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annuals-and-perennials-1

New England Nurseries Offers the Best Annuals and Perennials

 

New England Nurseries is proud to be your go-to source for annual and perennial plants. Our Greenhouse is for tropical plant retail sales only. In our store, these two are different departments independent of Greenhouse and of each other. We carry a bountiful selection of spring, summer, and fall annuals, perennials for shade and sun, and herb and vegetable seedlings. Our unique selections will satisfy and delight gardeners of all skill levels. If you have any questions, our knowledgeable team members would be happy to serve as a resource.

 

pink water lily from new england nurseries in Bedford, MA

What are Annuals?

Annuals are plants that complete their life cycle in one growing season and die off within one year. They give plant owners the opportunity to change their garden up completely year after year. After annuals go through the process of germinating, growing, harvesting, and dying off, they will either drop their own seeds organically or need to be re-planted. Though this might sound like a time-consuming investment to newer plant owners, they do have their advantages. Annuals can be an exciting adventure, no matter your skill level.

Classifications of Annuals

Though all annuals will only survive one growing season, they are still many differences between them. There are three types of annuals. Each type indicates the plant’s hardiness, or ability to withstand colder temperatures:

  • Hardy Annuals: These plants can withstand frost and cold temperatures very well. They can be planted in early spring and include plants such as snapdragon, larkspur, and broccoli.
  • Semi-Hardy Annuals: Though they aren’t as tolerant as hardy annuals, they can still survive in somewhat cold temperatures. Semi-hardy annuals include pansies, baby’s breath, and cauliflower. They can be planted after the last intense frost of the winter season.
  • Tender Annuals: These plants have little to no tolerance for cold temperatures and should be planted about a month after the final frost of the winter. Plants such as cilantro, marigolds, and dill perform well in warmer weather.

Three Tips for Growing Annuals

The process of growing annuals doesn’t stop after you’ve planted them. Plant owners should be aware of how to properly care for each one of their plants. Below are some tips on how to give your annuals the best chance at a healthy life:

  • Water plants generously and check in often
  • Deadhead and prune plants to promote new growth and more blooms
  • Compost or add mulch to your soil

What are Perennials?

In contrast to annuals, perennials are plants that have a life cycle lasting at least two years. They often grow and bloom during the spring and grow dormant or “die back” during the colder months. Some will stay full height year-round, while others grow back bigger and better from their roots every spring. Perennials are often incredibly hardy and serve as a staple in many plant owners’ gardens.

 

Types of Perennials

Similar to annuals, which are classified based on hardiness, perennials are classified by their life cycle length:

  • Biennials – Plants that germinate and grow the first year, then bloom and die in the second
  • Perennials – Plants that germinate and grow the first year, then bloom the second year, returning every year thereafter

Three Tips for Growing Perennials

Though perennials are generally considered low maintenance, they still require attention and the proper care. Planting and establishing a healthy life for your perennials is the most essential part of their care. If you set them up for success from the start, they’ll provide beautiful blooms year after year. Our experts have tips on how to provide the best care for your perennials:

  • Deadhead blooms that have shriveled up
  • Be mindful of where seeds are planted
  • Prune perennials after their active growing season

 

We Offer Both Sun-Loving and Shade-Loving Plants

Gardeners of all skill levels should be aware of the light level preferred by every plant in their garden. Some plants perform their best in direct sunlight, while others prefer shade. Some sun-loving annuals include ageratum, cosmos, and lobelia. Annuals that prefer the shade include begonia, coleus, and primula. This same concept also applies to perennials. Examples of some sun-loving perennials include iris, lavender, and daylilies. On the flip side, shade-loving perennials include astilbe, hosta, and liriope. If you are unsure how much light you should be giving your plants, we’re here to help. Our horticultural experts would be happy to answer all of your questions about both sun-loving and shade-loving plants.

Visit New England Nurseries for the Best Annuals and Perennials

We are stocked with the best annuals and perennials in the Bedford, MA, area. We are excited for you to continue your gardening journey and can serve as your go-to resource for any plant-related questions. Contact us now or visit us today to find the perfect annuals and perennials for your garden!