Apricot Blush Zinnia

Renee's Garden - You'll treasure the soft hues of these gorgeous cutting zinnias whose densely petaled flowers bloom in shades of apricot-rose through salmon-blush. These florist-quality zinnias’ fully double flowers make beautiful and long-lasting bouquets you can cut often to enjoy indoors. Apricot Blush is a selection of famous 'Benary's Giant' zinnias, known for superb garden performance in tough summer conditions. The multi-branched, 3 1/2-foot tall plants yield armfuls of long-stemmed flowers perfect for eye-catching garden displays all season long. 

 Characteristics: 

Instructions - To start in the garden, Sow seeds in well-worked soil in full sun when the danger of frost is past and the weather is warm and above 50°F both day and night. Space seeds 2 to 3 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart, cover about 1/2 inch deep, and gently firm the soil. Keep soil evenly moist while awaiting germination. 

To start early indoors,  Four weeks before the last frost date, sow seeds ½ inch deep and 3 inches apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside when temperatures rise above 50°F day and night. 

Space seedlings 8 to 12 inches apart when large enough to handle so plants have good air circulation and enough elbow room to grow and bloom freely. Zinnias can grow in ordinary garden soil in full sun. For large, abundant flowers, thin before seedlings get crowded. Adequate spacing and regular, even watering discourages mildew and keeps zinnias productive. Pick just as blossoms begin opening and petals are tight. Cut long stems well back into the plant to keep plants branching low and producing the best blooms for summer-long bouquets.

• Plant in: May-June for cold winters; April-June for mild winters 
  
• Full sun 
• Sow seeds 2-3" apart; 1/2" deep
• Days to germinate: 7-10 days 
• Mature Height: 3-3.5 feet 
  

Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute suppliers due to availability.