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With warmer temperatures many people are beginning to plant annual flowers and vegetables and for optimal performance there are some things to keep in mind. Horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach recommend selecting short, stocky plants with dark green foliage, as small to medium-sized transplants become established in a garden more quickly than large ones.

Plants that were started indoors or purchased from greenhouses need to be acclimated to outdoor growing conditions before being planted into gardens. Place the plants in a shady, protected site, then gradually expose them to longer periods of direct sun. Water the transplants thoroughly when the soil becomes dry to the touch. The transplants should be ready to plant after six or seven days. It is recommended to plant annual flowers or vegetables in the garden in the evening or on a cloudy day, to lessen stress to the plants.