How to Deadhead Zinnias

Not all zinnias resemble daisies.

Zinnias are native to Mexico, but the original wild zinnia did not enjoy the popularity it does today. These weedy purple-red flowers were thought to be so ugly they were called "evil eyes" by the Spanish colonists. Today's hybrids sport delicate, daisy-like flowers that range in color from pastel pink and white to brilliant red, orange and gold. But not all zinnias resemble daisies, as their blooms range from single- and double-petaled to dome-shaped flowers that resemble a beehive. Blooms are typically long lasting and slowly fade to paler hues, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't deadhead them.

Things You'll Need

• Garden clippers/scissors

Instructions

1. Deadhead zinnias as soon as the color begins to fade in the bloom. Even though the flower may still look attractive, removing it will send a message to the plant to produce new flowers.

2. Clip the stem that supports the bloom at the point where other stems branch off from the main stalk.

3. Discard the spent blooms in the compost bin.

Tips & Warnings

• Plant zinnias in an area that receives full sun for six to eight hours a day.

• Zinnias prefer well-drained soil.

References

• University of Illinois Extension; Zinnias; Jennifer Schultz Nelson; June 2008
• University of Vermont Extension; The Year of The Zinnia; Leonard Perry;
• North Carolina State University Extension; Deadheading; August 2005

Resources

• Iowa State University Extension; Zinnias; Cindy Haynes et al; June 2008