The list of annuals is numerous, but a beginner can start with plants like pansies, petunias, marigolds, and geraniums

What is an annual? It is a plant that lives its entire life cycle from seed to flower to seed again in one growing season. Everything dies after the season is complete, except the seed to revive the plant during the next growing season. Annuals are the big flashes of color that last all season long, which is usually until the first sign of frost. That being said, how do you plant and take care of this plant variety in your garden ?

Take note of your planting zone. This will help you to determine when the last frost is past. If you plant your annuals too early, you will loose them to that late frost. We use a greenhouse to get seeds started, but you can use the kitchen window to do the same if your garden isn't big. The list of annuals is numerous, but a beginner can start with plants like pansies, petunias, marigolds, and geraniums.

Prepare the soil before planting. In colder zones with freezing temperatures, you will have to be consider soil prep in order to break ground. Using raised beds is a great way to get the soil going a little sooner if drainage is a problem. The structure of soil type can be changed by adding organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or garden compost . Spread two to three inches of the organic matter over the soil and till. Add a well-balanced fertilizer at this time. Most annuals enjoy a pH of 5.5 to 7.0, a little...

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