Steps to grow zinnia seeds: Place watering tray underneath. Moisten the soil by watering from beneath, in the tray (damp but not soaked) Poke holes ¼” deep (one per cell or space 1” apart in trays) Insert seeds (one per hole)
Saturate the potting mix with water and then place two zinnia seeds into each planting cell or pot. Press into the soil for good seed-to-soil contact and then cover with approximately ½” of the potting mix.
#2 Keep It Simple. Y'all are going to think I am crazy but I do not dig holes for my zinnias. I just rake the soil back, scatter seeds and then sling the soil back over the top of them with my rake. The typically sprout in 3-6 days.
Zinnias (and basil) need to wait that little bit longer. For that reason, when we grow zinnias from seed we should be starting them around the end of March, although personally, I like to set out larger plants and so start them early March.
Place the containers in a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Do zinnias like to be crowded? Zinnias generally prefer to have some space between plants to thrive and produce their best blooms.
Every seed grows a new zinnia plant, and every zinnia plant can grow 10 or 20 or 30 beautiful new flowers. I like to remove the seeds from the petals because it saves space and because it stops any moisture damage from petals that aren't quite dry.”
Light: Zinnias grow and flower best in full sun. They can flower in part shade, especially in warmer climates with afternoon shade, but they may be more susceptible to disease and have fewer flowers. Soil: Zinnias grow best on fertile, well-drained soils high in organic matter.
Soaking your seeds is up to you. I did not soak my seeds before planting and have found no difference in germination rates or times. I would say do not soak them any longer than 4-6 hours right before you plant them.
Zinnias are annuals in most areas of the country that have four seasons, including a cold winter. This means they last for one season. If you want zinnias every year, you will have to replant every spring. Zinnias are not cold tolerant, so check your last freeze date for your growing zone.
Plants that rabbits hate
Another strategy is to plant perennials and some annuals, such as Zinnias, that rabbits don't like. As you may have gathered from the discussion on repellents, rabbits have sensitive noses.
Zinnias are a perfect choice for your container garden or for planters. If you are gardening in smaller spaces, like a patio, they will do quite well.
Garden staples like tomatoes, cucumbers, asparagus, and peppers are just a few that work nicely with zinnias. Dahlias, marigolds, and salvias are among ornamental plants that can be cultivated as zinnia companion plants. However, lavender and other herbs that favor dry, sandy soils should not be used.
A pencil is a handy tool to make a hole and determine the correct depth. You can measure the point of the pencil ahead of time to denote a quarter or half inch. Place your seeds in the hole and bury them. Usually, you want to plant two or three seeds per hole because not every seed will germinate.
Sow and Plant
Thin to 12 inches (30 cm) apart in all directions for dwarf varieties. Zinnia varieties that grow more than 24 inches (60) cm) tall require 18 inches (45 cm) between plants. Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
👶 Seedlings and Young Plants
Young zinnias are like toddlers with sippy cups; they need frequent, small drinks to keep them going. Water seedlings every two or three days, ensuring they get about an inch each time. This consistent moisture is crucial for their growth, but don't drown them – soggy soil is a no-go.
To keep zinnias blooming all summer long, flowers should be removed as they begin to fade. This is called deadheading, a simple pruning technique that encourages new growth and reblooming.
Groundhogs and woodchucks can turn your garden into a feast. Prevent this by: Removing brush piles and weedy areas that serve as their shelter. Planting woodchuck-resistant species around your Zinnias as a first line of defense.
I recommend seeding zinnias by August 15th to enjoy them throughout the fall. They will die out after the first frost. Zinnias prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant seeds 9”-12” apart.
When choosing a site to plant zinnias, keep this in mind: Must have full sun for 8+ hours a day. They perform best in a very warm location. Soil must be well-drained.
Sow seeds either in single shallow rows, 5-6 seeds every 12”, or individual hills of 3-4 seeds about ¼” to ½” deep. Cover with fine soil and firm soil lightly to have good contact with seed and soil.
Creeping or spreading Zinnia angustifolia, such as the Crystal Series, are a revelation for the front of the border, raised beds, containers, and even ground covers.
While Common Zinnias are not considered toxic to dogs, ingestion can still lead to unpleasant reactions. Pet owners should be aware of the potential for minor stomach issues if their canine companions decide to snack on these garden favorites.
Zinnias in pots can look just as lovely, if not more so, than those planted in beds. Especially if you have limited space, why not put these vibrant, cheerful flowers in containers?
Zinnias and frost are like oil and water—they don't mix. On the flip side, these plants can handle the heat, but when the mercury pushes past 85°F (29°C), they start to sweat—figuratively speaking. Remember, it's not just about the air around them. Soil temperature matters too.