I've personally never seen people reject annuals, but I suppose some do. More homes here in WNY plant with annuals than attempt perennials. There's a good mix of both, though, and I agree: that's the way to go. People new to perennials might not realize that some of them only last a few years. You need to check what you buy. And of course, bloom time during the season, required conditions and what the foliage looks like after bloom - some need to be hidden if the greenery gets brown before the rest of the garden fades in late fall. Annuals are great way to do that, plus they are dependable color all season, blooming nearly constantly, with few exceptions (and some just take a break during the hottest couple weeks, then bloom again). And, sadly, but all gardeners know: sometimes a perennial doesn't make it through the winter and we try again or try something new. I keep front space in my garden for annuals and fill the rest with perennials, plus some seeds to slow-grow and give me more color come August. Zinnias, gomphrena are great for that. Gardens are for fun, relaxation, experimentation. Mix it up, try your luck and see what works for you!
I've personally never seen people reject annuals, but I suppose some do. More homes here in WNY plant with annuals than attempt perennials. There's a good mix of both, though, and I agree: that's the way to go. People new to perennials might not realize that some of them only last a few years. You need to check what you buy. And of course, bloom time during the season, required conditions and what the foliage looks like after bloom - some need to be hidden if the greenery gets brown before the rest of the garden fades in late fall. Annuals are great way to do that, plus they are dependable color all season, blooming nearly constantly, with few exceptions (and some just take a break during the hottest couple weeks, then bloom again). And, sadly, but all gardeners know: sometimes a perennial doesn't make it through the winter and we try again or try something new. I keep front space in my garden for annuals and fill the rest with perennials, plus some seeds to slow-grow and give me more color come August. Zinnias, gomphrena are great for that. Gardens are for fun, relaxation, experimentation. Mix it up, try your luck and see what works for you!