Why Choose Annuals?
Versatility: Annuals come in an endless array of colours, shapes, forms, and sizes. They are perfect for filling gaps in your garden, pots, or hanging baskets and creating a cohesive theme.
Long-Lasting Displays: No other plants offer such an extended flowering season.
Colour Highlights: Use annuals to spotlight focal points like entrances, pathways, or pots.
Did you know? Some plants we treat as annuals in New Zealand—like salvia, verbena, and impatiens—are perennials in their native climates but struggle with winter here.
Getting Started with Annuals
Seed or Seedlings?
From Seed: Economical and rewarding but requires patience. Plant seeds 8–10 weeks before your intended planting date.
Seedlings: Quick and convenient, ideal for faster or instant results.
How to Grow from Seed
- Use a seed-raising mix with the right balance of fertilisers, peat, and fine bark.
- Cover seeds lightly with vermiculite, a lightweight medium that helps young stems push through easily.
- Watch for the first “true” leaves (not the cotyledons) before transplanting into beds or containers.
Soil Preparation
Annuals are fast growers, so nutrient-rich soil is essential.
- Prepare beds 1–2 weeks in advance. Dig in compost, blood and bone, and sheep pellets.
- Apply a slow-release fertiliser like Oderings Garden Replenish about a month after planting to ensure a steady bloom.
Planting Tips
Placement: Lay out all plants in their desired spots before planting for even spacing and a balanced look.
Sun/Shade: Choose varieties suited to the planting area’s conditions.
Watering: Water immediately after planting, then regularly check soil moisture. Scratch 2–3cm beneath the surface; if dry, it’s time to water. Avoid overwatering, as annuals have shallow root systems.
Container Gardening with Annuals
Pots and containers let you get creative!
Design Options: Combine tall, medium, and trailing varieties for texture and depth. Go bold with solid colours or mix shades for a dynamic display.
Flexibility: Change your planting scheme each season to keep things fresh and exciting.
Enjoy the Rewards
Annuals are not only a beautiful addition to your garden—they’re an opportunity to experiment, have fun, and create a unique display. With proper soil preparation, regular watering, and a little creativity, your garden will become the brightest spot on the street!
Visit us in-store for expert advice and the best range of annual seedlings. We’re here to help you grow a garden bursting with life and colour.
