Garden Gate® TOP PICKS
Every gardener loves growing something a little special: a plant that is completely new to you even if it’s common to somebody else, or a flower from a seed someone shared with you, you started indoors and nurtured faithfully until it finally bloomed. It might be hard to find, or it could have a native tie to your town or state. We all need something that sets our garden apart, and annual plants can provide the most diverse range of perks and peculiarities. Try something new each season, save a lot of money by starting seeds and have long-blooming plants all summer (or longer).
WHICH REGION ARE YOU? Sure, with time and effort you can grow almost anything as an annual. But I want to help you out by directing you to some annuals that thrive best or make a special impact in your specific growing conditions or climate. So let’s stretch your boundaries and keep it easy on yourself by discovering a fascinating array of annuals tailored just for you. I’ve loosely divided these picks into five different regions according to climate and growing seasons. Flip through and find something that is sure to love your growing conditions—it means happier plants with less work for you, and is the perfect way to add a personal touch to your garden this year.
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
Cuphea
Cuphea llavea
Spikes of tubular flowers with unusual papery petals make a statement filling in the beds and borders. Although some varieties, such as Sriracha ™ Pink in the photo, tolerate hot summer weather, most cupheas bloom happiest and without faltering spring through fall in climates with cooler summers and with consistent water. Start the seeds 10 to 12 weeks before the last average frost date for the longest season of bloom. Newer cultivars don’t need to be pinched to maintain a tidy habit,
