Zinnias are an essential annual for any ornamental or cut flower garden. With tall, sturdy stems and vibrant daisy-like flowers in a wide range of colours, these plants bloom continuously from mid-summer into fall. The blossoms are long-lasting in bouquets and much loved by pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Easy to grow and low maintenance, zinnias provide a bold splash of colour and are especially well suited for beginner gardeners or anyone looking to brighten up a border or patio planter.

Where Can You Grow Zinnia?
Zinnias thrive in Zones 3-9 and prefer full sun with well-drained soil. Suitable for garden beds, borders, containers, and cutting gardens. They do best with regular deadheading to promote continuous bloom.

History and Historical Uses
Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, zinnias have long been cultivated for their brilliant colours and simple beauty. Once known as "youth and old age" due to their ability to bloom continually, these flowers have become a popular symbol of cheerfulness in the garden and have been widely hybridised for use in floral arrangements.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8-9: Direct sow outdoors after the last frost or start indoors for earlier blooms.
Zones 5-7: Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost; transplant after hardening off.
Zones 3-4: Must be started indoors and planted in a sunny, warm location after all danger of frost.

How to Grow and Harvest Zinnia
Planting: Sow seeds 0.5cm (¼in) deep, spacing 15-30cm (6-12in) apart.
Watering: Water at the base of the plant to prevent mildew; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Harvesting: Cut flowers when fully open; frequent cutting encourages new blooms.
Maintenance: Deadhead regularly to prolong bloom time.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply
Select Blooms: Allow some flower heads to dry on the plant.
Harvest Seeds: When petals are crisp and papery, remove seed heads and gently extract seeds.
Dry and Store: Dry seeds thoroughly and store in a cool, dry place in a paper envelope.
Viability: Seeds can remain viable for up to 5 years with proper storage.

Certified Organic By
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)