'Tetra' Flowering Zinnia
'Tetra' flowering zinnia (Zinnia elegans) from McKenzie seed company, a vigorous variety with large, vibrant flowers for flower beds and bouquets
The 'Tetra' flowering zinnia is a floriferous and robust variety , known for its vigorous, well-structured plants bearing large single to semi-double flowers measuring 10 to 15 cm . Long, sturdy stems support flowers in a wide range of bright colors , including salmon, orange, pink, red, scarlet, yellow, and white , providing a striking visual impact in the garden.
Highly prized as a cut flower , the 'Tetra' zinnia is an excellent choice for bouquets , mid-border plantings , and summer flowerbeds . Easy to grow and tolerant of hot, dry conditions, it attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators , while also being resistant to deer, rabbits, and black walnut . This variety is also pet-safe .
Companion plants: Cosmos, Marigold, Sunflower, Basil, Zinnia (other varieties)
Enemy plants: —
Spread/Habit: Upright, bushy
Plant height: 75 to 90 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Open pollination
Physical type of seed: Seeds
Quantity per packet: Approximately 165 to 175 seeds
Special features: Large flowers, excellent cut flower, attracts pollinators and birds, tolerates heat and drought
Flower color: Multicolored
Texture/Floral Habit: Large, single to semi-double flowers
Climate tolerance: Tolerates heat, drought, and dry soils
Farming method
Zinnias can be sown directly outdoors once the soil is warm and all risk of frost has passed . The ideal soil temperature for germination is below 21°C . To speed up germination, the seeds can be soaked overnight in room-temperature water before sowing.
Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of full sun per day. Sow at a depth of 6 mm , gently press down the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact, then water with a fine mist to avoid dislodging the seeds. Keep the soil evenly moist , but not waterlogged, until germination, which usually occurs in 5 to 7 days .
When the seedlings develop 2 to 3 pairs of leaves , proceed to thin them to maintain a spacing of about 30 cm , promoting good air circulation and well-developed plants.
For earlier flowering, seeds can be started indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost , then hardened off and transplanted outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.
Flowering and maintenance
Flowering typically begins 35 to 60 days after sowing and continues from July until the first frosts . Regularly removing faded flowers encourages continuous and abundant blooming. Moderate watering, equivalent to 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week , is sufficient once the plants are established.
Usage ideas
• Bouquets of cut flowers
• Summer borders and flowerbeds
• Pollinator gardens
• Background or intermediate flowers
• Easy-care gardens
The 'Tetra' flowering zinnia from McKenzie Seed Company is a sure bet for a colorful summer , combining abundant blooms , hardiness , and ease of cultivation . An ideal variety for gardeners seeking spectacular, long-lasting, and vibrant flowers.
