Palmetto, FL is unique in that most of our plants will survive the winter months. That means that unlike most places in the country, we don’t have to go all winter without seeing some bright color in our landscapes.
Winter is a time of dormancy for many plants, but there are still some colorful winter annuals that thrive in Parrish, FL and nearby areas. When trying to find plants that will add a pop of color in this dormant period, consider these five charming additions.
1. Geraniums
In any place north of Florida, geraniums are spring (or even summer) bloomers, they will not survive the cold winter weather. In central and south Florida, however, they thrive in our mild winters. They prefer cool temperatures in the evening and need at least 4-6 hours of sunlight a day.
These bright flowers come in a variety of bloom shapes, and they come in varying shades of pink, red, orange, purple, and white and average 1-2 feet in height. They will continue to bloom throughout the season if you remove the spent flowers, referred to as deadheading.
2. Violas
Violas are similar to pansies, but even more pint-sized, making them perfect for borders and containers. You often see purple varieties, but you may also find white, oranges, and pinks. These Lilliputian blooms (usually less than an inch wide) are particularly charming when combined with pansies.
3. Pansies
Pansies are the darlings of winter and love cool weather. When you plant them in the winter, you can continue to enjoy blooms into the early spring. These colorful flowers have a lot of personality, and some even say that their distinctive marking makes them look like faces.
Many are multicolored, and colors range from pinks, reds, and purples to yellow and orange. They don’t mind either full or partial sun, but they don’t tolerate heat well.
4. Snapdragons
Snapdragons are known for their unique flowers, which sort of look like small, curled trumpets. They come in a wide variety of colors and love the cool weather we have in the winter. There are dwarf varieties that work for borders, but there are even varieties that can grow up to 3 or 4 feet tall.
Snapdragons should be planted somewhere where there is full sun to partial shade, and expect them to bloom throughout the winter months.
5. Wild Petunias
The wild petunia grows in a compact, 1–2-ft. bush shape that presents beautiful flowers in shades of purple. This native flower thrives in our part of the state and is particularly hardy and blooms most of the year.
Are you ready to perk up a drab season? Call us today to discuss your winter landscaping options.
Three Seasons makes the most out of our central Florida climate. Winter annuals help keep your property blooming with color, even when most of your plants are laying low for the season. We serve residential and commercial properties in Palmetto, Parrish, Bradenton, and other nearby areas of central Florida. Call us at (941) 748-4613 today to schedule a landscaping consultation.
