Cherry Queen Zinnia Guide

These boisterous bursts of color are perfect for pleasing pollinators! Zinnias offer large, beautifully colored flowers that benefit from regular deadheading. Zinnias make great floral arrangements and are “cut-and-come-agains,” meaning regular harvesting of the flowers will only lead to even more perky petals coming back in their place!

 

 

 

TO SOW

Cherry Queen Zinnia grows best in warmer weather between 70°F-85°F. They do great in containers and small gardens. Bank on Seeds recommends direct seeding.

If Direct Seeding

• Direct seed outside 3-4 weeks after last frost date; or

• Direct seed into a container 6-8 inches deep and wide anytime of the year. It can be placed outside when the temperature is between 70°F-85°F; or

If Transplanting

Start the zinnia seeds indoors two weeks before the last frost date in biodegradable pods that will let the roots grow; germination is best between 70°F-80°F. It can be transplanted outside 5 weeks later.

Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and 1-2 inches apart with rows spaced 12-18 inches apart. Germination will take 7-10 days.

*When transplanting, be careful not to damage the roots.

TO GROW

Zinnia likes well-drained soil rich in compost. They also love full sun and warm weather. Water regularly – check the top 2-3 inches of soil and if dry, water it. Let dry between watering and be careful not to leave the roots soggy.

Although not required, 10-10-10 fertilizer can be applied every 4-6 weeks to boost foliage and bloom growth. 

TO REAP

Cherry Queen zinnia develops fully in 60-70 days. Use as a vibrant cut and come again flower by snipping it above the leaves or let it bloom in the garden or in a container to attract nectar loving birds and bees.

PESTS/DISEASES

Powdery mildew –keep free of weeds and debris, don’t handle when leaves are wet, avoid overwatering, only water at the base and not the leaves of the flower

Alternaria blight – ensure enough air circulation, cut off affected parts, fungicide, neem oil

*Companion plant among vegetables to attract pollinators and other beneficial insects to your garden. *