How to Select the Best Annual Plants for Your Garden

Overview

Annuals offer instant color and the freedom to redesign yearly. Spring nurseries overflow with choices—here's how to pick healthy, site-appropriate plants.

Step 1: Plan Your Garden Design

Sketch bed dimensions and define goals: succession of blooms or all-season flowers? Color theme (monochrome, patriotic, rainbow)? Height needs (tall borders, ground cover)? Function (scent, foliage, edibles, herbs)? Answers narrow choices before shopping.

Step 2: Assess Site Conditions

Note light exposure (full sun, part shade, full shade) and soil drainage. Some annuals tolerate wet feet; others demand sharp drainage.

Step 3: Consider Starting from Seed

Seeds cost less for large plantings. Start indoors late winter/early spring for a head start, or direct-sow after frost danger passes.

Step 4: Shop Smart at the Nursery

Choose plants with robust leaves, firm stems—avoid wilted ones. Colored foliage (red, bronze, yellow) should still be succulent. Check roots: avoid root-bound plants with dense perimeter mats. For flowering annuals, pick plants with buds, not open flowers—they transplant better. Reject plants with chewed, damaged, or discolored leaves (possible pests).