Whether you’re planting a flower garden or a container garden, annual flowers and plants can add color to any space. Here are a few popular plants that you might try: Petunia, Nasturtium, Sweet Pea, California Poppy, and viola. Choosing the right annual for your garden can be tricky, but there are some plants that are easy to care for. Listed below are the benefits of these plants.
Petunia
The Petunia is an annual flower and plants. These plants usually go into dormancy at the end of winter. Cuttings can be taken from the flowering plants and placed in seed-starting medium or a well-draining container. A daily watering will suffice, though some plants require more frequent watering. The following are some helpful tips for caring for your petunias.
To care for your petunias in winter, you can place them in a bright window until the last expected frost date. Petunias need indirect, but supplemental light, and full sunlight once the last predicted frost date has passed. Once the last frost date has passed, the plant can be planted outside. In this case, you need to winter-harden it by placing it outside for an hour, then extending the period of time it spends outside.
The most common petunias are grandiflora and multiflora. Grandifloras grow up to six inches tall and have wavy blooms. Multifloras are less hardy, and their flowers tend to wilt in heat or rain. However, they can cover a large garden area within one growing season. These plants are best suited for containers, and they are available in a wide variety of colors.
Nasturtium
If you are looking for a beautiful flowering annual plant, consider Nasturtium. This beautiful plant grows well in poor soil and is drought-tolerant, but it also needs water to bloom. Water your Nasturtiums once a week, but more frequently if you have a sunny vegetable garden or a greenhouse. The seeds can tolerate a little drought, but they will probably not grow as well as you would like in a severe drought. If you are growing Nasturtiums for their flowers, it is best to choose a container made of clay or natural stone, which will have ample drainage.
The Nasturtium is an annual flower and is easily recognizable, as its flowers are funnel-shaped with five petals. Some varieties have double or even triple flowers, and all of them have a sweet fragrance. Nasturtium plants have lily-like leaves that are two to seven inches wide. The leaves are similarly shaped, and Nasturtiums are easy to grow. You can plant one or two plants in your garden.
Sweet Pea
The Sweet Pea is an annual flower and plant with long-lasting blooms and beautiful colors. Sweet pea flowers can last a week or more in a loose arrangement and are very fragrant. Sweet peas are best picked early in the morning, before the sun begins to heat up the stems. Pinching off the growing tips increases water-uptake and lengthens the flowering stems. Sweet pea flowers can be enjoyed by cutting them and displaying them in bouquets.
Sweet peas grow in long, bushy vines, but some cultivars can be planted as ground cover. Sweet peas are best planted near a sturdy support, such as a trellis or frame, as they need this to grow tall. The vines will grow up this support using tendrils, which are tiny ropes that cling to it. You can support your sweet peas with trellis or a teepee made of bamboo canes. Sweet peas will also climb up a chicken wire or a bushy twig. They will need regular watering, but once established, they’ll be a rewarding plant to grow and enjoy.
California Poppy
This drought-tolerant plant does not need much watering once established. Water it once or twice a week when the ground is dry or during periods of drought. Watering too much will result in mildew and mold on the leaves. Excess moisture can cause root rot. If you must water your California poppies, be sure to water only when the soil is dry and when the plants are young. Water the base of the plant if the ground is dry.
Another colorful annual that grows in similar conditions is the globe mallow, which has hollyhock-shaped flowers. This perennial grows between three and six feet tall, and can tolerate USDA zones five to 10. A beautiful contrast to the California poppy is the walking iris. It grows to be about 5 1/2 feet tall and two to three feet wide, and has fanning lower leaves. It is a great choice for a flower bed.
Marigold
While the marigold is not a weed, it can be susceptible to some common garden pests. Some are susceptible to bacterial leaf spot, powdered mildew, and root rot. Leaf miners and caterpillars are common problems as well. Marigolds are also good deterrents for several insect pests including mosquitoes, aphids, Mexican bean beetles, and squash bugs. Despite its high-pitched, pungent scent, marigolds do not attract rabbits and deer, which can make them desirable garden plants.
Marigolds produce flowers in mid-summer and continue to bloom until the first frost. Because they are an annual, they are susceptible to frost. Even if they survive a light frost, they will not survive a hard frost. Seeds of marigolds are easy to harvest for the next gardening season. To harvest the seeds, simply pull the plant’s pod and allow it to dry for a few days before storing.
Marigolds come in various sizes. You can find miniature varieties that grow under a foot tall and giant plants that reach four feet high and over six feet wide. The flowers of these plants are edible. Marigolds have many uses, from making salads to providing flavor in culinary dishes. Marigolds make excellent cut flowers and bloom between summer and the first fall frost. So, if you’re looking for a flower to decorate your home or garden, Marigold is a wonderful choice for your next garden project.
Alyssum
Alyssum is an annual flower and is considered a perennial in its natural habitat, but is treated as an annual in the United States. It is native to the Mediterranean and grows best in temperate climates. Alyssum is winter-hardy in some regions, but not in others. It reseeds readily, and seeds lie dormant in the ground over winter. Its perennial roots are a good choice for gardeners.
To grow alyssum in your own garden, start the seeds indoors several weeks before the last frost date. Then, transplant the seeds into a well-draining container after the danger of frost has passed. Alyssum grows quickly and profusely in spring and early summer. However, midsummer can be very dry and hot. Therefore, plant seedlings in a sunny area where they will receive light.
Alyssum is an easy to grow plant that requires little maintenance. It tolerates short dry periods but prefers consistent moisture. It can be prone to leaf blight and stem rot if the soil is too dry, but these are relatively minor. The plant will also self-seed and grow in an unfavorable area if you don’t control it. But despite these drawbacks, alyssum is an extremely low maintenance flower.
Lobelia
While lobelia is an annual flower, it is easy to keep alive with little care. As long as it receives sufficient sunlight and water, it is easy to grow. They do not need deadheading, but they do benefit from biweekly fertilizer. For the best results, water lobelia frequently in the summer, especially in hanging baskets. In addition, they need regular feeding, but not too much.
It is a hardy plant that can grow up to four feet tall. Annual varieties can reach up to fourteen inches tall, making them perfect for window boxes, hanging baskets, and patio or deck railing planters. This versatile plant is used in folk medicine and is suited for areas with partial shade. Lobelia needs well-drained soil with a pH of six to 7.5. Plant lobelia in part shade and provide filtered sunlight. In addition to that, lobelia prefers a soil pH of six to seven. For annual varieties, the soil pH should be slightly acidic. If the soil is acidic, sulfur-based fertilizers are effective and should be worked into the soil at planting time.
The lobelia can be propagated by seed. To start the seeds, plant them indoors in the spring or outdoors once the threat of frost has passed. In the early stages of spring, lobelia seeds germinate in 14 days if kept at 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Lower temperatures, however, can take longer to germinate. Indoor sown lobelia seeds can take two months to grow to maturity. After the last frost, transplant the seedlings in a sunny window.
Calendula
When planting your calendula, choose a sunny location with good drainage. This perennial flower grows best in soil that is well-drained and contains plenty of organic matter. In general, this flower tolerates a wide range of soil pH, but prefers neutral to slightly acidic conditions. Although calendula is a hardy annual, it needs occasional watering and prefers cool summer temperatures. If your climate is particularly dry and hot, your calendula may not survive.
In addition to their culinary uses, calendula is beneficial for pollinators. Ladybugs, which feed on the undersides of the leaves, are drawn to the calendula’s sweet nectar. These insects can stay for two hours to reproduce, resulting in crinkled or curled leaves. Calendula is a great companion plant for tomato plants and potatoes because it deters pests that attack these crops.
To start a new crop, you can either start seeds indoors under grow lights about three to four weeks before the last frost. If you don’t start your seeds indoors, you can sow them outdoors in a seed tray about 6 weeks before the last frost. If you’re growing calendula in your garden, make sure to water them often during the first couple of weeks of growth. Planting them in your garden can increase your calendula harvest, as they are known to self-seed. You should watch for seedlings, as they can be mistaken for weeds.
Cosmos
Cosmos are annual flowers and plants that self-sow readily in the garden. They produce multiple flowering stems near the top of the plant. To ensure that you get a full display of flowers, plant the cosmos with its last leaf node above the soil line. Plant the cosmos in a shallow container, and use a sharp pencil to make a shallow hole in the soil. Insert the plant into the hole, making sure to bury the plant roots so the leaves are not exposed. Firm the soil around the plant, and water the cosmos after planting it to ensure the roots have a chance to settle.
You can plant Cosmos in a mixed border or a singular mass. Tall plants look gorgeous in informal flower beds, while shorter varieties make lovely window boxes and containers. Cosmos are tender annuals and will not survive light frost, but they will bloom throughout the summer. These plants thrive in a hot, dry climate with a bit of shade. They prefer full sun, but they will tolerate partial shade as well.
Zinnia
The genus of sunflowers and daisy plants is known as Zinnia. They are native to dry grassland and scrubland in the southwestern United States and southern South America, with a center of diversity in Mexico. This species is widely distributed throughout the world, but is particularly popular in North and South America. The flower is a popular seasonal bloom in both warm and cold climates, and is often used as a cut flower.
To enjoy the blooms of zinnia, be sure to plant seeds every few weeks. Planting seeds every week can help them spread out. After they are established, deadheading the blooms will encourage new flower growth. The flowers will last until the first frost in the fall. Zinnias require very little care, but you should be aware that they will need regular watering during the summer.
The creeping zinnia, is an annual flowering plant native to western and northern Mexico. It grows eight to 16 inches tall and is named after Johann Gottfried Zinn, a German botanist. Zinnia is best grown in sunny, well-draining soil, so make sure to add some compost to the soil before planting. Zinnia is a drought-tolerant plant, and deer rarely damage it.
Sunflower
A common sunflower, or ‘common sunflower,’ is a large annual forb of the genus Helianthus. The seeds are edible and are grown primarily for their oil. The plant is also widely used as livestock forage and for wild birds. It is also used as an ornamental plant in domestic gardens. Here are some useful facts about sunflowers. Despite its common name, the plant is actually quite diverse.
Sunflowers exhibit heliotropism, which means their flowers turn to face the sun during the day. Several varieties, including Helianthus angustifolius ‘Gold Lace’, ‘Flore Pleno’ and ‘Lemon Queen,’ grow to between six and seven feet tall and produce masses of two to four inch yellow flowers. These flowers require full sun and fertile soil with deep, infrequent water. Sunflowers are prolific seed producers.
Dwarf sunflowers are more compact and colorful than their larger counterparts. They can grow to 36 inches tall and produce flowers within 60 days. They are good for late-spring planting, short-growing seasons, and containers. Eden Brothers sells dwarf sunflower plants in packets. These plants are actually cultivars of Tithonia rotundifolia, a subspecies of sunflower. The dwarf sunflower, also known as the “Pink Moon,” is an annual that grows to only 36 inches tall and 1.5 feet wide.
Begonia
The Begonia, a perennial flower and plant, is a popular choice for gardeners. This annual is known for its showy foliage and graceful habit. Begonia grandis, for example, has pink, white, and red flowers. These plants bloom profusely from early summer until frost, making them an ideal choice for garden beds. Be careful not to overwater or fertilize, as it is very sensitive to these factors.
Begonias prefer to grow in part shade or full sun. However, planting these plants in full sunlight will make the soil too dry and leave them prone to disease. If you are planning to grow your Begonias in full sun, it is best to choose a location with dappled shade. They can tolerate higher temperatures, as long as they are not too hot, but a full sun spot will lead to rotting roots. If you plant your Begonias in full sun, make sure to keep the soil slightly moist to avoid rotting.
Once the tuber is ready for planting, prepare the planting medium for it to maintain its ideal temperature. Ideally, the soil temperature should be between 18 and 21 degrees Fahrenheit. Begonias can also be grown from seed. To propagate them, you need to mix the seed with soil, and place it in a warm room. Alternatively, you can plant them in a grow light in a warm room.
Celosia
If you are a beginner at growing plants, celosia is a great choice. Their flowers last well after being cut, and they can even be dried for longer enjoyment. For best results, cut flowers should be arranged by day and hung from the drying line in the evening. Water your plants regularly, but avoid over-watering them. Celosia plants like moist, well-drained soil and moderate water. Although they are tough and tolerant of most conditions, they are susceptible to aphids and spider mites.
To grow celosia, you can plant it by using a seedling mix that contains a high percentage of perlite or peat moss. Be sure to use a quality potting mix, as celosias grow best when moist. For best results, avoid planting them in the morning because morning dew may cause mold to develop. After the plant has grown in a pot, you can transfer it to a final container and allow it to root. The process should take approximately three to four weeks.
Geranium
The Geranium is an annual flower and plant that thrives in average to cool temperatures. For best results, plant your geraniums outdoors only after the danger of frost has passed. Some newer cultivars tolerate heat better than others. To make growing annual geraniums easy, follow these steps:
Water regularly. Geraniums require low water requirements, but they do need regular watering. If you’re not certain about how much water your plant needs, feel it first. It should feel moist, but not cool. You can set your geraniums in a sink to avoid a mess. You can also put the pots on saucers to protect your furniture from dripping water. Don’t use saucers made of unglazed clay, as the dampness will damage the wood. Water your geraniums frequently, but don’t over-water them.
To grow your geraniums, start by taking stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants. Then, remove the top leaves and plant in sterile potting soil. Ensure the soil is well-draining and organic. The geraniums will grow in three feet. You can also buy established plants from local nurseries. A transplanted geranium needs to be planted in a well-drained, organically rich soil. A potting mix is a good choice for this.
Impatiens
Impatiens is an annual plant and flower that produces an amazing amount of blossoms. They thrive in filtered shade and will bloom continuously from spring to fall. They need at least two or three hours of sun in the morning and shade in the afternoon. A regular fertilization schedule will ensure that impatiens bloom all season. Keeping their roots moist is essential for healthy blooming.
The downy mildew problem has caused many breeders to develop resistant varieties. New Guinea impatiens, for example, are resistant to this disease and grow to be quite large. However, some of the New Guinea impatiens are susceptible to mealybug, aphid, and spider mites. However, the mildew is more likely to affect standard impatiens than others. As with most plants, proper growing conditions can prevent the onset of these diseases.
When planting impatiens in containers, be sure to use fresh soil to prevent root rot. If the foliage turns yellow, over-watering may have caused the plant to become leggy. If this happens, reduce the watering or use horticultural oils to protect the plant. Impatiens can also grow quite tall, so occasional pinching and pruning is recommended to prevent them from growing leggy.
Snapdragons
While a perennial plant, Snapdragons are often mistaken for annuals. These flowers typically bloom during their second growing season, and many of their herbaceous parts are above ground. These parts die back during the dormant season, and return once the days start to get longer. Annual plants, on the other hand, complete their life cycle in just one growing season. To prevent problems, treat your Snapdragons with a fungicide or insect repellent.
Snapdragons grow well in sunny, partially-shaded flowerbeds. During the growing season, they require at least six hours of direct sunlight. Watering is essential throughout the summer. Deadheading flowers can prolong the blooming season, which can be into the first frost. Because Snapdragons are so long-lived, they will often repeat blooming throughout the season. In cooler climates, they’ll bloom through the summer, and can even persist through the winter depending on the location.
A snapdragon’s long, spiral-like flowers create a pleasing fragrance. These flowers also attract pollinators. When the petals open and close, the pollen bursts from the inside. Their lanceolate leaves are also in spiral patterns. The botanical name of a snapdragon is Antirrhinum majus, which means ‘like a calf’.
Million Bells
The beauty of Million Bells annual flowers and plants lies in their low maintenance. Their flowers bloom all season long, and the plants can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Deadheading is an important maintenance task, and this helps redirect energy from the plant to the flowers. This plant can also be pruned back in summer, to promote new growth. This low maintenance annual flower has an abundance of color and is a must-have for gardeners.
When you purchase a Million Bells plant, be sure to read the care instructions carefully. This annual flower needs full sun for maximum blooming, although afternoon shade may affect its blooming. Watering should be minimal, but not enough to drown the roots. A finger test can determine how often to water. A mild drought will not affect your Million Bells’ growth. If you’re concerned about moisture levels, consider transplanting the plant into a larger container.
Vinca
Vinca annual flowers and plants are drought-tolerant and need regular watering. Water them about one inch a week, and avoid watering them in the late evening or early morning. Overwatering them can cause damage. Water them early in the morning to prevent fungal disease and leaf spot. Keep them well-lit in sunny locations to avoid fungus problems. When in doubt, consult a professional to prevent pests and disease.
Because annual vincas are native to Madagascar, they do well in hot, summery climates. They prefer full sun, but can also grow in part shade if the soil is well-drained. Also, vines in part shade need good air circulation to prevent fungal problems. Annual vinca are drought-tolerant, but if the leaves curl, they need water. If watering is difficult, water them at the base of the plant rather than overhead. They don’t require deadheading and can be kept out of cold or overly wet areas.
A few varieties of vinca are perfect for garden containers and hanging baskets. Cora Apricot is a sturdy variety with apricot-colored blooms with a red center. It grows 14-16 inches tall, and thrives in full sunlight. Another variety of vinca is the Cora Cascade Magenta. It grows six to eight inches tall and spreads two to three feet wide. It is disease and heat-resistant, and flowers continuously throughout the summer.
Portulaca
Despite their name, portulaca is an annual plant that prefers full sun. While they can also be grown as half-shaded perennials, they don’t tolerate too much water. Plant them in an area that receives plenty of sun and provide ample drainage. Water them once or twice a week during the growing season. During the winter, they can survive in partial shade and are not susceptible to frost. However, if you plant them in the fall, they won’t flower until the following year.
Among the benefits of portulaca is its ease of care. It doesn’t require much maintenance and produces bright, colorful blooms. Because portulaca is tolerant of neglect, it is a great plant for anyone no matter their gardening experience. Its versatile blooms are a bright reminder of summer’s arrival and make it an ideal choice for the beach or a sunny location. Listed below are some of the most common characteristics of portulaca flowers and plants.
Scarlet Sage
The scarlet sage is a dramatic annual that thrives in dry climates. It is a good choice for borders, containers, and mixed flower beds. This plant’s high, slender growth will add height to a mixture. During the warm summer months, scarlet sage will bloom profusely. You can plant seedlings indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost. To ensure a long blooming season, plant scarlet sage in the spring.
This plant is native to Mexico and is commonly found in the southeastern US, Central America, and northwestern South America. It has a distinctive smell that repels pests. It is also hardy to zone nine and above. As an annual in zones six to eight, scarlet sage grows very quickly. It can be pruned at the beginning of the growing season to encourage more blooms. The plants bloom continuously for the rest of the summer, so they’re worth the work.
The variegated sage is another interesting member of the culinary sage family. It has chartreuse-edged leaves on top and purple-blue flowers on the stems in late spring. It is widely grown as a flowering plant for both its foliage and ornamental appearance. You can also choose a perennial form for colder climates. These plants grow to a height of 24 inches.
Stock
Stocks are popular plants that produce bright, fragrant flowers. They grow best in cool weather and are tolerant of light frost. Plant them in winter to get early spring blooms. Despite the name, Stocks have few pest and disease problems. They can be treated with fungicides and insecticides. In hot climates, they may need afternoon shade. If you want to avoid this problem, follow these tips.
Once established, stock flowers need little care. They only require water during dry periods, but they do require fertilizer once a month. Deadhead them once a month to encourage new growth and an extended bloom period. While stock flowers do not typically suffer from disease and pests, it is recommended to treat them with insecticides during the growing season. If necessary, fertilize your plants as needed. If you’re looking for a flowering plant, stock flowers require little care once they’ve established themselves.
The botanical name of stock is Mathiola incana. Its blue-green leaves resemble tiny cabbage leaves. Evening-scented Mathiola varieties are also available. Both varieties have flowers that are about half an inch in diameter. These plants can grow as high as three feet. If you’re looking for an early-season filler plant, consider the stock. And don’t forget about their attractive fragrance! They’ll brighten up your garden in no time.
Sweet William
Plants with Sweet William blooms are reliable and beautiful. Sweet William can flower in the fall or spring, but it is important to know if it will bloom this year before you purchase seeds or plant your plants. Even though Sweet William seeds and plants are marketed as annuals, they may not live up to their promise. They may only bloom their first year, or they may bloom two years later, depending on the variety and local climate.
Sweet Williams can be planted in a variety of locations, including the border, edging, rockery, window boxes, and patio pots. Low-growing varieties can be planted in sunny locations for a splash of color throughout the summer. Taller varieties can be planted in rows or drifts in perennial beds to fill in gaps. Taller varieties are also useful in a butterfly garden because their long, sturdy stems add beauty and color to flower arrangements.
Nemesia
The genus Nemesia includes many annuals, perennials and subshrubs native to disturbed ground and sandy coastlines of South Africa. Hybrids have been selected and widely grown as bedding plants. Despite their native range, the genus is widely cultivated for their attractive flowers. Here are some tips on growing Nemesia in the home garden. Use: Nemesia in your garden as a bedding plant. It blooms throughout the year.
Planting: Nemesia are easy to grow. Plant seeds in the beginning of March, and then transplant the seedlings to a permanent location in May. Alternatively, take a cutting from the plant at its base in the spring. Cut the stems to approximately six inches long. Water a little after you’ve cut them back. It’s best to feed Nemesia plants at least twice a year with water-soluble fertilizer.
Care: Nemesia annual flowers and plants stay low to the ground, spreading about 30cm. They can be grown in a container, hanging basket or as bedding in front of borders. Their range of shades is exciting: bright yellow, scarlet red, purple and even white. The blooms are delicate, and their scent is sweet. Nemesia is a perennial plant in USDA plant hardiness zones nine to 11.
Pansy
Pansy annual flowers and plants provide a welcome splash of color to your perennial borders. The plants are bred to be hardy and frost tolerant, so you can plant them without worrying about damage. Smaller varieties are also great for gardens with a lot of rain and fog, because they do not fold over themselves as much. The small ones can also be planted in planting beds or border walkways. They are edible and can be frozen for later use.
Ideally, pansies should be planted in fall or early winter. They can tolerate winter temperatures if planted in early fall, but they will need extra care during the colder months. In warmer climates, planting in late September or early October is fine. In zones 4-7, however, planting early is important. In a temperate climate, planting in late October or early fall is fine. Pansies will need extra care during the winter, so it is better to plant them in September rather than late October.
Verbena
If you’re looking for a long-blooming, heat and drought-tolerant perennial that’s easy to grow, verbena is a good choice. This plant has deeply cut, narrow, lance-shaped leaves and angular or square stems. Several varieties of verbena are good choices for container gardens and hanging baskets. In addition, there are shrubby varieties, such as Verbena bonariensis, which grow to about 6 feet tall in southern regions. The clustered flowers of Verbena are attractive to all types of pollinators, including butterflies.
While verbena is a fuss-free plant, it does have a few common problems. Some common ones are low light, poor drainage, and over-watering. Plants with poor air circulation may also be prone to disease. Powdery mildew, for example, is a white powdery substance on the leaves and tends to affect plants under stress. Plants with poor air circulation are more susceptible to botrytis blight, which results in brown flowers and leaves. In addition, verbena plants are resilient, and can be transplanted once they have recovered.
In the spring, leave the soil untended and your verbena plants will naturally spread from their roots. This plant is a workhorse in containers and beds. Verbena grows best in full sun. Part-shade will increase the risk of insect and powdery mildew, as well as causing little flowering. So, keep them out of the shade as much as possible and enjoy their cheerful disposition.
Flowering Kale
You might have heard of the Flowering Kale, an annual with colorful foliage. However, once it has completed its growing season, it loses its ornamental value. While the plant has colorful leaves, a long stalk, and yellow flowers, it is best to replace it with a heat-tolerant annual. The flowering kale plant can be kept in its original container, or you can transplant it into a larger container if you prefer.
This hardy perennial is a close relative of ornamental cabbage, but does not form heads. It is also part of the Acephala family, and cultivars develop their own distinct colors as the temperature drops. Blue-green cultivars like Lainato are edible, and others, such as the pink-centered White Peacock, are ornamental. Flowering kale is best grown when temperatures fall below 50 degF.
You can buy this ornamental kale from most nurseries. You will need to buy them in a 1-gallon pot, since they do not grow much in smaller containers. These flowering kale plants are very colorful and beautiful, and they can also be used in cooking. These plants are great companions for fall flowers. So, if you’re in the market for a beautiful plant, why not give it a try?
The Flowering Kale is an ornamental kale plant, and its name refers to the colorful center leaves of the flowering variety. Its leaves are crinkled and feathery, and it can be used as a decorative plant. Flowering kale is a perfect addition to any vegetable garden. Its leaves make great arrangements, and can be used as a border in a container.
African Daisy
African daisies are native to Africa and are easy to grow in most soil types. They prefer loose, light soil with a pH of 5.0 to 6.0. They tolerate drought and can grow well in sand and chalky soil. Watering the African daisy every two to three days is all it takes for it to germinate. Once it has germinated, the plant will need little more attention. Its short, delicate blooms will last for about two months.
Plant your African daisy in early spring, when the last threat of frost has passed. The African Daisy can tolerate light shade, but it will produce fewer flowers. The African Daisy is drought-tolerant once established, but it needs about an inch of water a week. During long periods of drought, the plant may go dormant, so make sure your soil has good drainage and organic matter. Deadheading will encourage reblooming.
Insects and diseases are minimal on African daisies. They are resistant to most insect pests, except aphids, which feed on the plant’s foliage. During these times, you can treat the whiteflies with fungicides or sticky traps. Insects, like aphids, may also attack your African daisy. Insecticidal soap can be applied to control the problem.
Cornflower
The cornflower, also known as bachelor’s button, is an annual plant that features feathery blooms and gray lance-shaped leaves. It grows anywhere from one to three feet tall and spreads about twelve inches. Although its name may suggest blue, the plant can also come in a variety of other colors. Among these colors are red, yellow, purple, and white. Read on to learn about these beautiful flowers and plants!
This drought-tolerant annual flower is easy to grow. A great choice for a child’s garden, cornflowers are easy to grow and are great for cutting and drying. There are several cultivars to choose from, including dwarf varieties. As cornflowers are short-season bloomers, they should be harvested early in the morning for optimal nutrition and energy. If you do not have a garden, consider replanting annuals in containers to extend their blooming season.
Cornflower is an annual flower that can be grown from seed. The plant is easy to grow and is highly successful when planted several times throughout the growing season. Start cornflower seed indoors in early spring and transplant it outdoors after the danger of frost is past. Seeds should be planted in fresh soil about half an inch deep and lightly watered. You can start the seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost. For best results, choose a location where cornflower seeds are hardy and not susceptible to frost.
Flax
Growing Flax in your garden can be rewarding – it can provide you with beautiful flowers, as well as delicious food. Flax is a perennial that is both drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. But care must be taken to avoid plant diseases. One common pest is Fusarium oxysporum, which affects the roots and water uptake. Infested plants will die or wilt. Symptoms are most apparent during warm weather and may appear on young seedlings. You can also try to destroy infected plants to prevent further infection.
Once established, flax annual flowers and plants don’t need a lot of water, though they can still benefit from supplemental irrigation during dry weather. Water the entire plant, rather than individual parts, to make sure that the plant doesn’t dry out. While flax flowers will survive even in a dry climate, water should be withheld during their growing period until the seeds are mature. Once established, flax will not need much water, but regular watering will keep them healthy and weed-free. Also, you may want to use a soaker hose when watering flax plants, as it can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Six Hills: Another variety, this flax plant is native to central and eastern Asia and has rich blue flowers. It grows about two feet tall and 1 foot wide, with narrow, blue-green leaves and branches that branch. In the late spring and early summer, the flowering plant has branching clusters of blue flowers. Once the flowers fade, the plants close. A variety of flax seeds can be purchased at American Meadows.
Poppy
The poppies are an annual flower and plant that ranges in height from less than an inch to more than 20 feet. They are widely cultivated for their edible seeds, papery petals, and sculptural form. The seeds of somniferum poppies are edible and can be ground up for baking and culinary delights. Their milky latex is highly valued for its use in medicine. The World Health Organization lists morphine among essential medicines.
Seeds of poppies are usually best sown in spring, early summer, or autumn. Make sure that the soil is prepared well and is well-drained. They need full to part sun. You do not need to add any additional amendments to the soil to grow poppies. Seeds are so tiny that some people mix them with sand and sprinkle them on the soil, but they must receive adequate light to germinate.
Unlike other plants, poppies do not need to be deadheaded or staked. Once they have finished flowering, simply shake the flower to release its stubborn seed. You can also compost them once they have finished blooming. If you choose to harvest them, be sure to save the seed pods to continue the cycle of the poppies. They also do not last long in a vase. Instead, they will fade after a couple of days.