One of the joys of gardening is watching the parade of pollinators that visit your blooms. While many flowers are a hit with butterflies and hummingbirds, few provide the same level of frenzy as zinnias. With their vibrant colors and open centers, these flowers are a magnet for these winged friends. But did you know that some zinnia varieties are more effective at drawing in pollinators than others?
7 Vibrant Zinnia Varieties That Butterflies and Hummingbirds Can’t Resist
1. Benary’s Giant Blend Zinnia
When it comes to attracting pollinators, Benary’s Giant Blend Zinnia is a top choice. This variety is a mix of different zinnia species, resulting in a kaleidoscope of colors that will draw in butterflies and hummingbirds. The open centers of the flowers make it easy for these pollinators to access the nectar and pollen, and the blooms are large enough to be seen from a distance.
Benary’s Giant Blend Zinnia is a good choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance option. It is easy to grow and requires minimal care. The seeds are also relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for those on a budget.
According to the National Gardening Association, approximately 4.2 million households in the United States grow zinnias every year. However, many of these gardeners are unaware of the specific varieties that are best for pollinators.
2. Peruvian Blend Zinnia
Peruvian Blend Zinnia is another variety that is highly attractive to pollinators. This zinnia has a unique, wildflower-like appearance that is sure to draw in butterflies and hummingbirds. The flowers are smaller than those of Benary’s Giant Blend, but they are just as effective at attracting pollinators.
Peruvian Blend Zinnia is a good choice for gardeners who want a variety that is easy to grow in containers. It is compact and produces a large number of blooms, making it perfect for small spaces.
3. Persian Carpet Zinnia
Persian Carpet Zinnia is a unique variety that is sure to add some excitement to your garden. This zinnia has a diverse blend of flowers with pronounced stamens and central compound yellow flowers that butterflies cannot resist. The blooms come in a range of colors, including reddish, brown, and yellow, and are much smaller than other zinnias.
Persian Carpet Zinnia is a good choice for gardeners who want a variety that is easy to care for. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance.
4. Profusion Zinnia
Profusion Zinnia is one of the best zinnias for pollinators. This variety produces single-petaled flowers that are easy to access and come in a range of colors, including pale yellow, peach, bright pink, orange, and white. The blooms are relatively small, but they are highly prolific, making them a great choice for gardeners who want a lot of flowers.
Profusion Zinnia is a good choice for gardeners who want a variety that is resistant to powdery mildew. This disease is common in overcrowded plants, but Profusion Zinnia is highly resistant, making it a great option for gardeners who want to avoid the hassle of treating their plants.
5. Cut and Come Again Zinnia
Cut and Come Again Zinnia is a great variety for gardeners who want to use their blooms in indoor arrangements. This zinnia produces old-fashioned-looking flowers that are perfect for cutting and come back even more after being cut. The blooms are large and colorful, making them a great addition to any bouquet.
Cut and Come Again Zinnia is a good choice for gardeners who want a variety that is easy to care for. It is relatively low maintenance and requires minimal watering.
6. Zowie! Yellow Flame Zinnia
Zowie! Yellow Flame Zinnia is a unique variety that is sure to add some excitement to your garden. This zinnia has multilayered petals that attract pollinators and come in a bright yellow color. The blooms are relatively small, but they are highly prolific, making them a great choice for gardeners who want a lot of flowers.
Zowie! Yellow Flame Zinnia is a good choice for gardeners who want a variety that is easy to grow in containers. It is compact and produces a large number of blooms, making it perfect for small spaces.
7. Varieties for Different Pollinators
While all the varieties mentioned above are attractive to both butterflies and hummingbirds, some are more effective at drawing in one type of pollinator over the other. For example, butterflies are attracted to a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, and purple, while hummingbirds are primarily attracted to red flowers.
By choosing the right variety for your specific pollinators, you can create a garden that is a paradise for these winged friends. For example, if you want to attract hummingbirds, try using Benary’s Giant Blend Zinnia or Zowie! Yellow Flame Zinnia. If you want to attract butterflies, try using Peruvian Blend Zinnia or Profusion Zinnia.
Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Garden
Creating a pollinator-friendly garden is easier than you think. By choosing the right varieties of zinnias and other flowers, you can create a garden that is a paradise for these winged friends. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Choose a variety of flowers that are attractive to both butterflies and hummingbirds. This will ensure that your garden is a hit with a wide range of pollinators.
2. Plant a mix of flowers that bloom at different times. This will ensure that your garden is a source of nectar and pollen for pollinators throughout the growing season.
3. Use a variety of colors. While red flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies are drawn to a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, and purple.
4. Provide a source of water. Pollinators need water to drink and to help them regulate their body temperature. Consider installing a birdbath or other water feature in your garden.
5. Avoid using pesticides. These can harm or kill pollinators, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. Instead, use natural methods to control pests, such as hand-picking them or using neem oil.
By following these tips, you can create a pollinator-friendly garden that is a haven for butterflies and hummingbirds. With the right varieties of zinnias and other flowers, you can attract a wide range of pollinators and enjoy the beauty and benefits of a thriving garden.
Conclusion
With their vibrant colors and open centers, zinnias are a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds. By choosing the right varieties of zinnias, you can create a garden that is a paradise for these winged friends. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, zinnias are a great choice for anyone who wants to attract pollinators to their garden.
So why not give zinnias a try? With their ease of growth, variety of colors, and ability to attract pollinators, they’re a great addition to any garden. Plus, they’re a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
