If you’re in the market for an annual flowering plant, you’ve probably been wondering what to buy. Some of the best choices include Petunia, Geranium, Calibrachoa, and Verbena. But which one is right for your garden? Continue reading to learn more about some of these popular flowering plants and how to care for them. Listed below are some helpful tips for growing annual flowering plants.
Petunia
Growing petunias is easy. Plants can be sown indoors when they have three true leaves. They are susceptible to pests that feed on the leaves and stems, such as whiteflies and aphids. These pests can be removed by blasting the plant with water, but in severe infestations, you may have to spray with insecticide. Petunias are susceptible to gray mold and fungal diseases. While petunias are easy to grow, there are certain issues that you should be aware of.
If your petunias are root-bound, they do not have enough space to grow. In such a case, you can replant them into a larger pot or ground. The sooner you replant your petunia, the better, as the earlier you plant it, the more chances you have of seeing blooms. You can also give your petunias protection from extreme temperatures.
Verbena
To grow verbena, prepare your container. Fill it with potting soil, leaving a few inches around the root ball. Set the plant in the sun, and water thoroughly. Keep a close eye on your verbena plants, as they are susceptible to powdery mildew and common insect pests. Apply insecticides as needed, and water your plants at the ground level to minimize the chances of fungal infection.
The genus Verbena is composed of 250 species of semi-woody perennials with a range of color. Its simple leaves can appear densely hairy. Verbena flowers are composed of five petals, and bloom from spring to fall. The foliage is attractive and fragrant. The flowers are large, and they bloom in clumps six to ten inches tall. They thrive in gardens and look fantastic in containers, and can be cultivated from early spring to autumn.
To grow verbena, amend the soil with compost or humus before planting. Verbena is hardy in most soils, though it prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH. Verbena is not fussy about soil type, but it will suffer from root rot and mildew if it grows in soil that is too compact or too clay-based. Ensure the soil is well-drained and moist during hot weather. If the soil is too dry, add compost to help the plant survive.
Calibrachoa
Calibrachoa is an annual flowering plant that is hardy in full sunlight and tolerates partial shade. This plant will thrive if grown in full sun, though it will bloom less profusely when it is in partial shade. It needs at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive, and should be watered once per week. If you are growing it in a pot, it can handle partial shade but will still suffer from low sun exposure and bloom less. Calibrachoa also needs a moderate amount of water per week, and soil should dry out completely between waterings. This plant is drought-tolerant, but still performs best if given adequate water.
Watering is not difficult for this plant, but make sure it doesn’t become water-logged. Water calibrachoa plants thoroughly only when the top inch of soil dries out. To find the soil moisture, stick a finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If the soil is wet, you can water it deeply. Once the soil has dried out, wait for the excess water to drain out of the pot.
Geranium
Annual geraniums bloom for about a month. They have vivid flowers, foliage, and can come in many different colors. Geraniums are toxic to cats and dogs and can cause vomiting, anorexia, depression, and dermatitis. Plant geraniums early in the spring. They won’t bloom again the following year. This plant will bloom its best during spring.
Propagation is easy with geraniums. Cuttings are easily made from the stems of an established plant. Cut the stems just below the stem node and place them in a moist potting medium. Remove any dead or diseased leaves or stems before planting. Place cuttings in a warm, damp location away from direct sunlight. If you’d rather grow your plants indoors, Geranium seeds are easy to grow and are easy to germinate.
Regal geraniums are popular and easy to grow. They have large, colorful flowers with striped ornamental edges. Big EZEE Pink stands out for its color and heat tolerance. It grows to about 10 inches tall and wide. Survivor Baby Face geraniums are a small variation of the regular geranium, with large, bold pink flower clusters. This type of geranium is a great choice for a shady patio or garden.
Marigold
The marigold is one of the most popular annual flowering plants, and is available in different color shades. The tallest marigold, Tagetes erecta, grows from one to four feet tall and has a two-foot spread. This plant’s blooms range from orange to yellow, with hints of red, gold, and copper. Its compact nature means that it can be grown anywhere and is quite low-maintenance.
Although the marigold is an annual, it is easy to care for and is pest-free. They will continue to bloom until frost. Some varieties of marigolds can be deadheaded to encourage new flower buds, but they are also drought-tolerant once established. To keep your marigolds looking their best, remove spent flowers and bury the stems deeply. Marigolds also produce seeds, which means that you don’t have to worry about deadheading them.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-grow plant, marigolds are one of the best choices. Marigolds are easy to grow and require little maintenance. Marigolds can tolerate moderate weeding. Just weed them every couple of weeks or so to prevent weeds. In addition, marigolds need good air circulation between the plants to avoid fungal problems. And remember that marigolds need a well-drained soil to grow.
Vinca
In a container, Vinca is an excellent choice because it has a compact growth habit. They trail about 2 feet, and they are easy to grow in containers. They can be propagated from cuttings that are taken in early fall and kept in water for the winter. They also make excellent nursery plants. The Mediterranean series is another popular variety for container gardens. Both varieties have large, contrasting flowers. This type of vinca is ideal for hanging baskets and containers.
A vine’s watering requirements are minimal, though they aren’t completely devoid of water. A 10-10-10 water-soluble fertilizer is suitable for this plant, and it shouldn’t need supplemental fertilizer if planted directly in the ground. The Vinca flower is drought-tolerant, but it will not survive too much drought. It will need to be fed more often in containers than in the ground, since they can leech nutrients from the soil as the water drains. A pinch-back pruning is effective for the Vinca plant to give it a fuller look and to remove new growth.
Zinnia
Zinnia is a sunflower plant genus in the daisy family. Native to the Southwestern United States and southern South America, they grow in dry grassland and scrubland. Their diversity is centered in Mexico. Because of their wide geographical distribution, they are used in landscape design as well as in culinary preparations. Learn about the many uses of Zinnia. You might even find it in your garden this summer.
Zinnias grow quickly from seed and transplant. They can be either short and bushy or tall and single stalked. They are prolific bloomers. The flower is shaped like a ring, and their foliage is green. These annuals like soil with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. They grow faster and larger when they have more of the latter. Zinnias grow best in full sunlight and thrive in well-drained soil.
The blooms of the zinnia are brightly colored and very attractive. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are often quite striking. Many varieties of zinnias come in contrasting colors. There are several varieties that range in color and form, including single, double, button, and cactus-flowered varieties. If you are not sure which variety to choose, start with the most popular, and find a good location for it.
Ageratum
Ageratum is a half-hardy annual flowering plant that is a good choice for gardens. Ageratum plants are best started indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost date. After they’ve been started, they should be transplanted outdoors when the soil is warm enough to handle them. They grow well in both full sun and partial shade but do not do well in very rocky soil.
It requires minimal watering, except during periods of extreme drought. Deadheading the spent blossoms will encourage re-blooming. Plants should be spaced eight to ten inches apart, and the holes should be large enough to accommodate their root ball. The plant is disease and pest-free as long as the soil is well-amended. However, they can become susceptible to powdery mildew if they are planted in humid climates.
Some of the most popular varieties are blue, white, and pink. Ageratum houstonianum is a popular blue annual. The flowers are dainty and feathery and cover the plant completely. It is a dwarf or upright plant that grows between six and 30 inches tall. Its flowers combine well with pink in the garden. There are also pink Ageratum cultivars, like ‘Lady’s Rainbow’, which has large, pom-pom-like flowers.
Angelonia
Angelonia is a heat and drought tolerant annual flowering plant. Its long bloom period and heat tolerance make it a favorite of gardeners. It is so well liked, in fact, that it was named one of the top 20 annuals of 2008 by Better Homes and Gardens magazine. And in 2009, it was named a Georgia Gold Medal Winner. Nevertheless, there are some problems associated with angelonia. To keep your plants healthy, use proper care and maintenance.
Its flowers are double-lipped and resemble a trumpet. The stems are pink and sturdy. The flowers bloom in late spring to late autumn. Their petals are lilac or lavender, and their leaves are lance-shaped with toothed margins. These annual flowering plants can be planted in groups or borders for scent and color. Angelonia is deer-resistant, and can be planted in late spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Impatiens
Impatiens is a mounding, perennial plant with striking blooms and glossy, dark green foliage. The flowers can range from white to a variety of jewel tones. The plant’s native habitat is under the canopy of tropical mountain forests where they grow in damp, filtered light. It is not drought tolerant, but it bounces back quickly after a long dry spell. In containers, impatiens can be grown in a variety of potting mixes.
The main problem with impatiens is the possibility of downy mildew. This disease is caused by fungus called Plasmopara obducens. This fungus can be transmitted through the air and water, so it is best to avoid infected plants and replace them with new ones. However, if infected impatiens are already in the soil, you might have to remove them from the garden and plant new ones.
Plant impatiens in a sunny location, but remember to water them regularly, especially during dry spells. Impatiens grow taller in late summer, so be prepared to prune them to keep them from becoming leggy. Also, if you notice that they have gotten leggy, you may want to prune them a little to encourage new blooms. Once the impatiens are mature, they will require more frequent watering.
Begonias
Begonias are easy to grow and are commonly found in garden centers and nurseries. Begonias are annual flowering plants and can be propagated by cuttings. Select stems that are several inches in length, but have not yet bloomed. Cut stems approximately half an inch below the lowest node and place in a container filled with water. Keep cuttings moist but not soggy. During the growing season, water your begonias once a month. Avoid over-watering, as this can cause root rot, while over-watering can lead to leaf spot. Begonias also require bright, filtered light and increased humidity.
Rex begonias are rhizomatous and are grown primarily for their beautiful foliage. These plants are best grown indoors, where their foliage does not get scorched by direct sunlight or too much fertilizer. Rex begonias are best grown as houseplants, but you can also grow them in containers. They will thrive in colder climates, so they are better for indoors.
Sweet potato vine
While sweet potatoes are edible, sweet potato vine is grown more as an ornamental. They are a versatile annual that can be used in containers as spillers and in the landscape as ground cover. They thrive in hot climates and can tolerate full sun or partial shade, as long as it does not get too hot. Plant sweet potato vines 10 to 36 inches apart, and you’ll have beautiful trailing plants in no time.
Once the vines are rooted, cut them back a third of their length to encourage bushier growth. Sweet potato vines need moist soil, so make sure you check them about once a week. You can also add fertilizer to the soil, but be sure to choose a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium. Fertilization is recommended monthly for the best results.
If you want to grow your own sweet potato vine, remember that it’s a vigorous plant and can easily grow out of control. Regular pruning is necessary for healthy, flowering growth. Sweet potato vine responds well to pruning cuts, and can even be pruned to achieve a specific shape or size. If you are looking for a unique plant, try starting a cutting from a mature plant. If you don’t have the time or patience to prune the vine every two weeks, you can start a new one from the cuttings.
Coleus
Coleus is a tender annual flower that thrives in the home garden, but you must take care not to overwater it. It prefers a pH of 6-7, and it needs plenty of organic matter. Fertilize your plant with a mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize your coleus regularly in the early spring and mid-summer to encourage the growth of new foliage. Watering should be done regularly, but don’t overwater.
Coleus grows in a wide range of soils and light conditions, but is grown in the shade, it is best. Mid-season fertilization is ideal for the most vibrant foliage, but it will tolerate some shade as well. You should avoid planting coleus where it is too wet because that may encourage the growth of disease-causing fungi and weeds. Alternatively, you can cut the flower spikes off to keep the foliage looking its best. For winter protection, you can move the plant indoors. Cuttings of coleus will root in water and grow the following year.
Because coleus grows in shade, it makes a lovely container plant. Its yellow or lime-green foliage is a great way to brighten up a dingy corner. Trailing coleus varieties can make great container fillers. Combine them with other plants to give your container a colorful look. Coleus is very low-maintenance, so you can buy a self-watering pot and forget about watering!
Snapdragons
The sweet-smelling flowers of snapdragons give off a sweet-smelling fragrance that is particularly noticeable on calm days or during walks through the garden. Snapdragons attract pollinators that can handle their large flowers but don’t attract rabbits or deer. While they are listed as edible flowers, they are more decorative than edible. In addition to their beauty, snapdragons attract bumblebees and are a welcome addition to any garden.
In cooler climates, snapdragons bloom more heavily and last longer. Watering is important during the growing season. Plants need six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive. Snapdragons also need a fair amount of water to stay healthy. In the early spring, they will bloom continuously for a long time and may continue blooming into the first frost. If watered properly, snapdragons can last all summer, and sometimes bloom into the fall.
The plant will survive some frost, but not deep freezes. Snapdragon seeds should be planted early in the spring. The plant may need to be exposed to cold for a week or two before planting, or it may need to be “hardened” by being placed outside for an extended period. If the snapdragons are not hardened to cold, they can survive temperatures up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures are below freezing, however, you must bring them indoors.
Ranunculuses
The perennial-like ranunculus is a cool-season annual that produces large, colorful flower heads. This plant is also known as the Persian buttercup. Ranunculus is an excellent choice for a variety of home decor projects. Its large flower heads make them excellent for decorating almost any room. The flowering plant is easy to grow in the ground. They like moist soil and full sun. They require little maintenance and need light watering on a regular basis.
For best results, ranunculus bulbs should be planted in the fall or spring. Soil temperature must be 50-60 degrees F. Seeds should be planted about two inches deep and 68 inches apart. Once the plants are sprouted, they should be placed in sunny borders. If possible, plant seedlings near the foundation of the house. This way, the blossoms are protected from wind and sun damage.
Larkspur
A beautiful flowering annual, the Larkspur can be grown in most garden soils. The larkspur is best watered in the early morning when the soil is dry. Watering early in the morning prevents soggy soil and allows excess water to evaporate before the plant dries out. Watering the plant too frequently can cause the roots to dry out and may also encourage the growth of the disease. Slowly water the Larkspur during dry periods to allow the roots to absorb the water.
Larkspur comes in a wide variety of color schemes. The ‘Blue Bell’ cultivar has spires that can reach four feet high. ‘Imperial’ and ‘Sublime’ have a range of spring colors. Larkspur is a drought-tolerant plant and is deer-resistant. However, the larkspur is not immune to pests and disease.
