Zinnia 'Cresto Peaches & Cream Mix'

Cresto Peaches & Cream Mix (Zinnia elegans)

Cresto Peaches and Cream Mix Zinnia is a softly glowing blend of scabiosa-type blooms in warm apricot, coral blush, buttery cream, and pale ivory. Most flowers are richly double, while a scattering of semi-double and single blooms lends a touch of wild, meadow charm. Long, sturdy stems make them perfect for gathering into bouquets that capture the gentle romance of a late summer afternoon. From midsummer until the golden light of autumn, this cut-and-come-again mix offers a steady flow of blooms, each one a beacon to butterflies and hummingbirds.

With its heat-loving, drought-tolerant nature and resistance to deer and rabbits, Cresto Peaches and Cream is as reliable as it is beautiful. Its harmonious palette blends effortlessly into cottage gardens and cutting beds, pairing perfectly with airy baby’s breath, the deep burgundy of scabiosa, or soft pink cosmos. Whether arranged in vases or left to sway in the breeze, it brings an understated, painterly elegance to every view.

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.