is nothing more enjoyable than growing a flower or vegetable garden but unfortunately for those that live in seasonal parts of the country there is an end to the fun when the first frost comes. But have you ever thought about growing a garden indoors? It is very easy to do and doesn't cost much to do it either. Here are 5 super easy flowers to grow this winter:
1. Miniature Roses
Miniature roses can be grown in small spaces (4″-8″ pots) and will bloom continuously if the conditions are good. They come in various sizes so select one that is small enough to fit in your space. They need 6-8 hours of sunlight; Finding a window that faces south is the optimum location. They also need temperatures above 60 degrees, which usually isn't a problem indoors. Keeping the soil moist and the plant fertilized is important for continuous blooming. Clip the old blooms back to encourage new blooms.
2. Impatiens
These are one of the easiest plants to grow because they require little sunlight. In an outdoor setting, Impatiens can grow with indirect sunlight in average soil conditions so growing them indoors shouldn't be too much of a challenge. If you are transplanting your Impatiens from outdoors at the end of the season be sure to put them into a clean pot with fresh potting soil. Pick a spot where they can get several hours of indirect sunlight. Be careful not to over water as the stems will begin to weaken. Fertilize regularly to encourage blooming.
3. Hibiscus
Growing Hibiscus indoors is great if you have good sunlight. If you are bringing them from outside you may want to hose the stems and leaves down to remove dirt and insects. Also, remove any old blooms and trim back to within 6″ of the main stems. Be careful not to over water as insects tend to live in moist soil. Be sure and let the pots dry out completely in between waterings. There are several great varieties of hibiscus to choose from with lots of different colors and even double blooms. Finding a place in the house with good light is key.
4. Geraniums
Indoor Geraniums are great because they can tolerate full sun or a partially shaded environment. The more sun the better for flower production. Also, don't over water as this can lead to fungal growth with Geraniums. Geraniums store a lot of water in the stems so you can get away with letting them dry out in between waterings. Fertilize regularly for the best flower production.
5. Begonias
Grwowing Begonias indoors are great because they are well suited for the indirect lighting that most homes provide. Begonias do well in hanging baskets because of their trailers and usually being raised off of the ground provides some indirect light if placed near a window. Begonias need the soil to be moist but not soaked. Be sure and not let the soil get dried out between waterings as this can lead to stress on the plant. If you keep the dead flowers pinched off they will continue to bloom for months on end.
These are cheap flowers that provide great color all winter long in your indoor garden. A few other flowers to consider are listed below: African Violets, Christmas Cactus, Azaleas, Paperwhites (Tazetta narcissus)and Amaryllis. All it takes is a little time and effort and you'll have a great source of enjoyment all witner long!
My name is Carey Dodson and I am a landscape designer of 20 years. If you would like to learn some ways to grow and buy cheap flowers for any occasion then visit cheap flowers today!
