Difference Between Annual and Perennial Flowers

So you're looking to plant some flowers to brighten up your landscape.

Should you choose annuals or perennials?

Much depends on how much work you want to do. Annuals, as their name implies, only last for a year. You plant them in the spring, they flower in the summer and by fall that's it. They're over and you need to repeat the process next year. Sometimes they will seed themselves and you'll see a similar plant the next year. But a lot of annuals are hybrids, so it won't be the exact same plant if it does appear.

In contrast, perennials last for several years. Typically somewhere between two and five seasons. The flowering part of a perennial dies off at the end of the season and then, when spring comes round again, it grows again.

So you'll have less work to do if you plant perennials. But when it comes to planting your garden, you'll get more variety of color if you mix annuals and perennials.

While some plants, such as trees and shrubs, are obviously perennials, you should check out the version of some other plants you buy. Some flowers, such as sunflowers, come in both annual and perennial versions.

And just to confuse the issue further, some perennials only flower once. If you're not sure about the ones you're buying, ask your garden center or look up details on the internet before committing yourself. It won't take long and it will save you from making a mistake.

Learn more about annuals and perennials and get tips and tricks to keep your garden looking vibrant.




By Carl Walker