Zinnia – Canary Bird

Zinnia – Avis Canaria

• Growing Temp 70°F – 90°F

• Days to Maturity 60-70 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: The ‘Canary Bird’ zinnia is a striking variety known for its bright yellow, daisy-like blooms that add a cheerful pop of color to any garden. This zinnia is relatively easy to grow, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. With its vibrant flowers, it attracts butterflies and other pollinators, making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. ‘Canary Bird’ zinnias can be enjoyed in flower beds, borders, or as cut flowers in bouquets.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘Canary Bird’ zinnia seeds outdoors after the last frost date, when soil temperatures are consistently above 70°F. Sow the seeds ¼ inch deep and space them 10–12 inches apart to ensure adequate air circulation and growth. Water the seeds well after planting, keeping the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 7–14 days. Once established, these zinnias are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance, making them suitable for low-maintenance gardens.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get an early start, sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with a quality potting mix, placing one seed per cell and lightly covering it with soil. Maintain a temperature of around 70°F to encourage germination. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden or larger containers, spacing them 10–12 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting to promote healthy root development.

Harvesting: To identify when ‘Canary Bird’ zinnias are ready to harvest, look for flowers that are fully open and displaying their bright yellow color. Cut the stems in the morning when the blooms are dry for optimal freshness. Regularly harvesting spent flowers encourages continued blooming throughout the season. These vibrant zinnias make beautiful cut flowers, adding a cheerful touch to any arrangement.