Zinnia-Benary's-Giant Scarlet
Benary's Giant Scarlet Zinnia delivers massive, fully double scarlet-red blooms up to 5-6 inches across on tall, sturdy stems. This premium annual is a cut-flower favorite, producing prolific color from early summer through fall frost. Perfect for sunny beds, borders, containers, and bouquets.
Plant Specifications and Attributes:
- Plant Size: 3-4 ft tall x 2-3 ft wide
- Spacing: 12 inches
- Sun Exposure: Full Sun (6+ hours daily)
- Hardiness Zone: 2-11 (grown as an annual)
- Bloom Period: Early summer to frost (June – October in most zones)
Description: Zinnia 'Benary's Giant Scarlet' is a standout in the Benary's Giant series, prized by gardeners and florists for its enormous, dahlia-like double flowers packed with brilliant scarlet petals and a golden center. The plants form dense, bushy mounds with strong stems that hold up well in arrangements and summer storms. These heat-loving annuals are easy to grow, mildew-resistant, and bloom nonstop once established.
Transplanting Instructions: Your 3" potted Zinnia is ready to plant after the last spring frost when soil temperatures reach 60°F or warmer. Harden off plants outdoors for 5-7 days before transplanting. Choose a sunny spot (6+ hours of direct sun) with well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost (pH 6.0-7.0). Space plants 12 inches apart to allow for their full size and good air circulation. Dig a hole the size of the root ball, plant at the same depth as the pot, and water deeply. Water at the base 1-2 inches per week (keep soil moist but not soggy). Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering until frost. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. No support needed, but tall plants benefit from good air flow to prevent disease.