Zinnia Seeds - Benary Giant Coral

Zinnia Benary Giant Coral is a stunning variety known for its large, vibrant coral-pink blooms and impressive height. Part of the Benary Giant series, this zinnia is prized for its robust growth, exceptional size, and long-lasting flowers. It produces large, fully double blossoms that are perfect for adding color to gardens, landscapes, and floral arrangements. Its hardy nature and resistance to pests make it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a reliable and eye-catching flower.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Coral-Pink Color: The large, coral-colored flowers stand out with their striking, eye-catching appearance, adding a soft yet bold touch to any garden.
• Large, Double Blooms: The Benary Giant Coral zinnia produces massive, fully double flowers that can reach up to 5 inches in diameter, perfect for flower beds and cut flower arrangements.
• Strong Growth and Sturdy Stems: This variety is known for its upright, sturdy growth habit, making it less prone to damage from wind or rain, and ideal for both garden beds and containers.
• Pest and Disease Resistant: Benary Giant Coral is resistant to common zinnia pests like aphids and spider mites, and it has good tolerance to powdery mildew, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.
• Pollinator-Friendly: These zinnias attract a variety of beneficial insects, including bees and butterflies, helping to support local pollinator populations.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Upright, sturdy plants with large, fully double coral-colored blooms.
• Flower Size: Each bloom can grow up to 5 inches in diameter, making them perfect for creating bold displays or adding to bouquets.
• Growth Habit: Benary Giant Coral zinnias have a strong, bushy growth habit that stands tall in gardens, providing long-lasting color.
• Height: Typically grows to 36–42 inches tall, making it an excellent choice for the back of flower beds or as a cut flower.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• When to Plant: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost date or sow them directly outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
• Ideal Temperature: Zinnias thrive in warm temperatures, ideally between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C) during the growing season.

Planting Details

• Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
• Sunlight: Zinnia Benary Giant Coral requires full sun, with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water deeply once the soil surface begins to dry out.
• Avoid watering overhead to minimize the risk of fungal diseases, and ensure the water reaches the root zone directly.

Fertilization

• Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time and again once the plants reach 6–8 inches tall.
• Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth with fewer blooms, so use moderate amounts.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season.
• Remove any damaged or diseased leaves to maintain healthy plants and good air circulation.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Though resistant to many common pests, monitor for aphids and spider mites. Use organic pest control if necessary.
• Diseases: This variety is resistant to powdery mildew, but good garden hygiene and proper spacing will further help reduce the chance of fungal issues.

Harvesting

• Cut Flowers: Harvest blooms when they are fully open, and the petals have reached their peak color. For the best vase life, cut flowers early in the morning before the sun becomes too strong.
• Seeds: Allow flowers to mature fully before collecting seeds. Once blooms begin to fade, the seed heads will dry, and you can harvest them for next season’s planting.

Storage

• Fresh Flowers: Zinnias typically last up to a week in a vase if kept in clean water and the stems are re-cut every few days.
• Seeds: After harvesting, store seeds in a cool, dry, airtight container to ensure they remain viable for future planting.

Practical Uses

• Garden Displays: Ideal for creating colorful focal points in garden beds, borders, or containers.
• Cut Flowers: The large, vibrant blooms make Zinnia Benary Giant Coral perfect for fresh-cut flower arrangements and bouquets.
• Pollinator Gardens: The vibrant color and nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to your garden.

Conclusion

Zinnia Benary Giant Coral is an exceptional variety for gardeners seeking a beautiful, low-maintenance flower that provides vibrant color and a stunning display. With its large, coral-pink blooms, strong growth habit, and resistance to pests and diseases, this zinnia variety is perfect for both beginner and seasoned gardeners. Whether used in garden beds, floral arrangements, or pollinator gardens, Zinnia Benary Giant Coral is sure to add beauty and charm to any space.