Zinnia elegans Zinderella Lilac

Zinnia elegans Zinderella Lilac produces beautiful flowers in delicate pink tones with a dark center. These charming blooms are perfect for beds, borders, and cutting gardens, making them an eye-catching addition to any floral arrangement. Known for their robust nature and drought tolerance, zinnias thrive in various garden settings. Regular pruning extends the flowering period, ensuring that your garden stays vibrant throughout the summer and into the fall.

Sowing Guidelines:

• Indoors (March to April):
  Start seeds in trays or pots with well-drained seed compost 4–6 weeks before the last frost. Space seeds 2.5cm apart and cover lightly with soil. Germination occurs in 7–14 days. When seedlings reach 3–5cm in height, transplant to 7cm pots. Once all danger of frost has passed, gradually acclimatize plants outdoors and space them 25–30cm apart.
• Direct Sow (April to July):
  Sow seeds directly in well-prepared soil in full sun. Barely cover seeds with soil, as light is needed for germination. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs in 5–10 days. Once seedlings are 5cm  tall, thin them to 25–30cm apart.

Cultivation Tips:

• Provide rich, well-drained soil and full sun.
• Water deeply at the soil level, avoiding overhead irrigation to reduce mildew risks.
• Add compost or a slow-release fertilizer at planting and mid-summer to boost flower production.
• Pinch back older heirloom varieties in early summer to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
• Remove spent flowers (deadhead) regularly to prolong flowering.
• Protect young plants from slugs and snails.

Uses:

• Cut Flowers: Excellent choice for bouquets, with blooms lasting 7–10 days in a vase.
• Garden Borders: Adds vibrant color and structure.
• Container Gardening: Perfect for patios, balconies, and small spaces.
• Cottage Gardens: Complements a relaxed, informal planting scheme.

Additional Information:
Zinnia elegans, originally from Mexico, belongs to the Asteraceae family. Over the years, breeding efforts have produced a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. These flowers are easy to grow, require minimal maintenance, and are well-loved for their versatility and long-lasting beauty.