Last week I described the hardy new flowers that can be planted outside as early as April 1. This week’s flowers are more tender to frost and should not be planted outside until early May. Although nasturtium seed is often sown directly outside in early April with expectation that plants will emerge in May.
Zinnia Zydeco Fire has large 21/2- to 3-inch bright, fiery orange, double flowers on 18- to 22-inch plants. Vigorous plants bloom from early summer until first frost. Larger flowers on sturdier stems than the comparisons. Very suitable for cut flower bouquets. Resistance to powdery mildew which is the primary foe of zinnias. Needs deadheading for best appearance. Available from seed or started plants.
Marigold Mango Tango dances through the garden strutting its stuff: a stunning, super-saturated flower of yellow and red. Vigorous 6- to 8-inch plants with uniform, abundant flowers blooming from early summer until frost. This dwarf French marigold is suitable for border or bed planting and can also be used in containers. Available as seed or started plants.
Dahlia Black Forest Ruby has an abundance of 3-inch ruby red flowers with striking black foliage. Sturdy 20- to 27-inch plants do not flop open and are disease free all season long. The knee-high stature provides stems suitable for cutting. Can be grown in beds or larger containers. Deadheading provides the best appearance. Available from seed or started plants.