Polar Bear Zinnia

Seed Count: Approx. 200 seeds

Days to Maturity: Annual

Description: Cool and classic Polar Bear Zinnias are a bright white; the perfect compliment and contrast to the other bold hues your Zinnia collection may contain.  It is a favorite of crafters, florists, and gardeners alike, and they are super easy to grow.

How To Grow

Sowing:  Direct sow this seed in warm soil. Plant just below the surface and keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7-10 days. Seedlings do not transplant well so use peat pots or pellets if transplanting.

Growing:  Water seedlings regularly until they become established; mature plants can handle some drought. This plant grows best in rich soil, and may need light fertilization to produce lots of blooms. Pinch off the growing stems to encourage bushiness, and deadhead to prolong blooming. This plant is great for attracting butterflies and bees. 

Harvesting:  To harvest cut flowers, choose stems with flowers that have just opened, and strip any foliage that will fall below water level, and place in a container of water immediately.  To save seeds wait until after the petals drop off, the centers of the flowers will then darken and develop tight clusters of seed at the base. As soon as the seed heads have turned dark brown, remove them and spread them out to dry for several days. Thresh the dried heads to separate the small, arrow-shaped seeds from the chaff, and store the cleaned seed in a cool, dry place.