Welcome to Michigan; unexpected waves of heat, followed by frosty mornings, humidity and rain will keep you on your toes and leave you wondering when to plant your annual flowers. Factor in full sun, partial sun, partial shade and full shade requirements and annual flower options become overwhelming. Here are our suggestions for annual flower success.

Planting Time:

Generally spring annual flowers in Michigan are planted between Mother's day and Memorial Day. Planting after Mother's day reduces the risk of frost damage. Frost is still possible; be alert to frost warnings and cover annual flowers with a sheet or thin plastic to prevent damage. Remove coverings the next morning so your annuals don't bake in the sun.

Full Sun:

Cleome (spider flower): A tall annual, 24-48”, often used as a “thriller” in containers is heat and drought tolerant. Cleome bloom from planting to frost. 

Part Sun:

Lobularia (sweet alyssum): Highly fragrant small blooms cover this plant all season long and no deadheading required! Sweet Alyssum can also grow in full sun and is most commonly found with white flowers though lavender, darker purple and sometimes pink shades are available.

Shade:

Coleus: Grown for its beautiful foliage colors, Coleus can be used as a border plant in containers or in masses. 

Full Sun, Part Sun, Shade:

Wax Begonia: A homerun annual that can grow in just about any light requirement, wax begonia are used for mass plantings, edging, borders, containers and hanging baskets. Available with white, pink or red flowers, wax begonia have either shiny bronze or green leaves. The showy flowers bloom from May to October.