The arrival of warmer weather is the ideal time to revitalize gardens. However, the vast selection of flowers can be overwhelming. Choosing annuals that require minimal effort and provide continuous blooms throughout the summer is a priority for many gardeners.

Reliable & Beautiful Annual Choices

Several annuals consistently stand out for their reliability and beauty. These include SunPatiens, Begonias, Lantana, Geraniums, and Dahlias.

SunPatiens: Versatile and Vibrant

SunPatiens are a top choice, especially popular at Bloomin Haus in Holtsville, New York. They are remarkably versatile, thriving in full sun, partial shade, and even shaded areas. They offer the same vibrant blooms and foliage as traditional New Guinea impatiens, but with increased sun tolerance.

Consistent moisture is crucial for SunPatiens. They readily indicate their need for water through wilting foliage, making maintenance easy.

Begonias: A Diverse Selection

Begonias are another dependable option, boasting over 2,000 species and countless hybrids. Wax begonias are compact and adaptable to various light conditions. Cane begonias, like the 'Angel Wing' varieties, are often grown as houseplants for their striking foliage, though they bloom less frequently and prefer shade.

Tuberous begonias offer extravagant flowers and can even return year after year in milder climates. Reiger begonias provide early-season color, but aren’t ideal for continuous summer blooms.

Lantana: Heat & Drought Tolerant

For gardens facing challenges like heat, drought, or occasional neglect, Lantana is an excellent solution. This plant attracts butterflies and produces abundant blooms in a wide range of colors throughout the growing season.

While some Lantana varieties can grow into substantial shrubs, compact options are available for smaller gardens.

Geraniums & Dahlias: Classic Choices

Classic summer annuals like geraniums are regaining popularity, with newer Ivy geranium varieties offering tidy growth habits and reduced maintenance. Dahlias are also experiencing a surge in popularity due to new cultivars that bloom earlier and remain more compact.

Dahlias, tuberous perennials, can be stored indoors over winter for replanting the following year, and may even survive mild winters in the ground. They range in size from one foot to over ten feet, so selecting the appropriate variety is essential. The most spectacular display typically occurs in late summer and early autumn.

Tips for Success

Observing plant arrangements in garden centers can provide inspiration for harmonious combinations. Always read plant tags for care instructions and don’t hesitate to ask nursery staff for advice.

Bloomin Haus: A Local Nursery

Bloomin Haus, a family-owned nursery established in 1985 by Joseph Pazienza, offers a wide selection of annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs. It has grown from selling plants at a local fuel business to a diverse nursery on Long Island.

The weather forecast for Long Island includes scattered showers, with improving conditions expected later in the day before a warm spell arrives on Thursday.