what happens with the returnees

Some of this week's zinnias gathered on the table.

A few bright colors were added to go with the limes because experimentation is fun.

Before I threw the old blooms out, I decided to pop off the flower heads and arrange them on a cupcake stand. 

After they were completely dried, I tore them open and threw them back out in the flower beds. I have had good luck with a few volunteers coming back each year. It's fun to see what happens with the returnees. 

The kitchen window sill must have it's vase of zinnias as well. The addition of basil makes things more interesting.   

I always have such rose envy when I see a garden full of beautiful rose bushes. At the height of zinnia season though, I am totally counting my blessings. The colors, shapes, and staying power of a good vase of zinnias is hard to beat. 

P.S. I am not running for the position of president of the international zinnia fan club. Even though I realize I do tend to go on about them, in a manner that might make you think my name is on that ballot.  

Comments

[Janet G]

Thank you for sharing your zinnia pics every year! Its one of my favorite flowers and I used to grow them every year but now we live in an upper level condo with no place for a garden-so no zinnias. I am wondering how they would do if grown in pots on our balcony

[Annie]

I probably AM the president of the international zinnia fan club! haha. Every year, for the zinnias I haven't cut, I just let them dry right on the stem. At the end of the season, I deadhead everything and throw them in a paper bag (to stay dryish) for the winter. In the spring I pull the flower heads apart and scatter the seeds. They always grow back and I haven't bought seeds in years!

[Jan]

What stunning colours! I don't think I have seen these in the UK - are they a bit like dahlias?
Love them!

[Michelle]

I stan your zinnia posts every year and look forward to the day we makeover our long-neglected backyard which I've designated the future Boston-Metro chapter of the IZFC. Thanks for sharing the goodness. xo