How to Deadhead Zinnias

Zinnias are native to Mexico, but the original wild zinnia did not enjoy the popularity it does today. These weedy purple-red flowers were thought to be so ugly they were called "evil eyes" by the Spanish colonists. Today's hybrids sport delicate, daisy-like flowers that range in color from pastel pink and white to brilliant red, orange and gold. But not all zinnias resemble daisies, as their blooms range from single- and double-petaled to dome-shaped flowers that resemble a beehive. Blooms are typically long lasting and slowly fade to paler hues, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't deadhead them.

Things You'll Need

• Garden clippers/scissors

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Deadhead zinnias as soon as the color begins to fade in the bloom. Even though the flower may still look attractive, removing it will send a message to the plant to produce new flowers.

   • 2

     Clip the stem that supports the bloom at the point where other stems branch off from the main stalk.

   • 3

     Discard the spent blooms in the compost bin.