HOW TO GROW ANNUALS

Annual Types

There are several types of annuals, each with distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different garden situations. Here are some common types of annuals and their key characteristics:

Hardy Annuals: These are annuals that can withstand light frost and chilly temperatures, making them suitable for early spring planting. Some examples of hardy annuals include sweet alyssum, calendula, and snapdragons.

Half-Hardy Annuals: These annuals are a bit more tender than hardy annuals and will not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. They are usually planted in the spring after the threat of frost has passed and can bloom throughout the summer. Some examples of half-hardy annuals include zinnias, marigolds, and impatiens.

Tender Annuals: These annuals are the most sensitive to cold and frost and are typically planted in the late spring or early summer when the weather has warmed up. They are often the most showy and colorful of all the annuals and can provide long-lasting blooms well into the fall. Some examples of tender annuals include petunias, geraniums, and begonias.

Self-Seeding Annuals: These annuals have the ability to drop their own seeds and reseed themselves for the following growing season, making them easy to maintain and a great choice for naturalized gardens. Some examples of self-seeding annuals include cleome, poppies, and sunflowers.

Choose The Right Site!

Choosing the right site for growing annuals is crucial to their success and overall health.

For instance, some annuals, such as zinnias, require full sun exposure (at least 6 – 8 hours per day) and thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Therefore, planting them in a shady area with poor soil quality could result in stunted growth and poor flower production.

On the other hand, other annuals, such as impatiens and begonias, prefer partial shade and require soil that is consistently moist (though well drained). If planted in an area with too much sun exposure and dry soil, these annuals may struggle to establish healthy roots and foliage.

SUN LOVERS: Garden annuals that require at least 6-8 hours of direct sun each day. If these plants get too much shade and not enough sun, they will perform poorly – leggy growth, weak stems and flop over.

SEMI SHADE or PARTIAL SHADE: Areas of the garden which receive some sun and some shade during the day. This is easier if the plants get morning sun and afternoon shade. If this area get morning shade and afternoon sun, it is safer to treat it as FULL SUN.

Light shade are those areas under large open-branched trees that receive soft dappled shade for most of the day. There is no sunshine but plenty of light.

It is important to research the specific needs of the annuals being grown and select a site that meets those requirements.

Growing Conditions

Soil Type – Annuals generally prefer well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with organic matter such as compost or manure to improve its texture and fertility. Good quality soil is essential if you want your annuals to look good.

Drainage – Good drainage is essential for healthy annuals, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and other issues.
If your soil is heavy or compacted, consider adding perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Planting annuals in raised beds or containers can also help ensure good drainage.

Raised Beds – Growing annuals in a raised bed can be a great option for those with poor soil or limited space. Raised beds provide better drainage and allow for greater control over the soil composition, making it easier to create the ideal growing environment for your annuals. To create a raised bed, you can use a variety of materials such as wood, concrete blocks, or even repurposed items such as old tires. Fill the bed with a quality growing mix that is rich in organic matter and has good drainage.

Annual Care

Watering – As a general rule, annuals require consistent moisture to thrive, but it’s important to avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot and other problems. The frequency and amount of water required will depend on the specific plant species, the soil type, and weather. In general, it’s best to water deeply and infrequently, rather than shallowly and often, to encourage deeper root growth. One way to check if your annuals need water is to stick your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry, it’s time to water. When watering, it’s best to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can encourage fungal growth. Instead, water at the base of the plant, using a soaker hose, drip irrigation system, or watering can with a gentle stream. It’s also a good idea to water in the morning, so that the leaves have time to dry before sunset, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing – Start out with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 to establish the plants, then use a phosphorus rich mix like 15-30-15 to encourage maximum flowering. Be careful not to over-fertilize as this can damage and kill the plants. Liquid fertilizers work great for annuals.

Mulch – Applying a 2 – 3 inch layer of organic mulch can help with overall plant health. It will keep the soil moist for longer in the summer heat and will help with weed suppression. Consider using a fine textured mulch which can be worked into the soil at the start of the following season providing organic benefit. Thicker wood chips take too long to decompose.