Types of Winter Annual Plants

Pansies

• Pansies are often the most commonly used winter annuals because the pansy is one of the most cold-tolerant plants available. Available in a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, red, blue, white and purple, they come in various sizes as well. Pansies are usually planted in early fall and continue to bloom all winter until the weather warms in mid-spring. They do require careful maintenance to keep them healthy, however. Grow pansies in well-drained, fertile soil where they can receive full sun. They may also be planted in containers with a potting mix if desired, and treating pansies with mulch is usually effective. Avoid night watering because it may lead to fungus or other diseases.

Flowering Cabbage

• A flowering cabbage plant is another winter annual used to add color to your garden or lawn. It mixes well with pansies or other cold-weather plants and may be grown in flower beds or containers. Flowering cabbage plants are usually planted in the fall, and their green leaves change color after the first frost occurs. The leaves typically turn pink, red, rose, purple or white, and some have unique shapes as well, making them a bold addition to the landscape. Some varieties, such as kale, have edible leaves used as a garnish for your favorite dishes. Flowering cabbage plants typically bloom in March, though in regions with severe winters, they may not last that long.

Snapdragons

• The snapdragon is another winter annual with a strong tolerance to the cold. Like pansies, they come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, blue, purple, white and pink. They typically bloom in the fall, and are then nearly dormant during the winter months. By spring, they erupt in colorful blooms once more. For a shorter plant, try the Montego variety. The Liberty and Sonnet groups are attractive mid-sized options. These small and mid-sized varieties work well as border flowers. The Rocket variety offers large, dramatic plants, and is ideal as a background plant.

Sweet Alyssum

• Sweet alyssum is a small winter annual that works well as a border plant. It may also be grown in large pots and allowed to spill over the edge. Sweet alyssum is not as tolerant of cold conditions as other winter annuals, however, so they may require protection over night when temperatures fall below 20 degrees.