This antique flower harkens back to the days when the state fair was the place to be. Farmers and gardeners would bring their best harvests to try and win first prize. Keep those days alive in your garden with this heirloom, prize-worthy mix. The 36-48 inch plants produce 4-6 inch blooms that are terrific as cut flowers. Grow your own state fair--colorful fireworks included.

Direct sow after frost, or sow indoors 4 weeks earlier. Zinnias like heat and well-drained soil. Encourage continued production by removing dead and dying flower heads. Cut flowers do best with long stems and green leaves removed. To save seeds, simply allow flower heads to ripen and dry fully on the plant, then pluck and squeeze in your palm.