Thoughts Of Absent Friends

I read recently that this summer there was a big increase in the number of people who started growing zinnias. I found this interesting, as I fell into that category. While I am not a gardener at all, this year I did have a little plot in a community garden - and I did try growing zinnias.

At first I wasn’t going to grow any because they tend to come in big, bold colours and I prefer pastel colours, but the meaning of zinnias won me over - ‘thoughts of absent friends’. I’m sure most people who started growing zinnias this year wouldn't have known that, but I like the fact that in a time when we’ve been separated from so many friends, the flower with the meaning ‘thoughts of absent friends’ is the one people were attracted to.

I was really pleased I did decide to go ahead and plant the zinnia seeds. They were super easy to care for and flowered abundantly. But the best surprise was how long they last after they’re cut and put in a vase. They still look great even after three or four weeks.

And it turns out I’m wrong about them only coming in bright colours. Flower breeders now have gorgeous pastel coloured varieties. Click HERE  to take a look at some of the options Floret Farm grows.

Next year, why don’t you try growing a few zinnias in a pot or in your garden. Or support a local flower farmer or your neighbourhood florist by buying a bunch or two. And then while basking in their beauty, spend time thinking of your friends.