Annual plants are plants that complete their entire life cycle within a single growing season. They produce seeds that will be used for propagation of future generations. ANNUAL PLANTS are low maintenance and attract hummingbirds. Winter annuals provide winter cover for your garden and early spring color.
They produce seed to ensure propagation of future generations
Most annuals produce seed to ensure propagation of future generations, but they also need pollination to produce pretty flowers. Therefore, they need deadheading to promote more flowering and seed production. If you are growing them in a container, be sure to fertilize once or twice a month with water-soluble fertilizer.
Some seeds are more fertile than others. If a plant has fertile embryos, they are likely to produce seeds. A fertilized egg contains one gene from both parents. The two sperms then divide, forming a diploid embryo and a single cell called an ovule. Afterwards, the diploid zygote divides into a multicellular embryo. The second sperm, which has 2 haploid polar nuclei, then unites with the two haploid polar nuclei in the endosperm mother cell and a mass of nutritive tissue inside the seed.
The seed maturation process requires several key genes and proteins. The genes involved in this process are known as ABI3, FUSCA3 and LEAFY COTYLEDON. The ABI3 gene encodes a plant-specific transcription factor, while FUSCA3 encodes a plant-specific B3 DNA binding domain. LEAFY COTYLEDON (LEC1) encodes a HAP3 subunit of the CCAAT transcription factor.
Annuals can be seeded directly into the garden, but some varieties are best started indoors under lights during late winter and early spring. They are usually planted at a depth of two to three times their diameter. Once they have sprouted, they are ready to plant outdoors.
Annual plants are divided into two categories: cool and warm-season annuals. Annuals can be hardy or tender, and they will survive a small amount of frost. Often, they will bloom and set seed into the next year. Perennials are perennials, but they will not flower the entire growing season. Some, like pansies, will fade as the summer heats up, while others, such as zinnias, will not flower until the nights are warm.
They require little maintenance
If you’re looking for annual plants that require little care, there are plenty of choices available. Some are great for shady areas, while others thrive in sunny spots. The main thing to remember when choosing a low-maintenance annual is that they do need regular watering.
Annuals are an ideal choice if you’re short on time. They germinate easily and die off after a year. They’re great for beginners because they’re easy to grow from seed or seedlings, and they provide instant gratification. However, they do require some regular watering, fertilizing, pruning, and mulching.
They attract hummingbirds
If you’d like to attract more hummingbirds to your yard, consider planting some annual plants. Many of these flowers are hardy, and they’re easy to grow. However, some varieties require regular fertilization to keep them looking great. A few of the most popular hummingbird plants are listed below.
Zinnias, for example, are annual plants that are easy to grow from seeds. They have large, colorful flowers that hummingbirds love. Tall pink or red zinnias are especially attractive. Flowering Tobacco, with its long, tubular flowers, is another annual plant that attracts hummingbirds.
Penstemon (Penstemon) is another good choice for attracting hummingbirds. Its flowers are bright and colorful, and it grows well in shade or partial shade. However, be careful with this plant, as it can be poisonous to humans and pets. You may also want to plant Coral Bells, or Alumroot, which is a vine that grows in a variety of climates and conditions.
Wild columbine is a native of eastern North America. Its flowers are similar to fuchsia flowers, but they tend to droop downward instead of upward. The flowers of this plant contain lots of nectar, which makes it an ideal plant to attract hummingbirds to your yard. This plant also attracts migratory hummingbirds.
Bee balm is another plant that attracts hummingbirds. It forms a unique circular cluster on its stalks and comes in a variety of colors. It belongs to the mint family, but it doesn’t spread by underground runners. It’s native to North America and has a long history as an edible and medicinal plant.
Morning glories are another perennial plant that attracts hummingbirds. They grow fast and can cover fences. Be careful to remove any unwanted vines or stems. Morning glories are native to the southeast, and their bright, tubular flowers have a sweet nectar that hummingbirds love.
Lupine is an annual plant that requires minimal maintenance. They can bloom earlier than most other flowers in spring, and are a good choice in a limited area. Lupine plants grow up to four feet, but dwarf varieties are available for those with limited space. The best location for these plants is a sunny location with plenty of water.