Annual flowers are a great way to bring pops of vibrant color to your landscape. These flowers can be categorized into two main types: hardy and tender. Hardy annuals are cool-season flowers that thrive in cooler temperatures and can be planted in early spring or fall. They are resilient and can withstand frost, making them ideal for adding color to your landscape at the start and end of the growing season. On the other hand, tender annuals are warm-season flowers that prefer warmer temperatures and should be planted in late spring or early summer after the threat of frost has passed. Understanding the differences between these two types of annual flowers will help you choose the right ones for your landscape in Pennsylvania.


What are hardy annual flowers?

Red poppy flowers with green foliage in West Chester, PA.

Hardy annual flowers are cool-season plants that thrive when the temperatures are cooler. These flowers are known for their ability to withstand frost and even some snow, making them perfect for early spring or fall planting. Hardy annuals are resilient and can tolerate colder weather conditions, allowing them to bring vibrant color to your landscape at the start of the growing season before other flowers bloom or at the end.

Hardy annuals are a great choice for gardeners who want to enjoy vibrant flowers in their landscape even when the temperatures are cooler.

What are tender annual flowers?

Coleus in West Chester, PA, with purple and green leaves.

Tender annual flowers, on the other hand, are warm-season annuals that do not fare well in cold temperatures. These flowers are native to more tropical climates and thrive in warm weather conditions. Tender annuals should be planted in late spring or early summer, after the cold temperatures have subsided, to ensure their success.

Unlike hardy annuals, tender annuals are not frost-tolerant and can be damaged or killed by cold temperatures. They require warm soil and air temperatures to germinate and grow. Tender annuals are often characterized by their vibrant and showy blooms, which can add a burst of color to your landscape during the summer months.


What are some examples of hardy and tender annual flowers?

There are numerous examples of both hardy and tender annual flowers that you can choose from to enhance your landscape. Some popular hardy annuals include pansies, poppies, and ornamental cabbage. Pansies are known for their cheerful and colorful blooms, while poppies add a touch of elegance with their delicate petals. Ornamental cabbage, with its unique foliage, can provide interesting texture and color to your garden.

On the other hand, tender annuals offer a wide range of options to suit your preferences, including begonias, verbenas, impatiens, and coleuses. Begonias, with their vibrant and showy flowers, are a popular choice for adding a splash of color to your landscape. Verbenas, with their clusters of small flowers, can create a stunning display when planted in masses. Impatiens, known for their shade tolerance, can brighten up shady areas with their colorful blooms. Coleus, with its striking foliage in various shades, can add a unique and eye-catching element to your garden.


Call us today to schedule our annual flower installation service.

At Countywide Landscape, we offer our annual flower installation service to residential and commercial properties, as well as HOAs, in West Chester, Downingtown, Exton, and nearby areas in Pennsylvania. Our team of professionals will work with you to design a beautiful landscape that includes a variety of annual flowers. With different spring, summer, and fall options available, you can rely on us to create a stunning display that will enhance the curb appeal of your property. Call us today at (610) 285-9727 to schedule our annual flower installation service, and let us transform your landscape into a vibrant and colorful oasis.