Zinnias have a manner of steal the spotlight — bold color , steady blooms , and that cheerful , no - fuss mental attitude . It ’s easy to see why they ’re a garden favorite . But once you ’ve filled a few bed with them , it ’s innate to start wondering what else can bring that same vim without feeling like more of the same .
Luckily , there are plenty of other annuals that know how to put on a show . Some proffer similar burnished palette , others bring alone texture or bloom shapes that pair dead with old maid flower — or even outshine them in sealed spotlight . If you ’re looking to keep that vibrant , colorful feel going all season , these 14 picks are worth a facial expression .
Marigold
marigold are the fair weather of the garden , offering lustrous blooms that illuminate up any space . Known for their sheer oranges and yellows , marigolds are not only visually appealing but also easy to grow .
Their unequaled scent hold on pests away , making them a gardener ’s good acquaintance . Plant them in full sun and look out them thrive , adding warmth and cheer .
Did you know ? Marigolds have been used in traditional medicine to advance hide health . Their versatility and charm make them a must - have in any colorful garden .
Petunia
Petunias are the versatile artists of the flowered world . With a palette ranging from soft pastel to vibrant hues , they can translate any garden quad .
These blooms , with their funnel shape - shaped flowers , enjoy a sunny spot and can blossom throughout the season , offering colour and fragrance .
Petunias are heavy for hanging basket , borders , or container . Fun fact : Petunias were key in South America and have become favorites worldwide for their adaptability and sensational colours .
© All-America Selections
Cosmos
creation are a celestial addition to any garden , with their star - like salad days that seem to dance in the breeze . usable in pinks , whites , and purples , they get a mite of elegance .
These flower thrive in poor soil shape , making them easy to care for . Their marvelous stems and delicate petals make them ideal for garden margin .
Did you know ? cosmea are aboriginal to Mexico and symbolize harmoniousness and serenity , adding a unagitated vibe to gardens .
Nasturtium
Nasturtium are the rebels of the flower humanity , with their peppery leaves and bright flower . Their vivacious orange and yellows institute a bold splash to any background .
These flowers are not just decorative ; they ’re edible too , add a spicy kick to salad . Nasturtiums thrive in poor dirt , making them resilient and well-heeled to grow .
Historically , they ’ve been symbols of nationalism and victory , adding a touch of history to their beauty .
© growjoyplants
Geranium
With their rich blooms and classifiable scent , geranium are a pet for gay spots . Their shade of red , pink , and whitened add warmth and magical spell to any garden .
geranium are easy to handle for , involve well - drain soil and regular watering . Their adaptability makes them double-dyed for potbelly , hang baskets , or borders .
playfulness fact : The Victorians used geraniums as a symbolic representation of friendly relationship and true love , wee them gross gifts .
Impatiens
Impatiens are the shade - loving star of the garden . With blooms in pink , bolshie , and whites , they clear dark corners effortlessly .
These bloom are perfect for shady area and prefer moist , well - drained grunge . Their compact growing make them ideal for borders and container .
Did you know ? Impatiens are often called “ Busy Lizzies ” in the UK , have intercourse for their rapid increase and abundance of flowers .
© Three Acre Farm
Salvia
Salvias are the vibrant performer in the garden stage . live for their spikes of ruby , blue , and purple , they pull in bees and hummingbird .
These bloom prefer cheery locations and are drouth - resistant , making them low - upkeep . Their tall , striking forms add vertical involvement to garden bed .
Salvias have a rich history , used in teas and traditional remedies . Their vibrant coloring material and resiliency make them delightful additions .
Snapdragon
snapdragon fetch a playful charm with their dragon - like blooms . uncommitted in a spectrum of colours , they add whimsy and pleasure .
These flowers thrive in cool weather and ask full Dominicus for the best blooms . Snapdragons are perfect for garden margin , attracting pollinators .
playfulness fact : The name “ snapdragon ” comes from the mode the blooms snap open like a flying lizard ’s mouth when squeezed , capture children and adults alike .
© Park Seed
Begonia
Begonias are the indoor stars with their vivid blooms and lush foliation . Their pinks , reds , and whites brighten up any indoor or out-of-door space .
They enjoy dribble sunlight and wish to be keep moist , flourish in containers and shaded garden areas . Begonias are complete for sum up a splash of semblance indoors .
Historically , begonias were unwrap in the Caribbean and named after Michel Bégon , a Gallic patron of botany .
Ageratum
ageratum are the gentle clouds of the garden , with their fluffy blue blooms that create a calming effect . Their soft hues summate a soothing mite .
These flowers prefer sunshine to partial shade and prosper in well - drained dirt . Ageratums are often used in border and rock garden .
Did you know ? Ageratum is often called “ floss flush ” due to its indulgent , fluffy blooms , perfect for softening garden edges .
© joesgardens
Sweet Alyssum
mellisonant alyssum is the fragrant carpeting that magical spell with its petite white flowers . These prime spread across garden bed , issue a honey - like scent .
They thrive in full sun to part shade and are perfect for mete and containers . Their sweet fragrance attracts pollinator , enhance biodiversity .
Historically , sweet-scented alyssum was used to treat cutis disorders and as a symbol of mantrap and grace , tot up to their allure .
Morning Glory
Morning glories are the other risers , with bloom that greet the 24-hour interval with vivacious colors . Their blue and majestic flowers create a sensational backdrop .
These social climber love sunny spots and ask support to reach their full potential drop . Morning glories add together vertical elegance to garden .
merriment fact : Morning glories have been used in traditional Taiwanese medication and symbolize unrequited love and fondness .
© White Flower Farm
Calendula
Calendulas are the upbeat companions of the garden , hump for their sunny yellow and orangish blush . They convey warmth and felicity to any space .
These bloom prefer cheery locations and are promiscuous to grow , prosper in most soil types . calendula are often used in herbal remedies for their healing properties .
Historically , calendulas were used by ancient Egyptians for their rejuvenating qualities , adding a spot of account to their beauty .
Celosia
Celosias are the fiery plumes that stand out in any garden . Their ruddy , orange , and yellow colors create a dramatic effect , resonant of flames .
These flowers prefer full Dominicus and well - drain soil , add grain and elevation to bloom beds . Celosias are everlasting for creating eye - capture displays .
Did you bed ? Celosia is sometimes call “ comb , ” due to its resemblance to a cock ’s cockscomb , add a quirky spot to its torrid mantrap .
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