Caring for Zinnias

By Alisha Bredbrenner

Zinnias are annuals, so they will grow for one season to produce flowers and seeds, but the original plant will not come back yearly. They have bright, almost daisy-like flower on a single stem, which makes them great for use as a cutting flower or as food for butterflies!

How to Care for Zinnias After Harvesting

Put the cut stem in a jar or bucket of cold water right after you cut it to keep your zinnias fresh in the vase as long as possible. Once you get the stems inside, strip the bottom of the stem of any leaves. If left on the stem to sit in the water, the leaves will rot and promote bacterial growth.

Recut the stem at a 45-degree angle after you strip it. The angled cut will allow for the greatest surface area for the stem to draw up water. Keep the flowers out of direct sunlight and change the water every day or two to keep the flowers fresh and enjoy those blooms as long as possible!