Sowing hardy annuals From Growing from Seed Hardy annuals are the easiest of all plants to raise from seed. They're described as hardy not just because they withstand moderate frosts and in some cases survive our coldest winters. They will also tolerate soils which are less than ideal, most will produce a good show in both dry and wet seasons and even if you don't feed the soil or keep the plants free from pests and diseases you should still get a reasonable display. There's an old wives' tale to the effect that hardy annuals actually prefer very poor soil. It is true that in their wild homes many grow in dry, hungry soils and only burst into flower for a short period after the seasonal rains. But give them these conditions in the garden and they'll produce stunted plants which may flower quickly - but which won't flower for long. Soil and situation Preparing the site Sowing the seed Annual Manual ©copyright 1999 Graham Rice. All Rights Reserved. All Images Digitally Watermarked.