Whether you’re an avid gardener or just starting out, its important to know how to pair the right plants together to enhance growth, deter pests, and create stunning visual displays. Let’s delve into some annuals and perennials that thrive together in our Minnesota climate.
Annuals: Burst of Seasonal Color
Annual plants are perfect for adding vibrant color to your garden every year. They complete their life cycle within one growing season and often bloom continuously throughout the summer months.
Marigolds and Petunias
Pairing cheerful marigolds with trailing petunias creates a striking contrast in color and texture. Marigolds, with their bright orange and yellow blooms, naturally repel certain pests like nematodes, which can benefit nearby vegetables. Petunias, available in various shades from soft pastels to bold purples, thrive in full sun and add a cascading effect to flower beds and containers.
Zinnias and Cosmos
For a whimsical and lively garden display, combine zinnias with cosmos. Zinnias offer a burst of color in shades of red, pink, orange, and white, attracting butterflies and beneficial pollinators. Cosmos, with their delicate foliage and daisy-like flowers, add height and movement to the garden. Both these annuals thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
Perennials: Reliable Garden Staples
Perennial plants are the backbone of any garden, coming back year after year with minimal maintenance. They establish strong root systems and adapt well to Minnesota’s climate.
Hostas and Astilbes
Create a lush and tranquil garden setting by pairing shade-loving hostas with feathery astilbes. Hostas provide a dense ground cover with a variety of leaf shapes and colors, while astilbes produce fluffy plumes of pink, red, or white flowers in early summer. This combination thrives in shaded areas, making it ideal for under tree canopies or along north-facing borders.
Daylilies and Coneflowers
For a sun-loving duo that attracts pollinators, consider planting daylilies with coneflowers. Daylilies offer a profusion of colorful blooms throughout summer, while coneflowers provide sturdy stems topped with vibrant, daisy-like flowers that persist well into fall. Both these perennials are drought-tolerant once established, making them perfect for Minnesota’s hot and dry summers.
Incorporating these companion plantings into your Minnesota garden not only adds visual interest but also promotes a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Annuals bring instant color and versatility, while perennials offer long-term structure and resilience. Visit Applewood Nursery & Landscape Supply to explore these plant pairings and start creating a garden that truly pops with life and beauty!