How to Grow Dwarf Zinnias

Dwarf zinnias are colorful, low-maintenance annuals that grow no more than 10 inches tall. The flowers are available in various shades of red, orange, yellow, cream and pink. The plants bloom steadily throughout the growing season and make ideal edging or container plants. Dwarf zinnias thrive when provided with exposure to full sun and soil that drains effectively. Sow the seeds directly into the garden after temperatures warm in spring. Seedlings begin to emerge in seven to 14 days.

Garden fork
Peat moss
Organic mulch
20-20-20 water-soluble fertilizer
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Cultivate the soil with a garden fork until it is loose to a depth of 8 inches. Remove all large rocks, roots and grass clumps.
- 2
  Mix a 3-inch layer of peat moss with the soil to add nutrients.
- 3
  Broadcast the seeds over the prepared site. Cover them with a 1/8-inch layer of soil. Water carefully, until the soil feels lightly moist.
- 4
  Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
- 5
  Thin the dwarf zinnia seedlings when they are 3 inches tall, leaving a space of 8 to 10 inches between each plant. Spread a 3-inch layer of organic mulch under the seedlings after thinning.
- 6
  Apply 20-20-20 water-soluble fertilizer once each month, beginning when the plants are 4 to 6 inches tall. Read package instructions to determine the correct rate of application.
- 7
  Clip off the flowers when they fade to promote denser foliage and repeat blooming.

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