Zinnia Purple Prince

Plant information you need to know to grow zinnia from seed

Plant type: Annual flowering 
Height: flowers grow 75-80 centimeters tall 
Position: prefers full sun
Planting time: from 4-6 weeks before the last frost in seed trays 
Bloom time: starts 75-90 days after sowing 
Spacing: 20-30 centimeters between each plant 
Germination: Takes 7-14 days in temperatures of 15-20°C 
Pinching: yes, pinching zinnia (cutting the top of young plants) results in full and bushy plants 
Flowers: June to October, depending on the weather 
Pollinator-friendly: Yes, the open flowers are full of pollen 
Recommended seed tray or pot: start in 40 deep, if needed pot up to 15 cell or P9 flower pots 
The package contains: 50 seeds

How to sow and care for zinnia plants

To grow zinnias from seed, start by sowing them indoors in seed trays about 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost date. Once all chance of frost has passed, plant the seedlings outside. Alternatively, you can sow zinnia seeds directly in the garden once the weather has warmed up.

Zinnias thrive in full sun, doing well in warm areas as long as they receive enough water. They prefer rich soil and grow best with compost or slow-release fertilizer. You can give them an extra dose of fertilizer halfway through or during the flowering period.

Water zinnias weekly if there is little rain, but try to keep the leaves dry to prevent disease. They are generally easy to grow, though extremely humid summers can cause powdery mildew.

Protect young plants from slugs and snails. Regularly remove dead flowers to encourage new growth, and consider staking the plants for support.

Zinnias make excellent cut flowers. To check if a zinnia is ready to be picked, gently wiggle the stem just below the flower. If it is sturdy and strong, and the flower does not wiggle, it is ready to be picked.