Growing annual Plants

African Daisy
(Arctotis stoechadifolia)
Several different plants form the rich flora of southern Africa are commonly known as African daisies. A. stoechadifolia's distinguishing feature is it's blue center. The leaves are gray-green and the 3 inch flowers sit atop long stalks.
The plant is actually a tender perennial that is grown as an annual. Start indoors in a temperature of 60-70 degrees 8 to 10 weeds prior to the last frost date, or sow directly once the weather has warmed up. Seeds will germinate in 10 days. Plants should be spaced 8-12 inches apart. Provide good drainage and do not overwater. Keep the plant deadheaded to encourage new blooms. Performs best in a climate with low humidity. Full sun is required.
Excellent as cutflowers even though the blooms close at night.


Alternanthera ficoidea
(Calico Plant, Joseph's Coat)
The Alternantheras are grown for their brilliantly colored foliage, which ranges in color from red to green, blotched or variegated with yellow, red or orange. The leaves are long and pointed, and the growth habit is neat and compact. The white flowers are inconspicuous.
These tender perennials are usually grown as annuals, although they may be hardy to zone 8. Set out plants in the spring when all danger of frost has passed. Allow four inches between plants for a carpeted effect; otherwise, set them twelve inches apart. Provide full sun and moderately fertile soil with good drainage. Pinch back occasionally to keep the plant bushy. Propagate by taking cuttings. Cuttings one to two inches in length root quickly.
Plants may be potted and brought indoors for the winter. Take cuttings from these overwintered plants to provide bedding plants in the spring.
Alternantheras are striking accent plants in containers, and they also make an attractive edging. All varieties make excellent bedding plants. Plants can also be kept as houseplants, but remember that they need good light. Keep the soil moist when grown in pots.


Alyssum
(Lobulari maritima)
Choose a location in full sun or light shade with well-drained, slightly acid soil. Seeds can be planted outdoors directly where they are to be grown or in pots. The seeds are very fine and need to be covered by only a dusting of soil. Space the plants at 4-inch intervals when they are 1-2 inches high. Flowers bloom over a long season beginning about 8 weeks after seeds are sown. In warm zones they can be planted all year, and in cool zones they should be planted in the spring.
Water the plants regularly until established. Once they are doing well they will tolerate dry spells. After the first flush of flowers, shear the plants to induce a second flush. If plants begin to sprawl or become untidy, pull them out and shake them over the ground. You'll find fresh seedlings emerging in a couple of months.