Adding color to the summer landscape with annual plants

Every spring I excitedly shop for annual plants to add to my landscape. What colorful flowers will make me happy? What plant combinations should I use this year? What is new? What about my dependable ‘old reliables’? Of course, I still enjoy the bulbs and perennials that faithfully return year after year. However, I depend on annuals that will add color to my landscape all summer long. 

A pop of color can draw the eye to an entryway, divert attention away from unattractive objects (such as utility boxes), provide an inviting environment to an outdoor living space or simply add interest to a mostly monochromatic landscape.

By definition, an annual plant is one which completes its life cycle in one growing season. It is possible to use a series of annual plants, based on their environmental preferences, to provide year-round color in the moderate climate of Middle Georgia. However, with flowering annuals, many displays that look good in mid-May will struggle in the harsh heat and humidity later in the summer. It is wise to consider which plants can continue to thrive when the going gets hot! 

Flowering annuals that are proven choices for color in the heat of summer are annual vinca, begonia, celosia, gomphrena, gaillardia, impatiens, pentas, portulaca, scaveola, verbena and zinnia. Some annual plants are grown for their unique leaf color or shapes, rather than showy flowers. In Macon, this would include selections such as a wide variety of colorful coleus and dusty miller. 

Most annual flowers can be started from seeds. However, this time of year using transplants from a local garden center may be a more practical choice. When shopping, look for compact plants with sturdy stems, many side branches and healthy green foliage. Avoid plants that have dropped lower leaves or have leaves with brown edges, leaf spots or evidence of insects on their undersides. When shopping for plants, it is important to note that a poor root system is a big red flag. Look for white roots that are well-developed but not ‘pot-bound’ within the pot. 

A word of caution — plants on the clearance rack at the garden center are seldom a bargain. They are likely in distress, may struggle when transplanted and may even introduce problems into the garden.

Pay close attention to the plant tag, which will provide information about the preferred growing environment, planting instructions and plant size. ‘Full sun’ is defined as at least six hours of direct sun per day, while ‘shade’ means up to four hours of filtered sunlight, preferably in the morning. Flowering plants need some sunlight to produce blooms. It is essential to match the plant’s preferences with site conditions for optimal
success.

Next week, I will give pointers on getting annual beds off to a good start and how to maintain them throughout the summer. 

For more information on growing annuals in Georgia, visit: extension.uga.edu/publications and search for ‘flowering annuals’.  If you have other gardening or landscape questions, call Bibb County Extension at 478-310-5350 or email us at bibb.extension@uga.edu.