All About Zinnias - Flower Power and Pollinators

Zinnias are a go-to pollinator plant used in gardens each summer. They are annuals native to the grasslands of North America and South America, known for their ability to attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. They are popular for their bright and varied colors, easy growth from seeds, and the beautiful display they provide.

Zinnias should be planted after the average last frost date, around April 15th. They perform best in full sun with good air movement and can manage in part shade but may face more fungal issues. Good soil preparation with compost for aeration and nutrition is also important for the optimal performance of zinnias.

Zinnias are truly annuals in a garden setting, meaning they grow, bloom, and perform for one season, after which they can be removed and seeds can be collected for the next planting.

Zinnias can be started from seeds indoors about four weeks before the average last frost date or directly seeded into the garden beds. They are known for their quick germination, typically between three to seven days.

During the summer, zinnias may require occasional watering, especially during dry periods, to ensure they perform at their best. Initial fertilization and compost application when planting may be adequate, though growers should monitor and may add more if the plants seem to underperform. Pinching the tops for branching and occasionally pruning—especially for dwarf varieties—helps keep the plants full and flowering.

Zinnia elegans, the larger varieties, may have issues with powdery mildew and blight in hot, humid climates and may not last all summer. They benefit from being underplanted with another plant like lantana. The dwarf varieties, such as those from the Zahara and profusion series, are more disease resistant and can be pruned mid-summer to maintain fullness and continued blooming.

While zinnias are annuals and die after one season, seeds can be collected from the flowers at the end of the growing season. These seeds can be used to grow new zinnias the following year, making them a sustainable option for gardeners looking to save and replant their favorite varieties.