You're going to love this colorful, generous blooming annual.
Zinnias are among the most popular annual plants for gardeners because they are easy to grow and they grow quickly. Zinnias take about two months to grow from seed to flower so starting seeds indoors will help you have blooms earlier in the season. Very low-maintenance, zinnias simply need lots of sun, warmth, and well-drained soil in order to thrive. They don't like cold.
Because zinnias are prolific bloomers and flower continuously from summer to frost they are excellent for landscape color in mixed plantings and for cutting gardens. Zinnias are one of the best annuals for attracting pollinators, especially butterflies.
The Origin and Care of Zinnia Flowers
Zinnias aren't only a feast for the eyes; they have a rich history that intertwines with gardening traditions worldwide. We'll share their origin story and share insights that will help both beginners and experienced gardeners enjoy the beauty and simplicity of growing zinnias from seed.
Origin Story
Zinnias, with their brilliant blooms and cheerful presence, trace their roots back to Mexico. Named after Johann Gottfried Zinn, a German botanist, these flowers were initially seen as unattractive by Europeans in the 1700s due to the wild zinnia's scraggly appearance. However, selective breeding over centuries has transformed them into the garden beauties we adore today. Zinnias naturally thrive in dry, grassland regions, which explains their love for sunshine and well-drained soil.
Zinnias In the US
The journey of zinnias to American gardens is a fascinating tale. Initially dismissed for their rough appearance, zinnias underwent a Cinderella-like metamorphosis. By the 19th century, thanks to enthusiastic breeding efforts, zinnias boasted fuller, more vibrant flowers, earning their place in American gardens. Their popularity soared as gardeners discovered their diverse color palette and easy-to-grow nature.
Care Requirements
Zinnias are remarkably hardy and forgiving, making them perfect for gardeners of all skill levels. Here's how to ensure your zinnias thrive:
- Sunlight: Zinnias love the sun! Plant them in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: Well-draining soil is key. Zinnias are not picky about soil types, but they dislike wet feet.
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Overwatering can lead to issues like mildew.
- Deadheading: Regularly removing spent blooms encourages more flowers and prolongs the blooming period. Feeding: A balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every few weeks will keep your zinnias happy.
Do Zinnias Come Back Every Year?
Zinnias are annuals, meaning they complete their entire life cycle—from germination to seed production—within a single growing season. Once they bloom and produce seeds, the plants will die at the end of the season. However, because zinnias are prolific bloomers and easy to grow from seed, they can be replanted year after year for continuous color in your garden.
In warm climates where frost is rare, zinnias may act as tender perennials, potentially reseeding themselves and growing back the following year, but this is not common in most regions. For reliable blooms each year, you'll need to plant new zinnia seeds or transplants each season.
Zinnias are a testimony to the joys of gardening - simple, vibrant, and resilient. At the time of this posting, Park Seed has nearly 100 varieties and combinations of zinnia seeds you can grow. And remember, we're here to support your gardening adventure every step of the way, from seed to stunning bloom. Have questions? You can ask us online (Facebook and Instagram), use the free Growbot app, check the blog, or send us an email.