Spring in Southwestern Ontario is one of the most exciting times of year for gardeners. The frost is lifting, the soil is warming up, and it's finally time to get some colour back into your outdoor spaces. If you're in Strathroy or the London area and wondering which annuals to reach for this season, here's what we're loving at HC Gardens in 2026.
When is it safe to plant annuals in Strathroy?
Strathroy sits in Ontario's hardiness zone 6a, which means our last frost date typically falls around mid to late April. We always recommend waiting until after May 1st to plant frost sensitive annuals outdoors. Soil temperature matters just as much as air temperature — aim for at least 10°C before putting anything in the ground.
Top Annuals to Plant This Spring
Petunias One of the most reliable performers in Southwestern Ontario gardens. Petunias love full sun and come in an incredible range of colours. They're perfect for hanging baskets, window boxes and garden borders. Deadhead regularly to keep them blooming all season long.
Marigolds Hardy, cheerful and incredibly easy to grow. Marigolds are a fantastic choice for gardeners who want big colour with minimal fuss. They also naturally repel certain garden pests, making them a smart companion plant for your vegetable beds.
Zinnias If you want a cutting garden that keeps giving all summer, zinnias are your best friend. They thrive in Strathroy's warm summers and reward you with bold blooms from June right through to the first fall frost. Direct sow after May 1st or start with established transplants for earlier colour.
Impatiens Got a shady spot that needs some life? Impatiens are one of the few annuals that genuinely thrive in lower light conditions. They're a go-to choice for north facing beds, covered porches and spots under large trees.
Begonias Wax begonias are incredibly versatile and one of our top sellers every season at HC Gardens. They handle both sun and partial shade, stay compact and tidy, and bloom continuously without much deadheading. Perfect for container gardens and front porch planters.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Annuals
Start with good soil. Annuals are heavy feeders and they perform best in rich, well amended soil. Pick up a quality potting mix or garden soil from our Garden Essentials collection before you plant.
Feed regularly. A slow release fertilizer worked into the soil at planting time, topped up with a liquid feed every two to three weeks, will keep your annuals looking their best all summer.
Water consistently. Most annuals prefer consistent moisture rather than cycles of drought and overwatering. Container plantings in particular dry out quickly during our hot Strathroy summers, so check them daily during heat waves.
Come Visit Us Before the Season Gets Going
HC Gardens opens for the 2026 season on May 1st at 4836 Egremont Dr, Strathroy, ON, just 15 minutes from London, Ontario. We'll have a full selection of annuals, perennials, herbs, tropical plants and everything else you need to get your garden off to a great start. Join us for our Spring Launch Event on May 23rd for deals, activities and lots of plant inspiration!