Have you ever noticed that certain flowers require planting every spring, while others appear on their own year after year? This distinction is due to the difference between annual plants and perennial plants.

Annual plants have a life cycle that lasts for only one year. They grow from seeds, bloom, produce seeds, and then die within a single growing season. As a result, they need to be replanted every spring.

Most annuals have a long blooming period, providing beautiful colors from spring to fall. They are highly favored by flower gardeners. Some popular annuals include petunias, marigolds, and zinnias.

Perennial plants live for more than two years. They come back and continue growing each year until they reach maturity, which varies depending on the plant but typically takes three to five years.

The term “perennial” is used to describe herbaceous (“green”) plants, as woody plants like trees are inherently perennial.

In contrast to annuals, perennials tend to bloom for a shorter period, typically lasting one to three weeks each year. Examples of popular perennial flowers are tulips, asters, black-eyed susans, and lilies.

Perennials generally do not need to be replanted every year. However, some gardeners choose to replace certain perennials, such as the aforementioned perennial flowers, every three to five years if they start to decline.

Hardier perennials can return year after year for over 20 years. Perennials possess structures like bulbs and rhizomes that enable them to survive for extended periods.

Perennials can be classified into two categories. Deciduous perennials, such as the aforementioned perennial flowers, grow for part of the year and become dormant for the rest. Evergreen perennials, like pine trees, grow continuously throughout the year.

Some individuals find it difficult to remember the correct term for each type of plant. Since annual means “yearly,” some assume that annual plants naturally return each year. However, the name “annual” refers to their one-year lifespan.

On the other hand, perennials do come back year after year. Since they do not require replanting annually, they are considered more permanent. To remember this, some people associate the term “perennials” with being more “permanent!”

Just when you think you’ve understood the difference between annuals and perennials, there is yet another category to consider! Biennial plants have a two-year life cycle.

During their first year, they grow as green plants, survive the winter, and bloom the following year. Once they bloom and produce seeds, biennial plants die. Examples of biennial plants include foxgloves and hollyhocks.

Some plants that are perennials in their native regions may be considered annuals in other climates. For instance, snapdragons can be perennials in warm climates where they survive the winter, but they may be annuals in colder regions where they do not survive the winter.

These plants are sometimes referred to as “half-hardy annuals” or “frost-tender perennials.”

Give It a Try

It’s time to get your gardening gloves on! Enlist the help of a friend or family member and engage in the following activities:

Get Growing!

If you’re passionate about plants and flowers, why not go on a field trip to a local botanical garden or gardening center? It’s a great opportunity to see a variety of annuals and perennials and learn from the knowledgeable staff. Feel free to ask them all your burning questions about what flowers thrive in your area, the difference between annuals and perennials, and the best growing conditions. Don’t forget to inquire about any special soil preparations!

For those looking for a challenge, why not try planting your own flower garden in your backyard? Gather your supplies, including seeds, flowers, plants, and gardening tools or gloves. Choose the perfect spot in your backyard that receives the right amount of water and sunlight. Follow the instructions provided with your seeds or plants, which may include preparing the soil, digging a hole, and watering. Have fun adding life and color to your backyard with beautiful flowers!

If you don’t have access to a backyard or the weather isn’t suitable for planting, don’t worry! Indoor gardening is an option too. With a few basic materials, you can create your own container gardens in the garage, on the porch, or even in the kitchen!

Wonder Sources

• http://www.thegardenhelper.com/planting.html (accessed 3 Mar., 2023)
• http://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-annual-and-perennial-plants/ (accessed 3 Mar., 2023)