Colorado has an abundant selection of flowering perennials that bloom throughout the summer. Those that have a limited color window can be enticed into continual blooms through dead heading. However, there are many annuals that provide immaculate color through the duration of the growing season.

Annuals are very diverse in their application. They can be used in planters to bring brightness to a patio, or mixed with perennials in a garden to supply continual color. Regardless of the application, the key to creating an aesthetic palette is ratios. In a planter the ratio pertains more to size of the plants rather 
than the blossom hue. When the eye glances on a planter it will perceive it separate from the actual surrounding plants. This allows you to fill it with multiple colors and variety. However, keep in mind the overall shape of the design. Much like the design elements a florist follows, line, form and shape should all be kept within an appropriate ratio to the planter it occupies.
The ratio of annuals in a full garden landscape applies mainly to the varieties. In a garden the eye will perceive the palette as a whole. Many varieties conglomerated here and there will cause disruptions in the flow and rhythm of the space. Just like quick zigzagged bed lines trigger a minor subconscious stress reaction, the same occurs with disrupted plant masses. The rule of thumb for a cohesive plant mass is more of fewer varieties. If there is a 5’ x 8’ space along the front of a bed, fill it with one variety. Do not succumb to the urge to add more variety; this often leads to an unpleasing garden.

Regardless of how they are used in the garden, annuals can be changed out every year. Though this may speak loudly of major maintenance, look at it as a way to add variety to life. Remember, unlike perennials, annuls can be easily switched out if a certain variety is deemed unfulfilling.