What Are the Benefits of Zinnias?

Versatility

• There is a zinnia for nearly any spot in the garden. Taller plants such as common zinnia cultivars "Oklahoma" (Zinnia elegans "Oklahoma") and "Sun" (Zinnia elegans "Sun") work well when planted behind smaller plants such as annual marigolds (Tagetes spp.) or geraniums (Pelargonium spp.), which are perennials in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 11. They also provide stunning beauty and color in mass plantings. Shorter types, such as "Peter Pan" common zinnia (Zinnia elegans "Peter Pan") are just right for a border and are also at home in containers or window boxes. Although common zinnia is the most commonly grown species, narrowleaf zinnia (Zinnia angustifolia) resists disease and is more heat-tolerant. This species includes several series of mid-size zinnias for flower beds or larger containers, including "Star" (Zinnia angustifolia "Star") and "Crystal" (Zinnia angustifolia "Crystal), hardy plants that reach heights of 8 to 15 inches.

Ease of Care

• Zinnias are among the easiest annuals to grow. Plant the seeds directly in the garden when the soil warms in spring. In average soil and full sun, the plants bloom in eight to 12 weeks. Although zinnias like well-drained soil, they require moderate water, especially during hot weather. Watering at the base of the plant is best as it helps keep the foliage dry and prevents mildew and other diseases. Zinnias benefit from an application of balanced fertilizer incorporated into the soil at planting time. Use 1 to 2 cups of fertilizer with ratio of 5-10-5 for every 100 square feet of planting space, or about 1 teaspoon for every square foot.

Cut Flowers

• Zinnias make useful additions to cutting gardens, as the colorful cut flowers last up to a week in a vase. Zinnias are especially striking in mixed arrangements with other colorful annuals. You can also place tall zinnias in a vase behind shorter zinnias. Cut zinnias when the centers have just begun to open and keep them in cool water. For year-round beauty, dry zinnias to use in dried flower arrangements, wreaths or for crafts. You can combine them with other dried flowers such as calendula (Calendula officinalis) or scarlet sage (Salvia splendens), which is perennial in USDA zones 10 through 11. Dry zinnias by hanging the stems upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated spot.

Drawing Power

• Zinnias attract honeybees to the garden, which pollinate plants as they fly from flower to flower. Without honeybees, many plants don't thrive. Zinnias also attract several beneficial predatory insects, including parasitic wasps. The small, nonstinging wasps are a gardener's best friend, especially those who constantly battle with aphids. Parasitic wasps help control a number of pests, including caterpillars, lacebugs, mealybugs and elm leaf beetles. Zinnias also attract lady beetles, which feed on aphids, scale insects, mealybugs, whiteflies and mites. In addition, zinnias attract hummingbirds and butterflies. In winter, songbirds love the seeds.