Grow Peppermint Stick Zinnias from fresh Zinnia elegans flower seeds. Peppermint Stick will grow to a mature height of roughly 24 to 36 inches tall and is much like the Candy Stripe Zinnia. It produces beautiful 2 inch blooms in pale pastel colors, accented by stripes and spots. Each bloom is made up of rows and rows of petals atop long stems. Grown as an annual flowering plant, the Zinnia will establish quickly from seeds, bloom profusely during the summer months and later die with the first frost. Peppermint Stick is greatly used as a cut flower and can be used in floral arrangements & bouquets as well.
You might be shocked to learn that Zinnias weren’t always so popularly chosen to please the eye. In fact, when the Spanish first discovered the Zinnia, they named it “mal de ojos,” which simply translates to “Sickness of the eye”. However, over many years of breeding, the Zinnia flower has become eye candy for gardeners all over the world. It is sought after for its gorgeous double blooms, attractive foliage, and brightly colored petals. You will be pleasantly surprised to know that we carry over 25 Zinnia flower seeds in our online shop. Check out the Zinnia category for all sorts of popular favorites, such as “Purple Prince” or “Candy Stripe.”
Quick Facts
- Type: Flower
- Color: Mixture
- Height: 24″ to 36” Tall
- Width: 12″ to 18″ Spread
- Season: Annual
- Zones: 3 to 10
- Environment: Full sun
Sowing The Seed
Zinnias are not particularly fond of being transplanted. However, if you are looking to start them indoors, it is recommended to sow them in peat pots, so that the entire pot can be transplanted later on to prevent root shock. If started outdoors, be sure to turn the soil, or throw down new soil in its place. Sow the seeds when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed, at a shallow depth of 1/4″ under topsoil.
Growing Conditions
Zinnias will prefer an area of full sunlight with temperatures that exceed 60F. Although they are adaptable, it is best to use a soil that is humus rich, and fertile. Drainage is crucial, so replacing any hard, compact soil with a fresh mixture of compost is recommended. Water daily so that the soil remains moist until germination occurs.
Germination & Growth
Your Zinnias will begin to emerge in roughly 7 to 10 days after sowing. The plants will reach a mature height of about 24 – 36 inches tall and can be spaced roughly 12 inches apart from one another. Peppermint Stick Mixture produces beautiful 1 to 2 inch blooms in shades of rose, purple, golden yellow, scarlet, orange, pink, and white.