Annuals

What Are Annuals?

Annuals are plants that complete their life cycle—from seed to flower to seed again—within a single year. After blooming and setting seed, annuals die off in cooler weather, making space for new seasonal plantings. This quality makes annuals ideal for gardeners looking to refresh their landscapes with new colours and textures every season.

Common examples include marigolds, petunias, zinnias, and cosmos. Their adaptability and range of shades make annuals a key player in summer garden displays across New Zealand.

Why Grow Annuals?

Annuals provide reliable, long-lasting blooms that transform your garden rapidly. They’re perfect for filling gaps in borders, adding highlights to containers, or creating vibrant mass plantings. Because different varieties come in a wealth of hues, from pastels to striking reds and blues, annuals make it easy to coordinate with your existing garden scheme.

If you’re seeking inspiration for your flowerbeds, browse our range of live plants to find exciting annual varieties for every style and space. For instance, the eye-catching Ageratum 'Hawaii Blue' (Floss Flower Plant) offers puffs of soft blue that pair well with brighter companions.

Growing Annuals in NZ Gardens

Growing annuals is straightforward, making them great for both new and experienced gardeners. Simply sow seeds in spring, water regularly, and feed as they grow. Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowers. By the end of the season, you’ll enjoy months of colour before planning next year’s display.

For tips on getting the most from annuals, our gardening tips and tricks offer detailed advice on plant care, soil, and design. Choose from sun-loving or shade-tolerant varieties to match your site conditions for the best results.

Annuals are a favourite with Kiwi gardeners for good reason: they’re affordable, cheerful, and allow you to experiment with new combinations every year.