Sun is an essential component for gardening. But sometimes there can be too much of a good thing. Having a sunny area coupled with too much drainage can lead to areas in the garden that tend to be too hot and dry to sustain plant life.

 Experienced gardener Sandra Amos of Maple Grove Greenhouses and Farm in Farmington suggested that succulents or water-retaining plants are options for this type of garden. She said hen-and-chickens and portulaca can survive drought-like conditions.

 Although too much sun and soil drainage can wreak havoc with most plant life, the sun is usually a welcomed friend to colourful blooms.

 "There is a lot of selection for annuals," said Ms Amos, noting petunias are a colourful addition to sunny gardens. The plant is available in a multitude of colours but this year black petunias, called black velvet or black phantom, seem to be taking centre stage.

 "Some people like it and some people don't," said Ms Amos, noting a mixture of black and white flowers in a bed makes a visually pleasing combination.

 "You can't go wrong with petunias in a hot and dry location because they bloom all summer," said Ms Amos.

 She said that gazanias can also add an interesting element. The daisy-like flower opens with the sun and closes at night. In addition, salvia loves the sun.

 Perennials that tend to like it hot and sunny include yarrow, peonies and garden phlox.

 But before your backyard becomes a sunny colourful haven, it's important to prepare the soil. Ms Amos said if the ground is being broken for the first time, add compost to increase the organic materials. She said soil comprising of 10 to 15 per cent organic material is adequate for the first year. Lesser amounts are required in the remaining years.

 "It's a kind of thing that you build over a period of years," said Ms Amos. "The first year you add your largest quantity. ... Keep adding to it year after year so you are building your soil over time," said Ms Amos.

 A garden with adequate compost in the soil tends to hold more moisture. And, since sunny areas dry out quicker than shaded sections, Ms Amos offers another tip on keeping the soil moist. She suggested to use mulch around the plants. The mulch will hold moisture and prevent the sun from drying out the soil. Ms Amos said if it is possible, installing a ground trickle irrigation system will help with hot, sunny area blooms.

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 Ms Amos said she prefers to water early in the morning. She said the sun is not at its hottest but will dry the plant throughout the day. However, she said any time the garden has wilted, it's time to start watering. She said deep watering will help the plant develop a good root system so it can survive longer during dry weather.

 When it's time for planting, Ms Amos said she always plans the garden on paper first. She said with proper planning and a mixture of perennials and annuals, a garden will continue to flourish for an entire summer.

posted on 06/28/11