which annual attractive flowers to sow directly outside would you recommend

[maluta2]

I'm a gardening novice; so far have managed only to plant a few shrubs and bushes and a couple of trees (with mixed success) in my bare garden on a new housing estate; this year I'd like to add more colour to it (no flowers in in yet!). Having looked at a couple of gardening sites I feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of flower seeds. I'd appreciate if you shared ideas on your fav annuals. (It has to be annuals, as I have no idea as yet how far and wide the new shrubs and bushes will spread and also I'd prefer to sow them directly outside - less hassle!) Any recommendations?

not a great expert but last year, someone bought the DSs some packets of wild flower seeds which just needed sowing and they were lovely

Love in a mist is nice - gives an airy look. And it self-seeds though not with uncontrollably gay abandon. Californian poppies are very easy and you can get some pretty varieties now. Also cornflowers.

I grew all of those CorrieDale suggested last year, plus marigolds, dwarf sunflowers, gypsophilia (baby's breath - masses of tiny frothy white flowers), sweet peas and lupins.

Love in a mist (nigella) is my favourite. It's so pretty and the seedheads look fab too. Apart from sky blue, you can also get mixed blue/pink/white versions, a darker blue and white with a chocolate brown centre.

Nasturtiums are dead easy to grow as well.

Don't feel overwhelmed .... nothing could be easier to grow and you get masses of flowers for just a few pounds.