Alex Calamia

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Apr 22, 2026, 6:31 AM

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Updated

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Walking into a garden center this time of year can feel overwhelming with so many options to choose from, but not every flower will do well in your home garden.

If you are looking for a garden that blooms all summer long and is low maintenance, these five annuals consistently rise to the top.

1. SunPatiens (Impatiens Hybrid)

At Bloomin Haus in Holtsville, this is one of the most popular plants gardeners seek out, and it's for a good reason. SunPatiens are bred to thrive in full or part sun and can handle shade too, making them one of the most versatile annuals you can buy. This particular variety handles sun better than most New Guniea impatiens and offer the same beautiful large blooms and colorful foliage options.

Pro-tip: Impatients will need water every day during the summertime, but are very good about "communicating" their needs. The foliage will start to wilt when it's too dry. It's best to give it water before this happens to avoid losing bloom vigor.

2. Begonias

These are another very reliable flower, but is very diverse. There are over 2,000 distinct species of begonia and countless varieties and hybrids, some bred for flowers, others for beautiful foliage.

The most common varieties of begonia:

- Wax begonias: small and tidy and can thrive in sun or shade.

- Cane Begonia: these include varieties like "Angel wing" begonias and many begonias sold as houseplants for their fancy foliage. They bloom less frequently and do better with some shade.

- Tuberous Begonia: Come with many fancy flowers and some are perennials in our climate which means they'll come back each spring.

- Reiger Begonias: Often sold for their beautiful blooms around Eastertime, but will not bloom in hot weather.

Pro tip: Plant reiger begonias for impressive early season blooms, but avoid if you're looking for a begonia that blooms all summer long.

3. Lantana

If your garden struggles with heat, drought, or neglect, lantana is a great solution. This butterfly magnet has countless blooms all season long and endless colors to choose from. Some lantana can grow into large shrubs with time, so choose short growing varieties if you're looking for something that stays small and tidy.

A nice plus: Lantana smells very strong and is considered deer resistant., Although no plant is completely deer-proof, even if the deer eat lantana, it's fast to rebound.

4. Geranium

This classic summer annual is becoming less popular because the spent flower heads are higher maintenance than many annuals available today, but new varieties of Ivy geraniums stay very tidy without the extra maintenance.

5. Dahlias

These tuberous perennials are becoming incredibly popular because new varieties are being bred that stay smaller and bloom earlier making it a great choice for today's gardener (short on space and looking for instant beauty!)

Dahlias have tubers that can be stored inside for a return show the following year. They may survive in the ground during a mild winter in our climate.

Dahlias can remain 1ft tall or grow to more than 10 feet tall so make sure to choose the best type for your garden. Although many will start blooming as early as June, the best show often happens in late summer and early autumn.

Visit your local garden center for inspiration

Most garden centers deliberately stage plants that will look good with each other. You'd be surprised at how easy it is to be inspired with plant combinations by taking the time to stroll and carefully make selections. Make sure to read plant tags for basic care tips and ask questions if you still aren't getting the information you need.

Bloomin Haus is located in Holtsville and grows many of their annuals in greenhouses nearby offering an unusual variety of plants you won't find elsewhere. The family-owned nursery was started back in 1985 by Joseph Pazienza. The venture started with when he sold a few plants at his local fuel business and grew into one of most diverse nurseries on Long Island for annuals, perennials, trees, and shrubs.