Zinnia, commonly known as Zinnia, Steptogo, Backgammon, Fireball, and Chroma, is an upright annual herb that typically grows between 40 to 120 cm tall. It features hairy stems and lateral branches that are often covered in scales. The leaves are opposite, sessile, and ovoid in shape. This plant blooms during the summer and autumn months, producing single-headed inflorescences with a flower diameter of around 10 cm. The flowers consist of tubular yellowish-brown or purple petals, while the ray flowers come in a wide range of colors, including blue. The seeds are small, with weights ranging from 2.8 to 11 grams. Zinnias are ideal for planting in flower beds, flower mirrors, or as potted plants, especially for dwarf varieties. They are also highly valued as cut flowers due to their vibrant colors and long-lasting blooms.
Zinnia flowers display a stunning array of colors and patterns, with most varieties being double-flowered. These plants thrive in sunny conditions and are known for their resilience. Native to Mexico, they have strong growth habits, are drought-tolerant, and prefer well-drained, fertile soils. However, they do not perform well in hot, humid summers or in areas with poor drainage and excessive rain.
For optimal growth, sowing should be done in March or April. Seedlings are transplanted when they have 4 to 5 leaves, with a spacing of about 10 cm. If planted directly in the garden, the spacing should be increased to 30 cm by 30 cm at the beginning of June. During the growing season, applying diluted human urine every 10 days can provide essential nutrients. Flowering usually begins in July and continues until the first frost. In summer, Zinnias can also be propagated through lateral branch cuttings, but extra care is needed to protect them from intense heat and frequent rain.
Zinnia seedlings grow quickly, but it's important to prevent legginess. To achieve this, lower the temperature slightly, increase ventilation, and ensure adequate space between plants. Pruning the central shoot when the plant reaches about 10 cm in height—leaving 2 to 4 pairs of true leaves—can help promote bushier growth. If you want to keep the plants compact, apply a growth retardant when the shoots reach about 3 cm in length. Avoid overcrowding seedlings, and if you want to control height, regular pruning and careful management are necessary. About 5 to 7 days before transplanting, harden off the seedlings gradually to help them adapt to outdoor conditions.
Zinnias are short-day plants, meaning their flowering is influenced by daylight duration. When exposed to more than 14 hours of sunlight, flowering is delayed, and the number of ray flowers increases. This process takes approximately 70 days from sowing to bloom. Conversely, if the daylight is less than 12 hours, flowering occurs earlier, taking only 60 days. In this case, the flowers tend to have more tubular blossoms. By adjusting the sowing date and harvesting time, you can further control the flowering period, making Zinnias a versatile choice for gardeners and florists alike.
All Terrain Electric Wheel Chair
All Terrain Electric Wheel Chair,Wheelchair Electric Lightweight,Remote Control Wheelchair,Electric Wheel Chairs
Suzhou Danyazhihe Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.autowheelchairs.com