Facts on Zinnias

History

• Zinnias are native to the American southwest, central America and parts of Southern America. Zinnia elegans is native to Mexico and was brought to England in 1796 by a Spanish botanist, who gave the seeds to the daughter-in-law of the director of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. The flowers quickly became popular and have been in and out of favor ever since.

Colors and Size

• Zinnias come in every color save true blue, black and brown. Some even have green or bicolored flowers. Most are vibrant jewel tones such as bright orange or royal purple. Zinnia elegans comes in 15 colors. The smallest zinnias grow to a height of about 8 inches, while the tallest can be over 4 feet in height. Smaller zinnias are often used in container gardens, while taller cultivars are sometimes grown to be used as cut flowers.

Culture

• Zinnias grow from seed and are relatively easy to cultivate, according to the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension website. They thrive in full sunlight in rich, moist soil. Sow the seeds in the spring when the ground has warmed and all danger of frost is past. Cut the blooming flowers to encourage the plant to produce new ones.

Pests and Problems

• Aphids can pester these plants, but they can be controlled with the application of an insecticidal oil. Zinnias are especially susceptible to fungal diseases and powdery mildew in particular. Let air circulate between your plants and water during the day, at the level of the soil, so that the sun will quickly dry the water. Avoid wetting the foliage. If mildew continues to be a problem, spray newly emerging plants with a fungicide the next time you plant seeds to prevent them from developing powdery mildew.