Zinnias, or Asteraceae, originally from Mexico, are a lovely annual plant to grow from seed. They come in many vibrant colours and are great for cut flowers. Plants prefer full sun and well drained soil. Trim off faded flowers to encourage more blooms. I grow mine in large tubs that can be moved around to fill in empty spots in the garden or just for colourful decoration on the decks.
It all starts with the tiny seed and grows into a little seedling.
For outdoor planting sow after the last frost date for your area. Thin seedlings when they are about 5 cm. high. Pinching back seedlings will encourage thicker growth and should begin early. Start when the zinnia seedlings have developed their second or third set of true leaves. Water frequently during dry weather.
They come in many vibrant colours and are great for cut flowers
Plants prefer full sun and well drained soil. Zinnias are very easy to grow and just about look after themselves.
Trim off faded flowers to encourage more blooms
At the end of the growing season let the blooms dry out on the plant. Snip of the head and gently pull the dried petals out. At the end of each petal is the seed. Be sure to let them dry throughly before storing away for the winter. Then next spring you can start the process all over again.
If you are a seed collector you can print a seed packet or seed label to swap your seeds in
More from the gardener side: garden areas, bulbs, corms & tubers, plant profiles, seeds & seedpods, veggies & herbs,
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