Are you trying to grow the best zinnias you can this year? Well, surprise surprise, you’re at the right place…at the right time!
Although I don’t have that many zinnias in my mom’s backyard garden today, there was a period of time when we experimented with making zinnias fit in every single corner of my mom’s garden to provide contrast against darker foliage plants.
This article is a detailed June zinnia guide for you, covering everything from watering and fertilizing to deadheading for maximum color. Without wasting any more time, let’s jump straight into it!
Why Is June Care Critical For Zinnias? Let’s See…
Now, you might be wondering, “Why on earth is June so important for zinnias; can’t it be any other month?” Well, yes, it can… But… Just hear me out!
June is the time of the year when zinnias transition from early growth to peak bloom, and proper care will set the tone for prolific flowering going into fall. Do not underestimate the month of June, especially if you’re working with zinnias.
How To Water Zinnias For Optimal Health? It’s Easy!
Watering is a very important aspect of growing any plant, but zinnias in particular are very sensitive to this variable.
Ideally, you want to be watering your zinnias deeply 2-3 times per week, depending on heat and rainfall. However, avoid daily shallow watering at all costs as it can lead to soggy roots and overwatering problems early on.
The best watering practice for zinnias is to water at the base early in the morning. To prevent powdery mildew and other fungal issues, try to avoid getting the foliage wet.
Fertilizing Zinnias For Continuous Blooms!
When it comes to fertilizing your zinnias, you want to use a balanced (10-10-10) or bloom-boosting (5-10-5) blend for the best results.
In terms of application, follow the manufacturer’s directions and guidelines on the package. But, ideally:
I’d suggest going for organic options with compost tea or fish emulsion. Also, avoid high nitrogen fertilizer blends to prevent excess foliage production.
Why Deadheading Makes A Big Difference?
Deadheading is also an important aspect of getting continuous healthy zinnia blooms. If you don’t deadhead these annuals, they’ll likely stop blooming and go to seed, reducing overall flower production.
Although deadheading itself can be a complex task that requires a separate article written around it, as far as general guidelines go, you must use clean scissors to snip just above a pair of healthy leaves or a lateral bud. Always check for new buds before cutting.
If you’re not new here, you know we already got you covered! Stephanie (our PRO horticulturist writer) already wrote a full article and easy guide on how to to deadhead zinnias to keep them blooming!
Mid-Season Pruning For Shape & Rejuvenation!
The right time to cut back overgrown or leggy zinnias is in late June or early July. Cut stems back by one-third at a time to encourage new growth. This will help you achieve bushier plants and more flowers.
Also, pinch the flowers early and cut spent stems regularly for continuous branching and blooms.
If you have a habit of letting your zinnia plants grow untidy and out of shape, mid-season pruning is a good way to make them symmetrical and visually appealing again. Just make sure you do your due diligence and follow up with good aftercare.
And now, as we start to reach the end of this article, you’re probably thinking you already know everything about zinnias. But, that’s not true, you want to know why? Because I also wrote an article about zinnias you can’t just miss!
Being a pro at growing zinnias, I shared my 9 simple ways and tips to maximize flowering in Zinnias!
Quick Zinnia Care Checklist For June
Since June has already begun (or for others reading this late, is around the corner), here is a simplified checklist to help you treat your zinnias right this time:
Let’s Conclude
I was shocked to find out some gardeners find zinnias redundant and replaceable in their garden! But, like me, there are so many more gardeners out there who consider zinnias a staple. And, it’s for a good reason. I mean… what other annual offers such mesmerizing round blooms and can be maintained with such ease?
If you haven’t already picked up on it, the zinnia is a flower of consistency. It doesn’t need excessive love and attention, but it does well with consistent maintenance checkups to keep it tidy and blooming continuously for long, healthy periods.
