These are so easy to grow!
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For low-maintenance, showy color, zinnias take the prize.
Theseannual flowersgrow quickly from seed, dont mind the heat, and tolerate most types of soil.
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Zinnias also are a favorite ofbees,butterfliesandhummingbirds, making them ideal if youre planting a pollinator-friendly garden.
Songbirds also like the seeds.
Theyre stunning when planted in masses.
There are several species, but the most commonly grown isZinnia elegans.
Many hybrids with better disease resistance also are available.
They also have an exceptionally long bloom period in the garden from late spring to first frost.
Plant Attributes
Zinnia Care
Zinnias are one of the easiest flowers to grow from seed.
They can be direct-seeded in the garden after threat of frost has passed.
Water, and keep the seeds moist, but not soggy.
Germination occurs in 2 to 7 days for most varieties.
Read the seed package to determine best spacing.
Plant every two weeks from late spring to mid-summer.
They do not bloom well in shady locations.
Soil
Zinnias adapt to most soil types, but they prefer well-draining, rich soils.
They also do fine in containers in any general-purpose potting soil.
Fertilizer
Use any granular slow-release fertilizer at planting.
These plants bloom more profusely with regular fertilization, so follow the package instructions and re-apply as recommended.
However, zinnias that are closely planted are susceptible to powdery mildew, especially during hot, humid weather.
Zinnias have few insect pests but may be affected by spider mites,aphidsandwhiteflies.
check that tospray in late eveningto avoid harming beneficial insects and birds.
Do Zinnias Need Staked?
Some tall varieties do tend to flop over.
Do Zinnias Need Deadheaded?
you might deadhead zinnias or cut the flowers for vases to encourage more blooms.
You also can let faded flowers remain to provide seeds for the bird.
Cut them when fully open, as they wont continue to develop after cutting.
