When to Plant Annuals Outside
Annuals are plants that only live for one growing season. They typically bloom for a few weeks or months before dying. In cold climates, annuals must be planted after the last frost date to avoid being killed by the cold.
How to Determine the Best Planting Time
The best time to plant annuals outside depends on your climate. In general, you should plant annuals after the average last frost date for your area. You can find this information online or by contacting your local extension office.
Once you know the last frost date, you can count backwards to determine when to start seeds indoors or purchase seedlings from a nursery. Most annuals need 6-8 weeks to grow from seed to transplant size.
Preparing Annuals for Planting
Before planting annuals outside, you need to harden them off. This process gradually exposes them to outdoor conditions so they don’t go into shock when you transplant them.
To harden off annuals, place them outside in a shady spot for a few hours each day. Gradually increase the amount of time they spend outdoors over the course of a week.
Transplanting Annuals
When it’s time to transplant annuals, choose a cloudy day or evening to do so. This will help to reduce the stress on the plants.
Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the plant and just as deep. Place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant.
Water the plants deeply after transplanting.
Caring for Annuals
Annuals need regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. They also benefit from being fertilized every few weeks.
To prevent annuals from getting spindly and leggy, pinch off the tips of new growth. This will encourage the plants to grow fuller and bushier.
Additional Tips
- When planting annuals in containers, you can plant them earlier than you would if you were planting them in the ground. Just be sure to bring the containers indoors if there is a risk of frost.
- If you live in a cold climate, you can extend the blooming season of annuals by planting them in a cold frame or greenhouse.
- Annuals are a great way to add color and interest to your garden. They are relatively easy to care for and can provide you with beautiful blooms all season long.
