A hypnotic roadside oasis

Andrew Mangwarara

AS summer approaches, nothing expresses the vibrancy of the season better than adding annuals to your landscape. Annuals are generally plants that mature quickly and flower, fading within a single season.

The spectacle lies in their flowering period, as they bring excitement through the vibrant colours they display. There are countless annuals to choose from, including petunias, zinnias, dahlias, foxgloves, marigolds, alyssum, begonias, arum lilies, celosia and busy Lizzies.

While we cannot delve into the details of each one right now, there is a vast array of options to suit your preferences. To grow your annuals, you can start from either seeds or seedlings.

Seeds are generally cheaper, but require more time to establish. Conversely, seedlings are easier and faster to use in creating a beautiful garden. For optimal results, annuals need well-composted soil. Add well-matured compost to the planting bed and ensure the soil is well-drained.

Growing your annuals organically is always the best choice. Keep your plants weed-free and water them regularly. Adding potash in the form of ashes can be beneficial just before flowering begins. Once your plants start flowering, remove dead flower heads to encourage new growth. To conserve moisture, mulch your plants with dead leaves or grass.

On the highway to Bindura, the Virtutrade service station has revitalised the roadside fuelling experience with its use of green lawns and annuals.

This resting place is the result of effort and persistence in incorporating the right plants, such as annuals.

The beauty of annuals lies in their variety of colours, ranging from whites, reds, purples, blues, violets and pinks, to oranges and yellows.

Choose your preferred colours to blend with your design.

However, avoid having too many colours in one place. Keep it simple for a more harmonious look.

If you would like to be featured in our green-up campaign, contact us on: ataurai@ gmail.com or sundaymail @zimpapers.co.zw