This is the big show for annuals. Summer months are when they get to show off. Since annuals only live one season, they bloom profusely in an attempt to set seed. Their goal is to see the next generation born.
From early spring until hard frosts in fall there are annuals that you can grow in your area. You just need to be aware of a few tips when purchasing annuals. There are some annuals that do best with cool, mild days. In some areas of the US they will bloom throughout the summer, due to the mild climate, however, the same annual planted in a hotter environment will either languish or die in the heat of the summer.
Other annuals love the heat and sun. These will not flourish in the milder climates, but will put on an amazing show in the hotter climates. You also need to look at humidity, because even some heat lovers, don’t care as much for humidity. In this case planting them in an area of the yard where they’ll get relief from the hot afternoon sun can keep them blooming throughout the summer.
It is a good idea to read up on annuals that do well in your area, before purchasing. Home improvement and department stores don’t necessarily send plants that are designed for your area of the country. So, to avoid disappointment, doing a little homework is worth it. You can also talk to employees at garden centers, as they know much more about the proper growing conditions for the plants they offer that non-specialty businesses.
Last, in order to keep those annuals blooming like crazy, don’t let them set seed. Since their sole purpose for blooming to perpetuate the species, if you don’t let them do it, they just keep trying. So, deadhead on a regular basis if you want continuous blooming out of your annuals. It is worth the little bit of effort it takes to clean the spent flowers.
