Organic Zinnia 'Sunbow'

Organic 'Sunbow' zinnia (Zinnia elegans) from the seed company Gaia, a vibrant flower perfect for bouquets and pollinators

The 'Sunbow' zinnia is a splendid, open-pollinated heirloom variety, renowned for its vibrant and abundant blooms throughout the summer. Its long, sturdy stems bear luminous flowers in a range of hues—pink, yellow, orange, white, and rosy red—creating a veritable rainbow in the garden or in bouquets. Easy to grow, vigorous, and generous, this eco-friendly annual irresistibly attracts pollinators while offering a majestic presence in flowerbeds. Its long-lasting blooms and intense colors make it a favorite choice for cut flower enthusiasts.

Its large flowers are not only decorative but also edible, adding a splash of color to salads, desserts, and culinary presentations. Equally suited to home gardens and professional floral displays, the 'Sunbow' zinnia thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. It is distinguished by its rapid growth and heat tolerance, producing long, straight stems that are perfect for floral arrangements.

Companion plants : Comfrey, squash, cucumber, pumpkin, gourd
Negative plants : No significant incompatibilities noted, but avoid direct competition with tall grasses.

Spread/Habit : Tall, straight stems, vigorous growth habit
Plant height : 55 to 75 cm (22 to 30")
Quantity per packet : 25 seeds
Special features : Edible flowers, very attractive to pollinators, excellent bouquet quality

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Farming method

Sow the seeds indoors about 4 weeks before the last frost. Place the seeds 3 mm (1/8") deep in a light potting mix, then maintain a gentle warmth of around 20 to 23°C. Germination is rapid, taking 3 to 5 days, but can take up to 24 days depending on conditions. Avoid transplanting too early: wait until the true leaves have appeared before transplanting.

Harden off the seedlings gradually, then transplant them outdoors once all risk of frost has passed. Space the plants 20 to 45 cm (8 to 18 inches) apart in rows 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart. Choose a very sunny location (sun level 3) and well-drained soil; zinnias thrive in hot, dry conditions. Moderate, regular watering (watering level 2) is sufficient, avoiding excessive moisture on the foliage.

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Harvesting and preservation

Harvest the flowers when they are fully open but before the center expands, which ensures better vase life. Cut early in the morning, on long stems, to prolong freshness. The flowers can be used fresh, dried, or incorporated into various floral arrangements thanks to their upright habit and generous texture.

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Ideas for using it in the garden and in everyday life

• Create a vibrant summer flower bed mixed with squash and cucumbers, where zinnias attract pollinators and helpers.
• Use their edible flowers to decorate cocktails, salads or desserts.
• Grow them in borders or in dedicated rows for a regular production of cut flowers.
• Combine them with tall annuals for a lush, country effect.

The 'Sunbow' zinnia is a festive and generous variety that brightens the garden all summer long. Versatile, robust, and extraordinarily colorful, it appeals to both novice gardeners and lovers of natural bouquets.