Chumasande MatiwaneWhen winter weather ushers in cold temperatures, it signals the end of the season for many of the frost-sensitive plants. Your garden may be quieting down, but these annuals will keep it vibrant. These hardy winter annuals will brighten up your garden even in the cold.
Pansies
When talking about hardy annuals, petunias enter the conversation. They may look sweet and delicate, but they’re resilient and tough. Pansies are also known for their long flowering season. They bloom from spring right through midwinter. The first few frost days of winter usually don’t phase pansies. These flowering plants are the perfect flowers to keep in your garden this cold season.
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Petunias
Although not the most hardy plants on this list, petunias can be somewhat cold-tolerant. They can be planted in garden beds and used as ground covers. Just make sure you amend the soil with organic compost and make sure it’s well-draining. With the right growing conditions observed, they can make it through the winter season with ease.
Carnations
Depending on the region you live in, carnations can be grown as annuals or perennials. They are adaptable and can handle cold weather if they are protected and are grown the right way. When they make it past the cold season, expect them to bloom with shades of pinkish-purple or white. In addition to being frost-tolerant, carnations are attractive to pollinators, keeping your garden wildlife alive when spring hits.
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Honeywort
Growing honeyworts in winter depends on where you live and how hard your winters are. They can tolerate light frosts, but a hard freeze will kill the plants. Some regions in South Africa can grow these flowers with ease, but with protection and care. Their silvery blue-green leaves and blue-purple flowers feed into the autumn-winter aesthetic.
Sweet Peas
Annuals that prefer cool temperatures to bloom, but won’t survive hard freezes. To maintain the blooming flower in winter, mulch the plants well and cover them during heavy frosts. With the right care, these elegant flowers can bloom throughout winter.
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ALSO SEE: THE ULTIMATE CARE GUIDE TO ORCHIDS
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