How to Grow Zinnias
Zinnias are one of the most colorful and versatile flowers to grow in your garden, offering a spectacular array of shapes, sizes, and hues. They are loved for their bright, long-lasting blooms and ease of cultivation, making them perfect for both new and experienced gardeners. Here's your guide to growing zinnias from seed, ensuring a vibrant display in your garden.
Zinnias are a popular choice for gardeners looking for a quick and easy way to add color to their landscape. Originating from Mexico, these hardy flowers have been cultivated to produce a wide variety of colors and forms. They are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season, and are particularly known for their ability to bloom profusely throughout the summer months.
Choosing the Right Zinnia Seeds
Park Seed offers a diverse range of zinnia seeds, including different sizes, colors, and heights. Consider the following when choosing your seeds:
- Size: Zinnias can range from dwarf varieties, perfect for the front of a border, to giant cultivars that make stunning backdrops.
- Color: Available in almost every hue except true blue, zinnias can be chosen to fit any color scheme.
- Bloom type: From single-flowering to double-flowering varieties, each offers a unique look.
When to Start Zinnia Seeds
Zinnias are warm-season flowers that thrive in the heat. Plant your seeds outside 1-2 weeks after the last frost date in your area when the soil has warmed. They typically germinate within 5-7 days in warm soil and will bloom 6-8 weeks after sowing.
Because they prefer warm soil and temperatures, you can get a head start on zinnia seed germination by starting seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before your average last frost date . Transplant the seedlings outside after the last frost.
Soil Preparation
Zinnias aren't fussy about soil, but they do best in rich, well-draining soil. Amend your garden bed with compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients. Ensure the planting site gets full sun, as zinnias bloom most prolifically in bright light.
Planting Zinnia Seeds
- Spacing: Sow seeds directly into the garden, spacing them 4-24 inches apart depending on the variety. Cover lightly with soil.
- Depth: Plant seeds a quarter inch deep.
- Watering: Keep the soil moist until germination. Once established, zinnias need about an inch of water per week.
Caring for Zinnias
- Fertilizing: Feed zinnias with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to encourage continuous blooming.
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers.
- Pest and Disease Control: Watch for common pests like aphids and spider mites. Fungal diseases can be prevented with proper spacing and air circulation.
Special Considerations
Zinnias love the heat and don’t tolerate cold well. For the most vibrant blooms, full sun is best.
Growing Tips
Zinnias are relatively carefree. You can use a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to support growth. Deadheading spent blooms regularly will encourage more blooms. Add some mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.
Pests and Problems to Watch for
Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to discourage powdery mildew, which looks like white powder on leaves and thrives in humid climates with cool nights. Inspect plants regularly and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if you find aphids or spider mites.
Harvesting and Enjoying
Zinnias make excellent cut flowers. Cut the stems in the morning when the flowers are freshest, and immediately place them in water. Grow zinnias from seed to add reliable bursts of color to your garden. With minimal care, these vibrant flowers will bloom profusely, providing you with cut flowers and a beautiful garden display throughout the summer.
