Zinnias are one of the easiest annuals to grow, grow quickly, and bloom heavily. They make a massive burst of color in your garden. Zinnias have bright, solitary, daisy-like flower heads on a single, erect stem. The most common zinnia is “dahlia-flowered” and grows up to three feet. Other types are “cactus-flowered.” Use in an annual or mixed border. Smaller zinnias are suitable for edging, window boxes or other containers. The narrow-leaf zinnia also works well in hanging baskets. Zinnias are very popular for cut flowers.

Planting from Seed

• Zinnias are grown from seed; they grow very quickly in the right conditions. Zinnias do not like to be transplanted.
• Full sun is essential with a minimum daylight temperature of 60 degrees F.
• Zinnias are adaptable but prefer fertile, humus-rich, well drained soil at pH preference 5.5 - 7.5.
• If soil is amended with compost, the flowers will grow more quickly.
• Sow seeds ¼-inch deep.
• Space plants 4 to 24 inches apart depending on variety.  (Many common varieties are 6 inches within the row and 2 feet in between rows.) See back of seed package.
• Germination occurs at 74 to 80 degrees F in 5 to 76 days.
• Sow in succession for a longer flowering display.

Care

• Deadhead to prolong flowering.
• Maintain moderate soil moisture and fertilize lightly.
• Zinnias will die with the first frost.

Pests/Diseases

• Bacterial and fungal spots, powdery mildew, bacterial wilt. Minimize wetting of foliage to avoid disease.
• Caterpillars, mealybugs, and spider mites also cause problems. Avoid spraying and tolerate some leaf damage unless the situation is uncontrolled.

Harvest/Storage

Zinnias generally take 60 to 70 days from seed to flower (though it depends on conditions).  They can be cut and dried, or the seeds can be harvested for future plantings.