What characterizes annuals in horticulture?

Annuals in horticulture are characterized by completing their life cycle within a single growing season. This means that from germination to the production of seeds, all the stages of growth occur within a specific timeframe, typically within one year. Annual plants germinate, flower, and die all in the same year, making them a popular choice for gardeners who want to enjoy vibrant blooms or crops within a short period.

The other characteristics, while they may pertain to different plant categories or general growing needs, do not define annuals specifically. For instance, biennials would be plants that live longer than two years, and many plants may require varying amounts of sunlight depending on their specific needs, not a strict range of 8-10 hours. Furthermore, having a legal contract is unrelated to the biological and horticultural characteristics of annual plants.