New Mexico Annuals

Facts about Annuals

Annual plants complete their entire life cycle—from germination to seed production—within a single growing season, which can last anywhere from a few months to a year. Once they produce seeds, they die, making room for the next generation. Interestingly, only about 6% of all plant species are true annuals, many of which are herbs and vegetables. For example, pea plants grow, flower, and produce seeds (pea pods) before dying in the fall. Likewise, wildflowers like Cosmos burst into vibrant blooms, scatter their seeds, and fade as the colder months arrive. These plants epitomize the essence of annuals—living fast, reproducing, and making way for the next cycle.

Somewhere in Between

Not all plants labeled as annuals are truly annual by nature. Some, while perennial in their native climate, are treated as annuals in colder regions because they can’t survive harsh winters. Take geraniums, for example. Here in New Mexico, they’re considered annuals because temperatures below 41°F cause them to stop growing and eventually die. However, with a little care, they can be overwintered indoors and continue to thrive year after year.

Some plants fall into a gray area between annuals and perennials—what we sometimes call "somewhere-in-betweens." Flowers like petunias, marigolds, and snapdragons may not survive a harsh winter outside, but with a little extra care, they can be overwintered in a greenhouse or warm garage and bloom again the following season. If you're unsure whether a plant can make it through the winter, it’s always worth researching or asking a Jericho employee for advice. On the other hand, true annuals like cosmos, sunflowers, and alyssum complete their life cycle in just one season—once they’re gone, they won’t return unless they reseed.