How to sow zinnia seeds outdoors

Home
How to
Grow plants
How to sow zinnia seeds outdoors

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Friday, 31 May 2019 at 9:15 am

We show you how sow zinnias outdoors in the warmth of late spring and early summer.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecAt Its Bestyesyesyes**yesTo Doyes**yes

Save

If you're looking to grow flowers for vibrant summer colour, look no further than zinnias. With so many zinnia varieties available, it's no wonder they're such a popular cut flower.

Zinnias can be sown indoors from February to April, but can also be sown outside in May. Just choose a fertile, weed-free area, whether it's a gap in a border or a patch of bare soil, and get sowing.

Once they're in bloom you can expect a profuse display of summer colour up until the first autumn frosts.

Learn how to sow zinnia seeds outdoors, below.

You Will Need

Rake
Soft string or twine
Zinnia seeds

Step 1

Making a shallow drill

Rake weed-free soil to a fine, crumbly consistency. Use a taut string to make a straight line and take out a shallow drill.

Step 2

Sowing zinnia seed

Sow the seeds along the drill, making sure they are 10-15cm apart. Use your hand to fill the drill with soil, lightly covering the seeds.

Step 3

Watering the drill

Water the seeds well, adding a label to the area so you know what you're growing. Keep the soil most, but not saturated, as seedlings begin to grow, and cover with a cloche.

Step 4

Thinning out zinnia seedlings

When seedlings have formed a couple of pairs of leaves, thin them to around 30cm apart. Water frequently in dry weather and keep weed-free.

Zinnias for pollinators

Zinnias are attractive to pollinating insects, particularly hoverflies. To ensure they can reach the pollen and nectar, grow single-flowered varieties that don't block pollinator access.

Bee hotel

Don't miss out this Winter

Enjoy expert advice on what to plant and grow this winter, and how to prepare your plot for the year ahead. Enjoy, 6 months for just £31.99

Subscribe now

Great gardening savings - straight to your inbox

Sign up to the BBC Gardeners’ World offers newsletter for exclusive deals, seasonal savings, and early access to special promotions.