423.488.8905 If you’re planning a flower bed or want to improve your outdoor space, you’ve probably heard of perennials and annuals. Both are great options, but they grow differently and need different levels of care. Knowing how each one works can help you make the right choice for your yard, business, or rental property.
What Are Perennials?
Perennials are plants that come back every year. You plant them once, and they grow again each spring. They usually bloom for a few weeks or months during the year and then go quiet until the next season.
Common perennials include:
- Hostas
- Coneflowers
- Black-eyed Susans
- Ornamental grasses
Perennials are good if you want long-lasting plants that don’t need to be replanted every year. They help give structure to flower beds and are great for low-maintenance landscaping.
What Are Annuals?
Annuals are plants that live for only one season. You plant them in the spring or early summer, and they bloom until the first frost. After that, they’re done and won’t grow back.
Popular annuals include:
- Petunias
- Marigolds
- Begonias
- Zinnias
Annuals are perfect if you want bold colors and a fresh look each season. They work well in pots, flower borders, or mixed in with perennials.
Which Should You Choose?
It depends on what you want:
- Perennials are best for long-term planting and less work each year.
- Annuals are great if you want fast color and like to change things up.
- Mixing both gives you a nice balance, perennials for structure and annuals for seasonal color.
Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes people make:
- Planting the wrong flowers for your climate. Not all perennials survive cold winters.
- Not thinking about bloom times. Some bloom early, some later, mix them for steady color.
- Using only one kind. All annuals can get pricey, and all perennials might look dull sometimes.
- Skipping soil prep. Healthy soil helps your flowers grow strong. Add compost or soil mix before planting.
How Big Sky Landscapes Can Help
At Big Sky Landscapes, we design and install flower beds for homes, businesses, and rental properties. We choose the right plants for your sunlight, soil, and how much care you want to give them.
If you don’t have time to keep up with watering or trimming, we also offer regular maintenance.
We’re here to help your outdoor spaces look good and stay easy to manage all year long.
Want flowers that last and look great? Contact us today for a free estimate.
Also, if you are interested, see our range of services for residential and commercial landscapes.
FAQ: Perennials vs. Annuals
How can I tell if a plant is perennial or annual?
Look at the tag or label at the store. It usually says. You can also ask the staff or look it up online.
Do perennials bloom all summer?
Some do, but not all. That’s why mixing perennials and annuals is often best, so you have color all season.
Can I grow them from seeds?
Yes. Many annuals like zinnias grow easily from seed. Perennials can be started from seed too, but they take longer to bloom.
Will animals eat my flowers?
Sometimes. Some plants are better at keeping deer or rabbits away, like lavender, marigolds, or coneflowers.
Do I need to cut back perennials in fall?
It’s a good idea, but not required. Cutting them back keeps your garden neat and helps prevent disease.