How to Grow Zinnia

A warm-season flower for the home garden across the warmer US.

Zinnia is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Zinnia in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the zinnia page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Benary's Giant, Large, long-stemmed cut flowers (Johnny's Selected Seeds)
• Zahara, Compact, mildew-resistant (Park Seed)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 25 cm (10 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 4 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.
• Containers: grows well in a pot of 25cm+.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids, Japanese beetle and Spider mite. In humid regions, Powdery mildew, Alternaria leaf spot and Bacterial leaf spot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Zinnia is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant zinnia where you garden.

See also: Zinnia in the plant library →

Related guides