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Zinnia

Zinnia elegans
Also known as: Garden Zinnia, Common Zinnia, Elegant Zinnia

Zinnia is a flower in the Asteraceae family. It grows best in full sun with medium moisture, and is listed for USDA zones 2-11. Plants reach maturity about 50–100 days after planting and sit about 12 inches apart.

Varieties

27 from True Leaf Market, Seeds Now & High Mowing · sorted by days to maturity
  • California Giants (Organic)50–85 days

    Organic; Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    Organic California Giants Zinnia Seeds. 50 days to maturity. Can be grown in containers. Ornamental. Zinnia elegans. Heirloom, Non-GMO, Annual. Dating back to 1926, Zinnia California Giant is a mix with several shades of color. These flowers are enormous and can become 4 to 5 inch double flowers. Approx. 3,900 Seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Pumila Pompon50–70 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    50-70 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Pumila Pompon Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, annual. This is a great old-fashioned variety that has fully to semi-double flowers. These warm and cheerful flowers are breathtaking and will fit into any landscape. Blooms are 3 inches across and come in a wide range of colors that are long-lasting and excellent cut flowers. Keep dead-headed and they will keep coming all summer. This semi-dwarf variety only reaches 24 inches tall. One of the easiest flowers to start and grow. 500 mg packet contains ~55 seeds.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Dreamland Mixture (Coated)54–70 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    54-70 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Dreamland Mixture Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, annual. Dreamland Mix Zinnia Flower seeds are the fastest way to splash some excitement into your garden. Dreamland Zinnia flowers are a dwarf variety, sure to add a pop to your flower garden. Dreamland Mix Zinnias promise a whirl of colors including ivory, scarlet, pink, coral, apricot, canary, rose, and crimson all inside a single package. This variety will thrive in a variety of growing zones and produce massive blooms to wow all your neighbors! Approx. 3,900 Seeds/oz. Coated Seeds.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Lilliput Mixture54–70 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    Zinnia elegans Lilliput Mixture is an easy-to-grow annual producing an abundance of small, fully double, pompon-like blooms in a bright range of colors. The semi-dwarf, bushy plants are heat and drought tolerant and excellent for borders, containers, and cutting. Flowers attract bees and butterflies, with maturity in about 54-70 days.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Swizzle Series54–70 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    54-70 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Swizzle Series Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, F1 hybrid, annual. Swizzle Series Zinnia flower seeds in your garden will turn heads this summer. Swizzle Series seeds grow compact, short dwarfed Zinnias boasting huge, semi-doubled 4 inch blooms. Swizzle Series Zinnia seeds have been adapted by Kansas State University to endure the demanding prairie climate and maximize flower production while maximizing beauty. Swizzle Series Zinnia flowers are easy to grow from seed and an ideal novelty for gardens prone to heat and drought across the American southwest. Approx. 3,900 Seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Zowie Yellow Flame (Coated)54–70 days

    Non-GMO; AAS Winner; Container; Annual

    Zinnia elegans Zowie! Yellow Flame is an annual that produces vivid bicolor blooms with scarlet-red centers that flush to warm golden-orange at the petal tips. Easy to grow from seed, the plants are heat tolerant and bloom continuously through summer, attracting bees and butterflies. Excellent for borders and cut flowers, reaching maturity in about 54-70 days.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Magellan Series - Orange55–60 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    55-60 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Magellan Orange Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, F1 hybrid, annual. Magellan Zinnia Orange seeds grow tough and resilient zinnias, best suited for gardens prone to heat or drought. The Magellan Series coral variety is a 2005 AAS Flower Winner for its "brilliant coral petals," "consistent flower production," and "earliness to bloom." Cherry, Ivory, and Mix are also beautiful and popular colors. This variety will thrive in southern climates (zones 10-11) and produce massive blooms to wow all your neighbors! Approx. 3,900 Seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Magellan Series (Coated)55–60 days

    Non-GMO; AAS Winner; Container; Annual

    55-60 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Magellan Series Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, F1 hybrid, annual. Magellan Zinnia Series seeds produce tough, resilient zinnias, best suited for gardens prone to heat or drought. The Magellan Series coral variety is a 2005 AAS Flower Winner for its "brilliant coral petals," "consistent flower production," and "earliness to bloom." Cherry, Ivory, and Mix are also beautiful and popular colors. This variety will thrive in southern climates (zones 10-11) and produce massive blooms to wow all your neighbors! Approx. 3,900 Seeds/oz. Coated Seeds.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • California Giant Mix60–70 days

    California Giant Mix zinnia (Zinnia elegans) produces tall stems and large double flowers in a broad mix of colors. Direct-sow after frost in full sun and leave enough space for air movement. Cut flowers or deadhead spent blooms to keep new buds forming through summer.

    Growing notes: Botanical name: Zinnia elegans|Hardiness zones: 2-11|Planting season: Spring, summer|Days to maturity: 60-70 days|Cold stratify: No|Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep|Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-7 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-75F|Soil types: Sandy, loamy, rich, moist, well-drained|Soil pH: 5.5-7.5|Water needs: Average|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost tolerant: No|Drought tolerant: Yes|Deer resistant: Yes

    View on Seeds Now
  • Canary Bird60–70 days

    Canary Bird zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is an annual with clear yellow flowers on upright stems. Grow it in full sun and well-drained soil, watering at the base to keep foliage dry. Regular cutting or deadheading encourages bloom until frost.

    Growing notes: Botanical name: Zinnia elegans|Hardiness zones: 2-11|Planting season: Spring, summer|Days to maturity: 60-70 days|Cold stratify: No|Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep|Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-7 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-75F|Soil types: Sandy, loamy, rich, moist, well-drained|Soil pH: 6.0-7.0|Water needs: Average|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost tolerant: No|Drought tolerant: Yes|Deer resistant: Yes

    View on Seeds Now
  • Cherry Queen60–70 days

    Cherry Queen zinnia (Zinnia elegans) produces rich cherry-red flowers on sturdy stems. Direct-sow after frost in full sun, provide good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering when possible. The flowers are useful for cutting and continue until frost when harvested or deadheaded regularly.

    Growing notes: Botanical name: Zinnia elegans|Hardiness zones: 2-11|Planting season: Spring, summer|Days to maturity: 60-70 days|Cold stratify: No|Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep|Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-7 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-75F|Soil types: Sandy, loamy, rich, moist, well-drained|Soil pH: 6.0-7.0|Water needs: Average|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost tolerant: No|Drought tolerant: Yes|Deer resistant: Yes

    View on Seeds Now
  • Cut and Come Again (Organic)60–70 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Non-GMO; Annual

    60-70 Days to Maturity. Zinnia elegans. Organic Cut and Come Again Zinnia Flower Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, heirloom, open-pollinated flowers. Annual in zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. Attracts pollinators. Displays red, pink, orange, yellow, purple, and white colored blooms from midsummer to the first frost. Recommended for growing in beds, containers, and borders. In the landscape, zinnias are great for use as a cut flower, border, bedding, background, or mass planting. It has an upright growth habit with tolerance to heat and drought once established. Zinnia flowers are edible. Cut and Come Again Zinnias are a fantastic choice for gardeners who want a low-maintenance, high-impact flower that continuously brightens up the garden and attracts beneficial pollinators. ~5,350 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Luminosa60–70 days

    Luminosa zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is an annual with bright pink flowers on compact, upright plants. Sow after frost in full sun and well-drained soil. Cut flowers frequently or remove faded blooms to extend flowering through the warm season.

    Growing notes: Botanical name: Zinnia elegans|Hardiness zones: 2-11|Planting season: Spring, summer|Days to maturity: 60-70 days|Cold stratify: No|Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep|Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-7 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-75F|Soil types: Sandy, loamy, rich, moist, well-drained|Soil pH: 5.5-7.5|Water needs: Average|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost tolerant: No|Drought tolerant: Yes|Deer resistant: Yes

    View on Seeds Now
  • Orange King60–70 days

    The Orange King Zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is a tender annual with a long 3-month blooming period. Produces huge 4"-5" double blossoms with small, oval mandarin-orange petals around a dark center. Grows 2'-3' tall on sturdy stems with lance-shaped foliage. Zingy as a long-lasting cut flower in a bouquet or vase. Life cycle: Annual Bloom season: Spring, summer, fall Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators Flower meaning: Acclaim, affection, ambition, endurance, farewell, friendship, family bonds, power, remembrance, strength

    Growing notes: Botanical name: Zinnia elegans|Hardiness zones: 2-11|Planting season: Spring, summer|Days to maturity: 60-70 days|Cold stratify: No|Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep|Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-7 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-75F|Soil types: Sandy, loamy, rich, moist, well-drained|Soil pH: 5.5-7.5|Water needs: Average|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost tolerant: No|Drought tolerant: Yes|Deer resistant: Yes

    View on Seeds Now
  • Polar Bear60–70 days

    The Polar Bear Zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is a tender annual with a long 3-month blooming period. Produces huge 4"-5" double blossoms with long, oval crisp white petals around a golden center. Grows 2'-3' tall on sturdy stems with lance-shaped foliage.Stunning as a long-lasting cut flower in a bouquet or vase. Life cycle: Annual Bloom season: Spring, summer, fall Attracts: Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators Flower meaning: Acclaim, affection, elegance, farewell, friendship, healing, peace, purity, remembrance, strength

    Growing notes: Botanical name: Zinnia elegans|Hardiness zones: 2-11|Planting season: Spring, summer|Days to maturity: 60-70 days|Cold stratify: No|Depth to plant seeds: 1/4" deep|Spacing between plants: 12"-18" apart|Days to germinate (sprout): 5-7 days|Germination soil temps: 70F-75F|Soil types: Sandy, loamy, rich, moist, well-drained|Soil pH: 5.5-7.5|Water needs: Average|Sun needs: Full sun|Frost tolerant: No|Drought tolerant: Yes|Deer resistant: Yes

    View on Seeds Now
  • Pollinator Flower Mix60–80 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    Pollinator Mix. Zinnia. Zinnia elegans. 60-80 days. Non-GMO. Open pollinated. Our zinnia pollinator mix attracts hummingbirds and butterflies with a wildflower blend that grows a season-long charm that lives up to its name attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to the garden all summer long. Pollinator Mix zinnia seeds contain a blend of nectar-rich zinnia wildflowers for an exciting and unpredictable explosion of summertime favorites perfect for a wild and untamed flower beds.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • State Fair Mix60–80 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Disease; Powdery Mildew

    60 - 80 days. Zinnia elegans. Annual. State Fair Mix Zinnia seeds grow some of the tallest and brightest Zinnias growing this summer. State Fair Mix Zinnia seeds deliver brilliant 5-6" full double dahlia-like blooms from June up until the killing frost. State Fair Zinnia Flower Mix is easy to grow from seeds and boasts a higher resistance to disease and powdery mildew than other zinnia favorites. These Zinnias Flower Seeds are one of the best tall varieties around.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Thumbelina Mix (Organic)60–70 days

    Organic; Non-GMO; Annual

    60-70 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Thumbelina Mix Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, annual. These All-American Selections winner Thumbelina Mix Zinnia flower seeds are a small, adorable, and vibrant addition to grow in any home or garden. Thumbelina Zinnia Mix flower garden seeds are sometimes of a dwarf size with reported heights ranging from 6 to 24 inches tall. They are perfect to decorate indoors, give as a potted gift, or to keep the butterflies fluttering around the garden. Approx. 3,900 Seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Thumbelina Mixture60–70 days

    Non-GMO; AAS Winner; Container; Annual

    60-70 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Thumbelina Mix Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, AAS Winner, annual. Thumbelina Mix Zinnia flower seeds are a small, adorable, and vibrant addition to grow in any home or garden. Thumbelina Mix flower seeds are durable and easy to grow, ideal for indoor containers and planters or for a charming border around your flower bed. Thumbelina Zinnia Mix flower garden seeds are sometimes reported as a dwarf variety, with heights ranging from 6 to 8 inches, depending on growing conditions. Perfect for decorating indoors, giving as a potted gift, or keeping the butterflies fluttering around the garden. Thumbelina Zinnia Mix seeds promise neat, small, and heat- and drought-tolerant zinnias ideal for gardens prone to heat and drought. Approx. 3,900 Seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Red Scarlet72–98 days

    Excellent cut flower; Attracts butterflies; 30-36” plants; Annual

    Deep scarlet blooms for an eye-catching variety superior to many others. A great cutting type with many high-quality flowers and attractive foliage. Dramatic in mass plantings. A standout for quality and cold tolerance in our trials. Zinnia elegans. 3.9M seeds/oz.

    Growing notes: We have selected these easy-to-grow flower varieties for their individual beauty, for the beneficial insects they attract, and/or suitability for cut flower production. By offering an assortment of hues, heights, growth habits and appearances, we strive to fill your flower needs, whether you are adding color to your home garden or selling bouquets for market. Our varieties are tried-and-true standards that are sure to perform well in a wide range of growing conditions. Many of these varieties are well suited for succession plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. Days to maturity are from seeding. M=1,000.

    View on High Mowing
  • County Fair Blend75–90 days

    HMOS EXCLUSIVE• Excellent cut flower; Attracts butterflies; 24-36” plants; Annual

    Warm-toned mix of pink, orange, purple, red and gold blooms. An excellent cut flower that blooms until frost; the more you cut the more they grow. 2-5” blooms ideal for borders and bouquets. Heat and disease tolerant. Zinnias last longer if you change the water in the vase every two days and keep out of direct sunlight. Zinnia elegans. 2.7M seeds/oz.

    Growing notes: We have selected these easy-to-grow flower varieties for their individual beauty, for the beneficial insects they attract, and/or suitability for cut flower production. By offering an assortment of hues, heights, growth habits and appearances, we strive to fill your flower needs, whether you are adding color to your home garden or selling bouquets for market. Our varieties are tried-and-true standards that are sure to perform well in a wide range of growing conditions. Many of these varieties are well suited for succession plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. Days to maturity are from seeding. M=1,000.

    View on High Mowing
  • Dwarf Thumbolina75–90 days

    Semi-double and double blooms; 12-16” tall; Annual

    Short and sweet, multi-branching zinnias with beautiful, light-hearted colors and semi-double to double, mini blooms. Plants are covered in irresistible, 2” blossoms featuring an appealing blend of whimsical colors. The bright hues attract pollinators and offer a beautiful accent to any border, garden, or container planting. Short, multi-branching stems make for precious bouquets. Plants grow quickly and reach bloom maturity early. From our partners at Genesis Seeds. Zinnia elegans

    Growing notes: We have selected these easy-to-grow flower varieties for their individual beauty, for the beneficial insects they attract, and/or suitability for cut flower production. By offering an assortment of hues, heights, growth habits and appearances, we strive to fill your flower needs, whether you are adding color to your home garden or selling bouquets for market. Our varieties are tried-and-true standards that are sure to perform well in a wide range of growing conditions. Many of these varieties are well suited for succession plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. Days to maturity are from seeding. M=1,000.

    View on High Mowing
  • Giant Coral75–90 days

    Excellent cut flower; Attracts butterflies; 40-50” plants; Annual

    Large, fully double red-coral blooms ideal for cut flowers or bright borders. Lovely salmon-pink to coral flowers on long, sturdy stems. Huge 4” blooms. Disease and heat tolerant, and holds up well in the vase. Change water often for longest life. Direct seed or start transplants 3-4 weeks before last frost date. Zinnia elegans. 3.4M seeds/oz.

    Growing notes: We have selected these easy-to-grow flower varieties for their individual beauty, for the beneficial insects they attract, and/or suitability for cut flower production. By offering an assortment of hues, heights, growth habits and appearances, we strive to fill your flower needs, whether you are adding color to your home garden or selling bouquets for market. Our varieties are tried-and-true standards that are sure to perform well in a wide range of growing conditions. Many of these varieties are well suited for succession plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. Days to maturity are from seeding. M=1,000.

    View on High Mowing
  • Giant Purple75–90 days

    Excellent cut flower; Attracts butterflies; 40-50” plants; Annual

    Big, fully double magenta blooms for a sophisticated statement in borders and bouquets. Huge, 4-6” purple blooms on long, sturdy stems. Disease and heat tolerant, and holds up well in the vase. Change water often for longest life. Zinnia elegans. 3.4M seeds/oz.

    Growing notes: We have selected these easy-to-grow flower varieties for their individual beauty, for the beneficial insects they attract, and/or suitability for cut flower production. By offering an assortment of hues, heights, growth habits and appearances, we strive to fill your flower needs, whether you are adding color to your home garden or selling bouquets for market. Our varieties are tried-and-true standards that are sure to perform well in a wide range of growing conditions. Many of these varieties are well suited for succession plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. Days to maturity are from seeding. M=1,000.

    View on High Mowing
  • Golden Yellow75–90 days

    Excellent cut flower; Attracts butterflies; 30-36” plants; Annual

    Fully double gold blooms make a dazzling display in the garden. Well-branched stems provide a continuous supply of easy-to-grow 3-4” blooms that hold up well in a vase. Excellent heat and cold tolerance keep this variety productive until frost. Zinnia elegans. 5M seeds/oz.

    Growing notes: We have selected these easy-to-grow flower varieties for their individual beauty, for the beneficial insects they attract, and/or suitability for cut flower production. By offering an assortment of hues, heights, growth habits and appearances, we strive to fill your flower needs, whether you are adding color to your home garden or selling bouquets for market. Our varieties are tried-and-true standards that are sure to perform well in a wide range of growing conditions. Many of these varieties are well suited for succession plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. Days to maturity are from seeding. M=1,000.

    View on High Mowing
  • Orange75–90 days

    Excellent cut flower; Attracts butterflies; 40-50” plants; Annual

    Large, bold, orange blooms; beautiful as cut flowers or as borders in the garden. 4-6” blooms have incredible vase life, especially when water is routinely changed. With great field holding quality, plants produce continuous flowers throughout the season. Good tolerance to heat and cold, these vigo rous zinnias are a reliable choice for the farm or garden. Zinnia elegans. 2.7M seeds/oz.

    Growing notes: We have selected these easy-to-grow flower varieties for their individual beauty, for the beneficial insects they attract, and/or suitability for cut flower production. By offering an assortment of hues, heights, growth habits and appearances, we strive to fill your flower needs, whether you are adding color to your home garden or selling bouquets for market. Our varieties are tried-and-true standards that are sure to perform well in a wide range of growing conditions. Many of these varieties are well suited for succession plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the season. Days to maturity are from seeding. M=1,000.

    View on High Mowing
  • Dahlia Flowered Mixture90–100 days

    Container; Annual

    90-100 Days to maturity. Zinnia elegans. Dahlia Flowered Mixture Zinnia Seeds. Non-GMO, organic, annual. Growing Dahlia Flowered Mix zinnia seeds this season is an effortless and vibrant way to dash a bit of summer into your garden. Dahlia Flowered Mix Zinnias are beautiful flowers, easy to grow from seed; a tall variety, and as a native to the arid Mexican climate, ideal for dry, southwestern gardens while even surprising gardeners as far north as Minnesota with their hardiness. Dahlia Flowered Mix Zinnia seeds grow bold and dazzling Zinnias bringing butterflies and other important pollinators to the garden all season long. Dahlia Flowered Mix Zinnias' tall robust stalks are seasonal favorites for fresh-cut arrangements, planters, and gifts. About 3,000-3,800 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
Family
Asteraceae
Category
Flower
Form
Bush
Lifecycle
annual
Zone
2-11
Height
0.5–4 ft
Spread
0.5–1.5 ft
Sun
Full sun

Plant spacing

1 plant per square footSquare-foot planting diagram: one zinnia fills a 1-foot square, spaced 12 inches from its neighbors.
1 plant per square foot

In a square-foot bed, space zinnia about 12 in apart — that fits 1 plant in each 1-foot square (1×1). Wider rows or containers space the same.

Water
Medium

Plan your zinnia planting

Add zinnia to a free GardenDraft plan and get sow, transplant, and harvest dates computed for your ZIP code — with a drag-and-drop bed layout and reminders when it’s time to plant.

Start your free plan →

At a glance

Days to harvest
50–100 days
From transplant or sow to first harvest
Harvest style
Keep picking
Crops over several weeks
After harvest
Use within days
Quality eases off after peak
Frost tolerance
Tender · to ~32°F
Lowest temperature the foliage usually survives
Succession
Re-sow every 21 days
Sow again at this interval for a continuous harvest

Growing timeline

When to plant and harvest zinniaPlanting timeline for zinnia, relative to last frost: start indoors from 3 weeks before last frost to 1 week after last frost; grow from 1 week after last frost to 8 weeks after last frost; harvest from 8 weeks after last frost to 15 weeks after last frost.Start indoorsGrowHarvestLast frostTransplant
Start zinnia indoors ~4 weeks before transplanting 1 week after last frost; first harvest 8 weeks after last frost.
Seed to transplant
21-28 days
Outdoor planting
7 to 14 days vs frost
Propagation
Seed
Schedule anchor
Last Frost

Care & troubleshooting— extension-sourced, with citations

When to feed, prune & water

Attract beneficial insects and protect pollinators

Protection
  • Routine carePlant insectary flowers and tolerate light pestsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Grow a diversity of flowering plants (including small-flowered umbels and asters) to feed predators and parasitoids, and tolerate low pest numbers so natural enemies have prey to stick around.

    Source: UC IPM; UMN Extension

  • Routine careNever spray open bloomsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid insecticides on flowering plants and apply any needed sprays in the evening when pollinators aren't active, and favor selective products over broad-spectrum ones to spare bees and beneficials.

    Source: UC IPM

Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture

Mulch
  • Routine careApply organic mulch around plantsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Spread a few inches of straw, shredded leaves, or compost around established plants (keeping it off stems) to hold soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature; wait until soil has warmed for heat-loving crops.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

Protect the garden from rabbits and voles

Protection
  • Routine careFence out rabbitsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Surround beds with 1-inch mesh chicken wire at least 2 feet tall with the bottom buried or staked down a few inches so rabbits can't push under it.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell CCE

  • Routine careReduce vole habitat and guard stemsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Keep grass and mulch pulled back from plant bases and crowns to remove vole cover, mow surrounding vegetation, and use hardware-cloth guards around vulnerable woody stems before winter.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell CCE

Clean up debris and sanitize at season end

Sanitation

Unusual this time of year.

  • Routine careRemove spent plants and fallen debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Pull and clear old plants, dropped fruit, and leaf litter at season end, since many pests and diseases overwinter in this debris; dispose of diseased material rather than composting it.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • Routine careClean tools, stakes, and cagesmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Wash and sanitize stakes, cages, and tools that touched diseased plants before storing or reusing them to avoid carrying pathogens into next season.

    Source: Cornell; UMN Extension

Harden off seedlings

Protection

Unusual this time of year.

Read: starting seeds indoors

Succession-sow quick crops

Care

Unusual this time of year.

Something looks wrong?

Describe what you see on your zinniaand we'll rank the likely causes — most likely first, least-invasive fix first.

Tomato spotted wilt virus

Virussevere

Symptoms: bronzing or purpling of young leaves; ringspots and concentric rings on leaves and fruit; one-sided or stunted growth; dark streaks on stems; mottled or blotchy ripening fruit

  • CulturalRemove infected plants (cannot be cured)strong evidence — extension confidence

    There is no cure once a plant is infected, so promptly pull and dispose of symptomatic plants to reduce the virus reservoir that thrips spread to healthy plants.

    Source: UC IPM; UMN Extension

  • CulturalStart clean and control weeds and thripsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Use virus- and thrips-free transplants, choose resistant varieties (Sw-5 tomatoes, Tsw peppers) where available, and control weeds around the garden that harbor both virus and thrips vectors.

    Source: UC IPM; UF/IFAS

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

White mold (Sclerotinia stem rot)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: water-soaked stem or branch lesions; fluffy white cottony mold on stems and pods; sudden wilting of part of a plant; hard black sclerotia inside or on stems; collapse during cool wet bloom periods

  • CulturalRemove infected plants (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    There's no cure for an infected plant; cut out and bag affected plants including the black sclerotia, and don't compost them, since sclerotia survive years in soil.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • CulturalOpen the canopy and rotatestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Space plants widely, control weeds, orient rows to prevailing wind, and avoid overhead watering at bloom to dry the canopy; rotate to non-host crops (corn or other grasses) for several years.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • CulturalWater at the base, not overheadmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Use drip or soaker irrigation to keep foliage and the soil surface drier, which discourages the sclerotia germination and mycelial growth that drive white mold.

    Source: UC IPM

Botrytis gray mold

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: fuzzy gray-brown mold on leaves, stems, flowers, or fruit; soft watery rot on fruit and blossoms; dieback from cut or wounded stems; mold spreading in cool humid still conditions; blighted flowers that fail to set

  • CulturalRemove infected tissue and old blossomsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Prune out moldy leaves, stems, and fruit and clear fallen blossoms and debris where the fungus gets started, disposing of them rather than composting.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • CulturalImprove airflow and reduce leaf wetnessstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Space and stake plants for good air movement, water at the base in the morning, and harvest ripe fruit promptly so botrytis has fewer cool, humid, wet surfaces to colonize.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

Japanese beetles

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: leaves skeletonized between veins; lacy chewed foliage; metallic green-bronze beetles clustered on plants; feeding worst in warm midsummer sun

Leafhoppers & aster yellows

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: small wedge-shaped insects hop from leaves; stippled or yellowed foliage; with aster yellows: yellow stunted growth, witches-broom of thin shoots, deformed bitter carrots

Powdery mildew

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: white powdery coating on upper leaf surfaces; starts as spots then spreads; leaves yellow and dry under the coating

  • CulturalImprove airflow + remove worst leavesstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Cut out the most heavily coated leaves and thin for airflow; avoid wetting foliage late in the day.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicPotassium-bicarbonate or sulfur - label use only· every 1 wk · ~4 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Apply a labeled potassium-bicarbonate or sulfur fungicide weekly per the label. No sulfur within 2 weeks of oil or in high heat.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Root rot from overwatering / poor drainage

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: stunted yellowing plants that wilt despite wet soil; soft brown mushy roots; sloughing root outer layer leaving thread-like core; poor growth in low or compacted wet spots; seedlings collapsing at the soil line

Slugs & snails

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: large ragged holes with smooth edges; slimy silvery trails; damage worst after rain and overnight

  • CulturalTrap, hand-pick at night, reduce cover· every 2 days · ~3 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Pick at night with a flashlight, set shallow beer traps, water in the morning so soil dries by dusk, and clear damp hiding spots.

    Source: UC IPM: Snails and Slugs

  • OrganicIron-phosphate bait - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Scatter a labeled iron-phosphate slug bait sparingly per the label; it's pet- and wildlife-safer than metaldehyde.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Tarnished plant bug / lygus

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: deformed or puckered new growth; pitted or scarred stems and leaves; aborted or misshapen buds and fruit; catfaced or dimpled strawberries; small bronze-green bugs with triangular back marking

  • CulturalManage surrounding weedsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Keep broadleaf weeds mowed or removed around the garden, since lygus build up on flowering weeds and move to crops as those weeds dry down; avoid mowing large weedy areas right beside fruiting crops at bloom.

    Source: UC IPM

  • CulturalVacuum or shake plants to monitor and reduce· every 5 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Tap plants over a light-colored tray to check for nymphs; a handheld vacuum used once or twice weekly can hold low to moderate numbers down on small plantings.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicTreat nymphs if damage is building· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    For active nymph infestations, azadirachtin or a Beauveria bassiana product can give some control per the label; preserve the parasitic wasps and other natural enemies that help suppress lygus.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Whiteflies

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: clouds of tiny white insects fly up when plants are disturbed; yellowing stippled leaves; sticky honeydew and black sooty mold; weak stunted growth

  • CulturalRemove infested leaves and hose off· every 4 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Pick off and discard heavily infested lower leaves and rinse colonies off undersides with a strong spray of water; yellow sticky cards help monitor numbers.

    Source: UC IPM: Whiteflies

  • OrganicApply a labeled soap or oil· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Apply a labeled insecticidal soap or neem oil per the label, covering leaf undersides; these reduce but won't eliminate whiteflies, so repeat as needed.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM: Whiteflies

Cutworms

Pestmoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: seedlings cut off at soil line; transplants toppled overnight; wilted clipped plants in a row; chewed stems near ground; gray-brown caterpillars curled in soil

  • CulturalPlace stem collars on transplantsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Push a collar (cardboard tube, can, or cup with bottom removed) a couple inches into the soil around each stem so it extends a few inches above ground; this blocks cutworms from reaching the stem.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

  • CulturalScout soil and hand-remove· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    In the evening or early morning, check the soil around damaged plants and remove curled larvae by hand; tilling beds about two weeks before planting also reduces larvae and pupae.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

  • OrganicApply a labeled Bt or spinosad· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If damage continues, apply a labeled Bacillus thuringiensis (kurstaki) or spinosad product per the label, targeting small larvae; Bt works best on young first- and second-instar cutworms.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM: Cutworms

Aphids

Pestlow

Symptoms: clusters of tiny soft-bodied insects on new growth and undersides; sticky honeydew or sooty mold; curled distorted new leaves; ants tending them

  • CulturalBlast off with water· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Knock colonies off with a strong jet of water in the morning; repeat every few days. Light infestations rarely need more.

    Source: UC IPM: Aphids

  • OrganicInsecticidal soap - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    For persistent colonies apply insecticidal soap to undersides per label. Avoid open flowers.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Bolting (premature flowering)

Disorderlow

Symptoms: plant sends up a tall central flower stalk; leaves turn bitter; growth turns leggy; happens during heat and long days in lettuce, spinach, and brassicas

Earwigs

Pestlow

Symptoms: ragged irregular holes in leaves and seedlings; chewed flower petals; damage to soft fruit; pincered insects hiding in dark moist spots; feeding noticed mainly overnight

  • CulturalTrap and remove· every 1 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Set rolled damp newspaper, low tuna-style cans of oil, or short tubes near plants at dusk, then dump trapped earwigs into soapy water each morning; reduce mulch and damp hiding spots near vulnerable seedlings.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicApply a bait only if damage persists· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Established plants usually tolerate earwigs, which also eat aphids; if seedlings are being destroyed, a spinosad-based bait labeled for earwigs can help per the label.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Transplant shock

Disorderlow

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: wilting or drooping right after transplanting; stalled growth for days after setting out; leaf scorch or edge browning on new transplants; temporary yellowing; recovery once roots establish

  • CulturalWater in well and provide shade· every 1 days · ~1 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Water transplants in thoroughly at planting and keep the root zone evenly moist for the first week or two, and provide temporary shade during hot, sunny, or windy spells to reduce stress while roots establish.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • CulturalHarden off and plant gently next timestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Most plants recover on their own; to prevent recurrence, harden off seedlings before planting, set them out in mild weather or evening, and avoid disturbing the roots when transplanting.

    Source: UMN Extension