Soleado zinnias are covered in masses of jolly and bright tricolor blooms from early summer until frost. The orange and yellow flower petals are marked mahogany at the base. Flowers are long-lasting cut. Plants are upright growing and spreading, to 18-24 in. tall and wide.

Soleado zinnia is a Fleuroselect Approved Novelty and in January 2018 Soleado was presented the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit.

HARVEST

Cut frequently or remove spent flowers for highest production.

Zinnias need to be picked when they are fully ripe or they won’t last in the vase. To tell whether a zinnia is ready to harvest, use the “wiggle test.” Simply grab the stem about 8 in (20 cm) down from the flower head and gently shake it. If the stem is droopy or bends, it is not ready to cut. If the stem is stiff and remains erect, it is ready to harvest. 

Zinnias are considered a “dirty” flower and benefit from a drop or two of bleach in their water. Flowers are very cold sensitive, so don’t put them in the cooler. If floral preservative is added to the water, zinnias should last about a week in the vase.

GROWING

Full Sun

Grows 48” inches tall.

Space 9-12 inches apart

NOTES

Appreciates some support.

Pinch when 8-12” tall

During spells of hot, dry weather, zinnias are prone to powdery mildew. Providing good airflow around the plants and making sure that they aren’t experiencing any drought stress will help minimize disease pressure.