The ever-popular and ongoing competition between the two lifestyles of plants: annuals versus perennials. What exactly are the differences between the two categories, what are the pros and cons of each, and what are some popular examples of flowers for each group? Let’s dig in!
Introduction to Annuals Versus Perennials
Annuals are plants that complete their life cycle, from germination to the production of seed, within one year and then die. Summer annuals germinate during the spring or early summer and mature by late summer and autumn of the same year, for example.
Perennials, on the other hand, are plants that live for more than one or two years and often die down over winter to reappear the following spring.
PROS AND CONS
Annuals PROS:
- You can change your display every year and season
- Many annuals bloom for longer periods of time than some perennials
Annuals CONS:
- Can be costly since you’re repurchasing new annuals every year
- Require more work because you’ll be replanting them every year
Perennials PROS:
- Does not need to be replanted year after year
- Most expand and grow when they come back to life each year
Perennial CONS:
- Because of ongoing yearly expansion, they can overwhelm your garden
- Must be cautious to thin out perennials to allow room for other plants to grow
POPULAR FLOWERS AND PLANTS
Annuals:
- African marigold
- Geranium (Pelargonium)
- Sunflower (Helianthus)
- Petunia
- French Marigold
Perennials:
- Alstroemeria (Peruvian lily)
- Coneflower (Echinacea)
- Geranium Rozanne®
- Jerusalem sage (Phlomis)
- Sea holly (Eryngium)
So which do you choose: annual or perennial? Or perhaps you prefer a combination of both varieties for a purposeful garden? Regardless, we hope (and know) you love Geranium Rozanne in all her perennial glory!
