Planting Annuals

When to plant?

The ideal time to plant annuals in plug trays depends on the climate and the variety of plants you wish to grow. Generally, annuals are planted in spring, after the last frosts, when temperatures begin to warm up: late March in the south of France, April further north.

Before planting, check the specific requirements of each variety you wish to grow to determine the ideal planting time.

Where and when to plant?

You can plant your small plugs:

• in planters, pots, containers, or bowls with a minimum depth of 30 cm, depending on the varieties. Consider their mature size and growth habit.
• directly in the ground

Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot for them. If your area is prone to strong winds, plant the plug annuals in a sheltered location to prevent damage to the plants.

In which soil or compost?

Choosing the right soil or compost for planting annuals in mini plugs is crucial to ensure healthy and vigorous growth of your plants.

• You can use a potting compost for containers and pots, which has a good structure while offering excellent water retention. It will guarantee strong growth and abundant flowering for your annuals.
• If you prefer to use garden soil, make sure it is well-drained, aerated, and rich in organic matter. Avoid using soil that is too clay-heavy, as it may retain too much water and suffocate the roots. You can also use a mix of garden soil and potting compost for containers and pots to create a substrate that provides good structure and fertility.

Whatever your choice, ensure the substrate is well-moistened before planting the mini plugs to prevent the roots from drying out and deteriorating.

How to plant?

• Gently peel off the small paper layer that may be protecting each plug before planting.

• Plant the plugs about 15 centimetres apart from each other.
• You can pinch the young shoots, meaning cut the top part of the stems and the first flowers (preferably above a branching point, at three-quarters of the height) between your fingernails or with scissors: the plants will branch out and become more vigorous.
• Water after planting and then regularly, but avoid overwatering. Add a bit of flowering plant fertiliser every two weeks.