Zinnia Profusion Double Deep Salmon is a vibrant, popular annual flower, cherished for its impressive display and adaptability. This variety offers a captivating double bloom structure and a distinct deep salmon color, enhancing garden aesthetics.
Meet Zinnia Profusion Double Deep Salmon
Zinnia Profusion Double Deep Salmon boasts full, double blooms with multiple layers of petals. These daisy-like flowers typically measure between 2 to 3 inches (5-7 cm) wide and are abundant, covering the plant in continuous color. The rich, deep salmon color remains vivid and does not fade, even under high temperatures.
This hybrid zinnia forms a dense, compact, and mounded plant, reaching heights of 12 to 18 inches (30-46 cm) and spreading 18 to 24 inches (46-61 cm). It has an extended blooming season, producing flowers from late spring through autumn until the first frost. This variety shows resistance to powdery mildew and other foliage diseases, making it a resilient option for diverse climates.
Planting and Establishing Your Zinnias
Planting Zinnia Profusion Double Deep Salmon should occur after the last spring frost, when soil temperatures are above 70°F (21°C). These zinnias thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours daily. While they tolerate a range of soil pH, they perform best in rich, well-drained soil. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, can improve drainage and enhance fertility.
Gardeners can direct sow seeds outdoors or start them indoors for an earlier bloom. For direct sowing, plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in prepared beds, spacing them 8 to 12 inches apart. For indoor starting, sow seeds 4 to 7 weeks before the last frost, maintaining a soil temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C) for germination. Seedlings emerge within 3 to 10 days.
When transplanting, handle young plants carefully to avoid disturbing their roots. Proper spacing allows for good air circulation, important for plant health and disease prevention.
Caring for Thriving Blooms
Consistent moisture is important for Zinnia Profusion Double Deep Salmon, particularly during dry spells. Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which helps prevent fungal issues. While zinnias tolerate drought once established, regular watering promotes more prolific blooming.
These zinnias do not require heavy fertilization, as over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. A balanced fertilizer applied every two weeks can support continuous blooming, especially for plants in containers. Deadheading encourages more blooms, though this self-cleaning variety naturally sheds old flowers, reducing the need for frequent deadheading.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Zinnia Profusion Double Deep Salmon is a robust and low-maintenance plant, but issues can arise. Leggy growth, characterized by tall, stretched stems with sparse foliage, occurs if plants do not receive enough sunlight. Ensuring full sun exposure helps maintain a compact, bushy habit. Pinching back young plants also promotes bushier growth.
Nutrient deficiencies can manifest as discolored leaves, such as yellowing, indicating a need for a balanced fertilizer. Although this zinnia is disease-resistant, particularly to powdery mildew, good cultural practices remain beneficial. Providing adequate air circulation by not overcrowding plants helps deter fungal spots. While resistant to pests like deer and rabbits, aphids can appear, but rarely cause significant damage.