The Garden Bug: Zinnias

By Brenda Weaver

Zinnias can be planted in late summer. They like hot weather, and will germinate easily. Plant your zinnia seeds 9" to 12" apart in well-drained soil located in full sun; after they sprout and grow taller, pinch off the new growth after the 2nd or 3rd true leaf set, as this promotes more branching and flowering. Watering at the base of the plants helps prevent diseases such as "leaf spot" from flourishing. The "Peter Pan" variety of zinnias is one of the fastest to start blooming, often in only six weeks from seed.

Source: www.lsuagcenter.com