April gardening with annual flowers
 For all zones with winter stretching into April, annuals should not be set in the ground until after all danger of frost has passed.
In various growing zones, except the most southern, the end of plant-killing cold and surprise winter blasts isn't always clear. Is it safe to plant anything yet?
You can do a couple of things to be as sure as possible that new, young transplants won't be harmed by a damaging cold snap:
- Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map for detailed information about your locality's conditions for this time of year.
- Keep an eye on the weather forecasts for your city, state or region to help anticipate good and not-so-good times for planting this month.
Here are the April tips for annual flowers.
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Some annuals can tolerate moderately cold conditions that usually occur during the transition season from winter to spring.
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That doesn't mean, of course, that they can withstand an ice storm, although a little snow cover probably won't bothern them a lot.
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If you know that an ice storm or severe winter storm is on the way, try to cover these plants with straw, upside down coffee cans or garbage pails, old sheets or towels - anything that will give enough protection for a short time.
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Here are some annuals to consider in April. Try starting them from seed outdoors. The spring rains and warming conditions will help them pop right up. But remember,even these plants may succumb to an extreme cold snap: pansy, marigold, bachelor button, larkspur, sweet pea, alyssum and nasturtium.
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Prepare flowerbeds by removing winter debris and pushing aside old mulch so you can work the soil.
- Loosen soil with a garden fork or spade, breaking up clumps and creating a smooth texture.
- Mix in soil amendments, compost and fertilizer.
- Wait to put down fresh mulch until after beds are planted.
- In places where you want to prevent weed growth, and where you don't intend to plant any seeds or new plants - at least for 60 to 90 days - sprinkle a weed preventer, such as Preen, on the soil. Be sure to follow package directions.
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