Canary Bird Zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is an heirloom variety known for its cheerful, bright yellow blooms that bring a sunny burst of color to any garden. These large, fully double flowers can reach up to 4-5 inches across, making them a standout in flower beds, borders, and containers. With their vibrant yellow petals, Canary Bird Zinnias are perfect for creating striking color contrasts and adding a touch of brightness to your outdoor spaces.
These heat-loving annuals are easy to grow and thrive in warm, sunny conditions. Canary Bird Zinnias bloom continuously from mid-summer until the first frost, providing a long season of color. Their tall, sturdy stems make them excellent for cutting, and they add a lively splash of yellow to any bouquet. Zinnias are also great for attracting butterflies and other pollinators, making them a beneficial addition to any garden.
* SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILED GROWING INFO *
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• Growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
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* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Canary Bird Zinnia
Latin Name: Zinnia elegans
Type: Annual
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 3 - 10 (Grown as an annual in all zones)
Stratification: Not required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun
Moisture: Prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
Height: 30-36 inches
Spread: 12-18 inches
Color: Bright yellow
Bloom Season: Blooms from mid-summer to first frost
Companion Plants: Excellent companion for tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and beans. Zinnias attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help increase the yield of nearby vegetable plants and deter pests such as aphids.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets
Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to a range of climates within its USDA zones; prefers warm, sunny conditions
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside: 1 to 2 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperatures are warm, typically above 70°F (21°C).
When to Start Inside: 4 to 6 weeks before your average last frost date. Transplant seedlings after the last frost when the soil has warmed.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds ¼ inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until seedlings emerge.
Light and Temperature: Zinnias prefer full sun and warm temperatures for optimal growth and flowering.
Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 5-10 days.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing: Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost when soil has warmed.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Transplanting: Gently transplant seedlings into prepared soil, taking care not to disturb the roots. Water well after planting.
~ Growing ~
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of powdery mildew.
Fertilizing: Zinnias benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost worked into the soil before planting. A light side-dressing of fertilizer can be applied every few weeks during the growing season.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for pests such as aphids and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods such as insecticidal soap if necessary. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: Harvest Canary Bird Zinnias when the flowers are fully open and vibrant in color.
How to Harvest: Cut the stems at an angle just above a leaf node. Harvest early in the morning for the longest vase life.
Drying and Storing: Zinnias can be dried for arrangements by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark place until fully dried.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow some flowers to remain on the plant and develop seeds. Once the seed heads are dry, collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: Canary Bird Zinnias are highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
Origin: Zinnias are native to Mexico and have been cultivated for their ornamental beauty for centuries.
Nomenclature: The genus name "Zinnia" honors the German botanist Johann Gottfried Zinn.
History: Canary Bird Zinnias have long been appreciated for their cheerful yellow blooms, making them a favorite in gardens worldwide.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic and safe for consumption by humans and pets.
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in warm, sunny climates; suitable for a wide range of USDA zones.
