How to Grow Annuals From Seed

Garden

Perennials and annuals are different types of plants. Perennials only have to be planted once and take two or more years to reach maturity. These types of plants are hearty, easy to grow and can live for many years. Annuals go through their entire life cycle in a year. Rarely, seeds fall off and the plant returns the following year. But usually annuals have to be replanted every spring. They are not as easy to grow as perennials and should be started indoors from seed and transported into the garden.

Things You'll Need

• Seeds
• Peat pellets
• Medium plant containers

Instructions

1. 

   Plant the seed in a small container. You can use egg shell cartons or yogurt cups. Peat pellets can also be used. If you use a container, make sure there is a hole on the bottom for water drainage. Keep the plant in an area that receives direct sunlight.

2. 

   Transplant the plant into a larger pot when the plant stem reaches 3 to 4 inches. Do not remove the plant from the soil or peat pellet. Place the plant in the new pot and add the soil needed around it, making sure to cover the root area completely.

3. 

   Place plant outside in the sun for three to six hours a day when it's 9 inches tall and bring it back in at dusk. You must do this for four days to get the plant used to being outside.

4. Transplant into your garden after four days. Make sure you dig the hole deep enough for the plant and its original soil.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow the instructions on the seed packet when it comes to spacing and caring for the plant.

• Make sure the plant receives ample direct sunlight and is not over-shaded by any other plant.

• Be careful not to over water. It can damage the root system and kill the plant.

• You should only have to water the plant, at the most, twice a week.