Zinnia – Lilliput Mixture

Zinnia – Lilliput Mixture

• Growing Temp 70°F – 90°F

• Days to Maturity 60-70 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: The ‘Lilliput Mixture’ zinnia is a charming blend of small, brightly colored blooms, making it a delightful addition to any garden. This variety is easy to grow and is perfect for gardeners of all skill levels. Its compact size and vibrant colors make it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and small garden spaces. These zinnias can be used in cut flower arrangements, providing a cheerful pop of color.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘Lilliput Mixture’ zinnia seeds outdoors after the last frost date, when the soil temperature is consistently above 70°F. Sow the seeds ¼ inch deep and space them 8–10 inches apart to accommodate their smaller stature. 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 care, making them ideal for low-maintenance gardening.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get a head start, sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with quality potting mix, placing one seed per cell and lightly covering it with soil. Maintain a temperature 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 8–10 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting to help establish strong roots.

Harvesting: To identify when ‘Lilliput Mixture’ zinnias are ready for harvest, look for fully open blooms that display their vibrant colors. Cut the stems in the morning when the flowers are dry to ensure maximum freshness. Regularly harvesting spent flowers encourages the plant to produce additional blooms, extending the flowering season. These petite zinnias make lovely cut flowers, perfect for creating cheerful arrangements.