Annuals are plants which complete a lifecycle in one growing season, giving a long season of color before they are replaced. Sweet peas are an example. Chrysanthemums are a familiar example. Combining annual and perennial flowers gives the most color impact over the longest season. Be sure to shop early for spring-blooming flower bulbs such as Daffodils, Freesias, Tulips, and more.
Many types spread freely in the garden, requiring little care after planting, and bloom for years.
Cooler nights are bringing the end of the summer vegetable garden, and it is time to start putting in winter vegetables. Our mild winters allow us to grow edible plants all year. See the table for examples. Many winter greens take very well to pots, so a mix of salad vegetables can even be available to those with limited gardening space. Leaf lettuces, Oriental greens, leafy herbs, and gourmet greens like radicchio and arugula make a good mix in a tub or barrel.