Outdoor Zinnia Seed Sowing Guide
Sowing Zinnia Seeds Outdoors for a Summer Display
Zinnias, popular cut flowers known for their vibrant summer colour, can be easily grown in your garden. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to sow zinnia seeds outdoors for a stunning display.
Firstly, wait until after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. The ideal soil for sowing zinnia seeds is well-prepared, well-drained, and moderately fertile. A fertile, weed-free area is essential for successful germination.
To prepare the soil, rake it to a fine, crumbly consistency. Use a taut string to make a straight line and take out a shallow drill. Sow the seeds along the drill, making sure they are 10-15cm apart. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, about 1/4 inch deep.
Once the seeds are sown, water them well. Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated as seedlings begin to grow. Germination typically occurs within 3 to 10 days.
As the seedlings emerge and grow to a couple of inches tall, thin them to around 30cm apart. This will ensure sufficient airflow and room for growth.
Zinnias are tolerant once established and can withstand some drought, so water mainly during dry spells after seedlings are established. To reduce the risk of fungal diseases, avoid watering the leaves and instead water at the base of the plants.
Once in bloom, zinnias provide a profuse display of summer color until the first autumn frosts. To encourage continuous flowering, remove spent blooms regularly.
If you wish to start seeds indoors, transplant seedlings only after hardening them off and ensuring outdoor conditions are warm enough. This usually happens between February and April, or outside in May.
When sowing zinnia seeds outdoors, it's important to maintain a weed-free area and water frequently in dry weather. The site is protected by reCAPTCHA, and users must agree to the site terms and conditions and privacy policy to sign up.
Following these steps will help you grow vibrant and healthy zinnia flowers throughout summer. Subscribe to our newsletter for more advice and inspiration from favourite gardeners.
By following this guide, you can cultivate vibrant zinnia flowers in your home-and-garden, enhancing your lifestyle with their stunning summer displays. For a successful gardening endeavor, maintain a weed-free area and water frequently in dry weather.
