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Choosing the right annuals for Zone 6 can transform your garden into a vibrant and resilient space. These plants offer stunning color and can withstand the specific climate conditions of Zone 6, which features cold winters and warm summers. Here are the top 10 annuals that are perfect for your garden this year.
1. Petunia
Petunias are a garden favorite for their abundant blooms and wide color range. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for Zone 6 gardens. They bloom from spring to frost, providing continuous color.
2. Marigold
Marigolds are hardy, easy-to-grow annuals that add bright orange and yellow hues to your garden. They are resistant to pests and tolerate poor soil, making them a resilient choice for Zone 6.
3. Zinnia
Zinnias are known for their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms. They prefer full sun and are drought-tolerant once established. Zinnias attract butterflies and are excellent for cut flower arrangements.
4. Impatiens
Impatiens are perfect for shaded areas, providing lush foliage and bright flowers. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and add a splash of color to shady garden beds.
5. Calibrachoa (Million Bells)
Calibrachoa, also known as Million Bells, produces small, petunia-like flowers in a variety of colors. They are excellent for hanging baskets and containers, offering continuous blooms throughout the growing season.
6. Verbena
Verbena is a low-growing annual that produces clusters of tiny flowers in shades of purple, pink, red, or white. It tolerates drought and poor soil, making it a resilient choice for Zone 6 gardens.
7. Sweet Potato Vine
While primarily grown for its attractive foliage, Sweet Potato Vine adds lush green or purple color to containers and hanging baskets. It thrives in full sun and is very heat tolerant.
8. Cosmos
Cosmos are tall, airy plants with daisy-like flowers in pink, white, and red. They attract pollinators and are easy to grow, thriving in full sun with well-drained soil.
9. Coleus
Coleus is prized for its colorful foliage, which comes in a variety of patterns and hues. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, adding visual interest to shaded garden areas.
10. Sunflower
Sunflowers are iconic annuals that bring height and cheerful yellow blooms to your garden. They thrive in full sun and are drought-tolerant once established, making them a resilient choice for Zone 6 gardeners.