Best Annuals for a September 1 Wedding in Zone 4/5

Planning an outdoor wedding in northwestern Illinois on September 1 means you need annuals that bloom reliably in late summer, in both sun and shade. With a 40-by-4-foot sunny swath and a shaded trellis area already planted with hostas and coral bells, here are top picks for continuous color.

Sun-Loving Annuals for the Long Border

• Salvia ‘Flare’ – 18-inch bright red spikes that bloom nonstop.
• Celosia ‘Fresh Look’ – Vibrant, plume-like flowers that resist fading and need minimal deadheading.
• Profusion Zinnias – Mildew-resistant, compact plants in red, orange, and white; no pruning required.
• Oklahoma Mix Zinnias – Taller variety for the back of the bed, excellent for cutting.
• Sunflowers – Choose dwarf to 12-foot varieties in multiple colors for dramatic height.

Shade-Tolerant Annuals for the Trellis Area

• Begonias – Wax or tuberous types provide glossy foliage and steady blooms.
• Impatiens – Classic shade annuals with abundant flowers in many hues.

Timing and Soil Prep

Planting seeds a few weeks later than the typical May 15 date can extend bloom into September, but purchasing started plants in late spring is more reliable. Amend all beds with compost, peat, or aged manure to improve soil structure and provide steady nutrition.

For an extensive selection with detailed descriptions, browse the Park Seed catalog at parkseed.com. With the right plants and soil preparation, your wedding backdrop will be spectacular.