GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn — While most plants have something redeemable about them, it's only natural that some are more beautiful - and beloved - than others.
The Top Ten Annual list from the University of Minnesota West Central Research and Outreach Center is filled with plants that look good, but also thrive in conditions that are less than ideal. This list outperformed all other annuals planted during last year’s difficult growing season, proving they have what it takes in terms of drought and heat tolerance, disease resistance and spectacular color.
- Begonia BIG® Deep Pink Green Leaf is a waxy begonia perfect for shade.
- Begonia Viking® Explorer Rose on Green & Celosia Flamma Rose is a combination that makes the list together for a large container.
- Calibrachoa Bumble Bee™ Hot Pink makes for a great hanging basket.
- Coleus Talavera™ Pink Tricolor is for all of you who love the foliage of coleus in part-shade pots or in the ground.
- Petunia Itsy™ Pink has dainty petunia flowers that create a blanket of color.
- Petunia Supertunia Mini Vista® Hot Pink is a top choice for full sun.
- Salvia Plum Crazy is a favorite of hummingbirds, bees and butterflies!
- Snapdragon DoubleShot™ Crimson Red keeps blooming even through July and August.
- Sunflower Desert Sun stretches high but doesn’t need support.
- Zinnia Zydeco™ White blooms a true white color and loves a full sun location.
And although it didn’t quite make the list, research staff were wowed by Lophospermum Lofos Compact Rose.
Choose these winners to shine in your summer garden this year!
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