Candy Cane Mix
50d to harvest
Crisp, candy-striped blooms burst in a riot of color—creamy white bands wrapped around vivid rose-red centers—so bright they seem to glow in the garden light. At maturity, sturdy stems hold fully double, daisy-like flowers with a velvety, petal-packed texture that stays showy for cut arrangements. Grow Candy Cane Mix for a long season of pollinator-friendly color that brings instant, cheerful impact to beds, borders, and bouquets.
Crop Dates
Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | — |
| Climate | Frost-Free Climate |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Oct 1st |
| Harvest Begins | Nov 20th |
| Harvest Ends | Feb 28th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 50 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Surface |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 75 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 60 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Harden Off (days) | Not Required |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What pest or disease most often affects Zinnia elegans, and how can I treat it at home?
Zinnia elegans is commonly hit by powdery mildew, which shows up as a white, dusty coating on leaves (often in humid weather or with crowded plants). Improve airflow by spacing plants and watering at the soil line, then remove heavily affected leaves; for prevention and treatment, use a labeled fungicide for powdery mildew on ornamentals and reapply as directed. If the problem is severe, pull and discard the worst plants to slow spread.
How often should I water Zinnia elegans during the main growing phase?
During active growth and budding (roughly weeks 2–6 for a ~50-day crop), keep soil evenly moist but not soggy—typically about 1 inch of water per week total, split into 1–2 waterings depending on heat. Let the top 1 inch of soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent root stress and reduce mildew pressure. Once plants are established, they tolerate brief dry spells better than constant wet soil.