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Zinnia
Zinnia (Zinnia elegans and related species) is a popular annual garden flower known for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms. Native to Mexico and surrounding regions, the zinnia plant has become a mainstay of summer gardens around the world. It produces an abundance of daisy-like blossoms in almost every color except true blue. These blooms light up beds and borders from mid-summer until the first frost. Gardeners prize zinnias for their easy-growing nature and nonstop color display. These hardy annuals thrive in heat and sun, attracting butterflies and bees with their bright petals. They are a staple in butterfly garden plantings for this reason. As one of the quintessential summer flowers, zinnia combines well with other annuals and perennials, making it a versatile choice for ornamental plantings. It is also a favorite for cutting – its flowers hold up well in bouquets, which is why zinnia stems are a staple in cut flowers arrangements. Overall, this cheerful bloom brings bold color and reliable performance with minimal fuss, delighting both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
🌱 Taxonomy and origin
Botanically, zinnia belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae), the same plant family as sunflower, marigold, and dahlia. The genus Zinnia comprises about 20 species of flowering plants, including annuals, perennials, and sub-shrubs. The most widely cultivated species is Zinnia elegans, often called common zinnia, which is the source of most garden varieties. Zinnias were first documented in Mexico, and the plant is native to hot, arid regions of Mexico and Central America. Spanish explorers in the 16th century found the wild zinnia flowers unimpressive – in fact, early zinnias were nicknamed “mal de ojos” (meaning “offensive to the eyes”) because of their dull appearance. In the late 1700s, European botanists took interest in the plant. The genus was named after Johann Gottfried Zinn, a German botanist who described one species in the 18th century. Through breeding and selection, gardeners transformed those scraggly wildflowers into the colorful, large-bloomed zinnias grown today. Modern zinnia hybrids come in a rainbow of colors and forms, showcasing the dramatic horticultural improvement from their humble origins.
🌸 Bloom time
Zinnias are prolific bloomers that brighten gardens through the heat of summer and well into autumn. Bloom time typically begins by early to mid-summer, often around June or July depending on the planting time and climate. Once they start flowering, zinnias continue to produce new blooms nonstop until cold weather arrives. With regular deadheading (removal of spent flowers), each plant will keep directing energy into forming buds for weeks on end. In warm climates with a long growing season, it’s not unusual to have fresh zinnia blooms from late spring straight through to the first hard frost of fall. This extended bloom period sets zinnia apart from many perennials that have shorter, defined flowering windows. Each individual flower can last for many days on the plant, and new blossoms open in succession. The result is a constant display of color in the garden at a time when other plants might fade. Gardeners often stagger sowing times or plant successive batches of zinnia seeds to ensure waves of blooms throughout summer and into late season. From sunny July afternoons to crisp October mornings, zinnias reliably fill gardens with bright, cheerful blossoms. This makes them indispensable annual flowers for continuous summer color.
📏 Height and spread
The size of zinnia plants can vary widely depending on the variety – from compact dwarf types to towering giants. Dwarf zinnias may reach only 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) tall, forming neat little mounds suited for edging and containers. On the other end, tall varieties (such as certain heirlooms and cutting types) can grow 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) in height, commanding the back of a border with their long stems and big blooms. Most common garden zinnias fall somewhere in between, roughly 1 to 3 feet tall. In terms of spread, a typical zinnia grows as an upright, branching clump about 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) wide. The plants tend to be bushy if pinched early, producing multiple stems that carry flowers. Giving each plant enough space is important. Good air circulation around the foliage helps prevent diseases like powdery mildew. Gardeners usually space zinnias about 9 to 18 inches (23 to 45 cm) apart, depending on the cultivar’s mature size. Despite their varying stature, all zinnias have a similar basic form – coarse, opposite leaves on sturdy green stems topped by bright, daisy-form flower heads. Tall zinnia varieties make excellent companions to other summer bloomers like cosmos or even smaller sunflowers, creating a layered effect in beds. Meanwhile, dwarf zinnia cultivars work well at the front of plantings or in patio pots. Their petite flowers can be appreciated up close.
☀️ Light
Zinnias flourish in full sun, which means they prefer at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In fact, abundant sun is one of the keys to their vigorous growth and prolific flowering. In a sunny exposure, zinnia plants develop sturdy stems and numerous buds, and their flower colors tend to be more intense. They are well adapted to hot summer conditions, since the species originated in warm, bright habitats. Zinnias can handle strong sun and high temperatures with ease. By contrast, if planted in too much shade or filtered light, zinnias will often become leggy (stretching toward the light) and may produce fewer blooms. Insufficient sun also increases the risk of disease like mildew because the foliage stays damp longer and the plant is stressed. Ideally, choose an open site with all-day sun or at minimum a full morning and afternoon of sun for zinnias. In very hot climates, these flowers can tolerate a bit of light afternoon shade if needed, but generally more sun is better for maximum flowering. Positioning them in the sunniest part of the garden also ensures the plants dry off quickly after rain or watering, which is beneficial for their overall health. Bright light and warmth essentially fuel the zinnia’s bloom production. As classic sun-loving garden flowers, zinnias will reward gardeners with continuous blossoms when they receive ample sunshine throughout the growing season.
💧 Water
Although zinnias are fairly tough once established, they perform best with moderate, consistent watering. These plants enjoy moisture in the soil but do not like to sit in waterlogged conditions. In well-drained soil, aim to keep the ground evenly moist but not soggy. Typically, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water per week (from rainfall or irrigation) is a good general target during the growing season, adjusting for extreme heat or drought. Zinnias have relatively shallow roots, so they appreciate regular watering especially during hot, dry spells. However, it is important to water them properly. Avoid overhead watering, if possible, as wetting the foliage frequently can encourage diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spots. Instead, deliver water at the base of the plant (for example, using a soaker hose or a watering can directed at soil level) so that the moisture goes straight to the roots. Watering in the morning is preferable so that any splashed water on leaves can dry quickly in the sun. While zinnias can tolerate brief periods of dryness – they are more drought-tolerant than many other annuals – extended drought will reduce flowering and can cause the plants to wilt. On the flip side, overwatering or constantly wet soil can lead to root rot and weak growth. Striking a balance is key. Provide enough water to keep them vigorous and blooming, but let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings to ensure healthy root conditions. By paying attention to soil moisture and watering needs, gardeners can help zinnias reach their full potential of lush foliage and abundant flowers.
🌍 Soil and pH
Zinnias are not very fussy about soil and will grow in a range of soil types, but they do have some preferences for optimal growth. The ideal soil for zinnias is a well-drained garden loam that is enriched with organic matter. Good drainage is critical because, as with many flowering plants, zinnia roots do not like to remain waterlogged. If soil stays soggy, the plants can develop root diseases or simply languish. Incorporating compost into the planting bed can improve both the fertility and the aeration of the soil, creating a loose, rich medium in which zinnias will thrive. In terms of pH, zinnias do best in the neutral to slightly acidic range. A soil pH around 6.0 to 7.5 is generally suitable. They can tolerate mildly acidic conditions typical of many gardens. Extremely acidic or highly alkaline soils may cause nutrient availability issues, but this is rarely a concern for the average zinnia grower. It’s worth noting that zinnias can grow in lean or poorer soils too, although in very nutrient-poor dirt they will benefit from a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer to support flowering. Conversely, be cautious about soil that is overly rich in nitrogen (for example, heavily manured beds) – too much nitrogen can lead to lush green leaf growth at the expense of flower production. A moderate level of fertility encourages the best balance of healthy foliage and abundant blooms. Overall, as long as the site has decent garden soil that drains well, zinnias usually adapt without trouble. They are often recommended for beginner gardeners because these annuals manage to put on a great show even in less-than-perfect soil conditions. They will thrive as long as their basic needs are met.
❄️ USDA hardiness
Because they are grown as annuals, zinnias are not evaluated by the typical USDA hardiness rating the way perennials and shrubs are. In practice, zinnias can be cultivated in essentially all USDA hardiness zones (approximately zones 2 through 11) as warm-season annual flowers. This widespread adaptability is due to the fact that the zinnia’s life cycle is completed between frosts. Gardeners in cold climates (zones 2-5) start zinnias each spring after the last frost and enjoy them until autumn frost kills the plants. In warm temperate zones (zones 6-9), zinnias also grow through the summer and into fall, with a potentially longer season on either end depending on frost dates. In tropical and subtropical areas (zones 10 to 11) where frost is absent or very rare, zinnias can technically grow year-round or be planted in multiple cycles. However, even in these climates they are typically treated as annuals and replanted each season for the best flowering display. The key point is that zinnias are extremely frost-sensitive. Any freeze or even a light frost will damage the foliage and end the plant’s life cycle. They originate from warm regions and have no cold dormancy mechanism, so freezing temperatures are lethal to them. For this reason, when discussing “hardiness” of zinnia, it’s less about surviving winter (since that usually isn’t possible except in greenhouses) and more about their heat tolerance and resilience during the growing season. In that respect, zinnias are quite hardy as summer plants. They tolerate high heat, and once established, a bit of dry weather as well. Essentially, anywhere you can grow a vegetable garden in summer, you can grow zinnias. Just remember to plant them after the last frost and to sow new seeds each year for a fresh crop of these vibrant blooms.
🌼 Propagation and longevity
Zinnias are most commonly propagated by seed, which is straightforward and rewarding even for beginners. The seeds are fairly large, arrowhead-shaped slivers that germinate readily when given warmth and moisture. Gardeners have two main approaches to growing zinnias from seed. One is to sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost. The other is to start seeds indoors about a month before the last frost to get a jump on the season. Direct sowing is often preferred because zinnias grow quickly and they dislike having their roots disturbed. By planting them in situ (directly in the bed), one avoids any transplant shock. To direct sow, plant the seeds about 1/4 inch (6 mm) deep in prepared soil and keep the area moist until germination, which usually occurs within 5 to 10 days in warm weather. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to the recommended spacing to give each plant room to develop. If starting indoors, sow seeds in biodegradable pots or cell trays (so they can be transplanted without root disturbance) about 4-5 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant carefully after hardening off, being cautious not to damage the roots when you set the seedlings into the garden. Zinnias begin blooming roughly 8 to 12 weeks after sowing, depending on the variety. They are fast growers, going from seed to flower in the same season.
Because they are annuals, individual zinnia plants complete their life cycle in one growing season. The longevity of each plant is thus just a few months from germination to the end of flowering. However, within that time, a single zinnia can produce dozens of blooms if cared for well. To extend the blooming period of a zinnia planting, many gardeners practice succession planting – sowing a new batch of seeds in mid-summer to replace or augment the first planting. This way, when the initial set of zinnias starts to tire out or succumb to late-season diseases, younger plants will be coming into bloom. Deadheading spent flowers also greatly prolongs each plant’s bloom cycle. Removing the old blooms prevents the plant from setting seed and stimulates more new flower buds. In some cases, zinnias will self-seed. If dried flower heads are left in the garden at the end of the season, some seeds that fall may sprout the next year on their own (volunteer seedlings). Gardeners can also save seeds from favorite zinnia blooms quite easily – once a flower head is thoroughly dry and brown, the seeds attached to the base of the petals can be collected for future planting. This seed-saving is a simple way to propagate specific zinnia varieties year to year. Other propagation methods (like cuttings) are uncommon for zinnia, since seeds are so easy and the plant’s natural lifespan is short. In summary, propagate zinnias by seed for best results. Remember that each plant lives for just a single season, providing a glorious but temporary display of color in the garden.
👃 Fragrance
One notable aspect of zinnias is that despite their striking visual appeal, they have little to no fragrance. Unlike many flowers prized for scent – such as lavender, gardenia, or jasmine – zinnia blooms do not produce a significant perfume. When you bend down to sniff a zinnia, you may catch a faint green or mildly floral smell from the petals, but it is generally very subtle and easy to miss. The lack of strong fragrance is not a flaw so much as a trait. Zinnias evolved to attract pollinators through color and shape rather than through scent. The bright colors of zinnia flowers are highly attractive to butterflies and other daytime pollinators, reducing the plant’s reliance on fragrance signals. For gardeners, this means that while zinnias won’t perfume the air like roses or lilies, they also won’t overwhelm anyone sensitive to strong floral scents. Many people actually appreciate having some flowers without heavy fragrance in a mixed garden or bouquet to provide visual beauty without a clashing mix of perfumes. If fragrance in the garden is a priority, zinnias pair well with more aromatic plants nearby. For instance, a gardener could edge a zinnia bed with sweet alyssum for a touch of fragrance, or plant fragrant lilac and roses nearby. This way, other plants contribute perfume to the area while zinnias provide the vivid color. In the vase, combining zinnia blooms with a few sprigs of scented herbs or fragrant flowers can also give the best of both worlds. Overall, the zinnia’s charm lies in its bold appearance and profusion of blooms, not in its smell. Gardeners accept that trade-off given all the other benefits this flower offers.
⚠️ Toxicity and pet safety
Zinnias are considered non-toxic and very safe to grow around pets and people. According to the ASPCA and other plant databases, all parts of the zinnia plant are non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. This means that if a curious cat nibbles a zinnia leaf or a dog mouths a fallen bloom, there is no known poisoning risk. As with any plant, eating a large amount might cause a minor stomach upset, but zinnias do not contain any dangerous toxins. This pet-friendly nature makes zinnia an excellent choice for gardens frequented by pets and children. In fact, zinnia flowers are sometimes listed among edible flowers for human use as well – their petals are technically edible and have been used as colorful garnishes in salads or desserts. (The flavor is somewhat bitter and not especially noteworthy, so zinnia is not a common culinary herb, but it is reassuring to know they are harmless if tasted.) The safety of zinnia stands in contrast to many popular ornamental plants that are poisonous. For example, common lilies are beautiful but extremely toxic to cats. By planting zinnias instead, flower lovers can get bright blooms without the worry. Similarly, unlike certain garden flowers that contain irritant sap or spines, zinnias are smooth and generally non-irritating, so even handling them is low risk. Gardeners should still use normal precautions (wash hands after gardening, and discourage pets from grazing on any plants), but they can have peace of mind that this particular flower won’t cause harm. In summary, the zinnia is a worry-free plant when it comes to toxicity. It is safe to grow in any family or pet garden and even offers the quirky benefit of edible petals for those inclined to experiment.
🌿 Vase life
Zinnias are prized as cut flowers largely because of their impressive vase life. When cut at the appropriate stage and cared for properly, zinnia blooms can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days in a vase, sometimes up to two weeks. This longevity rivals that of long-lasting cuts like chrysanthemum or carnation. To get the best vase life from zinnias, it’s important to harvest them correctly. Flowers should be cut when they are nearly fully open but not overly mature. A good test growers use is the “wiggle test” – gently shake the stem, and if it stays stiff and upright (not bending just below the flower head), the bloom is at a mature stage suitable for cutting. Using clean, sharp pruners, cut the stem at an angle and immediately place it in clean water. Remove any leaves that would be submerged in the vase to reduce bacterial growth. Zinnia stems can benefit from floral preservative in the water, or simply from changing the water every day or two to keep it fresh. In the vase, each sturdy bloom will hold its form well. Zinnias do not wilt quickly like more delicate flowers. Their petals remain brightly colored and the flower heads stay intact nicely. One thing to note is that zinnia stems sometimes exude a sticky sap when cut – this is normal and can be rinsed off or wiped away as needed. Arranging zinnias is a delight due to the variety of colors and forms available, from large dahlia-like doubles to small button-style blooms. They mix beautifully with other summer flowers like Black-eyed Susan and gerbera daisy, or they can make a bold statement on their own. With basic care such as keeping the water fresh, using a clean vase, and trimming the stems every few days, a bouquet of zinnias will stay fresh and eye-catching for over a week. This allows you to bring the garden’s brilliant colors indoors for an extended time.
🐛 Pests and diseases
Zinnias are generally robust plants, but like any garden flower they can face a few pest and disease challenges. One of the most common issues is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves – typically in late summer or in conditions of high humidity and poor air circulation. While powdery mildew seldom kills zinnias outright, it can cause the plants to look unsightly, with yellowing or distorted leaves. Choosing mildew-resistant zinnia varieties (such as the Profusion or Zahara series) and ensuring good spacing for airflow can help minimize this problem (as one would for mildew-prone plants like phlox). If mildew does appear, gardeners often simply tolerate it until season’s end or remove the worst affected foliage, as chemical fungicides are usually not necessary in annual flower beds. Besides mildew, zinnias may also develop leaf spot diseases caused by fungi or bacteria, leading to brown or black spots on the leaves. Again, keeping leaves dry and removing diseased debris can reduce these issues.
As for pests, a few insects occasionally bother zinnias. Aphids are frequent offenders – these tiny soft-bodied insects (often green or black) cluster on new growth and buds, sucking sap. A strong spray of water from the hose or a treatment with insecticidal soap can keep aphids in check. Spider mites can also infest zinnias, especially in hot, dry weather, causing a speckled “stippled” appearance on leaves with fine webbing underneath. Regular watering (to keep plants from drought stress) and occasionally spraying the undersides of leaves with water can deter spider mites, as can introducing natural predators like ladybugs. Caterpillars and budworms may chew on zinnia foliage or flowers. Handpicking or using an organic BT caterpillar spray can address those if they become numerous. Slugs or snails might nibble young seedlings or lower leaves in damp conditions, so using slug bait or traps can be useful if those pests are present. Japanese beetles are sometimes attracted to zinnias as well – they may chew petals or leaves, leaving holes. These can be picked off by hand or deterred with protective netting or organic sprays if needed. Despite this list, many gardeners find that zinnias suffer relatively few problems compared to fussier ornamentals like roses. Keeping the garden clean (removing spent blooms and dead leaves) and encouraging beneficial insects can create a balance where serious pest outbreaks are rare. In summary, with basic preventative care and attention, any pest or disease issues on zinnias can be managed, ensuring that the zinnia plant stays healthy and continues to bloom vigorously through the season.
FAQs
Are zinnias annuals or perennials?
Zinnias are grown as annuals in virtually all climates. This means they complete their life cycle in one growing season and do not survive frost. In tropical regions with no frost, a zinnia plant might persist for more than one season, but even there it typically declines and is replanted for best blooms. Generally, you should plan to sow new zinnia seeds each spring, as these flowers will not come back on their own after a winter freeze.
When is the best time to plant zinnias?
The best time to plant zinnia seeds or seedlings is in late spring, after all danger of frost has passed. Zinnias need warm soil and air temperatures to thrive. In many areas, this means planting outdoors in May or early June. You can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date to get a head start, then transplant them carefully once the weather warms. Whether direct-sown or transplanted, zinnias establish quickly in warm late-spring soil and will start blooming by mid-summer.
Do zinnias need to be deadheaded?
Deadheading (removing spent flowers) is highly recommended for zinnias. Regularly snipping off the old, faded blooms tricks the plant into producing more flowers for a longer period. If old flowers are left on, the plant will put energy into developing seeds and flowering will slow down. By deadheading weekly – or anytime you see browning petals – you encourage the zinnia to keep blooming profusely. As a bonus, cutting those spent blooms (or even fresh blooms for bouquets) causes the plant to branch and create new bud sites, resulting in a bushier, fuller zinnia plant.
Can I grow zinnias in pots or containers?
Yes. Zinnias can be grown successfully in pots, planters, or other containers provided the container is large enough and placed in a sunny spot. Choose a pot with good drainage holes, and use a well-draining potting mix. Dwarf or medium-height zinnia varieties tend to perform best in containers (for example, the Profusion or Dreamland series, which stay compact). Ensure the potted zinnias receive full sun for most of the day. Water container zinnias more frequently, as pots can dry out faster than garden soil – usually water when the top inch of soil feels dry. With proper care, potted zinnias will bloom just as cheerfully as those in the ground.
How can I prevent powdery mildew on my zinnias?
Powdery mildew is a common cosmetic issue on zinnia leaves, especially late in the season. To prevent it, focus on spacing and airflow: avoid overcrowding plants so that air can circulate around the foliage. Planting in full sun also helps, as UV rays and warmth discourage mildew. Water at the base of the plant (try not to wet the leaves) and water in the morning so any moisture on leaves dries quickly. If you know powdery mildew is a problem in your area, consider planting mildew-resistant zinnia varieties (some newer hybrids are bred for resistance). Once mildew appears, you can trim off the worst affected leaves. Usually, if cultural measures are in place, powdery mildew will be limited and won’t stop the zinnias from blooming nicely through summer.
Do zinnias attract butterflies and bees?
Absolutely. Zinnias are well known as butterfly magnets – their colorful, flat-topped blossoms are very accessible to butterflies. You will often see butterflies like monarchs and swallowtails visiting zinnia patches to sip nectar. Bees (both honeybees and native bees) also frequent zinnia flowers to collect pollen and nectar. If you plant a mix of zinnia colors, you’ll create a lively feeding ground for pollinators in your yard. To maximize the appeal, grow zinnias in a sunny, open spot and avoid using pesticides that could harm the beneficial insects. Many gardeners include zinnias specifically in butterfly garden plans because of how reliably they draw in butterflies while providing beautiful color.
How do I save seeds from my zinnias?
Saving zinnia seeds is easy and a great way to grow them again next year. To collect seeds, allow some healthy flowers to fully mature on the plant instead of deadheading them. The blooms will dry out, the petals will turn brown and papery, and the center of the flower will darken. Once the flower head is thoroughly dry and crisp, snip it off and pull it apart over a tray or paper. You’ll find the zinnia seeds attached to the base of the dry petals – they are arrowhead-shaped, somewhat flat seeds. Let the collected seeds air-dry for a few days to ensure no moisture remains (this prevents mold in storage). Then store the seeds in a paper envelope or small jar in a cool, dry place until planting time. Keep in mind that seeds from hybrid zinnia varieties may not produce plants exactly like the parent, but many gardeners still enjoy the surprises that come from home-saved seed.
Will deer or rabbits eat zinnias?
Zinnias are not the first choice for grazing animals, and they are often described as deer-resistant. The plants have coarse, rough leaves that deer tend to find unpalatable, and the bitter taste of the foliage can deter browsing. In many gardens, deer will pass by zinnias in favor of tastier plants. However, no plant is completely deer-proof – a very hungry deer (or rabbits, for that matter) might still take a nibble if food is scarce. Generally, though, gardeners in deer-prone areas report that zinnias are seldom bothered compared to more vulnerable blooms. Planting zinnias alongside other deer-deterring flowers like marigolds or strong-scented herbs can further discourage wildlife from sampling your flower beds.
Interesting tips
- Pinch for bushier plants: When zinnia seedlings reach about 6 inches tall, pinch off the very top of the stem (the growing tip). This encourages the plant to branch out. Pinched zinnias develop two or more main stems instead of one, leading to a bushier shape and more flowering sites. This simple technique results in a sturdier plant with a greater number of blooms over the season.
- Sow in succession for continuous blooms: To enjoy zinnias all summer and fall, try planting in intervals. Instead of sowing all your zinnia seeds at once, plant a second batch of seeds a few weeks after the first planting, and even a third batch a few weeks after that. These staggered plantings (succession sowing) ensure that as early-planted zinnias begin to slow down later in the season, newer plants will be coming into bloom. The result is a longer overall display of flowers in your garden.
- Water the soil, not the leaves: Zinnias prefer their roots to stay evenly moist, but their leaves and blossoms dry. To achieve this, water at the base of the plant. Using drip irrigation, a soaker hose, or simply directing your watering can at the soil will help deliver moisture right to the roots and keep the foliage dry. Avoiding overhead sprinkling, especially in the evening, can greatly reduce the chances of fungal diseases. Water in the morning if possible, so any stray droplets on leaves dry out quickly in the sun.
- Go easy on fertilizer: Too much fertilizer – particularly high-nitrogen fertilizer – can cause zinnias to grow overly lush foliage at the expense of flowers. If your soil is moderately rich or has been amended with compost, additional fertilizer may not be necessary at all. If you do feed your zinnias, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer sparingly. A light feeding when buds first form can be helpful, but avoid heavy, frequent fertilizing. The goal is to support steady bloom production, not force excessive leafy growth.
- Harvest flowers regularly: Frequent cutting of zinnia blooms for indoor arrangements doubles as a form of pruning that keeps the plants blooming. For the longest vase life, cut flowers in the cool early morning. Choose stems that are firm (the “wiggle test” helps – the stem should not flop over when gently shaken). Use clean, sharp shears and immediately place the cut stems in water. By harvesting often, you’ll enjoy beautiful bouquets and also signal the plant to keep producing new flower buds, giving you more blossoms over time.