Benary's Giant Scarlet Zinnia is the premium choice for gardeners seeking dramatic height and color in their borders and vases. This open-pollinated cultivar reaches 36 to 48 inches tall, producing vibrant scarlet blooms from summer through fall, typically flowering 75 to 90 days after sowing. The large, robust plants thrive in full sun with moderate water and drought tolerance, rewarding patient gardeners with abundant cut-flower material that lasts through the season.
9
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
48in H x 30in W
—
High
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Scarlet blooms on tall, sturdy stems make this variety a standout for cutting gardens and late-season color. Benary's Giant flowers reliably from June through November in most climates, and the plants actually prefer drought conditions once established, making them low-maintenance powerhouses. Pollinators flock to these blooms, and deer leave them untouched, so you get wildlife activity without browse damage.
These tall zinnias excel as cut flowers; their substantial height and sturdy stems make them exceptional for fresh arrangements and floral design. The long bloom window from summer into fall provides reliable color for bouquets when many other cutting flowers have faded.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date into 72-cell flats or similar containers. Cover seeds lightly and maintain soil temperature at 70 to 75°F for germination, ideally using a heat mat; cooler temperatures will slow sprouting to 5 to 7 days or longer. Keep seedlings from becoming root-bound and avoid transplant shock, which can cause temporary single flowers on double-flowering varieties. Harden off transplants before moving them outdoors.
Transplant outdoors after all spring frost danger has passed, when soil has warmed. Space plants 9 inches apart in full sun. Handle carefully to avoid disturbing roots, as stress can temporarily alter bloom form in some varieties.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last spring frost. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep; direct sowing is recommended by some sources. Thin seedlings to 9 inches apart once they're established.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the summer and fall season. Remove any diseased or damaged foliage promptly to maintain plant health.
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