Growing Information
Zinnia elegans
- Days to germination: 3 to 10 days
- Germination soil temp: 70F-85F
- Soil requirements: can tolerate poor soil but fertile soil with organic matter will promote more vigorous growth
- Water requirements: can tolerate some drought but regular watering will promote more vigorous growth
- Plant in full sun
- Sow 1/4" deep
- Direct sow after all risk of frost has passed, or start in cells/soil blocks but do not let seedlings become root bound and do not disturb roots
- Space 6-12" apart (closer spacing results in taller plants, but may encourage powdery mildew in humid climates)
- Pinching when 8-12" tall promotes plant branching
- Plant height: variable, but most between 24" to 48"
- Support may be required, particularly if planted close together in farm-style rows.
- Flowers are ready to harvest after they pass the "wiggle test"
- Leave flowers to mature on the plant for longer to experience the full potential of their size, shape and colour variations.