Anyone who grows, or is considering growing their own flowers in their gardens or in plant pots needs to consider whether they are going to grow perennial flowers or annual flowers. A professional or experienced gardener will know what the difference is. However, an amateur or a beginner will not, and that is where this article comes to the rescue.
In this article, I will be discussing the difference between perennial flowers and annual flowers, and as the title suggests, specifically talking about flowers.
Perennial flowers or plants are flowers and plants that can survive for a few growing seasons e.g. plants that grow during spring, summer and autumn. As the name suggests, annual plants and flowers can live their whole live in a year and the start fresh. They can basically grow all year round, making them a very popular choice amongst gardeners.
If you are a beginner, starting off by growing annuals is highly recommended, since they tend to bloom straight after they are planted. They are also a lot easier to plant in terms of growth requirement. Just as all flowers, annuals require light, water and nutrient rich soil, but you will be surprised to know that annuals have the ability to survive even in the most severe conditions, which is why they are excellent for beginners.
There are many different type of annual flowers to choose from, varying from hardy to semi-hardy to tender annuals which grow in specific conditions. It is wise to ask a garden specialist or an employee working at the flower centre for advice and guidance.
Once you have decided on the type of annuals to plant, including the choice of colours, it is time to start planting them. A good time to plant your annual flowers is in the afternoon since it is neither too hot nor too cold. Ensure that the soil is moist and soft rather than clumpy. Carefully remove the plants from the pots, taking special care not to harm the roots. Place the annual flowers into the soil and then water the plant once more.
Although a number of annuals require very little care, it is wise to regularly take some time out to look after your annuals. Weeds need to be removed to make your garden look good, but also because the weed is using the water and nutrients to grow that should be used up by your annual plants. You should also regularly water your plants, ensuring that you do not over or under water them. Ask a professional for watering guidance. You can also add fertiliser to the water from time to time to provide your annual plants and flowers with continued access to nutrients.
Annual plants produce their own seeds, meaning that you may notice a few extra plants growing. Withered flowers need to be removed before they have released the seeds preferably, so that more flowers can grow in its place in order to serve the purpose of producing and releasing seeds - this is known as deadheading.
A common trick used by gardeners is to cut the stems of the annual plants in the summer. This will induce further growth, only this time the growth will be thicker and more solid. This is also a preparatory measure to get the plants prepared for the colder weather during autumn and winter.
Growing your own plants can be fun, entertaining and can even be the way you get your exercise. If you are a beginner planning on planting your own flowers, starting off with annuals is definitely advisable. You will not be disappointed when you see these blooming in your garden.
