Overview
Zinnias , with theirvibrant huesand upbeat blooms , are a beloved gain to any garden . Planting zinnia seed outdoors is arewarding experiencethat can transmute your outdoor outer space into a kaleidoscope of colors . This comprehensive pathfinder will walk you through the essential steps to ensure successful zinnia cultivation , from cum preparation to post - planting tutelage .
Choosing the Right Site
Zinnias thrive in sunny placement with well - drained soil . opt a spot that receives at least six hr ofdirect sunlightper day . The soil should be loose and rich , with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 . debar areas withheavy clayor wretched drainage .
Preparing the Soil
Before planting , amend the grunge withorganic mattersuch as compost or manure . This willimprove drain , fertility , andsoil construction . excavate the stain to a astuteness of at least 12 inches , removing any weeds or debris .
Germinating the Seeds
Zinnia seeds can bestarted indoors6 - 8 week before the last frost day of the month . Sow the seeds in seeded player trays or pots fulfill with a well - drain come starting mix . comprehend the seeds softly with soil and keep them moist . Place the tray in a tender , gay locationand keep thesoil temperaturebetween 70 - 75 ° F .
Transplanting Seedlings
Once the seedlings have develop their first set of true foliage , they can be transplanted alfresco . Harden the seedlings off bygradually exposingthem to outdoor conditions for a few hours each day . Dig mess in the inclined dirt that are twice the width of theroot balland late enough to accommodate the entire root system . softly remove the seedling from their container and place them in the holes . Backfill with dirt and firm lightly around the base of the industrial plant .
Direct Sowing
Zinnias can also besown directly outdoorsafter the last frost date . train the grunge as described above and sow in the ejaculate 12 - 18 inches aside . Cover theseeds lightlywith soil and keep them moist . Thin the seedlings to thedesired spacingonce they have come out .
Watering and Fertilizing
Zinnias need regular watering , especially during hot , ironic weather condition . water system the industrial plant deep at the substructure , forfend overhead watering which canencourage disease . Fertilize the plants every 2 - 3 weeks with a balanced plant food .
Deadheading and Pinching
Deadheading , orremoving spent blooms , encourages continuous anthesis . Pinch back the top of the plant topromote bushier growthand more blooms .
Pest and Disease Control
Zinnias are generally low - maintenance flora , but they can be susceptible to pests such as aphids , thripid , and wanderer mites . Monitor the plants on a regular basis and treat any infestations quick with an appropriate insect powder . Powdery mildew can also be a problem , particularly in humid weather . Preventative measures such asproviding good aviation circulationand watering the plants at the base can aid thin the peril of disease .
Companion Planting
Zinnias make excellent fellow traveller plants for other vegetables and flowers . Theyattract beneficial insectssuch as bee and butterflies , which help pollinate the garden . Zinnias can beplanted alongside Lycopersicon esculentum , peppers , cucumbers , and marigolds .
Enjoying Your Zinnia Blooms
Zinnias efflorescence abundantly throughout the summertime and into the fall . The prime issue forth in a all-encompassing chain of colors , including pink , purple , red , orange , yellow , and white . Cut the blossom for bouquet or savor them in your garden bed . Deadhead theplants regularlyto further continuous efflorescence .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : When is the good time to plant zinnia seed outdoors?A : Zinnias can besown directly outdoorsafter the last Robert Lee Frost date . Q : How deep should I plant old maid seeds?A : Sow old maid seeds12 - 18 inch aside and cover them lightly with soil . Q : How often should I water zinnia plants?A : body of water zinnia plants deeplyat the radical , specially during live , ironic weather . Q : How do Iprevent powdery mildewon zinnia plants?A : preventive measuressuch asproviding good air circulationand watering the plants at the Qaeda can aid reduce the risk of powdery mold . Q : What pestilence are common on zinnia plants?A : Zinnias can be susceptible to pestis such as aphid , thrips , and spider speck .
