Benary's Giant Zinnias have fully double, large blooms up to 6 in (15 cm) across on long sturdy stems. Long vase life and a proven name in the cut flower business! Multiple cuts over the season. Heat and drought tolerant. Holds up nicely to summer rain. Definitely a premium zinnia!
The Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers named 'Benary's Giant' series their very first Cut Flower of the Year in 1999.
Botanical Name: Zinnia elegans ‘Benary’s Giant Wine’
Common Name: Zinnia, Zinnie
Type: Annual
Flower Color: As pictured
Flowering Period: Summer to Frost
Plant Height: 39 in. (100 cm)
Plant Spacing: 9-12 in. (22-30 cm)
Light Requirements: Full Sun
Water Requirements: Average
Soil Requirements: Average
Sowing Instructions (Cliff Notes version): Germinate at 68-72 °F (20-22 °C). Higher temperatures can reduce germination and cause weak seedlings. Sow seeds in a well-drained media low in nutrients with a pH between 5.8-6.2. Cover seeds lightly with vermiculite.
Growing on: Grow on at 60-65 °F (15-18 °C) for 3-4 weeks. Temperatures below 60 °F (15 °C) delays flowering. Temperatures below 50 °F (10 °C) cause leaves to turn yellow. Zinnia's tolerate high temps of 77 °F (25 °C) but do not tolerate frost. Protect the plants against wind.
Provide good ventilation. Fertilize weekly at 200 ppm nitrogen in a well-balanced mix. Use of calcium nitrate will improve stem strength. For cut flower production, thin seedlings or plant plugs at 8-10" (20-25 cm) in rows or 9-12" x 12" (23-30 cm x 30 cm) spacing in beds.
