Benary's Giant
75d to harvest
A riot of color from a single bloom—Benary’s Giant zinnias open with bold, velvety petals that feel plush to the eye and glow in the garden like stained glass. Expect sturdy, upright stems and large, fully double flowers that hold their form beautifully, making them ideal for standout cut-flower bouquets. With a long season of bloom and pollinator-friendly appeal, this is the zinnia to grow when you want maximum impact and nonstop floral drama from midsummer onward.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Feb 23rd |
| Last Frost | Mar 23rd |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Mar 23rd |
| Harvest Begins | Jun 6th |
| Harvest Ends | Nov 12th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 75 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Upright |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Normal |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 75 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 60 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 45 |
| Harden Off (days) | 7 |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a common disease problem for Zinnia elegans (Benary’s Giant), and how can I treat it?
Zinnia elegans commonly suffers from powdery mildew, which shows up as a white, dusty coating on leaves during warm, humid periods. Improve airflow by spacing plants properly and watering at the soil line (not overhead), then remove heavily affected leaves. If it’s spreading, apply a labeled fungicide for powdery mildew on zinnias and repeat according to the label interval.
How often should I water Benary’s Giant zinnias during the main growing phase?
During active growth and flowering, keep the soil consistently lightly moist—about 1 inch of water per week total, adjusted for rainfall. Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, and avoid frequent light sprinkling that keeps foliage wet. In full sun, this usually means watering 1–2 times per week depending on heat and soil texture.