We all admire the vibrant flowers on display at almost any garden center, maybe you&#8217;ve even been tempted to purchase a few. The first time, no matter what you did, your beautiful plants died within the year. You tried again, and the same thing happened. It is possible you purchased an annual. Let’s explore the [&#8230;]

We all admire the vibrant flowers on display at almost any garden center, maybe you&#8217;ve even been tempted to purchase a few. The first time, no matter what you did, your beautiful plants died within the year. You tried again, and the same thing happened. It is possible you purchased an annual. Let’s explore the three main plant life-cycles—annual, biennial, and perennial—and learn which to choose to best serve your garden.
<h3>Life-cycle: Annuals</h3>
Annuals complete their entire life-cycle in one growing season. They offer bursts of color but need to be replanted each season. They typically bloom toward the end of their life-cycle. Keep in mind, these plants are hardwired to grow during a specific season, make sure the plants you are purchasing are meant to be grown at the time you’re planting them! For example, you do not want to plant a warm season annual, like coleus, in the cooler months because the colder temperatures will kill off the plant. Warm season annuals like to germinate in early spring, grow, and die in the fall. Meanwhile, cool season annuals, like cilantro, germinate in the fall, grow, and die in late spring or early summer.
<h3>Life-cycle: Biennials</h3>
Biennials take two seasons to complete their life-cycle. In the first season, they focus on growing foliage and don’t flower. In the second season, they bloom, produce seeds, and then die. Plants like foxgloves and parsley fall into this category.
<h3>Life-cycle: Perennials</h3>
Perennials grow in every season and can come back year after year with proper care. These types of plants need some time to become established, during which they will need more care. Once they become adjusted to the growing conditions, they typically require less maintenance than annuals and can regrow year after year. Florida violets and firebush are both native perennials to Central Florida. They’re ideal options for creating a lasting, low-maintenance garden.
<h3>Summary</h3>
Understanding these life-cycles will help you make the best choice for a garden that fits your needs. So, when you’re at the garden center, consider what you want from your plants. Do you want them to return every year, or are you okay with replanting each season? Keep in mind to match the growing conditions of your garden to the plant. Factors like sunlight, water, and pH should all be considered when selecting a plant.
<h3>Have a question?</h3>
If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit <a href="http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/</a>. Supervising Agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore.
<h3>Follow us!</h3>
We have several ways to connect. Visit our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/PascoExt/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/uf_ifas/?hl=en">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ufifas-pasco-county-cooperative-extension-7831617239">Eventbrite</a>, <a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/about/">Blogs</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/uf.ffl/">Florida-Friendly Facebook</a>, &amp; <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/">Website.</a>
<a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/"><button class="uf-partial-border-button large button expanded default-style845909" type="submit">Read our other blogs</button></a>
Topics of Interest
<ul>
<li><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/pascoco/2024/04/04/a-healthy-garden-starting-at-the-bottom/">Starting at the Bottom: Soil and Garden Health</a></li>
<li><a href="http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_annual_landscape_plants">Annuals</a> <a href="http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_annual_landscape_plants">(landscape</a><a href="http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_annual_landscape_plants"> plants)</a></li>
<li><a href="http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_annuals_index">Annuals for Florida, A-Z index</a></li>
<li><a href="http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg319">Gardening with Annuals in Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg035">Gardening with Perennials in Florida</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.growables.org/informationVeg/documents/HardyHibiscusUF.pdf">Hardy Hibiscus for Florida Landscapes</a></li>
<li><a href="http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_perennials">Perennials Landscapes Plants</a></li>
</ul>

We all admire the vibrant flowers on display at almost any garden center, maybe you’ve even been tempted to purchase a few. The first time, no matter what you did, your beautiful plants died within the year. You tried again, and the same thing happened. It is possible you purchased an annual. Let’s explore the three main plant life-cycles—annual, biennial, and perennial—and learn which to choose to best serve your garden.

Life-cycle: Annuals

Annuals complete their entire life-cycle in one growing season. They offer bursts of color but need to be replanted each season. They typically bloom toward the end of their life-cycle. Keep in mind, these plants are hardwired to grow during a specific season, make sure the plants you are purchasing are meant to be grown at the time you’re planting them! For example, you do not want to plant a warm season annual, like coleus, in the cooler months because the colder temperatures will kill off the plant. Warm season annuals like to germinate in early spring, grow, and die in the fall. Meanwhile, cool season annuals, like cilantro, germinate in the fall, grow, and die in late spring or early summer.

Life-cycle: Biennials

Biennials take two seasons to complete their life-cycle. In the first season, they focus on growing foliage and don’t flower. In the second season, they bloom, produce seeds, and then die. Plants like foxgloves and parsley fall into this category.

Life-cycle: Perennials

Perennials grow in every season and can come back year after year with proper care. These types of plants need some time to become established, during which they will need more care. Once they become adjusted to the growing conditions, they typically require less maintenance than annuals and can regrow year after year. Florida violets and firebush are both native perennials to Central Florida. They’re ideal options for creating a lasting, low-maintenance garden.

Summary

Understanding these life-cycles will help you make the best choice for a garden that fits your needs. So, when you’re at the garden center, consider what you want from your plants. Do you want them to return every year, or are you okay with replanting each season? Keep in mind to match the growing conditions of your garden to the plant. Factors like sunlight, water, and pH should all be considered when selecting a plant.

Have a question?

If you have any questions about gardening in Central Florida, please contact UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County at 352-518-0156. For more information on UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Community Gardens, and how you can join one, visit http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pasco/. Supervising Agent: Dr. Whitney Elmore.

Follow us!

We have several ways to connect. Visit our Facebook, Instagram, Eventbrite, Blogs, Florida-Friendly Facebook, & Website.

Read our other blogs

Topics of Interest


Starting at the Bottom: Soil and Garden Health

Annuals (landscape plants)

Annuals for Florida, A-Z index

Gardening with Annuals in Florida

Gardening with Perennials in Florida

Hardy Hibiscus for Florida Landscapes

Perennials Landscapes Plants

We all admire the vibrant flowers on display at almost any garden center, maybe you’ve even been tempted to purchase a few. The first time, no matter what you did, your beautiful plants died within the year. You tried again, and the same thing happened. It is possible you purchased an annual. Let’s explore the […]

What Kind of Plant is Best for Your Garden?

Is 2025 the year you are looking to start or elevate your gardening game? Mark your calendar because the UF/IFAS Extension Broward County’s in-person gardening workshops are back and better than ever. Conducted by the award-winning Master Gardener Volunteer Program, this  workshop series is back by popular demand and in its original form for the [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_49969" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-49969" style="width: 396px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class=" wp-image-49969" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/files/2025/01/Courtyard-gardens-at-the-Fort-Lauderdale-Research-and-Education-Center-UFIFAS-Photo-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="396" height="264" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-49969" class="wp-caption-text">Courtyard gardens at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center developed and maintained by UF/IFAS Extension Broward County Master Gardener Volunteers. UF/IFAS photo</figcaption></figure>
Is 2025 the year you are looking to start or elevate your gardening game? Mark your calendar because the UF/IFAS Extension Broward County’s in-person gardening workshops are back and better than ever.
Conducted by the award-winning <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/urban-horticulture/broward-master-gardener/">Master Gardener Volunteer Program</a>, this  workshop series is back by popular demand and in its original form for the first time since before the pandemic. The series will provide participants with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to create their dream gardens. All monthly programs will be held at the <a href="https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/broward/">UF/IFAS Extension Broward County</a> auditorium located at 3245 College Ave. in Davie.
“Free gardening workshops are essential for empowering Broward County residents with the knowledge and skills to create sustainable, beautiful landscapes,” said Lorna Bravo, UF/IFAS Extension Broward County urban horticulture agent.
Through hands-on learning in topics such as herb gardening, orchid care, mango grafting and Florida-Friendly butterfly gardening, Master Gardener volunteers are sharing techniques as well as cultivating a community of informed, resourceful gardeners, said Bravo.
“These workshops do more than teach gardening skills — they inspire residents to grow their own food, support local ecosystems and transform their living spaces into sustainable, beautiful landscapes. By conserving resources and enhancing green spaces, participants contribute to a greener, more resilient Broward County,” said Bravo.
<figure id="attachment_49975" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-49975" style="width: 285px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-49975" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/files/2025/01/Homeowner-setting-up-a-butterfly-garden-with-pots-as-accessories-198x300.jpg" alt="Homeowner setting up a butterfly garden with pots as accessories" width="285" height="432" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-49975" class="wp-caption-text">South Florida resident sets up a butterfly garden that includes pots as accessories. UF/IFAS Photo</figcaption></figure>
All classes are free and open to all Broward County residents, but registration is required due to space limitations. Start registering with this <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/herb-gardening-101-tickets-1109551100209?aff=oddtdtcreator">Eventbrite link</a> and get notification of upcoming topics each month.
A year of workshops at a glance:
<ul>
<li>Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. &#8211; Herb Gardening Made Easy: Discover how to cultivate fresh, flavorful herbs right in your backyard or kitchen windowsill.</li>
<li>Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.- How to Repot Orchids: Whether you are a seasoned orchid enthusiast or just starting, this hands-on session will give you the skills and confidence to give your orchids a fresh start.</li>
<li>March 13, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.- Landscaping with Orchids: Learn the art of caring for these stunning, delicate plants to create a garden with these exotic ground orchids.</li>
<li>April 24, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.- Mango Grafting: Learn expert techniques to grow your own mangos.</li>
<li>May 15, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. &#8211; Microgreens versus Sprouts: Get to know these delicious varieties and how and when to grow them for their nutritional benefits.</li>
<li>June 21, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. &#8211; The Florida-Friendly Landscaping ™  Recognition Process: Learn what everyone is striving for in their yards. Conserve water, reduce pollution, support wildlife and create beautiful, low-maintenance gardens that thrive in Florida’s climate.</li>
<li>July 12, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. &#8211; Florida-Friendly Butterfly Gardening: Create a haven for pollinators while beautifying your landscape.</li>
<li>Sep. 20, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. &#8211; Seed Starting: Join the Master Gardener Volunteers as they guide you through the essential steps to selecting and planting the right seeds for your climate and soil conditions.</li>
<li>Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. &#8211; Growing Tropical Fruit Trees in your Backyard: Depending on the soil, the right plant in the right place is the start of the journey.</li>
<li>Nov. 18, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. &#8211; Shade Gardening: Learn to cool your environment and create shade in your garden for a relaxing oasis.</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
###
By Lourdes Mederos, <a href="mailto:rodriguezl@ufl.edu">rodriguezl@ufl.edu</a>
&nbsp;
ABOUT UF/IFAS 
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
<a href="http://www.ifas.ufl.edu">ifas.ufl.edu</a>  |  <a href="https://twitter.com/UF_IFAS">@UF_IFAS</a>

Courtyard gardens at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center developed and maintained by UF/IFAS Extension Broward County Master Gardener Volunteers. UF/IFAS photo
Is 2025 the year you are looking to start or elevate your gardening game? Mark your calendar because the UF/IFAS Extension Broward County’s in-person gardening workshops are back and better than ever.
Conducted by the award-winning Master Gardener Volunteer Program, this  workshop series is back by popular demand and in its original form for the first time since before the pandemic. The series will provide participants with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to create their dream gardens. All monthly programs will be held at the UF/IFAS Extension Broward County auditorium located at 3245 College Ave. in Davie.
“Free gardening workshops are essential for empowering Broward County residents with the knowledge and skills to create sustainable, beautiful landscapes,” said Lorna Bravo, UF/IFAS Extension Broward County urban horticulture agent.
Through hands-on learning in topics such as herb gardening, orchid care, mango grafting and Florida-Friendly butterfly gardening, Master Gardener volunteers are sharing techniques as well as cultivating a community of informed, resourceful gardeners, said Bravo.
“These workshops do more than teach gardening skills — they inspire residents to grow their own food, support local ecosystems and transform their living spaces into sustainable, beautiful landscapes. By conserving resources and enhancing green spaces, participants contribute to a greener, more resilient Broward County,” said Bravo.
South Florida resident sets up a butterfly garden that includes pots as accessories. UF/IFAS Photo
All classes are free and open to all Broward County residents, but registration is required due to space limitations. Start registering with this Eventbrite link and get notification of upcoming topics each month.
A year of workshops at a glance:
Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Herb Gardening Made Easy: Discover how to cultivate fresh, flavorful herbs right in your backyard or kitchen windowsill.
Feb. 13, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.- How to Repot Orchids: Whether you are a seasoned orchid enthusiast or just starting, this hands-on session will give you the skills and confidence to give your orchids a fresh start.
March 13, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.- Landscaping with Orchids: Learn the art of caring for these stunning, delicate plants to create a garden with these exotic ground orchids.
April 24, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.- Mango Grafting: Learn expert techniques to grow your own mangos.
May 15, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Microgreens versus Sprouts: Get to know these delicious varieties and how and when to grow them for their nutritional benefits.
June 21, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. – The Florida-Friendly Landscaping ™  Recognition Process: Learn what everyone is striving for in their yards. Conserve water, reduce pollution, support wildlife and create beautiful, low-maintenance gardens that thrive in Florida’s climate.
July 12, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. – Florida-Friendly Butterfly Gardening: Create a haven for pollinators while beautifying your landscape.
Sep. 20, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. – Seed Starting: Join the Master Gardener Volunteers as they guide you through the essential steps to selecting and planting the right seeds for your climate and soil conditions.
Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Growing Tropical Fruit Trees in your Backyard: Depending on the soil, the right plant in the right place is the start of the journey.
Nov. 18, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. – Shade Gardening: Learn to cool your environment and create shade in your garden for a relaxing oasis.
 
###
By Lourdes Mederos, rodriguezl@ufl.edu
 
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
ifas.ufl.edu  |  @UF_IFAS

Is 2025 the year you are looking to start or elevate your gardening game? Mark your calendar because the UF/IFAS Extension Broward County’s in-person gardening workshops are back and better than ever. Conducted by the award-winning Master Gardener Volunteer Program, this  workshop series is back by popular demand and in its original form for the […]

Build a dream garden, learn planting tips and more; UF/IFAS Extension Broward County’s free monthly workshop returns

What better way to start 2025 than with growing your gardening knowledge! The UF/IFAS Extension Clay County Master Gardener Volunteers have an amazing schedule of events planned for this year and here is a listing of what we have this January! January 27th- Monthly How-To Series: The Allure of Camellias &#8211; Learn about an amazing [&#8230;]

What better way to start 2025 than with growing your gardening knowledge! The UF/IFAS Extension Clay County Master Gardener Volunteers have an amazing schedule of events planned for this year and here is a listing of what we have this January!
<figure id="attachment_2843" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2843" style="width: 201px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/clayco/files/2025/01/009895-scaled.jpg"><img decoding="async" class=" wp-image-2843" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/clayco/files/2025/01/009895-300x216.jpg" alt="" width="201" height="145" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2843" class="wp-caption-text">Camellia, pink flower, leaves.</figcaption></figure>
January 27th- Monthly How-To Series: The Allure of Camellias &#8211; Learn about an amazing Florida-Friendly Plant, the Camellia and how to grow them successfully in Northeast Florida. Free workshop from 11:30 am until 12:30 pm. For more information and to register, visit <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1115522099629?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1115522099629?aff=oddtdtcreator </a>
January 28th- Master Gardener Library Series: &#8220;How to Care for Your Holiday Plants&#8221; &#8211; Learn about how to care for holiday plants, both before and after in this great workshop taught by our volunteers. This is a free class from 6:00pm until 7:00pm held at the Middleburg Public Library (2245 Astor Ave, Middleburg, FL 32068).
While note in January, registration is also open for our annual &#8220;Day of Gardening Education&#8221;. This is a full day of workshops and classes on Friday, February 7th with topics covered including palms, shade gardens, great plants for Florida, cut flowers, pollinator gardening, propagation, garden myths, and more. For more information and to register, visit <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1118038295639?aff=oddtdtcreator">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1118038295639?aff=oddtdtcreator</a>   . Cost for this event is $20, refreshments are provided but please bring a bagged lunch.
Finally, our Master Gardener Volunteers are out and about helping people with their gardening questions at local events. See our volunteers early next month, on Sunday February 2nd at the Orange Park Farmers Market from 10am to 3pm. This is a free public event with vendors located at the Orange Park Town Hall at 2042 Park Ave in Orange Park, Florida (32073).
Here&#8217;s to a great January and keep an eye out for other blog posts highlighting monthly events, new webinars and workshops, and great gardening knowledge!
If you have any questions, please email whhobbs@ufl.edu or call (904)284-6355.

What better way to start 2025 than with growing your gardening knowledge! The UF/IFAS Extension Clay County Master Gardener Volunteers have an amazing schedule of events planned for this year and here is a listing of what we have this January!
Camellia, pink flower, leaves.
January 27th- Monthly How-To Series: The Allure of Camellias – Learn about an amazing Florida-Friendly Plant, the Camellia and how to grow them successfully in Northeast Florida. Free workshop from 11:30 am until 12:30 pm. For more information and to register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1115522099629?aff=oddtdtcreator 
January 28th- Master Gardener Library Series: “How to Care for Your Holiday Plants” – Learn about how to care for holiday plants, both before and after in this great workshop taught by our volunteers. This is a free class from 6:00pm until 7:00pm held at the Middleburg Public Library (2245 Astor Ave, Middleburg, FL 32068).
While note in January, registration is also open for our annual “Day of Gardening Education”. This is a full day of workshops and classes on Friday, February 7th with topics covered including palms, shade gardens, great plants for Florida, cut flowers, pollinator gardening, propagation, garden myths, and more. For more information and to register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1118038295639?aff=oddtdtcreator   . Cost for this event is $20, refreshments are provided but please bring a bagged lunch.
Finally, our Master Gardener Volunteers are out and about helping people with their gardening questions at local events. See our volunteers early next month, on Sunday February 2nd at the Orange Park Farmers Market from 10am to 3pm. This is a free public event with vendors located at the Orange Park Town Hall at 2042 Park Ave in Orange Park, Florida (32073).
Here’s to a great January and keep an eye out for other blog posts highlighting monthly events, new webinars and workshops, and great gardening knowledge!
If you have any questions, please email whhobbs@ufl.edu or call (904)284-6355.

What better way to start 2025 than with growing your gardening knowledge! The UF/IFAS Extension Clay County Master Gardener Volunteers have an amazing schedule of events planned for this year and here is a listing of what we have this January! January 27th- Monthly How-To Series: The Allure of Camellias – Learn about an amazing […]

UF/IFAS Extension Clay County Master Gardener Teaching Events- January 2025

Lawn and Garden Care

Céspedes y cuidado de jardines

Lawn and Garden Problems

&nbsp;
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

Florida Yards and Gardens

Lawn and Garden

Patios y jardines de Florida 

Césped y jardín

Home Lawn and Landscape

Lawns and Landscapes (including Ornamental Plants)

Césped y Paisajes (incluye plantas ornamentales)

1912-thumbnail

The design and installation of plant materials (including turf) and architectural elements. [NALT]

Landscaping

Paisajes

Landscape Design

Lawn and Garden Design and Layout

2032-thumbnail

Professional Lawn and Landscape Services

Servicios profesionales de paisajismo y poda

Florida-Friendly Landscaping&trade; (FFL) means using low-maintenance plants and environmentally sustainable practices. Learn how you can have a beautiful landscape that could save you time, energy and money while protecting our future. See the <a href="http://fyn.ifas.ufl.edu/">Florida Friendly Landscaping&trade; program</a> website for training, contact information and more information about the program.

Landscaping

Narrower Topics

Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program

Landscape Design

Lawn and Garden: Plants

Professional Lawn and Landscape Services

What Kind of Plant is Best for Your Garden?

Build a dream garden, learn planting tips and more; UF/IFAS Extension Broward County’s free monthly workshop returns

UF/IFAS Extension Clay County Master Gardener Teaching Events- January 2025