Growing from seed:

• Is an economical way to obtain a steady supply of this sought-after deep burgundy foliage for cut flower arrangements.

• Allows gardeners to cultivate plants that best suit their design preferences and local climate conditions.

• Plants tend to be more resilient and adaptable, ensuring healthier plants with more vibrant foliage.

• Provides a personal source of deep purple foliage ensuring fresh, high-quality stems that can be harvested at peak freshness, enhancing the overall beauty and longevity of floral arrangements.

Quick Guide

Start Indoors:

• Timing: 6-8 weeks before last spring frost

• Seed Depth: 1/8" Deep

• Germination time: 5-8 days

• Transplant out: 2 weeks after last frost

Plant Specifications

Step-by-Step Instructions - Starting Seeds Indoors

Collect Supplies:

• Seeds

• Seed starting trays or pots

• Seed starting mix (sterile)

• Labels and a marker

• Plastic wrap or a humidity dome

• Spray bottle or watering can with a fine nozzle

• Grow lights or a sunny windowsill

  Timing

  • When to Start: Begin the process about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area.

  Preparation

  • Clean Containers: Sterilize your seed starting trays or pots to prevent disease.

  • Moisten Seed Mix: Slightly moisten your seed starting mix so it's damp but not soggy.

  Planting Seeds

  • Fill Trays: Fill each cell in the seed tray with the moist seed starting mix.

  • Sow Seeds: Place 1-2 seeds in each cell.

  • Label Trays: Label each tray or pot with the type of zinnia and the planting date.

  Germination

  • Cover Seeds: Lightly cover the seeds with more seed starting mix (target 1/8" depth). Add a thin layer of vermiculite to prevent algae growth on soil surface.

  • Moisten Surface: Use a spray bottle to mist the top of the soil.

  • Create Humidity: Cover the seed trays with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to maintain moisture.

  • Warmth: Place the trays in a warm location (70-75°F or 21-24°C). A heat mat can help.

  Light and Watering

  • Lighting: Once the seeds germinate (about 5-8 days), remove the cover and place the seedlings under grow lights or in a sunny windowsill. Provide 12-16 hours of light per day.

  • Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water from the bottom if possible to prevent damping-off disease.

  Take Care of Seedlings

  • Thinning: Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin them to one plant per cell or pot.

  • Hardening Off: About a week before transplanting outdoors, start to harden off your seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for increasing time periods each day.

  Transplanting Outdoors

  • Timing: Transplant the seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. It's recommended to wait until 2-3 weeks after last frost as Hibiscus prefers warm soil.

  • Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Amend with compost if needed.

  • Planting: Plant seedlings 12-18 inches apart, depending on the variety. Adding black mulch will keep soil warm and plants happy.

  • Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.