Zinnia ‘Will Rogers’ was introduced in the 1940’s and is named for a popular actor, humorist and columnist of the early 20th century. It has cherry red flowers that are 12 cm (4-5 inch) wide, and many flowers are fully double. This species is native to Mexico, and plants are fast-growing and long-blooming. Zinnias are good cut flowers. In addition, they are excellent for pollinator plantings and are especially attractive to butterflies.

SOWING:

Indoors: March to April

Start indoors four to six weeks before the last frosts. Use trays or pots and sowing compost. Seeds should be spaced at least 2.5cm (1in) apart. The seeds need light to germinate, so “just cover” the seeds with a sprinkling of fine soil. Keep soil moist during germination.

When plants are 3 to 5cm (1 to 2in) in height, transplant to 7cm (3in) pots and grow on. Gradually acclimatize indoor started seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and weather has warmed considerably. Plant out 25 to 30cm (10 to 12in) apart.

Sowing Outdoors in April to July

Add compost and all-purpose fertilizer before sowing.

Sow seeds after the last frost, and in an area with full sun. Sow seeds 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in) apart in rows 30cm (12in) apart. Cover seeds with soil; they need light to germinate. Keep soil moist until seeds germinate, in 5 to 10 days. When 5cm (2in) tall, thin the seedlings to 25 to 30cm (10 to 12in) apart.

Grow in fertile, rich, and well-drained soil

Germinate within 7–14 days.