Zinnia Unicorn Mix
Zinnia elegans
Description
This variety is Chris’s very favorite, and here on the farm we affectionately refer to it as Chris’s Rainbow. He is convinced it’s going to be the next big thing!
This mix of medium-sized, domed blooms comes in an enchanting range of colors, including raspberry, tangerine, magenta, lemon, apricot, dusty lilac, and blush—all with striking lavender centers. What makes these flowers so unique is that they have a multitoned ombre effect and many of the blooms possess a rainbow-like quality. To experience their full range of coloring, allow flowers to mature on the plant.
Details
Planting depth: ¼ in
Germination soil temp: 60°F–80°F
Days to germination: 3 to 5 days
Site: full sun
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 to 12 in tall
Days to maturity: 75 to 95 days
Height: 40 to 52 in
Germination soil temp: 60°F–80°F
Days to germination: 3 to 5 days
Site: full sun
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 to 12 in tall
Days to maturity: 75 to 95 days
Height: 40 to 52 in
Seed Sowing & Growing Notes
Sow seeds indoors in trays or pots 4 to 6 weeks before your last frost. Zinnias are very cold sensitive, so wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting outside. Zinnias can also be direct-seeded into the garden once weather is consistently warm.
Harvesting/Vase Life
Use the “wiggle test”: Grab the stem about 8 in down from the flower and gently shake it. If the stem is droopy or bends, don’t cut yet. If the stem is stiff and remains erect, it is ready to harvest. Do not put in the cooler. Zinnias are notorious for making their water murky. To combat this, add a few drops of bleach to the water. Expect a vase life of 7 days.
Details
Description
This variety is Chris’s very favorite, and here on the farm we affectionately refer to it as Chris’s Rainbow. He is convinced it’s going to be the next big thing!
This mix of medium-sized, domed blooms comes in an enchanting range of colors, including raspberry, tangerine, magenta, lemon, apricot, dusty lilac, and blush—all with striking lavender centers. What makes these flowers so unique is that they have a multitoned ombre effect and many of the blooms possess a rainbow-like quality. To experience their full range of coloring, allow flowers to mature on the plant.
Details
Planting depth: ¼ in
Germination soil temp: 60°F–80°F
Days to germination: 3 to 5 days
Site: full sun
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 to 12 in tall
Days to maturity: 75 to 95 days
Height: 40 to 52 in
Germination soil temp: 60°F–80°F
Days to germination: 3 to 5 days
Site: full sun
Plant spacing: 9 to 12 in
Pinch: when 8 to 12 in tall
Days to maturity: 75 to 95 days
Height: 40 to 52 in
Seed Sowing & Growing Notes
Sow seeds indoors in trays or pots 4 to 6 weeks before your last frost. Zinnias are very cold sensitive, so wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting outside. Zinnias can also be direct-seeded into the garden once weather is consistently warm.
Harvesting/Vase Life
Use the “wiggle test”: Grab the stem about 8 in down from the flower and gently shake it. If the stem is droopy or bends, don’t cut yet. If the stem is stiff and remains erect, it is ready to harvest. Do not put in the cooler. Zinnias are notorious for making their water murky. To combat this, add a few drops of bleach to the water. Expect a vase life of 7 days.
Sources
How to Grow
Sources
How to Grow
Winter Mini Course: Seed-Starting 101
Learn how to start flowers from seed in this three-part video series
In our upcoming Winter Mini Course, you’ll learn everything you need to know to successfully start flowers from seed, including all of the necessary supplies, step-by-step instructions, special tips and tricks, and how to create a simple indoor seed-starting area.
