Annual Flowers for Zone 5

African Daisies

• Osteospermum are commonly known as African daisies. The flowers are regarded as annuals; however, many African Daisies may survive for several years if overwintered---brought indoors---in cold climates. The flowers of an African daisy include a colorful center disc--colors include blue, purple and yellow---and petals that form a classic daisy shape. Blooms come in a variety of colors including purple, mauve, yellow, white, pink and cream; the shade of the flower's color may differ at the tips of the petals.

  According to Wildflowerinformation.org, African daisies can be planted in zones 3 through 10. Plant in a sunny spot in the garden--or in a container placed in full sun. Water regularly, particularly after planting and fertilize the plant with a general fertilizer blend to promote flowering. To prolong the flowering season, remove---or "dead head" wilting and dying flowers.

Impatiens

• According to Reiman Gardens, impatiens are the most popular plant used in landscaping beds throughout the United States. Use these colorful blooms in container gardens, hanging baskets and shady landscaped areas of your yard. The flowers average one to two inches in diameter and come in single or double blooms in colors such as pink, white, salmon, red, orange, purple and bi-color such as pink and white. Gardeners in zone 5 must be sure to wait until the danger of the last frost has passed before planting impatiens.

  Plant in well-drained soil in a partially shaded area. Flowers do well with two to four hours of filtered sunlight throughout the day or full sun in the morning and shade in the afternoon. Water impatiens at least once weekly; impatiens planted in containers should be watered when the soil feels dry.

"Arroyo" Lupine

• Add spikes of color to your landscaping with "Arroyo" Lupine, a wildflower that is native to California, but flourishes throughout the United States in zones three through 10. The plant can grow to 2 feet in height and grows quickly after planting. Flowers are lupine-blue with markings of white; blooms emerge in spikes, similar to sweet-peas. Arroyo Lupine blooms heavily throughout the season and dies at the first frost.

  Plant Arroyo Lupine in a sunny location and in sandy, well-drained soil. Water thoroughly after planting.