Zinnias are one of my favorite annuals to grow.  They are low maintenance and are very easy to grow.  They require dead-heading about every two weeks and flourish with some pellet fertilizer when planting them.  Zinnias grow best in full sun.  I love them and they also make lovely cut flowers that last about a week.  My favorite variety is the Magellan which I use for a mass planting and for a border around a perennial garden. 

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Petunias are easy to grow annual – basically just some watering and dead heading.  They can take full sun and wave petunias in particular can add a great deal of color to your garden. 

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Gardening requires patience and a bit of hard work, but you certainly are rewarded for your efforts.  Whether it be flowers, fruits, or vegetables your daily life will improve when you devote some time to growing plants and trees.  We always cherish our bing cherries each June and enjoy sharing them with family and friends. 

Every spring I look forward to the tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils.  Next, the perennials begin to emerge and return year after year to fill in the garden.  You cannot discount annuals because they add a constant splash of color and are especially important in containers and borders.  Roses and peonies are my favorites because they are fabulous as a single flower in a vase or in an enormous bunch. 

I also grow vegetables and herbs because I can ensure that I have access to particular species of plants which enhance my cooking.  For instance, San Marzano tomatoes make a superior marinara sauce and they can cost up to $5 a can.  I also grow several herbs because fresh herbs make a huge difference.  They have a freshness that you cannot get from dried herbs.  Some of my favorites are basil, thyme, rosemary, sage, and spearmint.  Experiment with vegetables and herbs and enjoy!