Zinnia 'Cresto Mix'

Cresto Mix (Zinnia elegans)

Cresto Mix Zinnia is a joyful tapestry of colour, offering scabiosa-type blooms in shades that range from deep crimson and warm coral to creamy ivory and soft butter yellow. Most blossoms are lavishly double, while a sprinkling of semi-double and single flowers adds a touch of wild charm. Each long, sturdy stem is perfect for cutting, ensuring a steady supply of blooms from midsummer into autumn’s gentle light. Hummingbirds and butterflies flit eagerly between the colours, drawn by the abundance of nectar and the blooms’ bold presence.

This heat-loving, drought-tolerant, deer- and rabbit-resistant mix brings variety and vibrancy to cutting gardens, borders, and pollinator havens. The palette lends itself beautifully to bouquets that can be bold and bright or soft and romantic, depending on how the colours are combined. Pair with airy sprays of baby’s breath, rich burgundy scabiosa, or feathery ammi for arrangements that feel fresh from a sun-drenched country meadow.

DETAILS:

QTY: 25

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Full Sun

DEPTH: 1/4"

GERMINATION: 5-7 days at 21-24°C

HEIGHT: 25-32”

MATURITY: 75-90 days

SPACING: 9-12”

PINCH: When 12” tall


HOW TO GROW:
Indoors (recommended): Sow seeds into seedling containers 4–6 weeks before the last frost. Cover the seeds, as they require darkness to germinate. A heat mat will help maintain an optimal temperature of 21–24°C. Lower temperatures will result in slower germination. Do not allow plants to become root-bound. Harden off seedlings for 7–10 days before transplanting them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seed (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost. For a prolonged harvest, succession-sow every two weeks until midsummer.

Pinching: To encourage strong branching and a more abundant bloom, pinch the initial bud or bloom from the plant when it is young. Continue to deadhead spent flowers throughout the season.

Soil Preference and Watering: Zinnias thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained, fertile soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to mildew.

Fertilizing: Zinnias are heavy feeders. Amending the soil with compost before planting is recommended. You can also use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4–6 weeks to encourage continuous blooming.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the flowers are fully open but still firm. To check if a zinnia is ready to be harvested, gently shake the stem; if the neck is wobbly, it's not ready. Harvest in the early morning or late evening and immediately place in a vase of water.