Zinnia – Thumbelina Mixture

Zinnia – Thumbelina Mixture

• Growing Temp 70°F – 90°F

• Days to Maturity 60-70 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: The ‘Thumbelina Mixture’ zinnia is a delightful variety characterized by its compact size and vibrant, multi-colored blooms. This zinnia is exceptionally easy to grow, making it perfect for container gardening and small spaces. With its bright flowers, it attracts butterflies and adds charm to any garden setting. These petite zinnias can also be used in mixed arrangements or as border plants, offering versatility in landscape design.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘Thumbelina Mixture’ 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 8–10 inches apart to provide adequate air circulation and growth space. Water the seeds thoroughly after planting, keeping the soil evenly moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7–14 days. Once established, these zinnias are drought-tolerant and require minimal care, making them ideal for busy gardeners.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get a jump on the growing season, 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 8–10 inches apart. Water them well after transplanting to help establish strong roots.

Harvesting: To determine when ‘Thumbelina Mixture’ zinnias are ready for harvest, look for flowers that are fully open and colorful. Cut the stems in the morning when blooms are dry for the best quality. Regularly harvesting spent flowers encourages the plant to produce more blooms, extending the flowering season. These charming zinnias make excellent cut flowers, adding a cheerful touch to any arrangement or bouquet.