Even if you do use bedding plants, it is important to choose varieties that will mature before our short growing season ends. For example, say that a variety of corn is given as maturing in 65 days. If there is cool or cloudy weather during the growing season, it may take that variety 75 to 80 days to mature. By starting your vegetables as bedding plants, you improve your chances of success under adverse conditions. Some Tips for Success with Bedding Plants 1.
Bedding plants require direct sunlight or very good artificial light to do well.
With poor light, tall, weak and pale plants will result. Because bedding plants grow quickly, the soil in the small pots soon loses its nutrients. To provide strong, continuous growth, fertilize the bedding plants weekly. Without fertilizer, bedding plants will turn pale green or purple and often become stunted. You can also gradually expose the bedding plants to bright sun, wind and cold nights before planting outside.