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June 13th 2021

Grow Great Zinnias

Written by
Floret

Nothing says summer more than an armload of cheerful zinnias. Available in a brilliant rainbow of colors, these happy blooms are a must-grow for any flower lover.

As one of the easiest cut flowers to cultivate, they are a perfect first crop for beginning growers and are reliable, prolific producers for most flower farms and gardeners.  

We’ve been growing zinnias since the beginning, and every year I fall more and more in love with them.

Field of zinnias at Floret Flower FarmZinnias resent cold weather and prefer to be planted after things have warmed up a bit. Many gardeners in warmer parts of the world are able to successfully direct-seed their zinnias straight into the field, but here in cool Washington we start seeds in 72-cell trays in the greenhouse 4 to 6 weeks before our last spring frost.

Closeup of zinnias germinating in cell traysPlants are tucked into the field around mid-May, once the weather has sufficiently warmed up and all danger of frost has passed. Like every flower grown on our farm, we try to give them the best start possible. Learn more about soil preparation here.

Once the planting beds have been prepared, we lay down four lines of drip irrigation, roughly 1 ft (30 cm) apart, and then the beds are covered with a layer of preburned landscape fabric to control weeds. Plants are spaced 9 in (23 cm) apart with 5 rows per bed.

Field of zinnias at Floret Flower FarmIf given good soil and a steady supply of water, plants can get huge and require some type of support. We use a layer of Hortonova netting stretched horizontally about 12 in (30 cm) above the ground. Netting is held in place by metal hoops that we made with our Johnny’s Quick Hoops Bender. Any type of stake, wooden or metal, will work just fine. As the plants grow, they push up through the grid of netting and get the support they need.

Field of zinnias at Floret Flower FarmZinnias like the heat, and it’s important that they are grown in full sun. In addition to choosing a sunny spot, I always grow them in fabric for the added heat.  

When we first started growing zinnias this closely together I was worried that they would be plagued by disease, but since they are grown in such rich soil, this hasn’t been a problem. We succession-sow zinnias every 2 to 3 weeks in order to have a steady stream of these beautiful blooms all summer long.

Closeup of Erin Benzakein pinching a young plantThe secret to getting the longest stems from your zinnias is pinching them when they are young. Here’s how it’s done: When plants are between 8 to 12 in (20 to 30 cm) tall, take sharp pruners and snip the top 3 to 4 in (8 to 10 cm) off the plant, just above a set of leaves. This signals the plant to send up multiple stems from below where the cut was made, resulting in more abundant flower production as well as longer stem length. The photo above demonstrates pinching with another type of plant. 

Field of zinnias at Floret Flower FarmIf you are not regularly harvesting your zinnias, be sure to deadhead any spent blooms to help focus the plant’s energy into producing new flowers and not going to seed.

Zinnias need to be picked when they are fully ripe; otherwise, they won’t last in the vase. To tell whether a zinnia is ready to harvest, use the “wiggle test.” Simply grab the stem about 8 in (20 cm) down from the flower head and gently shake it. If the stem is droopy or bends, it is not ready to cut. If the stem is stiff and remains erect, it is ready to harvest.

Zinnias are considered a “dirty” flower and benefit from a drop or two of bleach in their water. Do not put them in the cooler since the flowers are very cold sensitive.

Overhead photo of peach- and coral-colored zinnia flowersThere are an unbelievable number of zinnias to choose from, in every shape, color, and size imaginable. No matter what your needs are, there is definitely a zinnia for you.

Six square collage of peach, salmon, and coral zinniasFor example, if you’re looking for flowers in the peach-salmon range, look at how many choices there are!

Top row, left to right: ‘Giant Salmon Rose’, ‘Zinderella Peach’, ‘Queen Lime Orange’.

Bottom row, left to right: ‘Señora’, ‘Lilliput Salmon’, ‘Oklahoma Salmon’.

Overhead photo of peach, salmon, and coral zinnia flower headsHere’s a great example of the different size options available in one color. 

Left to right, above: ‘Lilliput Salmon’, ‘Giant Salmon Rose’, ‘Oklahoma Salmon’. 

Left to right, below: ‘Giant Salmon Rose’, ‘Oklahoma Salmon’, ‘Lilliput Salmon’. Overhead photo of bunches of salmon-colored zinniasI thought I’d share some of my favorite varieties that we grow here on the farm in hopes that it inspires you to plant some of these hardworking, heat-loving beauties in your garden this season.

armload of salmon coral colored zinnias salmon coral colored zinniasBenary’s Giant Series 

The largest-flowered varieties in the zinnia family, plants often reach 4 to 5 ft (1.2 to 1.5 m) tall and have a high percentage of huge double flowers. They come in a wide range of colors (13 total) and are known for their strong stems and good disease resistance.

My all-time favorite variety is ‘Giant Salmon Rose’ (pictured above) because its warm peachy color is so versatile and softens with age. It pairs well with both pastel and vibrant colors.

field of zinniasI also love the Desert Sunset Mix (pictured above), which includes my favorite warm-toned Benary’s Giant colors: ‘Giant Coral’, ‘Giant Orange’, and ‘Giant Carmine’. They make a bold statement when combined with acid-green or deep maroon flowers and foliage.

Bright coral and carmine zinnias The individual colors in this series are stunning, especially en masse.

Benary’s Giant Coral’ (pictured above, left) is a glowing, tropical coral-salmon variety and a long-standing customer favorite. ‘Benary’s Giant Carmine’ (pictured above, right) has raspberry-pink blooms; as they age, the outer tips of the petals fade, giving blooms a multidimensional quality.

Orange and lime zinniasThe petal tips of ‘Benary’s Giant Orange’ (pictured above, left) are edged with the tiniest hint of lavender, giving them an iridescent quality. The blooms of ‘Benary’s Giant Lime’ (pictured above, right) are a unique, Granny Smith apple green and deeply packed with petals.

Red and pink zinniasBenary’s Giant Deep Red’ (pictured above, left) is a rich ruby red; the backs of the petals have the slightest hint of purple, giving them a glowing, iridescent quality. The cotton candy-pink blooms of ‘Benary’s Giant Bright Pink’ (pictured above, right) are as sweet as can be.

Wine and lilac zinniasA customer favorite, ‘Benary’s Giant Wine’ (pictured above, left) is a dramatic, deep wine hue. ‘Benary’s Giant Lilac’ (pictured above, right) starts out a vivid lilac, and with time the outer petals fade to a cool pale lavender, giving it a haunting effect.

coral and salmon zinniasOklahoma Series 

These are hands down the most productive and floriferous zinnias I’ve ever grown. The series boasts 7 colors, including ‘Oklahoma Salmon’, ‘Oklahoma Pink’, ‘Oklahoma Carmine’, ‘Oklahoma Ivory’, ‘Oklahoma White’, ‘Oklahoma Golden Yellow’, and ‘Oklahoma Scarlet’.

Oklahoma Salmon’ (pictured above) has petite, double blooms that are a warm mix of salmon and peach and combine well with anything. Everyone loves this treasure!

Ivory zinniasOklahoma Ivory’ (pictured above) had been discontinued but, to the delight of countless growers and designers, was brought back by Frank Morton at Wild Garden Seed here in the Pacific Northwest. We are so pleased to offer this variety, treasured for its versatile creamy ivory color and pretty double blooms.

Queen series of zinniasQueen Series 

Unlike other zinnias, this series includes the most unique array of unusual coloring, including lime green, smoky apricot, dusty rose, and limey blush.

In addition to their special coloring, the Queen Series produces vigorous plants with sturdy stems and tough flowers, a welcomed improvement to the zinnia family.

These gorgeous novelties are sought out by designers for their unique coloring.

Queen Lime Blush ZinniasThe mostly double and semi-double flowers of ‘Queen Lime Blush’ (pictured above) are a stunning blend of green and purple, unlike anything we’ve seen. Everyone who sees them instantly falls in love. It’s a must-grow!

queen lime orange zinniasQueen Lime Orange’: This exciting new addition to the Queen Series is the most beautiful range of iridescent raspberry, apricot, and smoky peach, with a dark cranberry center. This versatile color looks incredible when combined with rich foliage and blooms.

scabiosa zinnias

Scabiosa-flowered types 

I grew scabiosa-flowered zinnias for the first time in 2014, and they quickly became one of my favorite crops of the season. The frilly double blooms look like mini gerbera daisies or double-flowered echinacea.

They have nice long stems and good disease resistance, and they come in a beautiful range of colors.

armload of scabiosa zinniasCandy Mix (pictured above) is an improved mix that contains a higher percentage of double flowers in a warm, cheerful blend of scarlet, raspberry, rose, salmon, tangerine, gold, and cream.

scabiosa zinniasOne point to note is that many growers in warmer climates have noticed that they don’t get the same high percentage of doubles with scabiosa types (doubles pictured above, right) that we do here in the Northwest.

After a lot of research and emails back and forth with the breeders, I believe that if plants undergo any stress, including not getting enough water or too-high temperatures, they will start producing single flowers (pictured above, left).

While the single blooms are pretty and unique, many folks have been disappointed by this fact.

zinderella peach‘‘Zinderella Peach’ (pictured above) has frilly double blooms that are a warm mix of salmon, peach, and cream, accented by a striking dark center. Of all the zinnias we grow, this might be my favorite.
zinderella zinniazinderella zinniaZinderella Lilac’ (pictured above) is a lovely mix of blush and soft lavender, accented by a striking dark center. It’s ideal for wedding work, and floral designers love it!

bicolor zinniaBicolor novelties 

These unique bicolor novelties are sure to catch the attention of everyone who sees them.

We’ve been growing ‘Macarenia’ (pictured above) for years and have found that people either love it or hate it. Each glowing scarlet petal is tipped in gold for a fun twist. Winner of the Fleuroselect Novelty Award in 2012, this hardworking plant thrives in heat and is very easy to grow.

mazurkia zinniaMazurkia’ brings a new twist to zinnias and is a Fleuroselect winner for good reason. The midsize plant produces fun, campy, double flowers with lipstick-pink centers and soft blush tips.

armload of zinnias Miniature-flowered types 

The old-fashioned Lilliput Mix (pictured above) deserves a spot in every cutting garden. The easy-to-grow, heat-loving plants produce a bumper crop of sweet blooms on long, strong stems in shades of rose, carmine, orange, coral, white, yellow, and violet. Their petite flower size makes them ideal for flower arranging.

zinnias in flower fieldI especially love ‘Lilliput Salmon’ (pictured growing above). This adorable bloomer produces an abundance of petite, fully double, dome-shaped salmon flowers all summer long.

zinniasThe Sunbow Series (pictured above), available from Johnny’s Selected Seeds, has been around for ages and has miniature 1- to 2-in (2.5- to 5-cm) double blooms that ride atop long, sturdy stems. It comes in a cheery mix including rose, purple, golden yellow, scarlet, orange, pink, and white. Plants have long, wiry stems that make them well suited to flower arranging.

cactus zinniasCactus-flowered types 

These fun novelties have the coolest twisted, shaggy petals and come in a wide range of colors, including orange, pink, red, yellow, peach, and white.

My favorite is ‘Señora’ (pictured above), which has warm salmon-apricot, quilled blooms and produces a bumper crop of large flowers that have long, strong stems. It’s a must-grow!

Mexican zinniasfield of zinnias at Floret Flower Farm Mexican zinnias 

While plants themselves are compact, they churn out an abundance of stems for cutting from midsummer to early autumn. With their petite stature, they resemble a bedding plant more than a cropping variety, but I think they deserve a spot in every cutting garden.

The Persian Carpet Mix (pictured above) includes adorable gold, cranberry, orange, and cream flowers.

Aztec sunset zinniasThe brilliant, eye-catching Aztec Sunset Mix (pictured above) includes a wide range of miniature bicolor blooms in shades of buttercream, gold, cranberry, rust, and merlot. These reliable bloomers are a great addition to the cutting garden and the front of the flower border.

 

field of zinniasfield of zinnias I would love to hear your experience with this wonderful group of plants. Do you grow zinnias or plan to add them to your garden this coming season? If so, what are your favorite varieties, or what new treasures are you adding to your wish list?

 

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328 Comments

  1. Julia on

    I live in the tropics averaging 80 degrees. Under the Scabiosa type section, it is mentioned that they don’t do well in very warm climate. Do you have any feedback on the pompom shaped Zinnias on how well they do in the hot climate?

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      Zinnias thrive in warm weather so they should do well in your area.

  2. Christopher Patten on

    If we save seeds from your zinnias will they be true to variety when planted next year?

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      If isolated from other varieties of zinnias when grown they will grow true to the variety.

  3. Sarah on

    My zinnias seeds were planted directly in good soil, they germinated, got about one to two inches and stopped and now it’s been about three weeks with no growth. It is so weird, I’ve never had trouble with zinnias. They are in a super sunny spot, are well watered and in good soil. I also live in Skagit Valley. Any suggestions on how to get them growing? Thanks!

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      If their foliage looks healthy then they may just need more time and maybe some compost tea for a boost of nutrients. They will usually take off as the season progresses.

  4. Katherine on

    I’ve been growing Zinnias for four summers now but this year something has changed. I am in Toronto so I started them indoors at the beginning of April. They’ve now been in the ground for about three weeks (as of June 6th) and they are already budding up. I pinched them weeks ago and most are still about 6-8 inches tall. Some insect damage but for the most part they look great. The only significant change I made was starting my seeds with a small amount of Gaia Power Bloom (2-8-4) fertilizer and added more when I planted them in the ground. Should I be worried that they won’t get tall? Should I continue to pinch off buds or just let them do their thing? I really want big beautiful plants with long stems! As usual! Haven’t been able to find any info elsewhere on this. Thanks to anyone who’s got some insight :)

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      They should get taller throughout the growing season as you continue to harvest them. Planting them closer together per the spacing recommendations will also encourage them to grow tall. Hope this helps!

  5. Loren Jones on

    Hello,
    I would like to grow flowers in pots. I have Zinnia seeds from Floret and wanted to know instructions on how to plant these seeds in pots. Is there a place I can find those instructions. I have purchased the Cupcake Pink last year and wanted to start now since the weather is getting warmer. I live in King County in Renton, WA. Appreciate your help. Thanks

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      Use the recommended plant placing on the back of the seed packet when growing in pots and containers and water regularily since soil in pots tend to dry out much quicker.

  6. Kathlean Faver on

    Yes we have a small patch of Zinnias growing right now, but the thing I see is they are all so much alike. I really would like some new styles and colors, can’t wait for your floret seeds to start being offered. I grow enough flowers for pollinators fit our victory garden and some cut flowers for the house.

    Reply
  7. Shannon on

    Shannon here,
    Thankful for your sharing I didn’t realize how many different kinds there are and I’m excited to explore, figure out how these mix well with cosmos in a bouquet and white roses. My garden theme is sticking to moonlight garden and excited to see what these will look like at night with the greens and Ivory.

    Reply
  8. Steph on

    They remind me of my Grandma. Grandpa would plow one pass down the entire edge of his row crop field for her to plant a sea of zinnias each year. One in particular was for my cousin’s wedding because I threw out zinnia petals as her flower girl. I remember I also got to experience a hoop skirt for the first time too. I was only 5/6 years old. Zinnia will always have a special place in my heart.

    Reply
  9. Susan on

    Amy, sprinkle cinnamon in with the seeds, it prevents fungus and fungus gnats.

    Reply
  10. Amy on

    Thank you for the great information! I grew zinnias last year for the first time and fell in love with them.
    This year, I planted the seeds (a variety) directly into the ground. The leaves are a lighter green and there are some brown areas on some of the leaves. I’m not sure if this is sunburn or some sort of bacteria or fungus. Any thoughts or advice?

    Reply
  11. Darci on

    I’ve been growing zinnias the past three years in Southern California and can attest to the phenomenon of getting mostly single flowers, when doubles are the goal. Unless you have a very sunny spot right on the coast, the temps get too hot I suppose. My flowers are still gorgeous, but stress also causes them to succumb early to powdery mildew. I sow several successions for that reason, beginning with a few early ones started in seed trays and 1-2 rounds directly sown. Sluggo Plus is also a must! It’s the only OMRI-rated thing I can use to save my crops from pill bugs and slugs.

    Reply
  12. Victoria on

    Watching you on HBO,I grow flowers in my yard every year and what you said about flowers are a gift to everyone who sees them and to ourselves really struck a cord with me..Life would be so dull without flowers!

    Reply
  13. Amber on

    I started my zinnias inside for the first time (I usually direct sow) and they germinated in 3 days and in a week they are 4-5” tall. I’m worried about them getting leggy… should I pot up?

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      To prevent them from becoming leggy they’ll need a direct source of light set several inches above the tops of the seedlings. If the roots are coming out of the bottom of the seed tray then it’s time to pot up.

  14. Cheryl Rohleder on

    I used to grow zinnias in years past, but have not grown them for the last 15 years or so. I bought a number of seeds from the queen and Oklahoma types, and plan to grow a number of them this year. I am so excited. They are truly one of the easiest flowers to grow and so many beautiful blooms. I love all of the varieties you have shown here.

    Reply
  15. Crystal Bailey on

    I have Always grown zinnia flowers and the Queen-lime Series is my current favorite. I am excited about your breeding experience with this beautiful flower, I’m always hoping for new colors and textures that I can trial and grow here at the family farm. Best wishes in your adventure ♡

    Reply
  16. Jess Meister on

    Could you release some information on collecting seeds and cross pollination?? Love all of your info on that for dahlias, and would love to play around with that for zinnias.

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      We hope to share more resources about seed saving and flower breeding in the future. “The Zinnia Breeder’s Handbook” by Tiffany Jones with Blomma Flower Farm would be a good book to get!

  17. Jessica on

    Are the precious metals collection ever going to be released? I think I’ve been drooling since and IG post over a year ago over them.

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      Once we know if we’ll have enough seed we’ll announce it in our Newsletter. We can’t wait to share them with everyone!

  18. Natalie Morrison on

    Hey there, is it true to plant different varieties far apart? Thank you!

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      If you’re planning on saving the seeds so they can grow back true to that variety, then you’ll want to prevent cross pollination between other varieties of zinnias. Otherwise the seeds will become hybrids of the different varieties.

  19. Bridget Farren on

    Like so many others. I began growing in 2019 when I had more time at home (I am a high school teacher by day). Zinnias were the flower that hooked me. Your books are my treasures and I love learning from all of your posts too. Thank you. In 2021 I launched my very tiny flower business here in Penryn Ca, inspired again by your story. I am slowly expanding and working hard to get my soil amended properly to keep my flowers looking as gorgeous as possible. I struggle with high temps beginning in June running through September here. I am going to try a bit more space between plants this year and a fan or two to see if air circulation reduces stress. Powdery mildew and some pests made the job much harder last year. I’m hoping these will give me a healthy midsummer crop. Nonetheless, the zinnias are work horses here as well. The Queen Lime Series was by far the most wanted last summer as were the Bernary’s Giant Coral, Lavender and Salmon. I can’t wait to plant your unicorn series mix once it is launched, as the photos are spectacular. You continue to inspire us hobby flower farmers and I am ever so grateful to you and your family and team.

    Reply
  20. Lauren on

    Hi! I did not have success transplanting my seeds, which I started successfully indoors, to the outdoor garden. They seemed so fragile when I lifted them out of the tray. Any tips or tricks?

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      They may have still been too small and delicate. Wait until they have at least 3 or 4 sets of true leaves before hardening them off. Hardening off is important before transplanting them outside. I hope this helps!

  21. Paula Cohn on

    Here is a silly question . You say you like to use garden fabric & then put your Zinnias in the ground . Do you put fabric down first , then poke a hole to get zinnias in the ground ? Do you remove the fabric at the end of the growing season ?
    Many thanks for your help .

    Reply
  22. Fran on

    Do u sell seeds? Catalogue?? Where are you?

    Reply
  23. E Longworth on

    I live zinnias – thanks for your article. I also primarily plant fir the pollinators – do all of your zinnias produce pollen? I saw a pollenless sunflower variety on your site.

    Reply
    • BriAnn, Team Floret on

      Yes, they produce pollen except for certain sunflowers. The pollinators LOVE zinnias!

  24. Kay Riedemann Stoecklin on

    Your rows look so close together in the field. How do you get between the rows to harvest? Thank you so much. I think I’m going to jump in. Farmer, retired florist now orchardist.

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      The rows are spaced 3-4 feet apart so we can walk through them.

  25. Irene on

    Hello, I love all your zinnias!!! Would you at some time be able to offer some information or a video about how to save seed from zinnias? I have read that they do not come true from seed because of the pollinators. Is there a way to save seed to keep a certain variety from year to year? I appreciate all your incredible hard work in bringing your beautiful flowers to the world.

    Reply
  26. Lisa on

    I have been growing the Benaryl’s giant zinnias for about 3 years now selling them at Farmer’s Market. They are really beautiful. Our customers love them. I arranged them in mason jars with some sunflowers, celosia, gomphrena and Victoria blue or just placed them in buckets and let our customers pick which ones they want and wrapped it for them. And almost every sale we run out of them. One compliment I got is one of my customer say that I have most beautiful flowers in the market. Thank you Erin for your articles on zinnias ( and sunflowers 🌻) They were all very helpful. I love watching your videos too.

    Reply
  27. lynda l. davis on

    I love that the basic zinnia has been elevated. You have such a diverse selection of amazing colors and types. You are certainly patient and talented!

    Reply
  28. Aleah on

    I love to grow zinnias but I didn’t plant any that s year because every year they always get the powder mildew. I tried anti fungus treatment, milk water, you name it, it still prevails. Any advice? I’d love to get back to growing them. Thanks

    Reply
  29. Becky on

    I have the same question about harvesting seeds. I looked all over your site and did not find the answer, if you could kindly direct me to it, it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Becky

    Reply
  30. Patti Freeman on

    I’m looking for your best variety of multicolor SHORT compact zinnias. Can you advise?

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      We specialize in the long stemmed zinnias for flower arrangements.

  31. Meredith on

    Do you plan to offer the unicorn zinnia mix again?

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      We will offer them again in the future but not in our 2022 seed sales.

  32. Lauren on

    Do you have any advice on harvesting seeds? Grew some of your beauties this summer and starting to think ahead.

    Reply
  33. Maddie on

    I love zinnias for the wonderful colors, but here in VT I have trouble getting them to do well. Maybe just don’t get enough sun where I plant them…Lovely photos, great article!

    Reply
  34. jamie on

    My zinnias have grown way too tall & are falling over & flowers are turning up. Can I cut them back now or is it best to just stake them all up.

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      At this point in the season it’s probably best to stake/corral them and continue harvesting.

  35. John Treble on

    “… We succession sow zinnias every 2 to 3 weeks in order to have a steady stream of these beautiful blooms all summer long …”

    Questions: why do you succession sow your zinnias if they are cut-and-come-agains? What am I missing?

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      We get an early start growing them here on the farm and eventually the first round will fizzle out before the summers end. To extend the harvest window we’ll do succession plantings. You can never have enough zinnias!

  36. Elaine on

    When planting the zinnias any tips on supports? This my first year growing zinnias and they are beautiful but finding that they are spreading out and need support, ideas to do from beginning? I put bamboo canes with spring but that’s not working too well 🥴

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      We use hortonova netting to support our zinnias.

  37. Julie on

    I’m having problems with powdery mildew. Do you have a natural remedy to stop or control the spread. Is it now in my soil? I live in Virginia, zone 7.

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      There are different products out there but we’ve found that CEASE and MilStop have worked well for us in treating powdery mildew.

  38. Sue on

    Iove the oklahoma mix . I live in columbus ohio and have to travel to newark ohio to get the plants. They are beautiful. no nursery’s in columbus carries them.
    You have some beautiful varieties I had never heard of.Do you sell the seeds?

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      Yes, we do carry some of the Oklahoma zinnia seeds in our online shop.

  39. Cora de Arellano on

    So informative! I never get mine to produce the full double blooms and although the single blooms are pretty I want a fuller look. After reading your article I suspect they are getting just a little too much “stress” here in zone 8b. Hopefully extra watering will help. Thank you again!

    Reply
  40. sophia on

    I had saved a couple varieties but the seed did not produce pretty flowers the second year, they were small and some turned brown early. What is the secret of saving seed? I had dalhia and Calif giant, which were not giant this year at all. Thanks.
    sophia

    Reply
  41. Sarah on

    My favorite flower. My kids probably think I take way more pics of the zinnia than them. I see several that I have my eye on now! So beautiful!

    Reply
  42. Rachel Williams on

    Because of my gopher problem and deer problem, I grow my zinnias in half barrels and they have been glorious! They seem to grow forever . . . last summer I had flowers from July through September and then I harvested the dead heads and had my grandson help me stomp them in a sheet. I took the rest of the year to pick out the seeds and save them. I have planted many more seeds this year (all of which have grown) and given lots of them away to friends and they have been successfully growing as well. The funny part of this is when I threw out the last of the chaff after picking out my seeds I threw them all on one of my wildflower gardens and low and behold I have a dozen zinnias starting to grow there without any help from me as well!! Hurrah for the joy of gardening and your wonderful help in learning how to do so.

    Reply
  43. Johanna Heinrich on

    My Zinnias ..zinderella, are setting buds and they are only 4 inches tall. Do I pinch back the plants and cut the buds off? I’m in New Mexico and we are 40’s at night and 80’s in the day right now.

    Reply
  44. Gwen on

    Hello Floret! Do deer eat zinnia flowers or leaves? Too many different answers online! Asking the pro! 🥰💜

    Reply
  45. Marc Raby on

    First and foremost, thanks Erin for the great material and valuable insight you and your team provide to all of us. The way you present your ideas thru personal stories, photograph and available resources really is unique and inspiring.

    Me and my wife have been gardening for pleasure thru the years and had equal amount of success and failures with our garden. Over the years I’ve come to appreciate dahlias and the success of growing this flower. Winter storing isn’t fullproof as I end up always loosing a few tubers but am getting better.

    Wanting to reproduce this success and explorer different varieties with zinnias I decided to order my seed from your store earlier this year. Having snap some highly sought seeds (salmon rose, queen red lime , giant coral to name a few). They came at a fare expense (canadian currency exchange, delivery and well I ll be honest, your seed are expensive but I was willing to pay extra for your brand). Imagine my excitement when I received my seeds not to long ago!

    Bracing my self with excitement, I was eager to get my seeds going and grow the flowers over summer. Things started well, 100% germination from all varieties.

    Then 2 or 3 weeks later, things got complicated. The success I had last summer with zinnias, where they are pretty easy to grow from plant isn’t exactly thru from seed. As we speak am I’ve lost probably half of all my seeds ;(

    Am in the process of re reading and viewing your mini courses to see where I went wrong. Am crossing my fingers that I ll be able to figure things out with your resources and tutorials, but if you have the steps by steps guide, phases and common mistakes to avoid info that would be great.

    Thanks again for everything, I hope that I will at least be able to save 2 or 3 plants started from seeds.

    Regards Marx

    Reply
  46. Maddy on

    What do I do if my zinnia seedlings are so long that they are falling over? They are still in the treys, have plenty of light and water. I planted them 2.5 weeks ago.

    Reply
    • BriAnn Boots on

      If your seedlings are too leggy and fall over, it’s too late to save them, however, if they’re still upright then I’d suggest placing fluorescent lights set several inches above them, fill the seed tray with more seed starting soil (if there’s room) to help support the stems, and have a fan gently blowing on them to help build their strength. I hope this helps!

  47. Joy Jessop on

    I am new to growing flowers so I can’t speak to whether or not pollinators can find the center nectar on doubles, but I grew Benary Giant zinnias last year in Colorado and the pollinators loved them! It was especially a treat in late summer when the monarch butterflies migrated through. There were monarchs all over my zinnias for days – it made me SO happy!!

    Zinnias also just surprised me with how fast they grew amazing flowers! As I said, I am new to flower growing and I had lots of things I was planting last year, so I hadn’t gotten around to getting my zinnia seeds in the ground. It was getting super late in the season so I almost just didn’t grow them at all but around July 4th I thought, “what the heck, I’ll throw down some seed and see what happens.” With that late sowing, I really had no expectations. Imagine my surprise when, about 5 weeks later, I had giant bushes of zinnias blooming in my yard!! They grew and started producing so quickly, and lasted until an October hail storm knocked them all down. I had vases full of zinnia blooms in my house and absolutely fell in love. I bought several more varieties of zinnias to grow this year and they will be the very first that I sow after the last frost!

    Reply
  48. Sarah on

    When is the best time to purchase Zinnia seeds from your company? I see that they are all sold out already. I love the Mazurkia by the way!! Gorgeous!

    Reply
  49. Karen Hazzard on

    I enjoyed reading this article and seeing all the Beautiful colors. Last year I planted state fair zinnias, they were big. This year I bought some cut and come again, pinwheel, and Lilliput zinnias.

    Reply
  50. Julie on

    I don’t see any pollinators, like bees or butterflies, on your zinnias. I’ve read that they can’t find the center nectar in doubles, is that correct? Or maybe you keep yours sprayed? I want to attract as many pollinators as possible. Maybe these are not good for my garden?

    Reply
  51. Arlene Trabona on

    This is my favorite flower. I am a small gardener but make sure these are included in my yard or pots. When can I buy these seeds from you

    Reply
  52. Mary McCord on

    Zinnias were my late sister-in-law’s favorite flower. She would be totally surprised with the variety you have shown us. Her mother, my mother-in-law, liked only white flowers. My husband and I moved into his parent’s home when his mother died. I sowed seeds from a package showing multi-colored zinnias, and to my surprise they all came up white. An homage to my late mother-in-law.

    Reply
  53. Pam Flory on

    I’m wondering if you have a good way to clean zinnia seeds. I’m a school garden coordinator/educator and we do a great seed saving project with our 3rd graders that includes saving seeds in the Fall and selling in the Spring. We’ve made some simple sieves that work well with some of our vegetable seeds but don’t work great with zinnias. Any tips, tricks or resources I can share with my students would be most helpful. Thanks for your work and for generously sharing with others.

    Reply
  54. Maria Galvan on

    Last year was my first time growing zinnias and I loved them . This year I have ordered some from your site and can’t wait to start planting.

    Reply
  55. Philipia on

    Thank you Erin and Chris and your great team. You mentioned to not place the zinnias in a cooler. What is their vase life, and do you hydrate them in water in a cool place, or pick fresh and gift the same day.
    My first time growing zinnias, Floret seed, they were amazing! Thank you.

    Reply
  56. Vani on

    Good information thank you
    Vani

    Reply
  57. Julia Kirkham on

    Thank you so much for this fantastic article. I always plant a little row of Zinnias in my vegetable patch and realise now that I must cut the stems to produce more flowers 🌸
    @
    juliakirkhamgardendesign

    Reply
  58. uti on

    hi, when you say 5 rows in a bed,
    what size of bed do you use?

    thanks

    Reply
  59. Tan Taber on

    how long would the stems need to be for a florist to use them?

    Reply
  60. Sherri Kannmacher on

    I’m excited to start a flower garden on our new farm. Zinnias are on my list for planting. Thanks for the article! It will be helpful.

    Reply
  61. Jaye Whitney on

    Thank you for this wonderful article and photographs, it was VERY helpful and interesting! I’m in the south, so zinnias are a staple in my garden and this year I’m considering going to market with them and have been researching different types, so your comments were very helpful.

    Reply
  62. Lucy Weller on

    I love to grow Zinnias and other flowers and grasses for my Flower Cart project. I use waterproof coffee bean bags to create 12-18 arrangements every Friday and put them on the sidewalk in the Flower Cart. I have been doing this for ten years, so people have come to expect fresh flowers every week. I don’t “sell” the flowers but ask for a donation for a local mental health facility. People love this project so much that I am able to donate about $1,500 to Magnolia Clubhouse each year: pretty good amount for a little flower cart!
    P.S. My license plate is Zinnia.

    Reply
  63. Saudabi Valappil on

    I’m a beginner with zinnias but already in love with it! I’m growing them in the United Arab Emirates in a small farm in the middle of the dessert as an experiment. It has been a very rewarding experience so far. Now I’m hoping to get the special varieties to grow.
    I am also looking to save the seeds for next season but I have to learn the whole process.

    Reply
  64. madel brand on

    I grew up with Zinnias, but did not grow them myself untill we returned to South Africa after living in the UK for 20 years. We moved into our house at the end of a two year drought that destroyed the garden with the exception of some palm trees and some spider lillies. I immediately started sewing annuals just to colour in the dreary landscape surrounding my house. I had great success with giant zinnias, snapdragons, french marigolds and dahlias grown from seed.
    I always feel jealous when seeing the variety of cutflower seeds available in the US and UK. Here in South Africa I have only been able to get mixed bags of giants, cactus dwarf and what they call peppermint stick mix seeds. They have been very rewardin g and just keeps on blooming.
    We live on a small holding and at the end of last year I decided to use 2 grow tunnels for growing flowers rather than vegetables as well as a large 24x40m flield. I experimented with growing zinnias in winter and had some success as we don’t get any frost where I live. My zinnias was a great hit with our local florest shop whom I supply, but they were not quite cut and come again due to getting mildew from our wet winter. It is my first year growing and my field is filled with beds of zinnias and sunflowers whilst I have Ammi Snaps, larkspur, chrisanthamums and Alstroemeria inside the tunnels. I am still experimenting, but zinnias and snaps has been my biggest producers thus far despite having to use over the counter garden seeds and not specialist cut flower varieties.
    As my business grows I will look into sourcing some seeds abroad.
    I have been saving some of my own seeds and have tried to seperate coulors from my mixed packs an although my saved seeds don’t produce blooms as big as the shop bought giants, I have some very unique colours and flower shapes. I will continue to save seeds and will start to try some spesific crosspolinating at the end of this season. I may also try winter zinnias again in the grow tunnel to see if I can address the mildew issue and be able to supply zinnias to our florests year round. I recently sourced a South African supplier for Binary Giant seeds sou will get some going forward.

    Reply
  65. Michele Adams on

    I planted Zinnies for the first time this Spring, I bought them at our local hardware store. Iam happy to say that all bloomed! The variety was amazing, so many colors and different types. I can’t wait for Spring to plant many more. It’s amazing how well they Multiplied.
    I loved your article on Zinnies and all the varieties you showed. Thank you so much!

    Reply
  66. Trista Dunford on

    My husband and my then 16 months old daughter got a packet of free seeds while visiting a local hardware store this spring. They weren’t labeled. The two of them planted the seeds in a pot which we promptly forgot to water… oops. But my 15 month old spilled some in the process and they took off. Lovely coral colored zinnias sprung up and have been blooming all summer in the cracks of our flagstone patio despite benign neglect. They are so cheerful and bright they have inspired me to try a small cutting garden next year!

    Reply
  67. Taylor Shaw on

    When you say succession planting…do you plant in succession within the same bed, for instance plant with space 18 inches between each plant and then fill in with another plant a week or so later? or do you mean in a different bed? Thanks!

    Reply
  68. Kathleen Bunce on

    For the back yard gardener, what width bed would you recommend for a zinnia bed? Also, what do you use for weed control?

    Reply
  69. Emily Woodland on

    I have a beetle eating my zinnias and am wondering what to use to get rid of this nasty pest. Do you have any recommendations?

    Reply
  70. Stephanie on

    I recently started growing Zinnias and fell in love with them immediately! Following you on Instagram I was introduced to the wide variety and have begun my wishlist for next year. My favorite are the Queen Series, the Oklahoma Ivory and anything in the salmon color and sherbet varieties. I am really looking forward to the golden hour, precious metal and victorian wedding varieties becoming available!!!

    Reply
  71. Coni on

    I planted zinnias from seeds in my greenhouse this year and am thrilled with them. They are prolific producers and such a hardy little plant. I had no idea there were so many colors until I read this blog. Thanks for all the helpful information!

    Reply
  72. Flowers for her on

    Zinnias are a great choice of flower plant to grow under a full sun. It decorates the garden and attract beautiful creatures. Love how you’ve presented the article and on how-to grow this amazing plant. Looking forward for more.

    Reply
  73. Emily on

    I was wondering this too!

    Reply
  74. Ina Noor on

    When will you have zinnia seeds available in your shop this year?

    Reply
  75. Tracy on

    How can I save seeds from zinnias 🌸

    Reply
  76. Chris on

    It’s never too late to start! So glad that you are!!

    Reply
  77. Deb on

    Can you save seeds from zinnias to plant next year?

    Reply
  78. Melissa on

    This is my first time growing both the Queen and the Zinderella varieties and I am seeing smaller blooms (Queen) and single flowers (Zinderella) more than I was expecting. I’m in the Portland Metro area and I wonder if that insane heat we had at the end of June is the culprit?!

    Reply
  79. Diane Brown on

    I’m a 68 year old beginner. Loved this article. Zinnias were my Grandmother’s favorites. I have many wonderful memories of her walking among her dahlias, clipping and weeding. Don’t know why it took me so long to get into flower gardening!

    Reply
  80. Karen LeDonne on

    To Kendra trying to expand her market, have you considered selling to more upscale hair salons or yoga studios? People feel positive after their services and are inclined to buy something beautiful. Or at least I would! And if they are at the salon they may have been too busy to go to the farmer’s markets.

    Reply
  81. Catt Berlin-George on

    I truly need help with black spot disease on my zinnias. I rotated planting areas, have plenty of space/air around plants, do not overwater or get the leaves wet and yet again, this year my 4-week old baby plants are starting to spot. AGAIN. I have used Bonide Cooper and Mancozeb in the past and although it delays the spread it doe snot stop it. Has anyone found a more effective treatment? Suggestions?

    Reply
  82. Kendra Able on

    This is my second year of growing zinnias in pots.I grow them on a large scale 1700 pots.My question is other then farmers markets,market place and from my home ,How else can I sell them or where?

    Reply
  83. Megan Mowrer on

    Thank you for these great articles. I like to reference them for the Horticulture class I teach. My kids enjoy the photos and videos you provide. Thank you!

    Reply
  84. Lisa on

    Do you know if you can still start seeding zinnias in July in TN?

    Reply
  85. Judy Sgantas on

    Erin, I have done better with starting all my seeds indoors this year but I am finding that some like my zinnias are not doing great. I am in Maine from Vemont and getting used to more wind, intense sun on rocky/clay soil. Any thoughts on sowing and maintaining.I have direct sowed a bunch and they are slow to take.Any trouble shooting thoughts would be appreciated.Thank, Judy

    Reply
  86. Patti Marquis on

    Do you spray for disease? Mine start getting powdery mildew or some other disease mid summer.

    Reply
  87. Jill Sundberg on

    We love zinnias too and have grown several of your favorites! My question is if you start the seeds 4-6 weeks before the last frost but don’t plant in the field until mid May are they potted up several times and kept in the greenhouse before planting out?
    We struggle with having too many seeds started and nowhere to put them until the weather warms. This year unfortunately we put some things out too soon and they are struggling.
    It’s always an adventure and a learning experience. 😊

    Reply
  88. yvonne c davis on

    My second year of growing zinnias and adding more than a couple colors. The Queen lime and salmon are so beautiful. The Benary wine continues to be a favorite. The information in this article is so helpful and thought provoking.
    I have experienced some powdery mildew this year. Do you have any suggestions for treatment?
    Thank you.

    Reply
  89. Mary harris on

    I usually try to find cut and come zinnias from our local garden center. I would love instead to choose some of your varieties but I do not have full sun on my property. Each year the zinnias are eventually played by mold/mildew and I eventually lose the plants. Do you have any suggestions?I live in Pennsylvania. Thank you

    Reply
  90. Mary Swenson on

    I live in Tulsa, OK; a friend and I are growing zinnias for my daughter’s wedding on July 22, 2021.
    (28 days away).
    Urgent question – if we deadhead current blooms (which are so pretty) is 4 weeks enough time to get a new harvest-able bloom?
    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Team Floret on

      Depending on the weather, that should be enough time. Good luck!

  91. Fergus on

    Every year my attempt at growing these beautiful flowers is thwarted by slugs. They adore the seedlings. What to do? They climb very high up to get them.

    Reply
  92. Yomaira on

    Wow, too many choices. There is bound to be more than one to grow. An eye opener for me. Should I start my seed list for next summer now ? 😊

    Reply
  93. Charlotte on

    I love the ‘Queen series’, first year in my garden in Belgium and they are doing great!
    Thank you so much for all the information.

    Reply
  94. Sherri Love on

    I love all Zinnias. They are a workhorse in the garden. I never wonder if they will perform, they always do. I plant a row in our vegetable garden every year. I enjoy them and the butterfly’s do to!! I buy packs of Zinnia’s, marigold’s and cosmos and mix them together and sow directly in the ground. I live in east Tn. and the weather is perfect for growing Zinnia’s. They are truly a wonderful flower.

    Reply
  95. Jen on

    Any advice on dealing with powdery mildew on Zinnias? I love my zinnias so much but I’m close to giving up on them because the powdery mildew is out of control. Thank you!

    Reply
  96. Leigh Schroenn on

    I love these and will definitely try them in our Spring/Summer in the southern hemisphere. When you succession plant – do you take out plants that are finished (how long do the plants last and flower) and replant the same space with seedlings or do you have areas of unplanted bare earth waiting for the next batch? I suppose another way of asking is do the plants stay in the ground the entire season – so you need quite a lot of space if you want to succession plant? Hope that makes sense. Thanks

    Reply
  97. Cindy Holshouser on

    This is my second year growing Floret zinnias from seed. I have about 80 Oklahoma Salmon plants and about 60 Oklahoma Pink plants. I grow them in galvanized horse troughs. Last year these blooms quickly became a favorite when I saw how long they last in a vase (sometimes up to 3 weeks with preservative in the water). I love having beautiful cut flowers all summer long.
    Cindy in Edgewood, WA

    Reply
  98. Amy Hill on

    What’s a good tip to control earwigs on zinnias? I seem to be having a problem with them 😬

    Reply
  99. Kay Olson on

    In reading your other comments, I am on the coast and have grown your Zinnias for the past 3 years. I do not start them indoors. My favorite variety is Lime Blush. This year I will also have Oklahoma Pink.
    I so appreciate all your hard work and the wonderful on line courses that you provide.
    Thank you
    Kay Olson
    Bay City, Oregon

    Reply
  100. Cathy Antle on

    I’m wondering how you get your zinnia seedlings from becoming very leggy and tall. Mine seem so fragile and even watering seems to knock them over. When I plant them into the garden I lose many of them.

    Reply
  101. Susan Parker-Heitel on

    Have 2 beds of B. Giant about a foot high in coastal central Florida. Not sure how much longer for flowers. We just had our 3rd rain since Early April. I water daily but nothing works like rain. If we go to the usual daily shower it will make a huge difference.

    Reply
  102. Tim Parker on

    I live in Bremerton at about 500 foot elevation, so we lose about 2 weeks each on the front and back of the season. I have 10 4×8 new raised beds, three of them with zinnias. I started my Benary’s too early and they died under cover. I have some Oklahomas currently planted. We’ll see how they do. My wife is an extremely talented maker of paper flowers and your books are very inspirational to her. My fresh blooms give her the up-close vision. Thank you for all you do.

    Reply
  103. Lina Trần on

    Tôi ở Việt Nam, một đất nước xinh đẹp. Tôi đang sở hữu cúc zinnas vào mùa hè này. Nhưng đúng là giống như bạn nói, những bông hoa của tôi ở trạng thái cánh đơn. Không đẹp bằng cánh kép nhiều tầng. Tôi sẽ cố gắng theo dõi để tìm lý do vì sao nó lại cánh đơn như vậy. Cảm ơn các bạn đã cho chúng tôi những thông tin tuyệt vời, những bông hoa tuyệt đẹp.

    Reply
  104. Bonnie Buntin on

    Beautiful colors!

    Does the zinnia reseed? Do you cut the flowers to base in the fall or pull up the plant? What works best? Thanks! Bonnie

    Reply
  105. Kathy Stevens on

    I would love to know how to harvest seed heads to save for the following year. I tried this year with some of the Queen Lime Orange but none of them took.. as I too love in PNW in Canada I started them inside…maybe I did it wrong. I was so sad so any tips on how to save some of my seeds from this year would be huge!!

    Reply
  106. Kristi Hein on

    To Andra Bobbitt: I live on Fidalgo Island, where the maritime climate means chilly winds can happen year round. I’ve managed to grow zinnias by starting seeds indoors (direct seeding was a bust), potting up to 4-inch pots, and planting out in June. Some seedlings struggle, but I always get enough survivors to make it worthwhile. The Queen, Benary, and Oklahoma series do well, but so far my Unicorn mix has been fragile — 3 survivors out of 10. I hope your friend will keep trying!

    Reply
  107. Sue Rosenfield on

    I started Unicorn Mix inside during the Winter and am excited to see how they turn out! They are firmly into the garden and are taking off. I did notice that some had been pushed up out of the beds, from moles or worms? But when tucked back into the ground they just keep on growing! Will be pinching them back soon. -Redmond, WA.

    Reply
  108. Mary Wilhelmus on

    Something is skeletonizing my zinnias. What could it be and how can I prevent it?

    Reply
  109. Mary Wilhelmus on

    When they are young I put small wire wastebaskets over them. I get them at dollar tree.

    Reply
  110. Anne Ferguson on

    I don’t have much space to plant zinnias which are my favorite flower, but because of you, I have an 8ft paper like “tub”
    filled with bought dirt to cultivate the huge zinnia seeds I got from Johnny’s Flower Seeds. I finally got them planted
    in early June and am watching them sprout heavily after a week of rain here in Oregon,
    I’m an artist and your blog and books have greatly helped fill my well of creativity, Erin, and I know you do this for
    others as well.
    I’ve told Farmer’s market vendors about you to help you to spread your joy. It’s the least I can do to thank and repay you for
    all the joy you’ve given me. Bless you and your lovely family and staff for all you do,

    Reply
  111. Marie on

    I love to grow zinnias — they are one of the few plants the deer don’t completely destroy in my yard. In zone 7b — I think they are often stressed — so we don’t get as many double blooms. I will have to see being more dedicated about watering is a fix (while balancing drought conditions) So in the end — the single blooms are lovely as is! The more you pick – the more they produce for sure!

    Reply
  112. Andra Bobbitt on

    Your books and photos have instilled zinnia lust everywhere. Unfortunately our climate on the Pacific NW coast (west of the coast range) does not share a love for growing zinnias in garden borders. I believe our weather just doesn’t have enough sustained heat to get lush plants and blooms. A friend just pulled all her seedlings out of a huge bed as they withered even in a sheltered, sunny spot. If there were a variety that could tolerate ocean breezes, please let us know.

    Reply
  113. Jim on

    An abundance of plants, flowers, varieties, photos–wow!

    Reply
  114. Lori Steigerwald on

    How do you prevent the bunnies from eating the leaves? I started some of your seeds inside and the ones I transplanted to my garden have been devoured by the bunnies. Luckily I put some in big pots and they are doing well.

    Reply
  115. Lisa Torchia on

    We just pinched off our zinnias. I am so anxious to see how they flower. We purchased Floret seeds and direct sowed them into the ground. They came up beautifully. This is our first time to grow zinnias from seeds. Last year we had a fabulous crop from purchased seedlings. We are looking forward to even better results this year. Thank you so much for sharing your tips and tricks for growing beautiful flowers.

    Reply
  116. Monica on

    Unicorn Mix is probably my favorite zinnia to grow (I’ve missed out on Golden Hour the last two seasons). I’m excited to see Little Flower girl this year. I’m planting two 70 foot rows of zinnias this year so I hope they are popular with designers and florists

    Reply
  117. Sharon Hopingardner on

    When I was 12 yrs. old I planted Zinnias and loved their beautiful colors. I’m now 80 and this is the first time since then that I have planted them and can hardly wait to see them bloom. Why, why, why did I wait so long… I viewed your video and started them inside for transplanting. I also direct seeded some. Temps get high in this neighborhood during the summer. Hope the 114 degrees expected Friday will not disturb them. Usually summer heat is in the 102-109 range. Thank you for all your beautiful input.

    Reply
  118. Anne on

    I am in LOVE with zinnias! I have grown them from seed for about 15 years. I dedicate my sunroom to trays of many, many different varieties of zinnias that I start at the end beginning of March and plant into my garden in late April, early May. I buy a variety of seeds and also dry and collect seeds from the most interesting blooms from the season. I live in zone 7 so by the end of April I’m watching the weather report like a hawk. Planting these plants out into the garden is one of my favorite days of the year. Nurturing them in anticipation of what the actual blooms will look like is also very exciting. 2021 has proven to be my favorite crop yet!!
    Erin, your blog, tutorials and the wealth of knowledge that you share is amazing! I am in awe of your generosity and talent!! Keep enlightening us!

    Reply
  119. Kristin Moultine on

    I grew zinnias for the first time last year and absolutely loved how well they grew and the sturdy flowers I could gift to friends in bouquets! Thanks for all the growing tips and inspiring photos/descriptions !

    Reply
  120. Constance Paul on

    Super easy to grow. Love how they reseed themselves if you let them.

    Reply
  121. Kim George on

    Hi! I planted your Zinderella Lilac Zinnias seeds in my little backyard garden and they are just gorgeous (I’m not a flower farmer, just growing them for my own garden enjoyment). Will these reseed for next year if I let them? Or do I need to collect the seeds and replant? Thanks so much!

    Reply
  122. Michelle Renshaw on

    I cleared out a large bed surrounding my mailbox for these gems! I usually change up the plantings but zinnias are hands down the best for full sun, attention getting flower beds! It really sets our entrance apart from all the other homes in the neighborhood. I give directions like “Just look for the driveway with all the flowers”. Passers-by always comment at how cheerful my yard and flowerbeds are. Thanks for all you do to make us look good!

    Reply
  123. Susan Sellers on

    Thank you for such an inspiring and comprehensive overview. My zinnias were completely consumed by pests this year. They are still little but they are very eaten up. I’m hoping they can find the energy to shoot out some new leaves sometime soon—it’s still cool here in Rhode Island. (I also did hold some seedlings back just in case of weather so I have a fresh reserve.) Are zinnias prone to a particular pest? Any advice or remedies? Zinnias we’re the sole victims!

    Reply
  124. Lisa on

    I’m a newbie gardener here in the PNW and planted in a raised bed my first Zinnias and half of my seedlings have been eaten by some insect. I hope the rest make it. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  125. Trish Schweitzer on

    I love love love zinnias. And you are right, they are so easy to grow. I direct seed them into my flower beds around the same time I plant some annuals in late spring, to give my flower beds color. By fall or late summer, when my annuals are pretty much done for the year I have a flower bed still full of lots of color. Love your tips on pruning and deadheading and the bleach tip. I have never added bleach to the vase water and will do that now. I also do vegetable gardening and I have one whole raised bed that I dedicate every year to zinnias. It brings pollinators and just looks so pretty in the vegetable garden. Everyone should try growing zinnias. Thanks so much for your tips.

    Reply
  126. Christine on

    I love Zinnias- they are one of my favorite flowers. But every year I have beetles that attack them and eat the leaves. Would love it if you covered pests that like this plant and how to get rid of them

    Reply
  127. Christi on

    Thanks for all this info! I’m growing zinnias for the first time and just pinched them (after watching your video!). Although they are starting to grow new stems, they are not looking well. I’m pretty sure they have bacterial leaf spot. Help! Is there anything I can do about this?! I can’t figure out where the bacteria came from either. I’ve been reading up on soil prep etc on your blog and will do some things differently next year for sure. Would appreciate any help you can offer!

    Reply
  128. Bridget Gregus on

    Zinnias are one of my favorite flowers to grow. They remind me of my grandmother’s garden.
    I just retired from our local library and for the past 20 years I had been bringing in bouquets and patrons would always comment how beautiful they were. I think the best part about growing flowers is sharing them. I grow the Benary mix and other varieties. Your books are so inspiring for all gardeners. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

    Reply
  129. Leslie Lomot on

    Zinnias are by far my favorite summer flower. I have found more success direct sowing in containers than in the ground, here in MA. I sowed them from seed inside this year to get a head start, and although germination was successful, they started off leggy. When i plant them outside, how deep can i go? I will pinch them back but its that first set of leaves that’s leggy. LOVE LOVE your videos!

    Reply
  130. Heidi Martel on

    I purchased Floret zinnias as I was excited about the varieties available. I sowed seeds indoors as I live in the New England area. I am a newbie with growing seeds indoors. Your seed planting video was very helpful. They started growing beautifully, lush green leaves. Then suddenly the leaves starting turning brown. I pinched those leaves, but new leaves were also turning brown.

    I have been told that the roots do not like to be wet. They do not like wet feet. Is that correct? Many of them have been planted in the garden with hopes that I will still get flowers. Is that case even though leaves are brown?

    Reply
  131. Elizabeth Kelly on

    Zinias are one my favorite flowers to grow! This I planted a full rainbow of colors in rows and I am excited to see the results!

    Reply
  132. KHolc on

    Oh my goodness I love Zinnia’s! This would make an awesome PDF…maybe with some of your amazing planning cards 😇

    Reply
  133. Rachel little on

    Thank you so much for this! Other than Johnny’s, where do you suggest getting seed from?

    Reply
  134. Bonnie on

    Love seeing all the variety and colors! Thanks for all the information on zinnias. I planted zinnia seeds for the first time this year. I have made a first cut and just beginning to see more branching and buds. Looking forward to these beautiful blooms.

    Reply
  135. Jill on

    Stunning blooms and easy to grow. What could be better.

    Reply
  136. Magda on

    Thank you for great post about zinnias. I am on my very first sezon og gardening and thanks to your advice i have lovely -even if small – rised bed of happy zinnias. They are still small but in a month i should have superb flowers -all thanks to following your advice. Please do book about zinnias – with a lot of pictures to bring more summer and happines and sunshine to our lifes.

    Reply
  137. Sue on

    I’ve grown and loved zinnias for 50 years. As I read more and more about the needs of pollinators, I learned they need easy access to the pollen. My search for a single-flowered variety led me to my new favorite: Forecast zinnias from Burpee’s. So many pollinators, butterflies, a hummingbirds!!!!!! It was such fun watching them last summer. All the varieties you’ve shown are beautiful as well!

    Reply
  138. Pat Phillips on

    OMG they are wonderful. You should do a book on them. Love them.

    Reply
  139. Almuth on

    Das ist soooo wunderwunderwunder*WUNDER* schön! Wie wundervoll doch unsere Welt erschaffen wurde!! Diese Einzigartigkeit, Vielfältigkeit und Farbenpracht der Blumen ist ein Fest für die Sinne ,es ist sicher eine schöne Aufgabe ,dort diese wundervollen Blumenfelder zu pflegen, Blumen zu schneiden und wundervolle Sträuße und Gestecke zu gestalten… vielen Dank für die wundervollen Bilder 😊

    Reply
  140. Tina on

    This is the most thorough and wonderful article I have seen on zinnias. I plant them from seeds every year on the side of my house. They face the sun, and all I have to do is water them and enjoy their lovely colors from my bedroom window. Thanks for all the pics and special tips on these prolific beauties.

    Reply
  141. Eileen Foggie on

    My neighbor wants us to do zinnias this year. I need to find where to find them in Chicago.

    Reply
  142. Harriet Comer on

    Only about half of each packet germinated…salmon rose, and 2 in Queens series. I was disappointed. Grown in greenhouse. Have you had reports of others not producing plants?

    Reply
  143. Stephen on

    Thank you for this extremely well-curated page for zinnias. They have been a favorite of mine since gardening with my grandparents as a very young child. Your images are breathtaking and award worthy. Starting a new garden this year, I have just direct sown (zone 9A) some wildness near our front entry for fun, until the formality of our landscape plan starts to come together–Benary’s giant lime and queen lime orange. They are beginning to germinate . . . this will be a page and website that I return to frequently as we develop our gardens and experiment with direct sowing. The detailed information that you provide with your product is extremely helpful for discerning customers and invaluable.

    Reply
  144. Sherry DeAmelio on

    Thank you for your inspiration and knowledge Erin. You are bringing more joy than you know. I received my first Zinnia seed order and I cannot wait to create our own memories with your seeds. Thank you for your vision and perseverance.

    Reply
  145. Heather on

    I just ordered a nice supply of Zinnia seeds. I haven’t even planted them yet. Any advice before I do?

    Reply
  146. Jessica Martin on

    Will you possibly be doing a “Zinnia” book like “Discovering Dahlias”? I am learning SO much and would appreciate this very useful information on Zinnias. Such a lovely farm you have! Thank you.

    Reply
  147. Rebecca on

    Newbie to growing Zinnias, and honestly all my new seedling friends. Hoping for the best here in sunny and super hot Tampa, Florida. Wish me luck!!

    Reply
  148. Jennifer on

    I have also put zinnias in my garden every year. I am putting in a small cut garden this year and hope to sell some bouquets to support my addiction to gardening. You information has been very helpful.

    Reply
  149. Lizabeth Roupe on

    Thank you for this informaton. I would love to know your seed sources if you could. I haven’t seen many of these and would love to grow many of them.
    Thanks

    Reply
  150. Sarah Tobey Warnock on

    Zinnias are by far my all time favorite. They last forever in a vase and are sturdy.

    Reply
  151. Judy Buiter on

    I have grown zinnias in my garden since I was introduced to them by a colleague if mine. She has a beautiful row of them by the roadside every year! I have never started them inside and neither does she. Does that help them in any way or is direct seeding ok too?
    I save seed every year and therefore have a mixed bed when they bloom. I love the pictures included here. Maybe I’ll try to name them this year!
    I loved the other tips that you shared too.
    Thank you!

    Reply
  152. Christine Shih on

    Zinnia means love and connection to a friend that is far away.

    Reply
  153. Bet Schaffer on

    Have you ever grown Sanvitalia, or creeping zinnia? The variety I like has a brown center, and it looks like a mini sunflower. The bloom is tiny, about 1/2” in diameter. I keep the seed from year to year and sow in flower in pots. I’ve always wondered why I can’t find seeds on the market for these little beauties.
    I’m regrowing queen red lime this year, it’s a stunner. Thank you!

    Reply
  154. Susan Graves on

    I live in VA And have a problem with Zinnia foliage having black spots all over. What causes this?

    Reply
  155. Stacey Grytdal on

    Any advice about controlling slugs? They eat my young zinnia starts to the ground. For the past couple of years have only been able to grow zinnias in pots.

    Reply
  156. Michelle Sirles on

    Yes we grow a full acre of zinnia’s for u-pick and photo ops during our peach season at the orchard. Check out the photos @rendlemanorchards. It’s a lot of fun!

    Reply
  157. brenda bourquin on

    Do you sell seeds or young plants from this article. If so could you send a catalogue. Zinnia were my father’s favorite flower and we are moving into a 1930’s farmhouse and I want a zinnia bed. Your article was extremely helpful.

    Reply
  158. Kim on

    Last year was my first year growing Floret Zinnia seeds and OH MY everyone Loved these blooms! They are simply beautiful which is why I set my timer on my phone for the seed launch this year and I’m so excited that my seed order is out for delivery. Cannot wait for warm weather to grow all of these beauties.

    Reply
  159. Bernie Petry on

    I have seen a large bloomed short,under 2 ft plant,seems it has about 6-8 colors maximum,at the one residence,I asked and heard oh,I forgot where I got that pkt. Any ideas

    Reply
  160. Dianne Gilbert on

    I started some Floret Zinnia seeds in March and they began blooming in May. Some are still blooming 5 1/2 months later! The flower bed was small 4’x6′ near my driveway in Houston TX. Every time I walked outside or pulled my car into the garage, I was enjoying the gorgeous color. I have cut hundreds of flowers from the 80 or so seedlings.
    Using the zinnias along with coleus, caladiums, and pentas, we have had fresh flower arrangements all summer long.
    Thank you for your practical, helpful guides and instructions, also tips for vase life.

    Reply
  161. Billy on

    Hello, I’m from Cambodia. Zinnia is one of my favorite flower and I started to grow them now. I got the seeds that I get from my friend, I don’t what kind of the variety it is but when it bloom, I only get a single bloom flower unlike what my friend has. Could you tell me why can’t I have the double bloom flower while the mother plant that I got the seed from is a double flower? Thanks.

    Reply
  162. Em on

    Anyone out there? I tried the pinching trick on almost all of mine. Now I just get tiny blooms. Did pinching reduce the possible size of the zinnia blooms? What did I do wrong? Should I not pinch next year?

    Reply
  163. Laura LeBlanc on

    Hey there,

    I’m growing the unicorn zinnias this summer. They’re starting to flower and the flowers are very small and petals minimal, hardly single in a lot of them. The plants look healthy and great, though. I’m hoping this is just an early awkward stage. Any ideas? I love what I can see of the colors, though!

    Reply
  164. Nancy geise. on

    I love most all zinnias and plant a mix if different variety of seeds.i am mostly partial to the California giants and the Lilliputians. I would love to order some of your solid color varieties, for next year how early can I order them?thanks your info is so beautiful and helpful plus inspiring🌞

    Reply
  165. Debbie Chilcutt on

    I have planted zinnias for many years starting them from seed. This year the buds are stunted. I’ve not gotten any normal flowers. I have cut off brown dry buds and some are starting to open and the top of them is weird and dry…..and the few that bloomed have just a couple petals and look like a flower at the end of it’s life. Someone said maybe they have aster yellows….they look super healthy from a distance but up close there some things that normally I wouldn’t pay any attention to…super tiny dots on the leaves, etc.

    All the zinnias I just read about are beautiful…I’m going to need heavy medication and counseling.

    Any ideas as to what could be happening and if I should pull them out?

    Reply
  166. Nancy on

    Hi Erin, thank you for all of this, zinnias are my favorite. I have tried zinnias two years in a row, starting the seeds indoors then transplanting around Mother’s Day (in Boise, ID). The plants get so leggy and tall, it seems the stems are not strong enough to support the plants. The stems bend over completely while they’re still so young, sort of “snapping”. So, I haven’t had much success. Should I just direct seed next year? Thank you!

    Reply
  167. vivian gerard on

    what do you use in water of a vase for fresh flower food

    Reply
  168. Yvette Sol Pineda on

    I always love this flower as we call them margarita here. I did not know that there are a lot of varieties until I saw and read your blog. I have pink, magenta, red, orange and the rare yellow colors. I am so amazed to know that there are other varieties. WOW! Just love them. ^_^

    Reply
  169. Nina Ikeda on

    Hello there! I’m new to both zinnias and gardening and have a question about pinching. Do the smaller Lilliput varieties need to be pinched at a shorter height since their final growth height is shorter? I think I’m starting to see buds on my main stem but the plants are about 5-6 inches. Should I pinch them at this height or wait? Any advice would be appreciated!

    Reply
  170. Sharon Schraeder on

    I’ve planted zinnias every summer for as long as I can remember. My daughter used to grumble a little when she got a package of zinnia seeds in her Easter basket and knew she would be expected to help plant them. That same daughter was expecting a baby girl in October of last year and asked me what the name of the flower was that we planned each year. My granddaughter was given the name of Zinya. Love it!!

    Reply
  171. Tracy on

    Kim, I’m in Texas and have the same chalky-residue issue when we use our sprinkler system. I think it’s a type of mildew when leaves are wet overnight. I’ve reduced it but not eliminated it by watering via a drip line. Hope that helps!

    Reply
  172. MaryDana Baird on

    I have been growing a few zinnias for years to make arrangements in our Episcopal Church
    Every Sunday from May through October. Zinnias keep me with flowers the whole time!
    I buy the giant variety at Walmart. They only have a limited variety. Yours are absolutely gorgeous
    And so many different colors. I was going to plant a small garden of zinnias in rows like your were done ,but on a much smaller scale. It would give me all the zinnias I needed for church, a joy to look at from my home and all who pass by to enjoy too!
    Do you sell packages of seeds or could you tell me where I can buy seeds of your giant zinnias?
    I was so excited to see your beautiful varieties! You site is beyond great!
    Look forward to hearing from you!
    MaryDana Baird 😊🌻🙏

    Reply
  173. Lauren Harrison on

    The tips of my zinnia seedlings are dead and burnt looking..they have not been outside though or exposed to the sun. What could this be? Thanks for your help!

    Reply
  174. Kim on

    Every year about 1/2-3/4 through our zinnia season the leaves start to get very chalky and ugly. Any suggestions for preventing this? Also, our tend to get very tall (we live in the south and have a long growing season). Should I attempt to keep them from getting so tall or let them continue growing? I do cut the flowers a lot which i know causes more the grow.

    Reply
  175. Kasey on

    Hi your flowers are so beautiful IAM litterly in shock from the beauty of your farms Zinnias. IAM hoping to grow some someday but I would okay to just come visit your farm and get some cut flowers. Just wanted to give you props on your gardens😊

    Reply
  176. Cindy harden on

    Are you able to reuse your drip irrigation year after year? I’m on a well with high iron in water clogs up and last winter left out and animals chewed up. How do you store yours? I’m just down south of Auburn WA

    Reply
  177. Susan on

    Thank you for sharing such wonderful Info and beautiful pictures. I look forward to receiving your
    Email each time. You definitely brighten my day and
    during this time we all need it.
    Thank you again

    Reply
  178. zain on

    its very informative post, but i feel post harvest handling and harvesting methods are missing, also tell me favorable storage temperature for zinnias and we also face a difficulty on our farm after harvesting when temperature raises above 40 degree centigrades, which factors we do for freshness of zinnias. Thanks

    Reply
  179. Barbara Kemp on

    I am in Phoenix-super hot from June to September. Would it be best to give zinnias some shade in the afternoon?

    Reply
  180. Elizabeth Brooks on

    I grew zinnias last year and plan to grow them this year with some of your added tips! I’m curious though, what other flowers or green foliage do you like to pair with zinnias for a pretty bouquet?? Thanks so much for your help!

    Reply
  181. Valerie L Espinoza on

    Where is the best place to purchase seeds? I am going to try growing zinnias this year if it is not too late.

    Reply
  182. carol johnson on

    are you able to obtain seeds from the flowers you have grown at the end of the season ??

    Reply
  183. Piebird on

    Hello! In current shaky climate I am trying to save on greenhouse fuel, and in doing so fear I have some dampening off … but only on my most resilient little growers, my zinnias. Ever had this before? If so have you seen them ‘grow out of it’, or otherwise recover? We are in early spring here so other option would be to try and direct seed. Thanks & Love your work!

    Reply
  184. Carmela Galati on

    Hi – what is meant by a “dirty flower”?
    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Angela, Team Floret on

      We’re referring to how they make the water dirty, as a cut flower.

  185. Ann on

    I learned so much reading this blog
    Where can I get some of these unusual seeds?
    I would like to try growing them from seed

    Reply
  186. Brandy O'Connell on

    I bought sooooo many zinnias from you guys this year. I’m growing them in a gradient color arrangement. I’m so excited!!!!

    Reply
  187. Nancy kimball on

    My mother in law loved zinnias! She gave me some seeds once and I have grown them ever since… I can’t believe how many colors and sizes you have it’s so much fun! I especially love the lillyputs they are so pretty. I grow and sell sweet peas and the little Lilliputs look so pretty with them.

    Reply
  188. Kristen on

    Hi! I’m new to your blog and website. I purchased your book last year and love it! This year, I’d like to plant zinnias in one of our raised beds. I’m curious to know if you sell and ship the starter plants so I can get the variety I’d prefer? Thanks!

    Reply
  189. Kate Foley on

    What is the trick to getting seedlings out of the 72 count cell trays? I either mangle the cell or the seedling…..help

    Reply
    • Angela, Team Floret on

      We’ve found that using a butter knife to gently loosen them out of the tray works really well. Hope that helps!

  190. vivian gerard on

    love zinnias i just go by what you like never grew thembefore until last year

    Reply
  191. Bobbi Jo on

    Hello from West Richland, Wa. !! Zinnias were introduced to me by my mother-in-law when I was a young mom trying to find easy beautiful things to plant. After trying them and cutting them and re-seeding I was hooked! I have shared this favorite plant with my own children and now I share my harvest with my 2nd graders at the end of the year and encourage them to plant at home and try with their own families :). A couple of years ago I was online searching for specialty Zinnias and I found your story and your farm. I have ordered from you ever since and shared your farm and seeds with all of my own sisters and friends. We love your farm and hope to visit someday. Because of you I am learning more about Cosmos and trying these out as well. :) Last year my Zinnias that I planted in containers did not do as well as those that I planted directly in the ground? Not sure why…take care and thank you for the post!! We love our Zinnias!!

    Reply
  192. Mary Mayr on

    Hello!

    We are based in cool upstate New York and have a climate similar to yours, I believe! The problem that we have experienced with Zinnias is that they don’t seem to flower earlier than September. The plants produce wonderfully for about a month, but then get burned by the first frost in early October.

    We would love to be able to harvest blooms earlier in the summer — do you have any recommendations for “speeding up” the growing process? What works for you?

    Mary
    At the Loft Homestead

    Reply
    • Angela, Team Floret on

      Hi Mary,
      We start all of our seeds indoors to extend the season by a couple months. We recommend starting them 6-8 weeks before your last frost so they can be transplanted outside after the weather has warmed. This should help extend the amount of time you have flowers.

  193. Mandy on

    Do you fertilize? If so, how often and with what product? Thank you! So beautiful!!!

    Reply
  194. Jinger L. on

    Thank you for sharing all of these! What a dream to be able to work in such beauty everyday. I love to grow Zinnias because they are so easy and make the cutest bouquets! Thanks for all the info!

    Reply
  195. Linda on

    Thank you thank you thank you!!!!! I love getting all this information from you! Especially being stuck in my home I have so many seeds & I can’t wait to get busy. You are a one in a million I can’t thank you enough, stay safe be healthy I can’t wait for more❤️🌸

    Reply
  196. Marjorie Morrison on

    I have a garden labyrinth and several of the paths are lined with zinnias each year to attract hummingbirds. I’ve noticed that that they seem to like the larger, single zinnias of all colors. One year I planted a Sunbow Orange from you and the hummingbirds loved them. I was able to get some great photos that year. I am one of those who has a hard time pruning the “center” out of the young plants, but when I do I am rewarded with taller plants and more blooms. (I learned that technique from you, thank you.) Looking forward to gardening season here in West Michigan; we should be in full swing by mid to the end of May.

    Reply
  197. Marilyn on

    What a nice article Erin on one of the best annual any gardener should sow every year!!! Thank you for all the tips especially the cutting tips, very interesting to learn at what stage we can cut them etc!! All your pictures are lovely. this year I will try for the first time the zinnia red spider. Have you ever tried it?

    Reply
  198. Dana on

    Zinnias are some of my favorite cutting flowers! Their beautiful colors make me and the friends I share them with smile! Thank you for sharing your favorites.

    Reply
  199. Prisilla on

    How spectacular! 😍 I had no idea the amount of varieties. I planted seeds years ago with success and I recently carefree planted some packets. Thank you so much for the tips when cutting. I’m in Texas. Take care. Stay safe. 💐💖

    Reply
  200. Tanya Butler on

    After being inspired by your book last January we started a cut garden here in Middle Tennessee–Zinnias were the largest part of our crop and they were so well received. I made sure to pick interesting varieties and our customers were just wowed by our selection. Now you’ve introduced many others…so I’m ordering more! Thank you for everything you all do to bring such ah-mazing flowers and information to beginning growers like myself. You are SO appreciated!!

    Reply
  201. Martha on

    Would you consider having a mixed color selection in the cactus and benary’s zinnias? One package of each is more than enough for my cutting garden. And then I would have fresh seeds every year and no waste.

    Reply
  202. Whitney Steele on

    When you say that plants are “spaced 9 inches (23 cm) apart,” do you mean that the rows are spaced 9″ apart, and the seeds within the rows are planted much closer? Or do you mean that literally every seed or two should be 9″ from the next plant?

    Reply
  203. Connie Hollenbeck on

    I love Zinnias of all types and sizes and colors! They are one of my favorite flowers and I always try to have a bunch somewhere in my gardens for me to enjoy. I didn’t know about trimming them back so they branch out so I will be doing so this year. Can never have enough of the beauties! Love your colorful website and I will be back to enjoy over and over again. Thanks.

    Reply
  204. Lisa Boniface on

    I live in UK and grow zinnias small and benary every year with great success in my garden which is clay-based soil they are very tolerant with our very changeable climate and make a show-stopping display

    Reply
  205. Mary Schoenbaechler on

    I tried Banarys Giant last year with ok success. If i plant them closer together, will they be shorter? This would work better in my cutting garden.

    Reply
  206. Heirloom Garden Girl on

    I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Lilliput Salmon. It has been a trooper in my garden providing abundant beautiful blooms for much of the growing season. I can’t imagine my garden without Lilliput Salmon or any of the Queen Lime series.

    Reply
  207. Nora on

    You mentioned starting flowers in the greenhouse several weeks before last frost, are your greenhouses heated?

    Reply
  208. Emma Weaver on

    I grew flowers for the farmers market this summer, zinnias being one of them(one of my favorites). One problem with the zinnias, was having the stems collapse only hours after cutting- every single flower. I tried numerous things, nothing seemed to help, but gradually the flowers started lasting a week or more. I hadn’t changed any of the cutting or sterilization methods, so now I’m clueless what made the difference. Could the pH of the soil or water make a difference? or fertilization, etc.? Also I had a lots of trouble with black spots on the leaves, maybe caused by insects- not sure if it affected the flowers or not. What kind of sprays do you use? and how often do you spray them? I tried Fertilome Triple action, and fertilized with fish emulsion.
    Thank you for any answers you can give me!

    Reply
  209. Jason on

    I love Zinnias, so I appreciate this post. Living in Chicago, I can also understand the need to plant out seedlings after things have warmed up. My favorites are the single and semi-doubles in orange and red.

    Reply
  210. Kim E on

    I didn’t think I was a big fan of zinnias until I read your post about them (I love easy plants!) and saw your beautiful varieties. Are there any particular varieties that would work in containers on my west-facing balcony in Los Angeles? Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  211. Megan on

    Can zinnias go into the ground earlier if you put up frost cloth and warm the soil a bit with black fabric? Thank you so much!

    Reply
  212. Sherri Love on

    Your website is stunning!!! I look at it through the winter to remind me that there is life out there and will be here soon.
    I put my Zinnias in the vegetable garden and we do not have a big bug problem. I sow them with Marigold’s and Cosmos’s. They are the last thing I pull out of the garden because I want to enjoy them to the end. I call the Zinnia’s and Marigold’s the workhorse of the garden. You can always depend on them to be beautiful. Looking forward to ordering seed for next season!!!
    Thank you for all the work you do to bring us gardener’s the info you have learned. It is very helpful and I look forward to reading it and watching the videos.

    Reply
  213. Elizabeth on

    My Zinnias were the best ever this year but for the fact that one day I went out and the center stems had been hollowed out by a pest but there was no trace of any. I lost most and the others bent broke what flowers were still alive. Any help with this? Anyone know what the pest would be? Thank you in advance for any help. Looking for a better season next Spring.

    Reply
  214. Chris Robinette on

    Do you pull them out of the ground after it’s autum?, fall, winter???

    Reply
  215. em on

    I just discovered your site from this post. Very helpful and beautifully presented information! I like how you are straight to the point and comprehensive without a lot of digressions or insufficient info. Now I can spend some time looking at the rest of the site. Great work and wishing you the best success

    Reply
  216. kyra on

    I just wanted to come back to thank you for this post. Zinnias were my grandmother’s favorite flower. But I have never had much success with them. After reading the post and seeing all the beautiful varieties, I was inspired to try again. So I turned my raised garden bed where I normally grow tomatoes into a zinnia patch this year. I planted a few too many seeds really because I wanted to be sure to get some. Well, I did! The entire bed is just full of all types of beautiful, colorful zinnias just like my grandma loved. My personal favorite are the chartreuse green ones. But it’s hard not to love them all! Thank you again for just the push I needed!

    Reply
    • Angela on

      Hi Kyra- I’m so glad this post helped you. That makes my day!

  217. vivian gerard on

    love the zinnias have never grown them before good to know about the bleach also i guess it was to cold here in abbotsford bc to plant when i did i have never seen them come up so i bought more for myself and sister hers are up but i dont see mine

    Reply
  218. Katie on

    Hi there!
    I have been gleaning every tidbit of wisdom you have to share from your site as well as your book as I start my flower farming journey. I’m hoping you can clarify something for me. You recommend Floralife to aid in vase longevity for most flowers. Should I use it for Zinnias as well? Or just the bleach added to the water?
    Thank you so much.
    Katie

    Reply
  219. claire cooper on

    Hi there,

    I am growing zinnia in containers on my patio for the first time. I bought them as healthy plug plants and pinched them when they go to a decent height to encourage more leaf growth.

    We have reently had floods, then high winds and now a day of 32° heat. As a consequence one of the plants has completely collapsed. The stem is too weak to hold the plant up. I have tried staking to hold it up, but it no looks dry like its dying. How can I fix this. Or is there no hope.

    Reply
  220. Robin Habing on

    I have planted many varieties this year. The whimsical colors and shapes just make me smile. I lost all first 2 rounds to rain. The flowers growing now are coming along well. They are not quite big enough to pinch, but I am very hopeful they will produce well. I love your blogs!! The knowledge I am gaining is awesome. I keep your book handy indoors, but if out in garden, I look up your blogs with my phone.

    Reply
  221. Marianne on

    Wow, breathtakingly beautiful! I thought I was not a zinnia fan.. However, when I saw this selection, I’ve changed my mind. I’m a fan and always have been of peachy/salmon shades (since childhood). Did not know these were available. I now know what I will begin with next Spring. So grateful!!

    Reply
    • Team Floret on

      Hi Marianne,
      I’m so glad you’ve found some zinnia varieties that you love! We’ll have them in the shop starting January 6th for next season.

  222. Becky Llenos on

    Thank you for all the great information! I planted a flower garden from seed tapes in April and have so many Zinnias, Cosmos and Tithonia blooming and more on the way! The Zinnias are the stars of the garden for sure. Can’t wait to start cutting them and look forward to trying some of varieties you mention above.

    Reply
  223. Helen Metcalf on

    I planted a verity of zinnias in large pots, to my surprise they turned out beautiful. The only problem I had was they got to large at late season but still beautiful, This year I am doing the same thing. This time I will cut them back shorter and see what happens. Some of my friends liked them so much in pots, they are doing the same thing.

    Reply
  224. Linda Switzer on

    Oh my gosh, I am happy to share this on Facebook! They are simply gorgeous, breathtaking! I copied each photo to share on my FB before I reached the end and realized I could share the entire page. I am so grateful. Decisions, decisions….now I am seriously considering sticking with one flower..ZINNIAS!…and filling my entire yard with them, all the different, gorgeous varieties. The more the merrier! Thank you!

    Reply
  225. Randall Sanders on

    Love this article! We are in western Indiana and are planting several Zinnias this year. Our concern/question is: Will we be successful if we direct seed/plant in the holes we burned in our landscape fabric?

    Thank you!!

    Reply
  226. Anna on

    My husbands mom gave us a cheap packet of zinnia seeds last year to plant in the courtyard of our (first and new) home. I was so surprised at how well they did with so little care! Those little flowers really started a love of gardening in me! This post is so helpful to know how to better care for them this year!

    Reply
  227. vivian gerard on

    i have never heard of these before but have bought some seeds but will wait for the weather to warm up at night in bc

    Reply
  228. JA on

    I’m trying Zinnia’s from seed this year – Zowie Yellow Flame from Johnny’s and seeds I harvested from a friend’s zinnia bed last fall. The Zowie are growing well and about 3″ tall – the other are half that height and I’ve only had 2 to come up for some reason…should I be taking the flat in at night? I have been so far.

    Reply
  229. frances embick on

    Hi! Beautiful photos. How far apart do you thin seedlings?

    Reply
  230. M Edwards on

    This is so helpful! I have gardened all of my life, but I have always focused on vegetables and companion flowers like marigolds and nasturtiums. I’ve never grown zinnias before, but I just started a flat of the Queen Series today. I’m excited to see how they do in my garden this year. Thank you for taking the time to put all of this information together to help aspiring flower growers like myself. It truly is appreciated.

    Reply
  231. Erin Kuhn on

    A dirty flower is one that will dirty up the water quickly – sunflowers and zinnia are examples of this. Adding a bit of bleach or hydrogen peroxide to the water keeps the water cleaner longer with ‘dirty flowers’. :)

    Reply
  232. Lawrence on

    I’ve heard of a ‘dirty’ gardener, but never a ‘dirty’ flower- I can’t even ‘google’ it!

    Reply
  233. Dee Turk on

    I love Zinnias! Where I live in central CA it is incredibly hot months on end and they are one of my favorite in the garden, and I must plant more this year! Thank you so much for all the wonderful information and photos that you provide I really appreciate it!

    Reply
  234. Janine Heser on

    Absolutely beautiful! Thank you for your tips on these. They are one of my favorites.
    Janine

    Reply
  235. Sheryl Knappenberger on

    Love, love, love the amazing flower growing wisdom you impart. It seems you are sold out on most of the zinnia varieties I would like. Can you offer an alternative source?

    Reply
  236. Dina on

    So thankful to hear that zinnias like the heat! I also raise dahlias and have one particular bed that is up against a barn wall and east facing. It gets extremely warm with heat reflecting off the barn and the dahlias did not like it even with twice daily watering. Have a bunch of seeds started in the greenhouse now. Hopefully they’ll like this location better. First time growing these. Thanks for the great info

    Reply
  237. Lori Winter on

    Can you please share your source for these varieties. I only have what is offered at the big box stores in my area.

    Reply
  238. Barb Knebel on

    hi, I’m stating this year to be a flower farmer! So excited! I live in Cincinnati Ohio. Actually, in a small rural town outside of Miami University.

    We are starting small with a 1/2 an acre and building from there. Where would you recommend we purchase the zinnias from? They are my favorite. If you had to advise us on 5 to plant, which five would you suggest?

    Any other advise would be great. We are really reading up on all of it. I just love your flowers! It inspires me. We are going to prepare our soil and I think we are going to plant seeds unless you think otherwise. What about water? How do you get water to your flowers?

    Thanks for any help!
    Barb and John
    Knebels Knob Farm

    Reply
  239. Barb on

    I grow cut flowers to decorate my church. We always hope bouquets last a full week there. The longest lastin bouquets ever are zinnias with statice, can maybe go two weeks!

    Reply
  240. Kim Feehery on

    They are so carefree in our east Texas sandy loam that I use Zinnias as row markers in the orchard. Just scattering a handful of seeds adds a splash of color to the end caps or paint the orchard with dabs of color beneath the olive trees. It is a joy to see the pollinators flitting between Zinnia islands.

    Reply
  241. Tiffany on

    Love all the variety and pics! Thanks for sharing! I’m considering starting zombie from seed instead of direct sowing. Would they do well in a sunny window sill, or do I need to use grow lights? Do you recommend a heat mat? Thanks!

    Reply
    • Team Floret on

      Hi Tiffany,

      Zinnias are so easy you can direct sow them, or start them inside under lights or in a southern facing window. In a window they can tend to get leggy, but if you plant them outside fairly quickly, or take them out to get sunshine during the day, they should do really well for you.

  242. Judith Robertson on

    I’m in New Zealand on the east coast of the North Island. Its a temperate climate with hot dry summers. Zinnas are a favourite to grow in bulk in my gardens but unfortunately the fabulous range shown aren’t so available here. Shame!

    Reply
  243. Cindy on

    I’m in one of the milder parts of Montana (Zone 3+ or 4-), but I’ve struggled starting them in the greenhouse and had the best luck direct sowing once it warms up. A surprise frost comes late often enough that I usually wait until last week of May, meaning it’s quite a wait before blooms.

    I love Magellan because it is so beautiful in arrangements with cool colors (not quite pink) and warm colors (not quite salmon) while staying bright and vivid. For weddings, Polar Giant is my go-to.

    Reply
  244. Teija K on

    Zinnias seem to love the hot and dry summer climate up here in the northern Cariboo region of British Columbia. They tend to seed and transplant so easily…and even tolerate a tiny bit of neglect. This will be my first year growing for actual cut flower sales so I went a bit wild with choosing zinnia varieties thanks to your numerous must-grow recommendations and amazing photos! The more I look at the options on this website and seed catalogues I keep thinking I should add just one more type…

    Reply
  245. D'Anna Asher on

    Do you recommend any that are mildew resistant?

    Reply
    • Team Floret on

      If you plant them in full sun, give them adequate spacing and water at the base, they should all be quite mildew resistant.

  246. Gwen on

    I love zinnias. They are such a cheerful flower. So many fun varieties! Thank you.

    Reply
  247. Tay E MacIntyre on

    I adore zinnias! I’m in Albuquerque, NM and our extreme heat is difficult- out of packs of direct seeded zinnias last year, i got only one plant that grew and bloomed! This year I’m trying all seedings started from seeds indoors and will see how they do. It’s been very frustrating trying to grow something billed as an easy, beginner flower in this climate- I’m in my 5th decade of gardening, but new to this climate!

    Reply
  248. Renee Rednour on

    I live in New Orleans, and I have never been able to grow Green Envy. Trying Bernary’s Giant Lime this year instead. fiorentina504

    Reply
  249. Leslie Oscar on

    Please explain what you mean by “grow them in fabric”. Thank you.

    Reply
  250. Pat Reid on

    Last year I had s really difficult time with my zinnias initially. I had problems with dampening off, and then decided to directly sow in the garden. This took 3 attempts. Normally I find them very easy to grow. Any suggestions? Thanks!

    Reply
  251. Heidi on

    I love zinnias! This makes me want to order some of every color! Ahhhh Thanks for all the great information on flower growing!

    Reply
  252. Megan on

    I just watched my seeds pop up after only a few days of being sown. It was so gratifying after having some germination challenges with other starts. I wanted to hug those little guys! Choosing only a few varieties was almost excutiating but I want to grow a little of everything so I have to be choosy with my limited space. I ended up getting the queen lime, zinderella lilac and desert sunset mix. After reading this I want to grow fields of zinnias!

    Reply
  253. Jill on

    Zinnias are my favorite cutting flower mainly because they are so easy to grow and they’re very prolific. The Queen Lime series are my favorites because their colors are so unusual. My youngest daughter(she’s 17) asked that I grow the flowers for her wedding, which I hope won’t be for quite a while! But I consider it quite an honor that she loves all of the flowers that I grow.

    Reply
  254. Fleurentine on

    Fantastic! And soooo beautiful! You’ve inspired me to try my hand at growing them!

    Reply
  255. Tara on

    I have your “ Cut flower garden “ book and love it! I’m in Canada, not far from you, so should be able to follow your book easily. This will be my first year growing Zinnias.

    Reply
  256. Josh on

    This will be my first year growing zinnia’s. I have 2 varieties that I have received from floret and I’m quite excited to see the colors of the Queen lime orange. I am hoping these mix well in arrangements with my DA roses. I have been really enjoying your blog and find it inspiring to grow all sorts of things that as of yet I haven’t.

    Reply
  257. Rebekah on

    Thank you for all the great information! We always had trouble keeping zinnias happy in our nursery. To much cold early season and a bit to much shade so I avoided them because they were one of the most finicky. After reading you article I’d really like to try them in my own garden! I love your taste in flowers if I had a acreage I would grow each variety you offer :)

    Reply
  258. Nicole Kirchhoff on

    We love growing Zinnias here in South Florida. It is sometimes difficult to get the variety and color of flowers down here in the tropics, and zinnias help fill that void. I am excited to try this trick to get longer stemmed flowers. And to provide additional nutrients through weekly seaweed tea.
    We do have a major issue down here in the south with Powdery Mildew, its so humid it has become a never-ending battle. Perhaps with the additional seaweed tea nutrients and healthier plants, I can battle this a little better. Now just to keep the iguanas out of the flower beds (the eat everything to the ground and outsmart even chicken wire)… but another south Florida issue.

    Reply
  259. Linda Knight on

    I’m so glad you mentioned that Scabiosa varieties revert to single flowers under stress. Last year I was so excited to grow Zinderella Peach for the first time and was so disappointed with the results. Not only were they single flowers, but most of the flowers didn’t even have a complete circle of petals; many only had 4 to 6 odd petals per flower and were a washed out dirty white color on otherwise healthy plants. My other varieties of zinnias were beautiful, so I couldn’t figure out what the problem was. Here in Eastern Washington are summers are so hot, I think, sadly, I won’t try to grow this variety again. Thank you for that valuable bit of info.

    Reply
  260. Lisa Lawhead on

    I have loved zinnias since I was a kid, thanks to my Dad. He was an incredible gardener, and every year would plant a row of zinnias and a row of marigolds at the edge of our vegetable garden. He’s been gone for 23 years and I have never grown a vegetable garden, but I grow zinnias every year. My favorite is Benary Giant, and I love to mix them with snapdragons. Thanks for this lovely article! the photos of all those beautiful zinnias have me itching for Spring! I’m in Ohio, and am anxiously awaiting the time I can dig in the dirt!

    Reply
  261. Russell Guzzetta on

    Great article. We have been growing and selling them for a year now in Florida.
    Was the only nutrients for the growth period added during bed prep and during seedlings when you used compost tea?

    What kind of spray treatments do you do? We have quite a powdery mildew problem during the dry winter month (we grow year around). Do you have to deal with that?

    Thanks! Russell

    Reply
  262. Trish Schweitzer on

    I love all of the information on zinnias. The rows and rows of zinnias look gorgeous. I grow a lot of zinnias during the growing season. Sometimes when a perennnial is done blooming for the season in spring I will throw in a pack of zinnias for color the rest of the summer and have had a lot of success with that. I forwarded your site onto my daughter in law and she was so inspired she asked for and received from me your book for Christmas. I can’t wait to see what she grows this year. I am in zone 5b, Wisconsin.

    Reply
  263. Kendra C. on

    Zinnias are a favorite of mine and I plant them every year. We recently moved to a house with a smaller yard and so I have less space to plant in. I will definitely be using the pinching technique to encourage more blooms. I’d love to try the Oklahoma series, as that’s where I live. :) Maybe next year!

    Reply
  264. Katy on

    Whoa- they revert to singles in stress? I thought they loved heat! This explains why my “green envy” zinnias reverted to a pale yellow single petaled flower last year? I planted them in full sun (that’s 13+ hours of South Carolina heat, which I thought they could handle)
    I will experiment with part shade this year to see if it makes a difference. Green Envy is not a Scabiosa type but maybe it’s the same issue…

    Reply
  265. Joyce Haas on

    Love the information on zinnias, Erin. I have been growing State Fair Zinnias for a few years, and they are stunning, multiple pinks, deep rose, yellow and a few white. So stunning and the sizes ranger from 2″ to nearly 4″ wide. I am in love with these, along with the dwarf series, Profusion Coral Pink, Fire, and Orange.

    Reply
  266. gayle smith on

    I’m soo enjoying all the Zinnia talk . I’m obsessed with them . The flowers change form so much as they mature and stages are fascinating . The bees and butterflies love them . I grow them in Mogo . New South Wales . Australia . They are fabulously easy to make stunning cut flower bunches . I take them to my Mogo Nursery , people love them . Thanks for your info . I found the reverting to single flowers interesting too .

    Reply
  267. Wendy Henrichs on

    Beautiful post! Thank you! <3
    Zinnias are not only beautiful, they are so important for pollinators and butterflies. Yours are so gorgeous!

    Reply
  268. Kiara on

    I live in Miami Florida and that means we are a unique micro climate with a 10B hardiness zone rating. Sadly this means I can’t grow most anything from my native NW. Do any of your zinnias do ok in 10B?

    Reply
  269. Deborah Collins on

    hanks for the tips about scabiosa varieties! I’m going to pass that info on!

    Reply
  270. Denise on

    Hi Floret
    Just loved this article and the photos. The zinnia is the grand old lady of the garden to me. Have always included them as such happy vibrant and easy to care for plants.
    Flowers last a long time as a cut flower too.
    Thanks for sharing
    Denise

    Reply
  271. George Bilof on

    Great article, thank you. As zinnias are considered prolific bloomers does that mean you can cut stems every week when conditions are good?

    Reply
  272. Elin on

    I am so curious as to how one shall harvest flowers that grow in netting? Do you cut it under the net and pull it up through?

    Reply
  273. Jan Mooney---Garden Petals on

    Thank you for the article on zinnias, i have fallen in love with all the new colors an sizes. Looking forward to being as successful as you have been in growing them this year.

    Reply
  274. Rogelio Cruz on

    Is there any way to combat or remedy for powdery mildew? I always seem to have this around the end of summer beginning of fall all my zinnias get PM.

    Reply
  275. Janet Phillips on

    I ordered your ‘Cut Flower Garden’ book and LOVE it! I’m hoping to grow the table flowers for my son’s September wedding. I’ve always grown a few flowers, but not for a special occasion. Living in the Flint Hills of Kansas, we knew zinnias would be top of the list, as we tend to have very hot windy summers. I had no idea there were so many beautiful varieties until reading your blog and looking through your book. I’m looking forward to reading all the tips because I know I’m going to need help! Thanks so much for writing such a beautiful, helpful book!

    Reply
  276. Marian on

    It is absolutely pouring here in the UK so this article was a magic pick me up. I have sent it to a sick friend who loves her garden. Roll on summer and thank you for all the advice.

    Reply
  277. Lisa Bindon on

    Thank you for the explanation about why double zinnias can sometimes turn into scruffy single zinnias! I had been wondering why that was and will try a slightly coler spot for them next season

    Reply
  278. Trisha Brink on

    I am growing an annual cutting garden for the first time this year. I usually stick to perennials, roses, fruits and vegetables. But, I fell in love with the Zinderella zinnias this year….and now I can’t stop purchasing all kinds of zinnia seeds! Thank you for the great tips on how to grow these amazing hearty flowers! I am thrilled to hear that they grow so well here in Western Washington. I can’t wait to start them… keep up the good work :)

    Reply
  279. Krista Freitas on

    Zinnias have been in the family garden every year since before my dad was born. There are multiple pictures of my grandmother’s garden bursting with zinnias from back in the day, and my father has been growing from saved seed for years now. They have the coolest antique cream colored single petaled cactus flowered variety that pops up every year. ( I’m going to try to save from it this year. (I cut them all this year.. oops) I named my daughter Zinnia Raine in memory of my late grandmother and we grow tons every year! I’m especially excited to try the zinderella series and the queen lime blush this year !

    Reply
  280. Ali, The Mindful Gardener on

    I love Zinnias. We had a hot summer (for us) last year and the Zinnias loved it. The Queen and Bennary series have been brilliant. I am growing the Zindarellas this year for the first time and I can’t wait! Thank you for this really thorough exploration of varieties on offer!

    Reply
  281. Bouquets of Blessing on

    Zinnias are one of the flower types we grow the most of each summer. They are extremely easy to grow. We direct sow a few times through the summer, but just one planting provides us with blooms for many weeks. Definitely a must-grow!

    Reply
  282. Jontal on

    I used to be a huge zinnia snob, feeling like they were second class to dahlias, but now I’m a total convert. I have too many seed variety for my garden space, so I’m trying to convince my husband to let me dig up some of our existing landscaping; we’ll see how that goes. Anyways, this year I’m really excited to grow a few new (to me) varieties I bought from a different seed company: Uproar Rose and Art Deco. Thanks for the tips about scabiosa varieties! I’m going to pass that info on!

    Reply
  283. Alexis Jorgensen on

    I am so glad to have read this article! Zinnias have been a major part of my cutting garden for years and they are one of my favorite things to grow. I love the look of the scabiosa zinnias but haven’t had as much success with them as I would like, it’s good to know that it’s stress that’s causing the single blooms! I’ll be a little more careful with those this year :) Thanks for all the amazing blog posts!

    Reply

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