01 · Timing

When and how to begin

Direct sow after frost or transplant carefully because young roots dislike disturbance.

02 · Growing sequence

See the crop change before it happens.

Illustrated growth sequence for zinnia, from establishment through mature harvest.
  1. 01Provide generous air movement.
  2. 02Water at soil level.
  3. 03Pinch young plants for branching if the variety permits.
  4. 04Remove diseased leaves rather than composting heavily infected material.

03 · Below the surface

Give the roots their working volume.

Planting geometryDepth, roots, and final space
9–18 in final spacing
¼ in

A moderate taproot and side roots prefer direct sowing or careful transplanting.

04 · Harvest

Know when it is ready

Visual decisionRead the plant, not only the date
Illustrated growth sequence for zinnia, from establishment through mature harvest.
Not yet

Still developing

Illustrated growth sequence for zinnia, from establishment through mature harvest.
Ready

Cut stems above a leaf pair when flowers are nearly open; frequent cutting produces more branches.

Illustrated growth sequence for zinnia, from establishment through mature harvest.
Past prime

Quality or vigor may decline when harvest is delayed beyond the intended stage.

05 · Common trouble

Inspect before you treat

Close botanical observation of holes in leaves, presented as a visual symptom rather than a diagnosis.
Holes in leavesCompare observations →
Close botanical observation of white powder on leaves, presented as a visual symptom rather than a diagnosis.
White powder on leavesCompare observations →
Powdery mildewLeaf spotJapanese beetles

Symptoms can share several causes. Check moisture, recent weather, and the complete plant before applying a treatment.

Open the illustrated problem solver →