How to sow your free zinnia seeds
Grow gorgeous, zingy zinnias from the free seed in our June 2021 subscriber edition of BBC Gardeners' World Magazine.
Zinnias are mostly annual plants with cheery, daisy-like flowers. Native to Mexico, they're ideal for filling gaps in borders and are great for adding eye-popping colour to pot displays.
Your June subscriber edition comes with a free double-pack of seeds of cornflower 'Blue Ball' and vibrant zinnia 'Early Wonder'. This is a lovely mix of single and semi-double zinnias in colours ranging from bright pink and yellow to red.
More on growing zinnias
Follow our full zinnia Grow Guide and discover more varieties to try, in our collection of June extras. Plus, find out more about growing pollinator-friendly wildflowers, in our collection of inspirational features and practical projects.
Get the best possible results by following our step-by-step video sowing guide, below.
You Will Need
- Zinnia seeds
- Multipurpose, peat-free compost
- Small pots
- Seed tray
- Dibber
- Watering can with rose attachment
- Plant labels
- Pencil
Step 1
Pour multi-purpose compost into a small pot. Gently tamp it level about 1cm below the rim to leave room for watering.
Step 2
Place the seeds about 3cm apart on the surface. Cover lightly with compost, ideally using a sieve to remove any lumps.
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Step 3
Water using a small watering can with a rose, so the seeds are not dislodged. Place in a warm spot and keep the compost just moist.
Step 4
Pricking out: Gather your seedlings, some slightly larger pots, fresh multi-purpose compost and a dibber. Fill one new pot with compost.
Step 5
Holding a seedling by a leaf, use the dibber to lever it out of the compost, bringing all the roots with it.
Step 6
Firm and water in gently.
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