Zinnia – Benary’s Giant Orange

Germination

Start seeds 4-6 weeks before your last average frost.  Sow seeds 1/4″ deep.  Kept at 70-75° F, germination is in 5-10 days.  Do not allow plants to become root bound, and take care in not disturbing the roots when transplanting.  This could cause some double-flowering varieties to revert back to singles.  Starting zinnia seeds at too high of a temperature can result in week plants.

Growing

Transplant into the garden 9-12″ apart after all danger of frost has passed.  They prefer rich, well-drained soil in full sun.  Plants will stretch (get leggy) in low light.  When plants are about 12″ tall (6″ for dwarf varieties), pinch the middle stem to encourage bushier, stronger plants.  Deadheading spent flowers will promote more bloom production.  Avoid watering in the late afternoon.