At our farm, one of the true joys of the growing season is watching the vibrant blooms of our zinnias come to life. These flowers, with their bold colours and intricate petals, hold a special place in my heart and have become one of my all-time favourites.
Zinnias are not only stunningly beautiful but also incredibly easy to grow. Their bright and cheerful blossoms add a splash of colour to our fence lines and garden along our high tunnel, creating a visual feast that attracts pollinators to our vegetable gardens and brightens up the yard.
Why We Love Zinnias:
- Burst of Color:
- Zinnias come in a rainbow of colors, from bold reds and pinks to soft pastels and sunny yellows. So many new varieties that have an almost vintage colour, check out the Queeny Lime Orange Zinnia or the Queeny Lime Red Zinnia — I think they are my new favourites! They are perfect for adding a lively touch to any garden.
- Long-Lasting Blooms:
- One of the best things about zinnias is their long blooming period. From early summer through fall, these resilient flowers keep on shining, providing a continuous display of beauty.
- Pollinator Friendly:
- Zinnias are a favorite among bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Their bright colors and accessible nectar make them an essential part of our ecosystem.
- Easy to Grow:
- Even for beginner gardeners, zinnias are a breeze to grow. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and with regular watering, they reward us with abundant blooms.
Tips for Growing Zinnias:
- Planting:
- Sow zinnia seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, or start them indoors a few weeks earlier. They germinate quickly and are easy to transplant.
- Spacing:
- Give your zinnias plenty of space to grow by planting them about 12-18 inches apart. This ensures good air circulation and helps prevent disease.
- Watering:
- Water zinnias at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to mildew. Regular watering promotes healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
- Deadheading:
- To encourage continuous blooming, regularly remove spent flowers. This redirects the plant’s energy into producing new blooms.
Growing zinnias on our farm is just one of the many flowers we grow each year. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your garden or create stunning bouquets, zinnias are a perfect choice. Their easy-growing nature and long-lasting flowers make them a favourite for gardeners of all levels.
We hope you enjoy zinnias as much as we do. Happy gardening!
Heather
Little Farm Cart