
That’s why, in recent years, I try to push the seasonal envelope with early-bird annuals that keep on blooming even through an occasional unexpected frost. I start the process in late winter, pacing the aisles of my local mass merchants and garden centers every week hoping to catch a small glimpse of color I can buy for my garden. It could be a single flat of pansies or possibly an end cap of cyclamen. It really doesn’t matter, I’m just so starved for color, I have my credit card out of my wallet in seconds.
Called the “shoulder seasons” by the gardening industry, early spring and late fall are amazing times to restart or renew your garden. Some of my favorite cool-weather plants
When possible I like to mix and match different cool weather plants together in a container placed near the end of my driveway or near my front door. That way I get a quick jolt of spirit-lifting color, whenever I come home. In this large pale blue
Keeping early bloomers happy is a snap, too. Use a good quality potting soil and water them whenever the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Place the pot in a sunny spot and feed every few weeks with a dilute solution of liquid plant food. To promote continuous bloom clip away any pansy flowers as they fade.
For more inspiration check out 12 Annual Flowers That Can Take the Cold.
Written by Doug Jimerson