HOW TO PLANT ZINNIA SEEDS

Turn over the soil in the area you want to plant your zinnias and work in 2 or 3 inches of compost or peat moss to help improve soil fertility and drainage. Plant the seeds only about ¼” – ½” deep and you should see seedlings sprout in four to seven days. Once the seedlings reach about 3” tall, thin them to maximize air circulation, and prevent powdery mildew. The dwarf varieties, reaching a height of 1 to 1 ½ feet, should be planted or thinned to about 9” apart, while the taller 3-feet varieties should be spaced about 1 foot apart.

If starting your zinnias indoors, fill up your pots with organic potting mix. Saturate the potting mix with water and then place two zinnia seeds into each planting cell or pot. Press into the soil for good seed-to-soil contact and then cover with approximately ½” of the potting mix.

Place your zinnias in an area that will receive plenty of warmth (65-70F) and light. Keep your zinnia seeds moistened, checking on them every day or two. Expect to see germination in about 7 to 10 days. Once your seedlings reach about 2 ½ - 3” tall, they are ready to be transplanted outdoors.

Zinnias may be transplanted with ease, as it is possible to move the plants when they are in full flower! Although they thrive best in full sun, they will also endure partial shade.