By Scout Nelson
Zinnias are a beloved choice among gardeners in the Dakotas for their easy cultivation and vibrant summer-long blooms. Recently, NDSU Extension has highlighted a series of zinnia varieties that combine affordability with exceptional beauty, known as the Dessert Menu zinnias.
This series includes several mixes such as Fruity Beauty, Berry Tart, and Blueberry Cheesecake, each offering a unique blend of vivid colors designed to enhance any garden’s aesthetic. For instance, Fruity Beauty dazzles with shades of orange, yellow, and coral, while Berry Tart features a radiant mix of scarlet and burgundy tones.
One of the standouts features of the Dessert Menu zinnias is their cost-effectiveness. These seeds are significantly cheaper than premium varieties, yet they provide an abundant floral display. A packet of 1,500 seeds of Fruity Beauty costs about $8, making it an economical choice for large-scale planting.
These zinnias are not only affordable but also robust. They grow 3 to 4 feet tall and are capable of withstanding the challenging prairie winds, thanks to their sturdy stems. This makes them ideal for both garden display and cut flower arrangements.
Moreover, they are remarkably disease-resistant, ensuring healthy growth throughout the season.
Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are particularly drawn to the open flower habit of the Dessert Menu zinnias, which allows easy access to nectar and pollen. This characteristic enhances the ecological value of planting such varieties in your garden.
Additionally, the Dessert Menu zinnias are noted for their early blooming, with flowers appearing just 70 days after sowing. This is an advantage for gardeners who prefer to start their plants directly in the soil rather than buying transplants, further saving costs and effort.
In conclusion, the Dessert Menu zinnias offer an appealing option for gardeners looking for beauty, resilience, and value. NDSU Extension continues to test and recommend these varieties, inviting local gardeners to participate in their gardening trials to explore these and other promising plants further.
For those interested in these vibrant zinnias, a simple online search will reveal numerous seed suppliers, making it easy to start beautifying your garden with these exceptional flowers.
Photo Credits:istock-kerem-hanci
Categories: North Dakota, General