Horti Tops® Zinnia elegans Giants of California mixed

Zinnia elegans Giants of California mixed (Zinnia elegans)

The Perfect Cut Flower

Zinnias are ideal for beginning gardeners and cutting gardens alike. They are easy to grow, bloom prolifically, and respond to cutting by producing even more flowers. The more you cut, the more you get – making them perfect for bouquets.

Cutting for Bouquets

When to cut: Harvest when flowers are fully open. Cut in the morning after dew has dried.

How to cut: Cut stems long, down to a leaf node. New flowering stems will grow from this point.

Vase life: Strip leaves that would be underwater. Change water every few days. Properly handled, zinnias last 7-10 days in a vase.

Growing Abundant Zinnias

Zinnias are heat lovers – do not plant until soil has warmed. Direct sow is easy, but starting indoors gives earlier flowers. Pinch out the growing tip when plants are 15cm tall to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.

Spacing matters: Good air circulation prevents powdery mildew. Space plants 30cm apart and avoid overhead watering.

Space Flowers

In 2016, astronaut Scott Kelly grew zinnias on the International Space Station – the first flowers grown in space. The experiment tested how plants grow in microgravity, helping prepare for future long-duration missions where growing fresh food will be essential.

Butterfly Garden Essential

Zinnias are magnets for butterflies, especially swallowtails, monarchs, and painted ladies. Plant them in sunny spots visible from seating areas to enjoy the show. The variety of flower forms – from small buttons to huge dahlias – means there is a zinnia for every style of garden.

Growing Zinnia elegans Giants of California mixed