When summer heats up, some plants close down shop and others shine. Zinnias can be counted on to come into their full glory. They're great for dry areas, for containers or cutting gardens - just about anywhere you need a spot of color. All that, and they're easy to grow.
If zinnias have a downfall, it's their affinity for powdery mildew. Humid climates can cause zinnia foliage to look down right ratty. Plant breeders have taken notice and newer zinnia series have taken care of that problem. There's the dependable Profusion series. These plants bloom non-stop. A lot of plants claim to, but my 'Profusion White' zinnias never take a break.
'Profusion Orange' took the All America Selections Gold Medal, after its introduction in 1994. It was followed by 'Profusion Cherry' and 'Profusion White'. This year we were treated to 'Profusion Fire', 'Profusion Apricot' and 'Profusion Knee-High Red'. What's next?
Another series showing great promise is Zahara. The Zahara zinnias love, love, love heat. I showed you the AAS Bedding Plant Selections 'Double Zahara Cherry', 'Zahara Starlight Rose' and 'Zahara Double Fire', earlier this year.
If you're looking for flowers that laugh off the hot, hazy days of summer, take a look at zinnias.
Photo: © Marie Iannotti.
Comments
Re: Zinnias: They are also deer-resistant. I’ve planted profussions for four years in my yard adjacent to a woods, along with allissum, and both have never been eaten (and I’ve seen the deer hooves in the flower garaden).
I love zinnias so I’m trying Zahara Starlight Rose this year. I’m a little disappointed in that there is little or no trace of the purple center to the white flowers. I thought maybe the flowers had to mature before the “rose” showed up but not so. Has anyone else had this experience?
Echo, that’s a big plus. Always nice to add something to the deer list. Thanks.
Ron, that is disappointing. I haven’t heard of anyone else noticing this. I wonder if they’re reverting to a parent? Or if it was bad seed.
I Love Zinnea’s in the Garden, mine did not get as Big as they should of, not enough sun. Great Flower and a very happy Flower to look at, Ha….
“and a very happy Flower to look at, Ha….” I guess they’re the pansies of summer. But then, most flowers make me smile.
I love the look of Zinnias, but I prefer to grow hibiscus. They smell amazing and you can dry them fro making tea after they start to wilt.
Hibiscus tea? That sounds very tempting, especially iced, with a little lemon. I think I’ll try it.