Zinnias, Garden or Cut Flowers

Many varieties offered today enhance cut flower gardens.

One of the keys to success with zinnias is avoiding foliage diseases such as mildew and leaf spots. These problems do not become serious unless the leaves are wet or moist for long periods.

Zinnias are among the oldest favorites as garden or cut flowers. The newer varieties and colors are a far cry from the "Old Maid" flowers of gardens of yesteryear. Today there are names such as Peter Pan Hybrids, Thumbelina, Ruffles, Cactus Flowered, and Pulcino Hybrids; these zinnias increase the color range, heights, and hardiness or resistance to leaf diseases.

Zinnias make few demands…

Zinnias make few demands on the gardener; however, those few are essential for success. They must have full sun, a loose, fertile soil, and plenty of soil moisture. Gardeners may start zinnias from seed or purchase transplants in trays or packs. Regardless of which method you choose, the soil must be thoroughly prepared by plowing, spading or rototilling . Mix 3" of peat moss, manure, or finely ground pine bark plus one inch of coarse sand. Broadcast 1- 2 pounds of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 or 12-4-8 per 100 square feet of planting area. All debris such as roots, rocks or other extraneous material should be removed. The area should be raked and leveled for a seedbed condition.

Plant after frost danger…

Zinnia seed or plants are best planted after the danger of frost has passed. Seed should be planted no deeper than 1/4 in. Transplants should be set at the same depth as they grew in the pack or tray. Do not pull to separate plants in the tray. Use a knife to cut apart leaving a small block of soil intact with the roots.

Watering…

Thoroughly water immediately after transplanting. It will be necessary to check for water each day for a week to 10 days after transplanting. After the plants are established, weekly waterings may be all that is required unless the weather is extremely hot and dry.

Always try to water without wetting the foliage. If diseases do become a problem, spray with Captan, Maneb or Benlate. Always mix and apply as recommended by the manufacturers.

Fertilizing…

Fertilizing at monthly intervals should provide adequate nutrition. Be careful and avoid getting fertilizer on foliage, stems or flowers. Water and rinse away immediately if this should happen.

To promote continuous flowering keep all old or faded flowers pruned or pinched so that all growth activity is channeled to the production of new stems and flowers. For long life of zinnias as cut flowers; cut plants early in the morning or shortly before sundown while there is plenty of moisture in the plant. Brighten your home or garden with some of the newer varieties of this old fashion garden flower.

For more information on zinnias, Contact your county Extension office.