Zinnia

Vigorous all-season producers hold up well in summer rain and heat all over the country. Densely petaled blooms are up to 6" across. Long-lasting standouts in bouquets. Cut-and-come-again flower, yielding multiple cuts over the season. Colors include deep red, orange, carmine rose, coral, lime, wine, purple, bright pink, white, salmon rose, scarlet, and golden yellow.

50 per pack

Days to maturity: 75-90

DAYS TO GERMINATION:3-5 days at 80-85°F (27-29°C)

SOWING:Transplant (recommended) - Sow into 72-cell flats or preferred seedling container 4 weeks before planting out. Cover seeds. A heat mat will help maintain an accurate temperature. Lower temperatures will result in slower germination: 5-7 days at 70-75°F (21-24°C). Do not allow plants to become root bound and avoid disturbing roots; transplant shock or other stress events may cause double-flowering varieties to produce single blooms for a period following stress. Direct seed - Sow 1/4" deep. Succession-sow/plant every 2 weeks for prolonged yields of high-quality stems. Pinching of initial bud or bloom and subsequent deadheading is recommended to encourage strong branching and bloom production. Very sensitive to frost.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:Sun.

PLANT HEIGHT:Varies. No support is necessary.

PLANT SPACING:9-12".

HARDINESS ZONES:Annual.

HARVEST:Before completely open. Stem is firm from point of cut to just below the bloom.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:Fertile soil rich in organic matter. pH: 6.3-6.8 preferred.