Assorted annual hanging baskets are a delightful addition to any garden or outdoor space, providing an instant burst of color and texture. Here's what you can expect from them:

1. Variety: These hanging baskets usually contain a mix of different annual flowering plants, chosen for their contrasting colors, shapes, and textures. Common plants used in assorted annual hanging baskets include petunias, verbena, bacopa, lobelia, calibrachoa, fuchsia, million bells (Calibrachoa), and ivy geraniums.

2. Colors: These baskets often feature a vibrant mix of colors, ranging from bold and bright hues to softer pastel tones. Depending on the selection, you may find baskets with a single dominant color scheme or a more eclectic mix of colors.

3. Flowering Season: Most plants used in these hanging baskets are selected for their long flowering season, providing continuous blooms throughout the spring, summer, and sometimes into the fall. Regular deadheading and proper care can help prolong the flowering period.

4. Sunlight Requirements: The plants included in these baskets prefer full sun to partial shade, so it's essential to place them in a location where they'll receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. In hot climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the plants from intense heat.

5. Watering: Hanging baskets dry out faster than plants in the ground, so they require frequent watering, especially during hot weather. Check the soil moisture daily and water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water until the excess drains out from the bottom of the basket.

6. Fertilizing: To keep the plants blooming and healthy, regular fertilization is essential. Use a water-soluble fertilizer formulated for flowering plants, and apply it every two to four weeks, following the package instructions. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.

7. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your hanging baskets looking their best. Remove spent flowers (deadheading) regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plants from going to seed. Prune back any leggy or overgrown stems to maintain a compact and tidy appearance.

8. Winter Care: Most plants used in annual hanging baskets are not cold hardy and will not survive freezing temperatures. Before the first frost, you can either bring the baskets indoors to overwinter in a cool, bright location or simply discard the plants and start fresh the following spring.

Assorted annual hanging baskets are a convenient and versatile option for adding instant color and beauty to your outdoor living spaces. With the right care and attention, they can provide months of enjoyment throughout the growing season.