Your best option is to plant in the fall, whether you're growing softneck or hardneck garlic. The entire winter, the next spring, and the majority of the summer are required for hardneck bulbs to develop. Softnecks can frequently be picked into the next fall and will be ready early in the spring.
The best time to grow zinnias is in the spring. Zinnias require space but are not fussy about their soil. Thus, allow at least six inches between plants when sowing zinnia seeds of a smaller type. Larger varieties of zinnias require a distance of at least twelve to eighteen inches between plants.
You must use well-draining soil. Although you can add compost to your poor soil to help the plants develop, zinnias can thrive in even the worst conditions. Zinnia roots can't stand wet ground. Excessive wetness can cause a fungal infection, such as powdery mildew, in the blossoms.
Zinnias should be grown in full light. A sunny location will produce the most blossoms, keep the leaves dry, and prevent powdery mildew before it even begins.
For optimal growth, zinnias want moist soil. Young plants are especially susceptible to this. Deeply water the soil once or twice a week to keep it moist between six and eight inches down. Avoid overwatering zinnias since they are susceptible to rot diseases, particularly in moist, clay soils.
But, a small amount of fertiliser will be needed for it to grow and bloom appropriately. I favour fertilising zinnia plants only with organic fertiliser. Any bulky organic manure, such as vermicompost or compost made from kitchen waste, may be added in small amounts.
For bouquets, zinnias make excellent cut flowers. They bloom more as you pluck more of them. For a longer blooming period, you can also deadhead zinnias, but it's not required. They might temporarily stop flowering, but they will soon resume.
Zinnias can be multiplied in a number of methods, including via division, using established plants, and cuttings. Stem cuttings are a simple way to propagate zinnias and create new plants. In just a few weeks, the cuttings can be planted after being rooted in water.
All zinnia seeds can be started in little pots, however only the shorter zinnia cultivars can stay in pots. Tall zinnias struggle to grow in containers. Consider choosing hybrid bedding zinnias, which typically have a short, spreading growth habit, if you must confine yourself to a container garden.
Insects rarely affect zinnias, and the majority of four-legged animals are uninterested in them. Certain varieties are particularly susceptible to powdery mildew. Despite being unattractive, it is not likely to hurt your plants. Clip back the afflicted plant sections to cure them.