Guide to growing Zinnia

Zinnia are half hardy annuals that range from 20cm to 90cm in height.

They bloom from summer through to the first frost and carry double blooms

Flowers are pink, purple, red, orange or white.

Common species of Zinnia grown in the garden include Profusion flower and 'youth and old age'.

How to grow Zinnia

If growing Zinnia from seed then sow outdoors following the last frost of spring; lightly cover the seed once sown. Zinnia should be spaced at 15 to 20cm (small); 25 to 30cm (medium) or 45cm (large Zinnia species) apart. Ideally grow Zinnia in a sunny area of the garden that gets an afternoon shade. These plants are able to grow in most soils of pH 6 to 7, but the soil should be enriched with manure for best results.

In cold areas it may be a good idea to start off Zinnia indoors first; do so about 7 weeks in advance of transplanting. It should take about one to three weeks to germinate Zinnia at a temperature of 20 to 27 degrees Celsius. Transplant Zinnia outdoors just after the last possible frost of spring.

Caring for Zinnia

it is easy to look after Zinnia. Keep them well watered and feed them in the spring. Pinch back Zinnia to encourage branching; feed again once they start to flower. Remove (dead head) dying flowers.