Guide to Growing Annuals
Whether started indoors from seed or bought as young nursery plants, annuals are one of the most forgiving and rewarding categories for a new gardener to grow.
Starting from Seed vs. Nursery Plants
Starting annuals indoors from seed, six to eight weeks before the last frost, costs far less than buying nursery plants and offers a much wider variety selection. Buying started plants trades some of that variety and savings for instant color and a head start on the season, which suits gardeners short on time.
Whichever route you choose, most annuals want full sun, regular water, and well-draining soil to perform at their best.
Pinching back the growing tips of young annual seedlings, like petunias and coleus, encourages bushier, fuller growth rather than a single leggy stem.
Keeping the Season Going
Regular feeding, since annuals are working hard to bloom continuously all season, alongside consistent watering and deadheading, keeps most annual displays looking fresh right up until frost.
