Annuals vs. Perennials - What’s the Difference?

2/17/2025 Written By: Kim Elliott

What is an annual and what is a perennial – what is the difference?
Simply put, annuals are flowers that complete their entire life cycle in the span of one season, while perennials complete their life cycle over the course of several years.

Some annuals need warm weather to thrive, and some need cooler weather, but the common denominator is that they live for only one growing season. A common question about annuals is, "If they only live for one season, why plant them?" The simple answer is: nothing packs more of a continuous punch of blooming color than annual flowers. They will typically produce bloom after bloom throughout the season, giving you the most bang for your buck. And since they die every year, you can change up the impact of your garden space with different annuals each year, if you like – the simplest way to keep interest ever-changing in your garden.

Perennials can survive for many years, given the right growing conditions. They typically withstand both heat and cold (when planted in the correct growing zone for your location), often dying back to the ground during a freeze. They will spring forth from the protected underground roots once the warm weather returns. So, if they return year after year, why not just use perennials instead of annuals? Perennials will push forth blooms at various times of the year, depending on their variety. Some will bloom once for a few weeks and be done until the following year, while others will bloom prolifically in the spring, possibly again in the fall. Still, others will bloom intermittently throughout the season, with a rest period in between. Even when not in bloom, perennials provide excellent structure to your garden space.

Which should you plant?
Both! Combining annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees will give your garden a full, lush effect and maximum color impact throughout the season.