Zinnia Golden Hour - Floret Original Seeds

Zinnia ‘Golden Hour’

Zinnia elegans

This variety is named for the most beautiful time of day—the hour before the sun sets on the horizon. Large flowers come in a range of warm honey and cantaloupe shades that look as if they are glowing. As flowers age, the lower petals take on the faintest cranberry edging that beautifully complements their red eyes. This is the very first variety bred on the farm.  

Please note that this variety is still a work in progress and is not 100% uniform, so you will undoubtedly find a few off types in the mix. Floret will continue to refine and improve this selection, but are making it available before it’s “perfect” for you to grow and enjoy.

To help you have more success growing these special varieties, each seed order will include a printed growing guide with step-by-step instructions.

Details:

Planting depth: 6mm

Germination soil temp: 15-26 degrees

Days to germination: 3 to 5 days

Site: full sun

Plant spacing: 22-30cm

Pinch: when 20-30cm tall

Days to maturity: 75 to 95 days

Height: 120-140cm

Approximate seeds per packet: 50

How to Grow:

Sow seeds indoors in trays or pots 4 to 6 weeks before your last frost. Zinnias are very cold sensitive, so wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting outside. Zinnias can also be direct-seeded into the garden once weather is consistently warm.

Harvesting/Vase Life:

Use the “wiggle test”: Grab the stem about 8 in down from the flower and gently shake it. If the stem is droopy or bends, don’t cut yet. If the stem is stiff and remains erect, it is ready to harvest. Do not put in the cooler. Zinnias are notorious for making their water murky. To combat this, add a few drops of bleach to the water. Expect a vase life of 7 days.

Amazing photography by Chris Benzakein from Floret.