D. Trinklein
Published: July 10, 2017
Zinnia is one of the top candidates when looking for an annual flower that can withstand the rigors of a regular Missouri summer. Due to its low maintenance requirements, heat and drought tolerance, and availability in nearly every color of the rainbow, it is a common sight in annual beds and borders.
The main drawback of zinnia for many years had been that it was prone to powdery mildew. Thankfully, plant breeders have made significant progress in enhancing zinnia’s resistance to the bothersome disease while enhancing its beneficial traits. If you haven’t recently grown zinnias, you’re in for a treat. In other words, the zinnia of today is not the flower that grandma grew.
The common garden zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is a native of Mexico and belongs to the sunflower (Asteraceae) family of plants. It appears that the Spanish explorers who first came across zinina were not overly impressed because they gave it the term mal de ojos, which is literally translated as “disease of the eye.” Thankfully, not everyone agreed with their assessment of the flower. Zinnia entered the gardening world in the 19th century because to the efforts of European plant breeders, who started choosing zinnias for their attractive traits. It bears Johann Gottfried Zinn’s name, an anatomist and botanist who lived in the 18th century.
Around 1920, the Bodger Seed Company unveiled a variety called “Giant Dahlia,” which catapulted zinnias into the national spotlight as a garden flower. The name alludes to the fact that zinnias can be found in the dahlia and cactus flower shapes. The ray florets (petals) on zinnias with dahlia flowers are broad, closely packed, and lean slightly downward from their tips. Zinnias with cactus-like flowers feature petals that resemble quills and have reflexed downward edges.
Zinnias come in every size and color imaginable because to plant breeding. It’s a little difficult to believe that towering giants like “State Fair Mix,” which easily reaches a height of three feet and produces flowers with a diameter of six inches, and small variations like “Thumbelina,” are members of the same species. The latter rarely grows taller than six inches and produces flowers with a diameter of an inch and a half.
For various reasons, zinnias are excellent garden flowers in Missouri. First of all, they love the heat, which is great for garden plants in the “Show Me” state in July and August. Second, depending on the cultivar choose, they can be used in beds or borders in the garden with equal success. Additionally, for those looking to improve their interior design, the taller, larger-flowered cultivars make superb, long-lasting cut flowers. Finally, they are easy to grow and “user-friendly”. One of the few garden flowers that will grow just as well from seeds planted directly in the ground as from transplants purchased, is this one. If one wants to direct seed, they need wait until the soil has warmed up, which in Missouri is May.
A well-drained garden loam with moderate fertility is preferred by zinnias. Space allocated based on variety. Although they are naturally strong, various pests like to assault them. Spider mites can be a problem, as well as eating insects like grasshoppers and “bud worms” Although powdery mildew is by far the most prevalent disease, plant breeders have made strides in eradicating it. A few of the more recent cultivars, including the “Magellan” series, seem to be more resistant to mildew than the more established varieties. In all circumstances, maintaining as-dry-as-possible foliage (do not overhead irrigate) and separating plants for adequate air circulation can aid in the management of the illness. Powdery mildew management fungicides can also be employed as a prophylactic measure.
There are plenty new types to try for those looking to reacquaint themselves with this obliging guest to Missouri gardens. Highly recommended is the aforementioned “Magellan” series. It boasts plants that mature to a height of 12 to 14 inches and are robust and uniform. It produces huge, completely double flowers that are of remarkable quality and vibrancy.
The ‘Profusion’ series (Zinnia x hybrida) and the ‘Zahara’ series are two further entrants to the zinnia globe (Zinniamarylandica). Both have large, colorful flowers that range in size from two to three inches. Plants are exceptionally disease resistant and grow to a height of 12 to 18 inches. These two zinnia species offer a virtual riot of color in the garden with little maintenance, but not being particularly successful as cut flowers due to their small size. All American Selection (AAS) winners can be found in each series. The latter comprises “Zahara” starlite rose, “double fire,” and “double cherry,” as well as “Profusion” orange, white, red, double hot cherry, and double deep salmon.
Crystal White is a different new zinnia that is worth trying. It is also an AAS winner and belongs to the lance-leaf zinnia species (Zinnia angustifolia). It is the perfect option for edging because of its small, spreading habit and summertime blooms that have a two-inch diameter. Both its ability to withstand heat and its resilience to disease are high. There are other innovative and fascinating zinnia variants. In times of uncertainty about which to try, look for AAS winners.
When it comes down to it, few garden plants are as simple to cultivate, as much fun to grow, or as diverse in terms of colors, sizes, and varieties as zinnias. If you haven’t recently given this lover of the hot, muggy summers in Missouri a try, you’re in for a nice surprise.
What month should zinnia seeds be sown?
Light: Full sun is ideal for zinnia growth and flowering. Even in warmer climates with afternoon shadow, they can flower there, but they may be more prone to disease and produce fewer flowers.
Soil: Organically rich, fertile soils with good drainage are ideal for growing zinnias. Because zinnia seedlings are susceptible to rotting in cool, damp soils, having well-drained soil is crucial.
Plant zinnia seeds in rows or clusters spaced a few inches apart. Once the plant has four leaves, thin to 8 to 18 inches apart, depending on the variety.
Planting: Plant zinnias in the spring, just about the time you plant tomatoes, when all threat of frost has passed. Growing zinnias from seeds straight in the garden is simple. Start seeds inside four to six weeks before to your last frost date for earlier flowering.
By Savannah Waszczuk
Image via Shutterstock You can begin gardening as early as late February or early March, which may surprise you. Making ensuring your land is prepared for your crops is essential for success.
For the time being, winter is ending, and the desolate, dry world outside will soon come to life. Are you now prepared to start working? You have work to do, regardless of whether you enjoy garden tomatoes or flowers. Continue reading for tips from some of southwest Missouri’s top gardening experts.
Weed Removal
You must uproot weeds whether you garden in raised beds or patio pots. “Remove all of the weeds, dead roots, residual mulch, and dead plants,” advises Wheeler Gardens owner Mark Wheeler (454 State Highway EE, Ozark, 417-581-1867; 1925 S. Bedford Ave., Springfield, 417-890-5733). Pull out the weeds after waiting for a day when the ground is damp. Regular hoeing will help you keep weeds at bay.
Soil Preparation
After weeds are eliminated, deal with the rocks. Turning your soil should be done after rocks have been removed and the ground has dried out (see “The Soil Ball Test sidebar”). According to Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds staff writer and horticulture Shannie McCabe, raised beds should be fluffed or twice dug with a shovel (2278 Baker Creek Road, Mansfield; 417-924-8917). Aim for 6 to 12 inches of soil turning.
Next, add well-rotted organic matter, like as compost, after having your soil tested to determine the nutrients it needs. Dig 2 feet deep if you are growing root crops. Rake topsoil to create a seedbed if you are planting seeds. Wheeler advises choosing potting mix that is light and drains easily if you’re using pots, raised beds, or other containers.
Proper Pruning Methods
For the purpose of trimming huge trees and bushes, Wheeler advises consulting an arborist. Smaller types are manageable, but make careful to cut at the proper time “According to Wheeler, any period between late fall and early spring is ideal. “If the shrub is blooming or flowering, you should prune it after the bloom. Trim it at any time if it isn’t flowering. Eliminate any limbs that are infected, dead, or growing in tandem.
Early Planting
Vegetables including snow peas, lettuce, kale, radishes, and broccoli can be planted in late February, according to Wheeler. Plant the following in mid-March: cauliflower, cabbage, potatoes, and onions. In late March or early April, plant the following cool-season herbs: cilantro, basil, dill, lavender, and lemon balm. Pansies, petunias, alyssum, lobelia, geraniums, dianthus, snapdragons, and dusty miller are among the flowers that can be planted as early as mid-March.” Wheeler advises covering them if a freeze is imminent. “Make sure the earth is moist as well. Contrary to what most people believe, plants always require moisture, even during the winter.
The Soil Ball Test
On the back of seed packets, you’ll frequently notice the phrase “as soon as the soil can be worked.” However, how is this decided? A straightforward test is provided by Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds staff writer and horticultural Shannie McCabe.
1. Pick a dry day once the spring thaw has started and the weather is consistently warm. (This often takes place in March in Missouri.)
3. Scoop up some dirt and attempt to roll it into a ball. The soil is ready to be worked if it crumbles when you try to form a ball out of it. See step 4 if the earth can be compacted into a ball that won’t crumble.
4.Hang the dirt ball from your waist and drop it to the ground. It is time to start working the soil if it breaks up into more than two pieces. It is still too saturated and not ready to work if the ball drops but maintains its ball-like shape or only splits in half (or you have extremely high clay content, and you might want to amend with organic matter).
Before planting zinnia seeds, should I soak them?
If you’re raising zinnias from seed for the first time this year, you might still have some concerns. Here, I’ll address them for you.
How do you germinate zinnia seeds fast?
To hasten the germination of zinnia seeds, keep the seed trays warm. The biggest effect will be made by heated mats and a warm environment. Zinnia seeds can germinate in as little as five days when the soil is 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the ideal temperature for germination.
Should I soak zinnia seeds before planting?
Before sowing, zinnia seeds don’t require soaking. The seeds of zinnias are designed to sprout quickly when exposed to water since they are warm-season annual flowers that are indigenous to hot climates like Mexico and the southwest of the United States. The seeds only need to be sown and watered for germination to begin.
How long do zinnia seeds take to germinate?
The normal germination time for zinnias is 5 to 10 days. Seeds sown in trays with the soil kept warm at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit using heat mats will germinate more quickly than seeds sown in cold soil, which could take up to three weeks.
Do zinnia seeds need light to germinate?
Zinnia seeds should be placed with 1/4 inch of dirt on top of them because they don’t require light to germinate. The seeds will require intense light in the form of a shop light or grow light as they begin to germinate and break the soil’s surface.
At what temperature do zinnias germinate?
Zinnia seeds should be germinated at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The soil will reach these temperatures with the help of a heat mat put beneath the seed trays. In soil that is colder than 70 degrees, the seeds will still germinate, but it will take longer.
Do zinnia seeds need cold stratification?
Cold stratification, which involves chilling seeds prior to sowing, is not necessary for zinnias. The seeds of zinnias are designed to germinate without being exposed to cold because they are warm-season annuals that are native to hot climates.
Can I plant zinnias at this time?
Zinnia seeds can still be planted now for late summer color that will endure until the first frost. Additionally, they produce stunning cut flowers with a lengthy vase life.
Even the most inexperienced gardener should grow zinnias because they are one of the tried-and-true garden flowers. My first memories of gardening are when I first encountered zinnias. The bush beans and tomatoes set aside for zinnias were a constant source of conflict. My favorite annual flower is still the zinnia, and they now have a prime location next to my back deck where I can enjoy them in the warm weather.
Growing zinnias is simple; they prefer full sunlight and well-drained soil. They may be planted directly in the garden or transferred. Plant them in a peat pot that can be placed directly into the garden or planting bed if you decide to have a head start and want to transplant so as to avoid disturbing the roots.
There are many different types of zinnias. They come in sizes ranging from 6 inches to nearly 4 feet, from dwarf to enormous. The flower heads are available in many different forms, including single and double flowers, spidery shapes, and domes.
The amazing variety of hues is the best feature. The palest pastel hues to the brightest hues are all available in zinnias. They come in solid, multicolored, striped, and specked patterns.
Dead heading zinnias is advised by Michigan State University Extension to ensure flowering from early summer through frost. Zinnias are encouraged to continue performing by dead heading throughout the season. But because zinnias fatigue, I advise putting them in succession every two weeks. I intend to plant in succession beginning in late May and continuing until the first week of July, roughly. This ensures spectacular blooms through the end of September. It’s not too late to plant some zinnia seeds for color that will persist through the first frost in the late summer.
In addition to their amazing garden display, zinnias make fantastic cut flowers and may be used anywhere you need a splash of color. Many zinnia cultivars can stay in a vase for seven to twelve days. The mainstay of the farmer’s market is zinnias as well. Flower farmers would tell that zinnias are one of the most profitable flowers to grow due to their vibrant colors, ease of maintenance, and extended vase life.
The zinnia variants “Benary’s Giant” and “Cut and Come Again” are two of my favorites. Their surnames are biographical. On tall stems that stand between 40 and 52 inches in height, “Benary’s Giant” has huge blooms and dazzling flowers. Cutting the stem just above a bud junction will encourage “Cut and Come Again” to produce continuously throughout the growing season, as will all zinnias.