What flowers can I plant now in Virginia? And why do squirrels always seem to know the best spots for digging?

What flowers can I plant now in Virginia? And why do squirrels always seem to know the best spots for digging?

Virginia, with its diverse climate zones ranging from the coastal plains to the mountainous regions, offers a unique opportunity for gardeners to cultivate a wide variety of flowers throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice looking to add some color to your landscape, understanding what flowers to plant now can make all the difference. This article will explore the best flowers to plant in Virginia, considering the current season, soil conditions, and local wildlife, including those pesky squirrels that always seem to know where to dig.

Understanding Virginia’s Climate

Before diving into specific flower recommendations, it’s essential to understand Virginia’s climate. The state experiences four distinct seasons, with hot, humid summers and mild to cold winters. The USDA Hardiness Zones in Virginia range from 5b in the mountainous areas to 8a in the coastal regions. This variation means that the types of flowers you can plant will depend largely on your specific location within the state.

Spring Planting in Virginia

Spring is a fantastic time to plant flowers in Virginia, as the soil begins to warm up, and the risk of frost diminishes. Here are some excellent choices for spring planting:

  1. Tulips (Tulipa spp.): Tulips are a classic spring flower that can add a burst of color to your garden. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Plant tulip bulbs in the fall for a stunning spring display.

  2. Daffodils (Narcissus spp.): Daffodils are another spring favorite, known for their bright yellow blooms. They are hardy and can thrive in a variety of soil types. Like tulips, daffodil bulbs should be planted in the fall.

  3. Pansies (Viola tricolor var. hortensis): Pansies are cool-weather flowers that can be planted in early spring. They come in a wide range of colors and can tolerate light frosts, making them ideal for Virginia’s unpredictable spring weather.

  4. Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis): Hyacinths are fragrant spring flowers that bloom in a variety of colors. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Plant hyacinth bulbs in the fall for spring blooms.

Summer Planting in Virginia

Summer in Virginia can be hot and humid, but there are still plenty of flowers that thrive in these conditions. Here are some top picks for summer planting:

  1. Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta): These native wildflowers are well-suited to Virginia’s climate. They are drought-tolerant and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Plant them in full sun for the best results.

  2. Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.): Coneflowers are another native option that thrives in Virginia’s summer heat. They come in various colors, including purple, pink, and white, and are known for their medicinal properties.

  3. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans): Zinnias are easy-to-grow annuals that bloom profusely throughout the summer. They come in a wide range of colors and are excellent for cutting gardens.

  4. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.): Marigolds are hardy annuals that can withstand Virginia’s summer heat. They are known for their pest-repellent properties and come in shades of yellow, orange, and red.

Fall Planting in Virginia

Fall is an excellent time to plant flowers in Virginia, as the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall create ideal growing conditions. Here are some great options for fall planting:

  1. Mums (Chrysanthemum spp.): Mums are a fall staple, known for their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun. Plant them in early fall for a stunning autumn display.

  2. Asters (Symphyotrichum spp.): Asters are native perennials that bloom in late summer and fall. They come in shades of purple, pink, and white and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

  3. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.): Goldenrod is a native perennial that blooms in late summer and fall. It is often mistaken for ragweed, but it is not a significant allergen. Goldenrod prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

  4. Sedum (Sedum spp.): Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a succulent that thrives in Virginia’s fall weather. It comes in various colors and is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens.

Winter Planting in Virginia

While winter may not seem like the ideal time to plant flowers, there are still some options that can add color to your garden during the colder months:

  1. Hellebores (Helleborus spp.): Hellebores, also known as Lenten roses, are evergreen perennials that bloom in late winter to early spring. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil.

  2. Winter Jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum): Winter jasmine is a deciduous shrub that produces bright yellow flowers in late winter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

  3. Camellias (Camellia spp.): Camellias are evergreen shrubs that bloom in late fall to early winter. They prefer partial shade and well-drained, acidic soil.

  4. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis spp.): Witch hazel is a deciduous shrub that blooms in late winter. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Dealing with Squirrels and Other Wildlife

One of the challenges of gardening in Virginia is dealing with local wildlife, particularly squirrels. These clever creatures seem to have an uncanny ability to find and dig up freshly planted bulbs and seeds. Here are some tips to protect your garden from squirrels:

  1. Use Bulb Cages: Bulb cages are wire mesh containers that you can place around your bulbs to prevent squirrels from digging them up. They are available at most garden centers.

  2. Apply Repellents: There are various commercial repellents available that can deter squirrels from your garden. Look for products that contain capsaicin or other natural deterrents.

  3. Plant Squirrel-Resistant Bulbs: Some bulbs, such as daffodils and alliums, are less appealing to squirrels. Consider planting these in areas where squirrels are a problem.

  4. Use Mulch: Applying a thick layer of mulch over your bulbs can make it more difficult for squirrels to dig them up. Mulch also helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

  5. Install Physical Barriers: Fencing or netting can be effective in keeping squirrels out of your garden. Make sure the barriers are tall enough and buried deep enough to prevent squirrels from climbing or digging under them.

Soil Preparation and Maintenance

Proper soil preparation is crucial for the success of your garden. Here are some tips to ensure your soil is ready for planting:

  1. Test Your Soil: Before planting, it’s a good idea to test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. You can purchase a soil test kit at your local garden center or send a sample to a soil testing lab.

  2. Amend Your Soil: Based on the results of your soil test, you may need to amend your soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve its structure and fertility.

  3. Mulch Your Garden: Mulching helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants, being careful not to pile it up against the stems.

  4. Water Wisely: Proper watering is essential for the health of your plants. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal diseases.

  5. Fertilize Appropriately: Different plants have different nutrient requirements. Use a balanced fertilizer or one specifically formulated for the types of flowers you are growing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and timing.

Companion Planting

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together to benefit each other. Here are some companion planting ideas for your Virginia garden:

  1. Marigolds and Tomatoes: Marigolds are known to repel nematodes and other pests that can damage tomato plants. Plant marigolds around the base of your tomato plants for added protection.

  2. Basil and Peppers: Basil can improve the flavor of peppers and also repel pests like aphids and whiteflies. Plant basil near your pepper plants for a mutually beneficial relationship.

  3. Nasturtiums and Cucumbers: Nasturtiums attract aphids away from cucumber plants, acting as a trap crop. They also add a pop of color to your garden.

  4. Lavender and Roses: Lavender can deter pests like aphids and whiteflies from roses. Its fragrant blooms also attract pollinators, benefiting both plants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the best flowers to plant in Virginia for a beginner? A: For beginners, consider planting easy-to-grow flowers like marigolds, zinnias, and black-eyed Susans. These flowers are hardy, require minimal maintenance, and can thrive in Virginia’s climate.

Q: Can I plant flowers in Virginia during the winter? A: Yes, you can plant certain flowers in Virginia during the winter, such as hellebores, winter jasmine, and camellias. These plants are well-suited to the cooler temperatures and can add color to your garden during the colder months.

Q: How do I protect my garden from squirrels? A: To protect your garden from squirrels, consider using bulb cages, applying repellents, planting squirrel-resistant bulbs, using mulch, and installing physical barriers like fencing or netting.

Q: What is companion planting, and how can it benefit my garden? A: Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together to benefit each other. It can help repel pests, improve soil health, and enhance the growth and flavor of certain plants. For example, planting marigolds near tomatoes can help deter nematodes.

Q: How often should I water my flowers in Virginia? A: The frequency of watering depends on the type of flowers, soil conditions, and weather. Generally, it’s best to water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.