Zinnias are one of the easiest flowering plants to grow. They come in a variety of colors and are a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a pop of color to their gardens. Not all plants are good companions for zinnias.
What are Zinnias?
Zinnias are flowering plants that are native to Mexico. They are part of the Asteraceae family and are known for their colorful flowers that bloom in the summer.
Zinnias are easy to grow and can be planted in a variety of soil types. They are also a popular choice for pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and beetles, because of their nectar-rich flowers.
How to Grow Zinnias
Zinnias grow best in full sun and well-draining soil. They can be planted from seeds or seedlings and should be spaced at least 6 inches apart.
Zinnias are a low-maintenance plant and only need to be watered when the soil is dry. Fertilizer can be added to the soil during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
When do Zinnias Bloom?
Zinnias bloom in the summer, usually from June to September. They have a long growing season and can bloom multiple times during this period. Deadheading the flowers can encourage more blooms.
What Colors do Zinnias come in?
Zinnias come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, white, and purple. Some varieties have a two-tone color, while others have a single color.
Why Plant Companion Plants with Zinnias?
Companion planting is a gardening technique where different plants are grown together for their mutual benefit.
Companion plants can help attract pollinators, repel pests, and improve soil health.
When choosing companion plants for zinnias, it is important to select plants that will not compete with zinnias for nutrients or attract pests that can harm them.
What are Companion Plants?
Companion plants are plants that are grown together to benefit each other. Companion plants can help repel pests, attract pollinators, and improve soil health.
The best companion plants for zinnias are marigolds, dahlias, and some vegetables.
How do Companion Plants Benefit Zinnias?
Companion plants benefit zinnias by attracting pollinators, repelling pests, and improving soil health. Marigolds, for example, are known for repelling pests, such as nematodes and whiteflies, that can harm zinnias.
Dahlias are also a great companion for zinnias because they attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, that can help pollinate the zinnia flowers.
What are the Best Zinnia Companion Plants?
The best companion plants for zinnias are marigolds, dahlias, and some vegetables.
Marigolds are great for repelling pests, while dahlias are excellent for attracting pollinators.
Vegetables, such as tomatoes and beets, can also be planted with zinnias, as they benefit from the pollinators that zinnias attract.
What Plants Should Not be Planted with Zinnias?
While there are many plants that make great companions for zinnias, there are some plants that should not be planted with them.
These plants can attract pests that can harm zinnias or compete with them for nutrients.
Why Should Certain Plants Not be Planted with Zinnias?
Certain plants should not be planted with zinnias because they can attract pests that can harm them.
For example, planting zinnias next to plants that are susceptible to aphids can attract these pests to the zinnias.
Plants that are known for attracting pests, such as brassicas, should also not be planted with zinnias.
Which Plants can Attract Pests to Zinnias?
Plants that are susceptible to pests, such as tomatoes and brassicas, can attract pests to zinnias.
Aphids, for example, are attracted to tomato plants and can spread to nearby zinnias.
Similarly, planting zinnias near brassicas, such as broccoli or cabbage, can attract pests, such as cabbage loopers, that can harm the zinnias.
Which Plants can Compete with Zinnias for Nutrients?
Plants that have similar nutrient requirements to zinnias can compete with them for nutrients.
For example, planting zinnias next to other annual flowers, such as petunias or impatiens, can lead to competition for nutrients.
Similarly, planting zinnias next to vegetables that have a similar nutrient requirement, such as peppers or eggplants, can also lead to competition for nutrients.
What are the Best Companion Plants for Zinnias?
While there are some plants that should not be planted with zinnias, there are many plants that make great companions for them.
These plants can attract pollinators, repel pests, and improve soil health.
What are the Benefits of Planting Marigolds with Zinnias?
Marigolds are a great companion plant for zinnias because they repel pests, such as nematodes and whiteflies, that can harm zinnias.
Marigolds also attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, that can help control pests in the garden.
How do Dahlia Plants Benefit Zinnias?
Dahlias are a great companion plant for zinnias because they attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, that can help pollinate the zinnia flowers.
Dahlias also add a pop of color to the garden and can help create a beautiful backdrop for zinnias.
Can Vegetables be Planted with Zinnias?
Yes, some vegetables can be planted with zinnias. Vegetables, such as tomatoes and beets, can benefit from the pollinators that zinnias attract.
It is important to avoid planting zinnias near vegetables that are susceptible to pests, such as brassicas.
How to Attract Beneficial Insects to Zinnias?
Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can help control pests in the garden.
Attracting beneficial insects to the garden can be done by planting companion plants that they like.
What are Beneficial Insects?
Beneficial insects are insects that help control pests in the garden. Ladybugs and lacewings, for example, are known for eating aphids and other garden pests.
How do Zinnias Attract Beneficial Insects?
Zinnias attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, by providing them with a source of nectar.
The flowers of zinnias are rich in nectar and can help attract these beneficial insects to the garden.
What are the Best Companion Plants to Attract Beneficial Insects to Zinnias?
The best companion plants to attract beneficial insects to zinnias are those that provide a source of nectar or shelter.
Some of the best companion plants for zinnias that attract beneficial insects include sunflowers, daisies, and goldenrod.
Conclusion
Zinnias are an excellent addition to any garden. However, it is important to choose the right companion plants for them and avoid planting certain plants that can harm them.
By planting the right companion plants, gardeners can attract pollinators, repel pests, and create a beautiful and healthy garden.
