Garden Annuals When it comes to gardening, it is hard to beat the selection, color selection and low cost of annuals. Planting and enjoying a flower bed full of annuals is a favorite activity with both newcomers and experienced gardeners, and it is no wonder that so many gardeners continue to favor these wonderful plants.

While there are many different species of annuals to choose from, all annuals have one important thing in common. In order to be classified as a true annual, the plant must sprout from seed, bloom, set seed and die, all within a single growing season. In some parts of the country many varieties of perennials are used as annuals, but all true annuals will complete their entire life cycle, from birth to death, in one single season.

Annuals are further broken down according to their resistance to cold. For instance, those plants classified as hardy annuals can withstand a frost, and that makes them a perfect choice for late winter and early spring planting. There are many varieties of hardy annuals, and the staff at your local nursery can help you choose plants that are appropriate for your own area.

Half hardy annuals are able to withstand some cold temperatures, but in most cases they will not be able to withstand a hard frost. While these half hardy annuals can be planted in the early spring, they should not go into the ground until all danger of frost has passed.

Those working with tender annuals will need to wait until the soil has warmed sufficiently before placing the plants into the ground, as those tender varieties will not be able to tolerate any cold weather. Again, the staff at your local nursery or garden center can help you choose varieties of tender annuals that are right for your area, as well as give you pointers on when and how to plant them.

When choosing annuals for the home garden it is important to choose only the healthiest specimens. It is important to carefully examine all the plants for signs of disease and insect infestation, and to reject any plants that show such issues. Some things to look for include holes in the leaves, wounds on the stems or wilted flowers.

After you have brought the seedlings home it is important to get them into the ground as quickly as possible. If the weather has not yet warmed sufficiently it may be necessary to wait, but in general it is best to get the plants in the ground as soon as you can. After the plants have been put into the ground, it is important to give them a thorough and deep watering, and thereafter to follow the care instructions for each plant. Knowing what each flower needs, and providing it, is the best way to enjoy a season full of spectacular blooms from your annual garden.