Cherry Queen Zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is an heirloom variety that bursts into bloom with stunning, rich cherry red flowers. These bold, fully double blooms can reach up to 4-5 inches across, making them a standout in any garden. Whether planted in garden beds, borders, or containers, Cherry Queen Zinnias add a dramatic splash of color that lasts from mid-summer until the first frost. With their tall, sturdy stems, these zinnias are also perfect for cutting, allowing you to bring their vibrant beauty indoors.
Easy to grow and heat-loving, Cherry Queen Zinnias thrive in warm, sunny conditions. They are known for their continuous blooming and are a favorite among gardeners for attracting butterflies and other pollinators. This heirloom variety is not only beautiful but also resilient, making it a great choice for adding long-lasting color and life to your 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.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• 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.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Cherry Queen 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: Rich cherry red
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 Cherry Queen 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: Cherry Queen 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: Cherry Queen Zinnias have been cherished for their rich red blooms and are a favorite in gardens around the world.
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.
