Annual flowers bring instant color and curb appeal. But here in South Louisiana, they work harder than most people realize.
Between intense sun, high humidity, and long stretches of heat, annuals burn through nutrients and water fast. Without the right fertilizing and watering plan, even healthy plants can fade quickly.
The solution isn’t complicated. It just takes consistency.
Why Annuals Need More Attention in Louisiana
Our growing season is longer and hotter than most of the country. That means:
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Faster growth
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More blooms
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More watering
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Faster nutrient loss
Heavy rain and frequent irrigation wash nutrients out of the soil. When that happens, plants get hungry sooner than expected.
If you’re seeing yellow leaves, fewer flowers, or slow growth, they likely need feeding.
What Fertilizer Works Best
Slow-Release Granular Fertilizer (Your Foundation)
Start with a balanced slow-release fertilizer at planting.
Look for:
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10-10-10
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12-6-6
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Or a balanced flower and garden blend
These feed steadily for 6–8 weeks, which is ideal for landscape beds. In Louisiana, this steady feeding is important because nutrients wash out quickly.
Liquid or Water-Soluble Fertilizer (For Extra Performance)
Liquid fertilizer works fast and boosts blooms during peak growing season.
Use:
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20-20-20 for balanced growth
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15-30-15 for bloom support
This is especially helpful for containers, hanging baskets, and heavy bloomers struggling in the heat.
When to Fertilize
At Planting (Early Spring)
Incorporate slow-release fertilizer into the soil or apply around new plants.
Every 6–8 Weeks
Reapply granular fertilizer to replace nutrients lost from rain and irrigation.
Every 2–3 Weeks (Optional Boost)
Use liquid fertilizer if plants look tired or bloom production slows.
Watering Matters Just As Much
Fertilizer alone won’t carry your flowers through Louisiana summer.
Too little water stresses plants. Too much washes nutrients away and can cause root issues.
Follow these basics:
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Water deeply, not lightly
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Water early in the morning
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Avoid daily shallow watering
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Add 2–3 inches of mulch
Deep watering encourages stronger root systems, which helps plants handle summer heat much better.
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Blooms
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Deadhead regularly
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Use mulch to hold moisture
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Avoid over-fertilizing (too much nitrogen = more leaves, fewer blooms)
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Choose heat-tolerant annuals that perform well locally
A Simple Plan That Works
For most homeowners:
✔ Slow-release fertilizer at planting
✔ Reapply every 6–8 weeks
✔ Liquid fertilizer as needed
✔ Deep, consistent watering
Stick to that plan and your annual beds can stay full, colorful, and healthy from early spring through peak Louisiana summer heat.