Zinnia Seeds,
Benary's Giant Orange

Benary's Giant Orange zinnia should be planted after all frost has passed and the soil has warmed, usually in late spring. In colder climates, starting seeds indoors 4 weeks before the last frost provides a head start, promising blooms by early summer. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds ¼ inch deep and keep them spaced 9 to 12 inches apart to support air circulation and minimize disease risk. Seeds germinate best at temperatures around 75 to 80°F and typically sprout within 4 to 6 days. For indoor starts, use trays or pots, and ensure moist, not waterlogged, soil. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots or other means to minimize root disturbance when transplanting​.

Zinnias grow well in warm conditions with regular watering at the base of the plants, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and reduce weeds. Regularly deadheading spent blooms keeps the plants producing fresh flowers throughout the summer, with blooming continuing until the first frost in fall.

• Allow the flowerhead containing the seeds to mature and dry on the plant.
• Clip off the flowerhead and place it in a paper bag or other container.
• Working over the top of another clean, opened container, rub the flowerheads between the palms to break them apart.
• The seeds can be separated from the chaff by first screening and then winnowing.
• Store in a cool, dry, dark place over winter.