The zinnia is an annual flower known for its vibrant colors such as red, pink, yellow, and purple. They come in different varieties, including dwarf types that stay under 6 inches tall, perfect for containers, and tall varieties reaching up to 3 feet, ideal for the back of garden beds.
They are prized for their cut flowers, with zinnia bouquets lasting up to a week. These flowers can be grown in mass plantings or as borders, adding a splash of color to any garden.
Vital Statistics
- FAMILY: Asteraceae (daisy family)
- COMMON NAME: Zinnia
- ORIGIN: Native to North America and Central America
- MATURE SIZE: Typically grows 1 to 3 feet tall and spreads 8 to 12 inches wide.
- LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Requires full sun to thrive.
- WATER REQUIREMENTS: Once established, zinnias are drought-tolerant and require low water.
Growing Zinnias
Zinnias are exceptionally easy to grow from seed or can be purchased as small plants from garden centers.
To plant from seed, directly sow them in a sunny area with well-draining soil, planting seeds about 1/4 inch deep. Keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within a few days.
These sun-loving plants require well-drained soil and regular watering, especially in the early stages. Once established, they are drought-tolerant but benefit from consistent moisture.
To prevent issues like powdery mildew, avoid wetting the leaves during watering. Pinching back the plants encourages bushier growth, while removing spent blooms prolongs flowering.
For the best results, consider spacing zinnia plants about 6 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety. This spacing allows for proper air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases.
Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plants can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, further contributing to healthy growth.
Popular Zinnia Varieties
With countless options available, gardeners can find the perfect zinnia to match their personal style and garden space. Some popular varieties include:
Benary’s Giant
This classic variety is renowned for its enormous, densely packed blooms in a rainbow of colors. Perfect for creating a bold statement in the garden or as a stunning cut flower.
Benary’s Giant’s blooms are truly giant at up to 6″. Blooms are densely petaled, very long-lasting, and hold up well despite rain and summer’s heat.
Flower beds come alive as butterflies and other pollinators come to visit these vibrant flowers.
Zinnias are edible, but have little flavor. The colorful flowers can make a pretty garnish to salads, desserts, cold drinks, or serving trays.
The Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers named ‘Benary’s Giant’ series their very first Cut Flower of the Year in 1999.
Thumbelina Zinnias
Thumbelina zinnias are a dwarf variety, perfect for containers and small garden spaces.
These compact plants grow to about 6 inches tall and produce a profusion of small, 1 to 2-inch blooms in vibrant colors like red, pink, yellow, and orange.
They are ideal for edging, borders, and window boxes, providing continuous color throughout the summer.
Zahara Zinnias
Zahara zinnias are a hybrid variety known for their exceptional disease resistance and heat tolerance.
They produce a multitude of 2 to 3-inch blooms in colors such as red, pink, yellow, and white.
These zinnias are low-maintenance and thrive in hot, humid climates, making them a favorite for gardeners in challenging growing conditions.
Zahara zinnias typically grow to about 12 to 18 inches tall.
Profusion Zinnias
Profusion zinnias are another hybrid variety celebrated for their prolific blooming and compact growth habit. These zinnias produce masses of 2-inch flowers in shades of orange, pink, red, and white.
They are resistant to mildew and other common zinnia diseases, making them a reliable choice for gardeners.
Profusion zinnias grow to about 12 to 18 inches tall and are perfect for borders, containers, and mass plantings.
State Fair Zinnias
State Fair zinnias are known for their large, vibrant blooms that can reach up to 5 inches in diameter.
This variety produces flowers in a wide array of colors, including red, yellow, orange, pink, and white.
State Fair zinnias are tall, growing up to 4 feet, and are excellent for the back of garden beds and cut flower arrangements.
Their robust growth and eye-catching blooms make them a showstopper in any garden.
Oklahoma Zinnias
Oklahoma zinnias are a delightful variety known for their vibrant colors, uniform blooms, and exceptional durability.
They produce double and semi-double blooms about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter, with a charming, rounded shape. This variety comes in a range of bright colors, including pink, red, white, yellow, salmon, and gold, making them perfect for mixed flower beds and colorful garden displays.
Oklahoma zinnias are medium-sized, typically growing to a height of 30 to 40 inches, making them suitable for both the middle and back of garden borders, as well as for cutting gardens.
Additionally, Oklahoma zinnias have good resistance to common zinnia diseases such as powdery mildew, making them a reliable choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, high-performing flowers.
Maintenance Tips
Zinnias are not known for their fragrance but are grown for their bright, colorful blooms. Pinching back the plants encourages bushier growth, while removing spent blooms (deadheading) prolongs flowering.
Regular deadheading and removing spent flowers encourage continuous blooming.
In addition to deadheading, fertilizing zinnias can promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.
Ensure that the soil remains slightly moist but not waterlogged, as overly wet conditions can lead to root rot.
Pests and Problems
While zinnias are generally easy to grow, they can encounter a few pests and diseases.
Aphids and mites can be problematic, causing damage to the foliage.
Japanese beetles can also pose a threat.
Zinnia plants are especially susceptible to a fungal disease known as powdery mildew. Powdery mildew can affect zinnias by causing a white to grayish powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and sometimes flowers.
Severe infections can lead to stunted growth, leaf yellowing, premature leaf drop, and overall reduced plant vigor. If not managed, powdery mildew can spread quickly, affecting the aesthetic appeal and health of zinnias in the garden.
To manage powdery mildew, clip affected plant parts and apply a fungicide containing neem oil. Regular monitoring and prompt action can help prevent these issues from spreading.
Integrated pest management (IPM) practices can help keep zinnias healthy.
Introduce beneficial insects, like ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on aphids and mites. For Japanese beetles, handpicking and using beetle traps can reduce their numbers.
Keeping the garden clean and free of debris also minimizes pest habitats.
Thriving in Florida Summers
Zinnias are exceptionally well-suited to Florida’s hot and humid summers, where many other plants struggle. Their ability to thrive in these conditions makes them a favorite among gardeners in the region.
With proper care, including regular watering and occasional deadheading of spent blooms, zinnias can continue to bloom profusely throughout the season.
Their vibrant colors add a cheerful touch to gardens, even in the heat of summer, enhancing outdoor spaces with their resilience and beauty.
To maximize zinnia performance in Florida, plant them in areas that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
In the hottest months, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent heat stress.
Additionally, consistent watering is crucial, as the intense sun and high temperatures can dry out the soil quickly. Applying a thick layer of organic mulch will help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool.
Summary
Zinnias are beloved for their vibrant annual blooms, ranging in colors from red and pink to yellow and purple. These versatile flowers come in various heights, making them suitable for containers, borders, or the back of garden beds.
Easy to grow from seed, zinnias thrive in sunny locations with well-draining soil, requiring minimal fertilizer and maintenance once established.
While they face potential pests and diseases like aphids and powdery mildew, proactive care can mitigate these issues.
In Florida’s warm climate, zinnias flourish throughout the summer, offering continuous blooms with proper watering and deadheading.
Their resilience and colorful display make them a popular choice for gardens seeking enduring beauty and charm.
Whether you’re planting them for their aesthetic appeal or their ease of care, zinnias are a wonderful addition to any garden, bringing life and color to your outdoor spaces.
Did You Know?
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And, did you know that Botanical Interests sells 19 different seed mixtures of zinnias? From Senora to Fireball Blend and Key Lime Pie Blend to Benary’s Giant, there is a packet of zinnia seeds for you! It’s not too late to grow zinnias! Floridians, we can grow these beautiful flowers year-round! Click here to go to Botanical Interests now!
Additional Resources:
- Ask IFAS: Zinnia spp Zinnia
- Gardening Know How: Zinnia Care – How to Grow Zinnia Flowers
- The Spruce: How to Plant and Care for Zinnias
- University of Florida – IFAS Extension: Zinnia