What Are Annuals? A Mother's Day Buying Guide

Annuals = plants that live one season (die in frost). Perennials return yearly.

Why Choose Annuals

• Bloom spring–fall (perennials: 1–2 months).
• Fast growth, instant color.

How They're Sold

• Hanging baskets (geraniums, petunias, impatiens, pansies, lobelia).
• Mixed containers (half-barrel, decorative pots).
• Packs (4/6/8) for planting: snapdragons, salvia, violas, verbena, begonias, portulaca, annual vinca (trailing).

Buying Advice

Buy in person. Quality varies wildly. Hand-pick at a garden center—staff can match plants to your mom's light/water conditions.

Online = risk of leggy, root-bound, mislabeled plants.