Zinnia © onlineflowergarden.com

Zinnia, though it is used as a common name of a flower sold in the U.S. it is really the name of the genus. It includes annuals and sub-shrubs that are native to South and North America. Zinnia is part of the Asteraceae family of plants. The name is a reference to Johann Gottfried Zinn (1727-1759). He was a German botanist.

Species in the genus Zinnia have opposite leaves. They are linear or ovate. The flowers could be single or double and double-shaped. They range in colors from white to yellow, pink, red, orange, and purple.

The flower sold as Zinnia is usually the Zinnia elegans and it is a wonderful border flower. It thrives in the sun and produces beautiful, colorful flowers. There are other species equally beautiful. The Dahlia flowered varieties, the Chrysanthemumflowered, Mammoth-flowered varieties, and Zinnia elegans grow to 2.5 to 3 ft. Zinnia mexicana and Zinnia pumila, Zinnia haageana varieties are about 1 ft. Thumbelina or Zinnia angustifolia is a shorter 6-inch high variety. They flower from July to fall.

Zinnias do well in warmer weather and sun and require good garden soil. The flowers range in colors red, white, pink, salmon, yellow, orange, purple, lavender, and rose. Lookout for mildew in foggy locations you can grow from seeds plant where you plan to grow them.

How to grow Zinnia:

Unleash the vibrant magic of zinnias in your garden and watch as these dazzling flowers paint the landscape with their kaleidoscope of colors. Growing zinnias is a joyful journey that even green thumbs can embark upon with ease. Let’s delve into the enchanting world of zinnia cultivation:

Zinnias yearn for the sun’s warm embrace, so grant them a prime location in your garden where sunlight showers upon them for 6-8 hours a day. Remember, they crave the spotlight! Also, ensure their soil is well-drained; they despise standing in wet puddles. Prepare the stage for zinnias by clearing the area of any intruding weeds and tenderly tilling the soil. Infuse it with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure, enhancing its fertility and allowing for smooth drainage.  

Acquire these enchanting gems from your local garden center or order them online, selecting varieties that capture your heart with their hues and shapes. Oh, the choices! As the frost bids its farewell and the soil warmly embraces spring, sow the zinnia seeds directly into the garden or opt for an indoor prelude by planting them 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Lay the seeds gently, about a quarter-inch deep, and provide ample space of 6-12 inches between them, accommodating their individuality. A sprinkle of soil to cover them completes their grand entrance, followed by a delicate shower to quench their thirst.

Zinnias crave consistent watering. Keep their soil moist, but not drenched, with gentle watering at their roots. Let them dance through life with grace, avoiding wetting their foliage, which might invite uninvited fungal guests. Once they establish their presence, they shall exhibit their resilience in the face of drought, yet occasional watering ensures their radiant blooms.

Zinnia https://www.onlineflowergarden.com
Pink Zinnia

Fertilizing, the Nutritional Crescendo: 

Zinnias aren’t demanding divas when it comes to nutrients, but a monthly performance of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or water-soluble counterpart can amplify their growth and floral extravaganza. Adhere to the symphony of instructions on the fertilizer package, following the crescendos of growth. When they reach a height of 6-8 inches, tenderly pinch back their tips, coaxing them into branching out and adorning your garden with fuller splendor.

Admire their blooms, but do not mourn the spent flowers; gracefully remove them to extend the performance. Watch carefully for aphids, caterpillars, or the powdery whispers of mildew. Should these mischief-makers appear, arm yourself with insecticidal soap or organic remedies, preserving the harmony of your zinnia symphony. Provide them with ample space and fresh air, thwarting powdery mildew’s stealthy advances.

Zinnia copyright https://www.onlineflowergarden.com
Red Zinnia

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