Strong colour from midsummer
Red zinnias run from scarlet to deep cherry. 'Profusion Cherry' is one of the named cultivars in the reliable Profusion series, while the full red range sits inside the wide palette that breeding gave this Mexican annual. Red flowers traditionally speak of love and courage, and a bold bunch of zinnias is a lasting alternative to roses for an anniversary in late summer.
Hot colours, cool climate
Because the plants need warmth, red zinnias do best in the sunniest part of an Irish garden, such as against a south-facing wall, or in a polytunnel or greenhouse border. A cold, wet June holds back growth. Plants set out in late May usually start flowering in July and carry on until the first frosts.
- Sow in April indoors; seedlings dislike root disturbance, so use individual pots.
- Pinch the tip at about 20 to 30 cm for a branching plant.
- Feed with a tomato-style liquid feed every couple of weeks once buds form.
- Give a good soaking in dry spells but never let the pot stand in water.
Choosing companions
Red goes well with orange and yellow in a hot border and with silver foliage or blue salvias for contrast. Bees, butterflies and hoverflies visit the open flowers, which is a bonus for a pollinator-friendly bed.
Cutting and pets
Zinnias are cut-and-come-again, with a vase life of about seven to ten days. Zinnias appear on the ASPCA list of plants that are safe for dogs, cats and horses.
