Water requirements will vary with the time of year, amount of sunlight or shade, plant growth, and other environmental factors. Most plants need 1 inch of water per week, but may require more when flowering or when exposed to high temperatures or windy conditions. After watering, allow the soil to dry moderately before watering again. A soaker hose is excellent for watering. Water seeps directly into the soil without wetting the leaves and flowers.
Sprinklers wet the flowers and foliage and makes the plant more susceptible to diseases.
Weed Control Mulch and proper plant spacing are the best ways to minimize weed problems. A preemergence herbicide can be used to control many weeds. Some preemergence herbicides are applied before planting, others are applied after planting but before weeds emerge. Any herbicide used in flowerbeds must be chosen carefully. Time and rate of application will vary with the herbicide selected.