Zinnia – Magellan Series

Zinnia – Magellan Series

• Growing Temp 70°F – 90°F

• Days to Maturity 70-80 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: The ‘Magellan Series’ zinnias are known for their large, vibrant blooms and strong, sturdy stems, making them a favorite among gardeners. This series is relatively easy to grow and thrives in warm weather, making it suitable for novice and experienced gardeners alike. With a wide range of bright colors, these zinnias are perfect for adding a splash of color to garden beds, borders, or as cut flowers for bouquets, making them a versatile choice for any garden.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘Magellan Series’ 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 10–12 inches apart to allow for optimal growth. Water the seeds well after planting, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 7–14 days. Once established, these zinnias are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance, making them a great choice for low-effort gardening.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To give ‘Magellan Series’ zinnias 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 of around 70°F to promote germination. Once the seedlings develop their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden or larger containers, spacing them 10–12 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting to help establish strong root systems.

Harvesting: To determine when ‘Magellan Series’ zinnias are ready for harvest, look for fully open blooms that showcase their vibrant colors. Cut the stems in the morning when the flowers are dry for the best freshness. Regularly harvesting spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms throughout the season. These stunning zinnias make beautiful cut flowers, perfect for creating eye-catching arrangements.