The Queen series is the one florists reach for, and 'Queen Lime Orange' is its creamsicle: mostly double and semi-double apricot-orange flowers, 2 to 3.5 inches across, each with a lime green centre that reads as a second colour from across the bed. Stems run long and straight, which is why it earns a row in the cutting garden as well as a place in the border.
Grow it exactly like any other zinnia. Direct sow into warm soil after last frost, pinch the first bud, and cut hard and often; every stem taken back to a leaf node gives you two more. Sow a second batch six weeks later so the colour holds until frost. Butterflies and bumblebees work the flowers all summer.
Powdery mildew
White or grey powdery coating on leaves - usually starting on older growth in humid conditions or when nights cool.
Improve air circulation by thinning plants. Apply neem oil or potassium bicarbonate spray at first sign. Avoid overhead watering.
Alternaria blight
Brown circular spots with yellow halos on leaves; spreads rapidly in wet weather.
Remove affected leaves immediately. Water at the base only. A copper-based fungicide can help if caught early.