Should your garden plans include annuals or perennials? If you’ve always wanted to know the difference between annual and perennial plants, keep reading for our quick guide.

Annuals vs. Perennials: What’s the difference?

Annuals

  • Annuals live for only one season. They must be replaced every year.
  • Blooms of annuals are bright and last from spring until the first frost.
  • Annuals require pruning and fertilization throughout their short lifecycle.
  • Popular annuals include poppies, marigolds, and sunflowers.

Perennials

  • Perennials grow and spread for many years.
  • Blooms of perennials don’t last as long as those of annuals. Combine perennials for season-long color.
  • The roots of perennials spread outward, so they must divided every few years.
  • Popular perennials include roses, peonies, and daffodils.