How to add seasonal color to your landscape with annuals or perennials

Are you looking for an easy way to add color to your landscaping?

​Consider the use of annual or perennial plants. These can add dimension and color, and they are relatively easy to maintain. However, first you must understand the difference between annuals and perennials.

Annuals tend to bloom all summer long, but they only grow for one season. They will die off and need to be replanted next year. They can start from seeds or be purchased as seedlings. It is often convenient to have an irrigation system because some annual flowers require water on a regular basis. Your lawn sprinkler controller can be programmed to water the annual flowerbeds on a separate schedule from the turf areas, if needed.

Perennials will have a shorter bloom cycle, but they tend to live for several years. They usually bloom seasonally in the spring or fall. Perennials can be bought as established plants or sometimes be grown from a bulb. They are also hardier than annuals and require less maintenance, like regular watering.

At the end of growing season…

• Annual flowers can be cut and brought in the house for a decorative table arrangement
• Perennials can be cut back or mulched over and left to go dormant until the next season

Try to choose the plants that do best in your zone. For example, Ohio is in Plant-Hardiness Zone 6. Some annual flowers that do well in Zone 6 are impatiens, begonias and zinnias. While popular perennial plants include hostas, roses, daylilies and pansies.

Flowering plants come in many sizes and colors. Have some fun and experiment with different varieties to see what looks best in your yard!