Annual Mix-Up

Spring annuals are easy to grow and will bring life to your garden regardless of its size. They can also be grown in pots if you don’t have enough space. These are flowers that can either tolerate full exposure to the sunlight or part sun/part shade. All plants and flowers need the sun but only a few can tolerate its strength during the heat of summer.

Mixing up annual plants in your garden for the spring can be a great way to add variety and color to your outdoor space. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Consider the sun exposure: Make sure you choose plants that are suited to the amount of sunlight your garden receives. Some annuals thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial shade.
Choose a variety of colors: Mixing up annuals with different colors can create a visually appealing and interesting garden. You can also try to choose colors that complement each other or create contrast.
Think about plant height: When selecting your annuals, consider the height of the plants. Mix taller plants with shorter ones to create dimension and texture in your garden.
Choose plants with different blooming times: Select annuals that bloom at different times throughout the season, so that your garden always has color and interest.
Pay attention to soil quality: Ensure that the soil in your garden is suitable for the annuals you have chosen. Some plants prefer well-drained soil, while others thrive in damp soil.

By mixing up annual plants in your garden for the spring, you can create a beautiful and diverse outdoor space that will delight you and your visitors throughout the season.

Below is a table of some popular annual plants for sun and shade, along with tips for their care:

Annuals for Sun	Care Tips	Annuals for Shade	Care Tips
Marigold	Water regularly, deadhead faded flowers	Impatiens	Keep soil moist, avoid direct sunlight
Zinnia	Water deeply, provide support for tall varieties	Begonia	Keep soil moist, avoid direct sunlight
Petunia	Water regularly, fertilize every 2-3 weeks	Coleus	Keep soil moist, pinch back to encourage bushier growth
Cosmos	Water deeply, deadhead faded flowers	Fuchsia	Keep soil moist, provide some shade during hottest part of day
Sunflower	Water deeply, provide support for tall varieties	Caladium	Keep soil moist, avoid direct sunlight
Nasturtium	Water regularly, avoid over-fertilizing	New Guinea Impatiens	Keep soil moist, provide some shade during hottest part of day
Geranium	Water deeply, deadhead faded flowers, fertilize monthly	Browallia	Keep soil moist, avoid direct sunlight
Vinca	Water deeply, fertilize every 2-3 weeks, deadhead faded flowers	Torenia	Keep soil moist, provide some shade during hottest part of day
Lantana	Water regularly, deadhead faded flowers, fertilize monthly	Lobelia	Keep soil moist, avoid direct sunlight
Salvia	Water deeply, deadhead faded flowers, fertilize every 2-3 weeks	Brown eyed Susan	Water regularly, deadhead faded flowers

Salvia Plants Outdoors Greater Portland Area

Remember to always follow the specific care instructions for the annuals you choose, as they may have unique needs. Additionally, be sure to plant your annuals in well-draining soil and water them regularly, especially during dry spells. With proper care, your annuals will thrive and bring color and beauty to your garden.