A Lesson on Annuals vs. Perennials

It is finally our favorite time of the year. The weather is warming up, which means that we begin planting flower beds and gardens all over the mid-south at Rich-Way Landscape. At Rich-Way Landscape, we thrive on creating beautiful outdoor spaces for residential and commercial properties. However, we know that many people love to get their hands dirty and plant their own gardens and flower beds.  

If you are new to gardening, there are many things you need to know before you head to a garden center and purchase plants and flowers. You could waste your time and money if you do not plant correctly. Luckily, there are typically tags on each plant that share the name of the plant, whether it grows in the shade or needs full sun, and if it is an annual or perennial. In this blog post, we will help you understand the difference between annuals and perennials and help you determine which you should plant this season. 

Perennials 

Perennial plants and flowers are the best investment because they will sprout and bloom year after year. The above-ground portion of a perennial plant dies in freezing weather but re-grows in the spring due to its rootstock. They come in an endless array of colors, sizes, and textures. The most popular tend to be hostas, peonies, and daylilies. The perennial flowering season is shorter than annuals, so if you want to keep color in your garden going through the season, it is best to plant different varieties of perennials. Also, when purchasing perennials, keep in mind that certain ones will be high maintenance by needing to be clipped back often, while others actually thrive on neglect. You can plant them and leave them be throughout their season. 

Annuals 

Annuals only grow for one year, often from spring to fall, then die when we reach freezing temperatures. You may think it’s a waste of money to purchase annuals, yet there are several reasons to add annuals to your garden. For example: 

• Annuals bloom flowers faster than perennials. 
• Annuals are perfect for getting creative with your flower bed. By trying different annuals each season, you can determine your garden’s ideal color scheme and overall look. 
• Annuals last for more than one season. Perennials typically only last during spring or summer instead of both seasons. In contrast, annuals continue to bloom from Spring till the first frost in Fall. 
• Annuals have fuller and more vibrant blooming flowers than most perennials. 
• Annuals are perfect for when you have spots in your flower bed that could use a pop of color. 

Should I Plant Annuals or Perennials? 

The answer to whether you should plant annuals or perennials is simple, plant both! You do not need to pick one or the other for your garden. In fact, it is best to have a combination to reap the best of both plants. Then, when you mix the two types of plants, your garden will be lush and colorful from spring to fall. 

Landscape Service Near Me 

If you still aren’t sure you know what to plant, or maybe you do not have the time and energy, Rich-Way Landscape will happily assist you with creating a gorgeous garden and other landscape services.  We are an award-winning landscape company based in Collierville serving the mid-south, and we thrive on creating stunning and impeccable landscapes for our clients. When you are ready to take your lawn to the next level, contact us at (901) 853-9590.