Discovering flowers that grow annually can bring an abundance of color and joy to any garden. In this article, readers will find a comprehensive list of 21 beautiful flowers that return each year to brighten up their outdoor spaces. From delicate Lobelia to bold Zinnias, these tried and true favorites provide a wonderful foundation for any garden enthusiast’s plant collection.
Each of these 21 annual flowers has its own unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for a variety of garden settings and styles. Whether one prefers vibrant hues or more muted tones, there is a flowering plant to suit every taste on this list. Additionally, the flowers showcased here have varying levels of care requirements, making it easy to find options that align with individual gardening preferences and expertise.
Beyond aesthetics, these annual flowers also serve a variety of purposes: some attract beneficial pollinators, while others deter unwanted pests. Many of these plants also contribute to a healthy garden ecosystem, providing important support for other plants, wildlife, and the environment. So, without further ado, let’s explore these 21 captivating flowers that grow annually.
21 Flowers That Grow Annually
Annual flowers bring vibrant life and color to any garden. They are also popular choices for beginner gardeners, as they are easy to grow and maintain. Here are 21 annual flowers that you can include in your garden:
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a classic choice for beginner gardeners, as they are easy to grow and maintain. They require full sun and well-drained soil to thrive.
Petunias
Petunias come in a variety of colors, and they are perfect for adding a burst of vibrancy to your garden. They grow well in full sun and well-draining soil.
Marigolds
Marigolds are known for their bright orange and yellow blooms, adding a warm touch to any garden. They are easy to grow and can even help repel pests.
Zinnias
Zinnias are a favorite among gardeners due to their easy growth and varying sizes and colors. They also attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding life to your garden.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons come in a wide range of colors, and their unique shape makes them stand out in any garden. They prefer cooler climates and well-drained soil.
Pansies
Pansies are versatile flowers with a variety of colors and patterns. They can be planted in the spring or fall, and they thrive in cool conditions.
Sweet Peas
Sweet Peas are known for their highly fragrant flowers, available in various colors. They prefer loamy, well-drained soil and need support to grow.
Begonias
Begonias are low-maintenance flowers that come in a range of colors and shapes. They thrive in shady areas, making them perfect for gardens with limited sunlight.
Morning Glories
Morning Glories are fast-growing vines with trumpet-shaped flowers. They require full sun and can add height to a garden when given support to climb.
Cosmos
Cosmos are easy-to-grow flowers that come in various colors, including red, pink, and white. They require full sun and well-drained soil for optimal growth.
Salvia
Salvia is known for its tall spikes of colorful flowers, which are perfect for attracting pollinators. They require full sun and well-drained soil to thrive.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are not only known for their beautiful blooms, but also as an edible flower with a peppery taste. They grow easily and can even tolerate poor soil conditions.
Calendula
Calendula flowers are bright and cheery, blooming in shades of yellow and orange. They not only add color to a garden but also have medicinal properties.
Alyssum
Alyssum produces delicate clusters of tiny white, pink or purple flowers. These fragrant flowers attract pollinators and can be used as ground cover or in hanging baskets.
Cleome
Cleome, also known as spider flower, has unique blooms that make it stand out. It is easy to grow and adds height to any garden.
Dianthus
Dianthus boasts beautiful, fragrant flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. They can be used as borders, ground cover, or in containers.
Ageratum
Ageratum flowers in soft shades of blue, pink, and white. They can be mixed with other flowers to create a beautiful contrast in the garden.
Lobelia
Lobelia has delicate cascading flowers and is perfect for container gardens and hanging baskets. It thrives in cooler temperatures and requires moist soil.
Verbena
Verbena offers clusters of small flowers in various colors. They attract butterflies and are perfect for woodland gardens or as ground cover.
Dahlia
Dahlias are striking flowers that come in various shapes and sizes. They can be used as focal points in a garden and require well-drained soil and full sun.
Impatiens
Impatiens create a vibrant display of color, particularly in shady gardens.
Choosing the Right Location
When planning a garden filled with annual flowers, selecting the right location for each plant is essential. It’s important to choose a spot that caters to the light and soil requirements of the annuals selected. Understanding the best environment for your annuals will result in healthier plants and a more vibrant garden display.
Some annual flowers thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial shade. For example, Lobelia, with its rich white, blue, and purple blooms, can flourish in both full sun and partial shade. In contrast, sun-loving annuals such as red salvia require six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. Shade annuals like impatiens thrive in areas with minimal direct sun exposure. By knowing the preferences of each annual flower, you can ensure they will have a successful growth season and provide lasting color to your garden.
An essential factor to consider when choosing the right location for your annual flowers is the drainage of the planting area. Well-drained soil is crucial for preventing root rot and other diseases that can harm your plants. While some annuals, like Dahlia and Gerbera Daisy, thrive in well-draining soils, others like Ageratum and Chrysanthemum prefer moist environments to flourish. It is important to group plants with similar moisture preferences together to make watering and maintenance more straightforward.
Moreover, consider the mature size of the annuals and their growth patterns when planning the garden layout. Taller plants like Cosmos and Cornflower will need appropriate space to spread and prevent crowding, while creeping plants like Nasturtium and Morning Glory may need support structures on which they can climb.
Proper planning and selecting the right location for each plant can significantly increase the success of your annual garden. With careful consideration, you can create a captivating space filled with 21 different types of annual flowers bursting with color and life.
Soil and Fertilization
For annual flowering plants to thrive and flourish, it’s essential to focus on maintaining proper soil fertility and responsible fertilizer use. The right balance of nutrients helps produce a bountiful yield of attractive, high-quality flowers.
Commercial fertilizers have a guaranteed analysis, represented by three numbers (e.g., 3-4-3), which indicates the percentage of each major nutrient by weight. These three nutrients are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), and they play a crucial role in plant growth and health. For instance, nitrogen aids in leaf growth, phosphorus is vital for root development and flower formation, and potassium assists in overall plant strength and disease resistance.
When preparing the soil for annual flowers, be sure to:
- Conduct a soil test to determine the nutrient levels and soil pH. This information can guide you in choosing the appropriate fertilizer and amendments for your garden’s specific needs.
- Apply organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil structure and promote soil life. This also aids in nutrient retention and drainage.
- Choose fertilizers based on results from your soil test and the specific needs of your annual flowering plants. Some prefer a balanced fertilizer, while others may require more specific nutrient ratios for optimal growth.
During the growing season:
- Monitor your plants’ health and growth, adjusting your fertilization approach as needed.
- Fertilize according to label instructions; over-fertilization can lead to weak, leggy growth and even contribute to environmental contamination.
- If possible, use slow-release fertilizers or apply fertilizers in smaller, more frequent doses to provide a steady supply of nutrients without overloading the soil.
Watering and Irrigation
When it comes to watering annual flowers, it is essential to maintain a balance between ensuring the plants receive enough moisture and preventing excessive watering. The key is to observe the top inch of soil for signs of dryness. When the soil feels dry to the touch, it is time to water.
Annuals grown in containers tend to dry out faster than those planted in the ground due to their shallow root systems. In such cases, watering might be necessary every day, particularly during the warmer months. During the extreme heat of summer, container-grown annuals may require water more than once a day. Mulching can help retain some moisture even in container settings.
If you’re growing plants in outdoor containers, it’s important to give them a good watering at least once a day. It’s worth bearing in mind that soil in container gardens and flowerpots tends to dry out much faster than soil in garden plots or flower beds. This is especially true for smaller containers, which can lose moisture incredibly quickly. To keep your container plants healthy and thriving, it’s essential to stay on top of their watering needs.
When watering, make sure to drench the entire container to ensure that water reaches the full extent of the root system. Providing a deep watering encourages the development of strong root systems, allowing the plants to withstand periods of drought better.
Consistent watering practices, including paying attention to the time of day when you water your plants, can make a significant difference in the health of your annual flowers. In general, it is best to water early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize the rapid evaporation of moisture due to high temperatures.
Annual Flower Care Tips
Annual flowers are plants that complete their life cycle within one growing season. Here are some care tips to ensure these flowers bloom beautifully and thrive in your garden.
Firstly, make sure to choose the appropriate annual flowers for your area. Consider factors such as climate, sunlight availability, and soil type when selecting the right plants. Some popular annual flowers include African Daisy, Begonia, Blue Flax, Busy Lizzie, and Cardinal Flower.
Watering your annuals is essential for their health. The ideal watering schedule depends on various factors like the weather, container size, and the plant’s growth stage. Ensure the top inch of soil is moist but not overly wet. In general, annuals in containers may require daily watering, especially during hot summer days.
Feeding your annuals with the right nutrients helps promote vigorous growth and vibrant blooms. Choose appropriate fertilizers for your specific plants and follow the package instructions for application rates and frequency.
Mulching plays an important role in maintaining your annual flowers. It helps retain soil moisture and keeps roots cool, which is beneficial for shallow-rooted plants like annuals. However, be cautious while mulching, as it can also inhibit reseeding. Wait for volunteer seedlings to establish themselves before adding a layer of mulch.
Pruning and deadheading are essential steps in maintaining your annual flower garden. Regularly remove spent flowers and trim any overgrown or unhealthy foliage to encourage continuous blooming and healthy plant growth.
Finally, protect your annual flowers from pests and diseases. Monitor your plants for any signs of infestation or infection and take the necessary steps to treat and prevent these issues from spreading. Healthy plants will reward you with beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.