Gardening and Horticulture - Need help planning a flower garden

Not sure really what to call it, but what i want to do is take about a six foot diameter circle in my front lawn, install edging, mulch, small rocks, some large rocks and some plants - hoping this "stew" will end up looking good. I have absolutely no skills at growing anything - i actually have a black thumb.

So what i am asking is this: Can anyone tell me if the below plan is wrong?

1) dig a six foot circle about six inches down, turning the soil.
2) Smooth out the earth and cover with black plastic.
3) install edging
4) bark much along the edging - about a foot or two in.
5) red rock in the center
6) large rocks (about the size of a large stew pot)
7) dig holes for plants - about 6 or 7.
8) throw in miracle grow, plants, cover with dirt, water.

Does this sound workable?

Going to do this tomorrow so any expediate help would be great!

Thanks

Dave Rimmer
independence missouri

Remove the sod/grass instead of just turning it under or, spray the grass circle with grass & weed killer a week before you plan to dig. If you don't kill or remove the grass you will have a hard time keeping it from growing through your landscaping.

I would use landscape fabric instead of black plastic. It will let water and air pass through which is much better for the soil and your plants and it will still prevent weeds from growing through.

Soil test will tell you what amendments need to be made. If not going to use herbicide to kill out grass in area, you can remove sod and dig to loosen soil. Wait a few days to see what sprouts and dig again. Add 3-4" compost and amendments. You will want to dig deeper than 6". 8-10" if planting annuals. 24" is best for perennials. Toss out debris and rocks. Proceed as instructed above. This method works well for beds with reasonably good soil. If soil is heavy clay, a raised bed works best.

Place taller plants in middle. Take into consideration size of perennials at maturity and allow adequate spacing. Select the correct plants for sun/shade conditions. Select plants that have the similar moisture needs, as well. Some plants like drier soil and some like more moist.

thanks guys - helps a lot - i live in missouri so my soil is more clay than not. So i will do a raised bed - i am thinking about 6-8 inches.

I do appreciate the advice - especially the flower placement.

Any idea's on what perrinneals i should use?

dave

Your local Cooperative Extension Service Agent can provide you with a list of perennials that do well in your area. A reputable green house can also be a wealth of info.

Missouri has multiple Growing Zones. Check the Zone Hardiness Map at http://www.growit.com/bin/USDAZoneMaps.exe?MyState=MO

You will need to purchase perennials that are hardy to your zone. Take into consideration size at maturity, color scheme, amount of care and maintenance. Too, you will want color throughout the growing season, so it is best to mix varieties so you will have early, mid and late season color.