracting from the appearance of the garden. If you stake and tie your plants properly, you will hardly notice the supports. Natural bamboo canes and dark green plastic or metal stakes do the job well without standing out.
How to Stake a Plant
- Choose stakes that are about six inches shorter than the mature height of the plant.
- Place them as close to the plant as you can without damaging the root crown.
- Sink the stake into the soil to keep them from toppling along with your flowers.
- Tie the plant loosely to the stake. The stems need a few inches of room so they can move with the wind. Plants tied too tightly are likely to break off. You will have to add more ties as the plant grows.
Grow Through Plant Supports are an Alternative to Stakes
If you don’t like adding ties, try a grow-through support. The simplest form is a metal ring with legs, but you’ll find many variations at your local garden center. The metal tomato cages sold at discount stores are perfect for flowering plants. Bushy plants grow best with this type of support. As the plant grows and sprouts new leaves, it will hide the structure.
What to Do When Flowers Fall Over
Supporting your plants with stakes or grow-through supports keeps them looking neat. Despite your best efforts, you’ll still have an occasional flop or broken stem. Damaged plants are susceptible to disease, so trim them back to remove all damaged stems. Bring the fallen flowers indoors and place them in vases so you can enjoy them.
If you love to design with plants that add height to your landscape, then you should consider growing vines. Trellises are available in a wide array of heights, designs and materials so you are sure to find one that complements your garden scheme. Once covered with leaves and flowers, trellised vines can create a dramatic focal point for large or small spaces! Here are eight flowering and fragrant vines to get your creative ideas flowing.
