Zinnia Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Deep Red' (Benary's Giant Series)

Water

Zinnias require moderate watering, ideally with about 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or direct watering. When watering Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Deep Red', ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged, as they do not tolerate soggy conditions. It's best to water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During hot or dry spells, additional watering may be necessary, but always check the soil moisture first to prevent overwatering. Water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry, reducing the risk of disease.

Light

Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Deep Red' thrives in full sunlight with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. They perform best when planted in a location that gets unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, as they need ample light to bloom prolifically. It's essential to avoid overly shaded areas as this can hamper flower production and make the plants more susceptible to diseases.

Temperature

Zinnias prefer warm conditions and will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 74 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit. They are frost-sensitive and should not be planted until all chances of frost have passed, with minimum temperatures staying above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Zinnias can tolerate high temperatures well but may require more frequent watering during periods of extreme heat to remain hydrated.

Pruning

Pruning Zinnias involves deadheading, which means removing spent flowers to encourage more blooms and extend the flowering season. Regularly inspect Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Deep Red' and snip off the old blooms, making cuts just above the next bud or leaf. During the peak growing season, deadheading may be needed every few days. Additionally, pruning can be done to shape the plant or to remove any damaged or diseased stems, which helps to maintain plant health and vigor.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Zinnias thrive in rich, well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a bit of sand for improved drainage forms an ideal substrate for Zinnia elegans, commonly called common zinnia. Regular fertilization will help maintain the vibrant blooms of 'Benary's Giant Deep Red'.

Repotting

Common zinnias do not typically require repotting as they are annual plants. They complete their life cycle in one growing season and are usually cultivated directly in the garden soil or outdoor containers.

Humidity & Misting

Common zinnias prefer moderate to low humidity levels. They thrive best in warm, dry air and do not require high humidity, which can actually promote fungal diseases in the plants.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow with ample light, warm temp., does not require high humidity.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun with good air circulation, fertilize regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Zinnia 'Benary's Giant Deep Red' begins its life cycle as a seed sown in warm, fertile soil after the last frost, where it quickly germinates within 5-24 days given proper conditions of sunlight and moisture. After germination, the seedling emerges, establishing itself with a set of true leaves and then rapidly growing into a young plant with a sturdy stem and a bushy form. As it matures, the plant develops a multitude of lush, deep green leaves and begins to form buds at the ends of its stems. The buds bloom into the plant's distinctive large, vibrant red flowers throughout the summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers give way to seed heads, which dry out and disperse seeds for the next generation. Finally, as a tender annual, the plant completes its life cycle and dies with the first frost, relying on its dispersed seeds to perpetuate the species.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Deep Red', commonly known as Zinnia, can easily be propagated through seeds, which is the most popular method for this plant. For best results, sow the seeds directly into the garden soil or in containers after the last spring frost, when the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F (approximately 21°C). The seeds should be sown at a shallow depth of about a quarter-inch (6 mm) and lightly covered with soil. Germination typically occurs within 5 to 7 days under ideal conditions. It is also important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings will emerge and grow rapidly, and flowers can be expected to bloom in about 60 to 70 days after sowing, providing a vibrant display of deep red blossoms throughout the growing season.