Easy Flowers that Bloom 'Til First Frost!

What could be simpler than coleus, begonias, and salvia? These winners have been tested and proved by generations of gardeners. It represents simplicity - both in plant choices and arrangement.

They are easy to find in most garden centers and bloom all season long! 

Light: Full sun to light shade. Since wax begonias are sold for sun or shade, be sure to choose those that fit your light situation. Most take sun until the temperatures hit the low 90's. The red-leafed varieties take sun in higher temperatures, along with some of the newer green-leafed types that should be labeled as sun begonias.

Season: Spring through fall for most areas. Also thrives in winter in areas where the temperatures stay above 38 degrees. This plant mix takes temperatures from about 38 degrees to the low-90's in full sun. In light shade, it withstands higher temperatures into the high 90's.

Lifespan: Four to five months in this container.

Care: Fertilize on planting day with a slow-release mix, and repeat every three months. Remove the dead flowers from the salvia if you feel energetic!

Water: Water when the plants show signs of wilt or the soil feels dry when you push your fingertip up to your second knuckle into the potting mix. I watered this one every day (after it was about a month old) in mid summer and every other day in cooler weather.

Planting Plan: The easiest there is! In the side layer, alternate the begonias with the two colors of coleus. Plant the two colors of salvia close together in the center. Repeat the alternating dark coleus, begonia, red/yellow coleus along the top edge. Try to keep the same plant from appearing above itself in the side and edge layers.