Zinnias
Zinnia plants are annual plants that produce bright, colourful flowers. They grow for one season to produce flowers, but do not come back in subsequent years, Colours range from pink and purple to yellow and orange. The plant varieties vary in shape, size and rows of petals.
Maturing timespan: 60-70 days
Season: Summer and fall Exposure:
Full sun (6-8 hours per day)
Difficulty: Easy
Planting
Zinnas are best planted directly from seed into a garden bed, as they do not dp as well when transplanted. Plant them after the last frost has passed. Place them 4-24 inches apart, about ¼ inch deep. They will grow quickly in a full sun location that has good air circulation and soil rich in organic matter. To extend the flowering period, plant a round of seeds every week for a few weeks. The plants can grow tall and may need a stake close to the plant stem.
Caring for the Plant
Maintain moist soil and fertilize lightly to support growth and blooming of the flowers. When the flowers start to wilt, cut them off to encourage new growth. The plants are annual and will die with the first frost in the fall.
Harvesting
Zinnias usually take 60 to 70 days to grow from seed to flower, depending on growing conditions and variety. They can be harvested by cutting at the stem close to the base of the plant, and work well in flower bouquets and arrangements.
Seed Saving Instructions
To save zinnia seeds for replanting, collect blossoms that are about halfway to turning brown and let them dry out in a paper bag until eh seeds shatter. Find the dark, pointed seeds at the base of the outer petals, with more along the center of the flower. Dry the seeds again on a paper towel until hardened. Store in a cool, dark place in a paper bag until ready to plant again in the spring.
Sources
- How to grow zinnias: The Complete Zinnia Flower Guide. Almanac.com. (2025, February 11). https://www.almanac.com/plant/zinnias