What to know
Harvesting zinnias , known for their vibrant blooms and tenacious vase life , is arewarding experiencethatrequires careful attentionto detail . This comprehensive guide will render you with step - by - step book of instructions , peak , and tricks to assure you give in the most beautiful and long - lasting zinnia efflorescence .
The Right Time to Harvest
Theoptimal timeto harvesting zinnias is when the flowers are fully open and the petal have a papery feel . Typically , this occurs 2 - 3 days after the buds first exposed . Harvesting at thisstage ensuresthe efflorescence have developed theirfull colorand aroma .
Tools You’ll Need
Step-by-Step Harvesting Instructions
1 . name thePerfect Bloom : Select zinniasthat have fully open up and have a house , papery grain . annul flowers that are wilting or damaged.2 . Cut flawlessly : Using astute pair of scissors orpruning shears , make aclean cutat a 45 - grade slant just below the blossom oral sex . Thisangled cut helps prevent waterloggingand extends the blossom ’s vase life.3 . Strip the Leaves : Remove any leave that will be submerged in water . leaf can crumble and contaminate the H2O , castrate the flower ’s life.4 . Prepare the Water : Fill aclean bucketor vase with fresh , cool water . tot flower nutrient to the piddle can avail nourish the flowers and extend their longevity.5 . experimental condition the Flowers : Immediately after harvesting , place thezinnia stemsin the water - meet container . tolerate them to condition for at least 30 minutes in a cool , shaded area . This summons helps theflowers rehydrateand steep the bloom intellectual nourishment .
Tips for Harvesting and Care
Vase Life and Storage
Harvesting for Drying
If you wish todry zinniasfordecorative purposes , follow these additional steps:1 . harvesting at the Peak : crop zinniaswhen they arefully openand have a firm , papery feel.2 . Hang Upside Down : Tie the old maid flower stems together insmall bundlesand give ear them upside down in a well - ventilated , dark area.3 . Dry for 2 - 3 Weeks : Allow the old maid flower to dry out for 2 - 3 weeks , or until they arecompletely dryand brittle .
Common Mistakes to Avoid
FAQs
Q : Can Iharvest zinniaswhen they are still in bud form?A : Harvesting zinniasinbud formis not recommend as they may notfully developor opened . Q : Can Iharvest zinniasafter they have conk to seed?A : Harvesting zinniasafter they have gone to seed is not idealistic as the flowers will have a light vase living . Q : How can Iprevent zinniasfrom droop in the vase?A : Toprevent zinniasfrom wilt , switch the water regularly , remove spent flowers , and keep them in a nerveless , shaded emplacement .
