Planting annuals is the fastest way to ramp up a landscape without breaking the bank. Studies show well-maintained landscapes boost property values and attract more shoppers and diners to local businesses and restaurants.
Annual flowers pack a punch of color that will turn any landscape from “drab” to “fab.” While it’s true that they are planted in the spring and inevitably die in the fall when exposed to frost or extreme cold, the impact annuals make during those three-to-four months is undeniable. Let’s uncover the best practices of planting annuals.
Annual flowers fill bare landscaping spots for a lush, mature look and add texture, variety, and color that makes your property more memorable to clients, tenants, and visitors. The best annual displays include big blocks of bold color and raised planters at high visibility exit and entry points. These elements can help your display be visible from long distances and fast passing speeds.
When shopping for annuals at a garden center, look for a compact-sized plant with lots of buds—more buds at the garden center means more blooms in your landscape. Green foliage without spots or holes tells you the plants haven’t been affected by insects, and moist soil shows a properly watered starter plant.
Planting annuals are worth the investment; you just need to know where to plant them. There are several key placements for annuals that make certain you’re getting the most out of your plants. Some of these placements include:
Annuals are best planted right after the last frost, but they can be planted well into spring or until the hot, high-temperature weather hits. The earlier you plant annuals during the growing season, the more benefit you will receive with growth and color.
Some annual flowers require deadheading, while others require daily or weekly watering. The key is choosing the right type of annual for your location.