If you do let the plants self-seed, be aware that the seedlings may not be true to type and may not resemble the parent plant. The best way to prevent this is to deadhead the flowers regularly before the seeds have a chance to mature.Īlternatively, you can collect the seeds from spent flowers and sow them where you want new plants to grow. Zinnias self-seed readily, which means that you may find seedlings popping up in unexpected places. This will ensure that the companion plant doesn’t outcompete the zinnia for space or light. When choosing companion plants for zinnias, it’s important to consider the height, growth habit, and flowering time of the plant. These plants share similar growing requirements as zinnias and can help protect them from pests and diseases.Īdditionally, companion plants can provide shelter and shade for zinnias during hot summer days. Good companion plants for zinnias include marigolds, nasturtiums, and cosmos. Zinnia companion plants can either be planted with the seedlings or sown together with the zinnia seeds. Water regularly and fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a half-strength all-purpose fertilizer until buds form.ĭeadhead (remove spent flowers) regularly to encourage more blooms. Zinnia care is simple once they are growing. Once seedlings emerge, thin them 12-24 inches apart. Keep the soil moist until germination which takes 7-10 days. Sow zinnia seeds thinly and barely cover them with fine soil. If you start zinnia seeds indoors, plant them on a sunny windowsill or under grow lights. Zinnias can be direct seeded or started indoors as seedlings 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Before planting zinnias, work some organic matter into the soil to help retain moisture. Depending on the variety, zinnias will grow anywhere from 12 inches to 4 feet tall. Zinnias also need full sun to produce the most flowers. If your soil is heavy clay, consider planting in a raised bed. Zinnia care begins with well-drained soil. Vibrant colors of the Zinnia attract both pollinators and humans Caring for the Zinnia plant Zinnias come in a wide range of colors, so you can choose the ones that best match your garden’s color scheme. When planting Zinnias, make sure to space them about 12 inches apart. They’re also fairly drought tolerant, so you don’t need to water them too often. Zinnias need full sun and well-drained soil. Transplant them outdoors after the last frost date has passed. If you live in zone 6, it’s best to start your seeds indoors. You can start your Zinnia seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your last frost date, or direct sow them outside after the last frost date. The best zone to grow Zinnia is between 6 and 11. Once seedlings emerge, thin to 8-12 inches apart. Keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge which will be in 7-21 days depending on the temperature. Do not cover Zinnia seeds with soil as they need light to germinate.Īfter sowing, water the seed bed lightly. Sow Zinnia seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly tamp down. You can direct sow Zinnia seeds after the last frost date in your area. Zinnia is best planted in late spring or early summer. They make beautiful additions to bouquets and floral arrangements.
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