You are here:

Annuals/annuals next to lavendar

Advertisement

Expert: - 5/18/2009


Question
I live in southern WI and have recently planted lavendar along my sidewalk.  I would like to put some annuals around them, but would like to know what would be compatible...would impatiens?  I like them because they are resistant to Japenese beetles and earwigs.  I am concerned the impatiens would need more water than the lavendar.

Answer
Cheryl,
You're right in thinking that the impatiens would need more water - especially since I'm hoping you've planted this lavender in the full sun that it loves. Lavender also likes good drainage and heat.  So some good companions would be marigolds (although sometimes earwigs like these) verbena (Look for the Superbena from Proven Winners) and Scaevola.  Nasturshims would also be a good choice in that they also like good drainage and heat. Any of the Cupheas would also be good - cigar plant and Mexican heather for example.

I hope this helps,
C.L.

Annuals

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

C.L. Fornari

Expertise

Annuals suggested for specific situations (sun, shade, windowboxes etc) New or unusual annuals are a particular interest of mine, and I grow many of these from seed. I am happy to help problem solve, answer questions about maintenance, and guide you to sources of unusual plants.

Experience

I am a garden writer/speaker/consultant and host of a weekly gardening radio program in the Northeast. I have been gardening all my life for my own pleasure, and started as a professional gardener and garden communicator 15 years ago. I work part-time at a garden center, selling and tending shrubs/trees/annuals/perennials...and doing some propagation and design work. I often think that all these professional activities serve to put a somewhat legitimate framework around a serious case of plant-lust.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.