(Zinnia elegans) (Annual)
Lavender Zinnias are a fantastic addition to any garden or landscaping project! Productive, pretty, purple flowers grow to about 3-4 feet and are easy to grow in containers or in the ground! Lavender Zinnias are perfect for brightening up any area, attracting pollinators, or cut flowers!

Sowing: Direct sow in spring; this seed germinates best in warm soil. Plant just below the surface and keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7-10 days. Seedlings do not transplant well.

Growing: Water seedlings regularly until they become established, but do not over water. Though they flourish with occasional watering in dry weather, mature plants tolerate some drought. This plant grows best in rich soil, and may need light fertilization for best blooming. Pinch off the growing stems to encourage bushiness, and deadhead to prolong blooming. This plant attracts butterflies and bees.

Harvesting: For cut flowers, choose stems with flowers that have just opened. Strip the foliage that will fall below the water level, and place in water immediately.

Seed Saving: After their petals drop off, the centers of the flowers will darken and develop tight clusters of seed at the base. As soon as the seed heads have turned dark brown, remove them and spread them out to dry for several days. Thresh the dried heads to separate the small, arrow-shaped seeds from the chaff. Store the cleaned seed in a cool, dry place.