Zinnias are very popular vibrant colorful long lasting annual flowers. They come in all colors. They have rough, slightly hairy, lance-shaped leaves that grow opposite each other on the stem. The stems are stiff and sturdy, which is why they make such excellent cut flowers for vases.

Growing zinnias in containers is very easy.  They also bring color to your garden, balcony or patio, especially if you choose Thumbelina or Profusion.  Zinnias come in a variety in height, ranging from tiny ground-cover types to towering giants that can reach up to 5 feet tall.

GROWING ZINNIAS FROM SEEDS

Pick a container with ample drainage holes and fill it with nutritious potting mix with a PH 6.3 – 6.8.  Sow your seeds directly into the pot about 1/4 inches deep spacing them several inches apart to ensure healthy airflow, to prevent powdery mildew.

Place your container in a spot that receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight daily. Zinnias love the sun.   Water the container often.    Enjoy them and watch them grow. 

It will take a week for the seeds to germinate.  Once the seedlings reach a few inches tall, you can pinch off the top set of leaves to encourage a bushier plant that will bloom beautifully all summer long.

Zinnias are famous for their speed, typically moving from germination to their first bloom in 75 days.   The exact timing depends largely on the variety you are growing and your local conditions. Zinnias love heat. If the soil is consistently above 70 degrees F / 21 degrees C. They will grow much faster than in cooler spring weather.  For a continuous harvest of cut flowers, it’s best to sow a new batch of seeds every 2 to 3 weeks!