"Should You Grow?" Series: Zinnias

In this episode of the Flower Farmer Forum podcast, Liz discusses the pros and cons of growing zinnias, a popular flower among flower farmers. She highlights their ease of growth, high yield, and vibrant colors, making them ideal for casual arrangements and you-pick farms. However, she also addresses challenges such as their tendency to bend, issues with water quality, and poor performance in cooler storage. Liz provides insights on the best varieties for different uses and concludes with a verdict on whether zinnias are a worthwhile addition to a flower farm.

Takeaways

• Zinnias are bright, cheerful, and easy to grow flowers.
• They are a staple in many flower farms due to their high yield.
• Zinnias add volume and texture to floral arrangements.
• They thrive in hot weather, making them ideal for summer.
• Zinnias can turn water slimy quickly, affecting vase life.
• They do not store well in coolers, impacting wedding work.
• Choosing the right zinnia variety is crucial for intended use.
• The wiggle test helps determine the right time to harvest zinnias.
• Zinnias are great for you-pick sections due to their popularity.
• They are productive and profitable but come with some quirks.

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