The 8 Best Annuals for Colorado (with pictures!)

If you’re looking for some new plants to add to your garden this year, look no further! We’ve gathered the 8 best annuals for colorado. With a wide variety of colors and shapes, these flowers are sure to add some pizzazz to your garden.

Pro Tip: If you plant annuals in a container, you can take them inside during the winter and they will last year after year.

We love to have a mix of Perennials and Annuals in our garden. Perennials will last year after year, whereas annuals will need to be replaced every year. Having a mix of both will allow your perennials to grow and mature year after year, giving you a full and lush garden. While planting new annuals every year allows you to:

  • change the look of your garden each year without having to replant everything
  • Save money as annuals are typically cheaper than perennials
  • Have a changing dose of color and interest throughout the entire growing season

Now, let’s dive in. Here are nine of the best annuals for Colorado. So what are you waiting for? Start planting!

The 8 Best Annual Flowers for Colorado

1. Blanket Flower

The Blanket Flower, or the Gaillardia, is technically a perennial, but a short-lived one. It is is a drought-tolerant and easy-to-grow flower that is perfect for Colorado. It can grow in any soil condition and does best in full sun. The blooms are a beautiful deep purple and can last for up to two months.

2. Zinnia

Zinnias are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant flowers that can be found in many different colors. They will add season-long color to the landscape and have the added benefit of being deer and rabbit resistant. They are known to attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds. They thrive in full sun and can grow in any soil condition. The blooms will last for about a month and make a great addition to any garden.

3. Cosmos

Cosmos is a flower that thrives in hot, dry conditions, which is why we think it’s one of the best annuals for Colorado. This hardy annual will bloom from summer to frost. It is a great flower for pollinator and grows best in full sun and needs moderate water. The blooms come in many different colors, including white, pink, and purple, and can last for two months or more.

4. Petunia

Petunias are one of the most popular flowers in the world. Petunias favor full sunlight and well-drained soil, although they will also do well in partial shade. They can handle drier soil and will get “leggy” if given too much water. The blooms come in many different colors, including purple, pink, and white, and can last for two months or more. We love that they have an especially long blooming season. Just be cautious since Petunias can be toxic to your little furry friends.

5. Begonias

Begonias can be annuals when planted in a garden bed, but perennials if planted in a container and brought inside for the winter. They are great as a border plant in your garden. According to NC State’s Plant toolbox, Begonias will attract pollinators and will survive drought-resistant gardens.

6. Daisy

Daisies are classic flowers that can be found in many different colors. They grow best in full sun or part shade and need regular watering. The blooms can last for two months or more. 

7. Lily

Lilies are beautiful flowers that come in many different colors. They grow best in full sun or part shade and need regular watering. The blooms can last for two months or more. 

8. Pink Zazzle

Pink Zazzle, or Gomphrena, are perfect for borders, and rock gardens and are good for dried flowers.  They grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. The blooms last for about a month and are a beautiful pink color. They are a great choice to attract Butterflies.

Photos of the 8 Best Annuals for Colorado

There are endless possibilities when it comes to annual flowers. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide which ones to plant in your garden. But with this list of the best annuals for Colorado, you’ll be sure to find the perfect flowers for your yard.

So there you have it! These are just a few of the best annuals for Colorado gardens. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect flowers for your garden. Happy