Zinnia Profusion Series

Description

The Zinnia Profusion Series is a popular ornamental flower that is widely grown in gardens and landscapes. This series of zinnias was developed by Sakata Seed Corporation and is known for its compact, bushy growth habit, and profuse blooming.The Zinnia Profusion Series includes several cultivars, such as Orange, White, Fire, Cherry, and Double Deep Salmon. Each cultivar produces medium-sized, semi-double or double flowers, which measure about 2-3 inches across. The flowers are borne on short, sturdy stems that rise above the foliage.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Zinnia Profusion Series has a compact, bushy growth habit and reaches a height of about 12-18 inches. The leaves are lance-shaped, dark green, and slightly hairy. The flowers are semi-double or double, with 8-12 petals arranged in a symmetrical pattern. The flowers come in various colors, including orange, white, pink, red, and salmon. The center of the flower is a small, raised disk that is yellow or brown in color.

Care Guide

Zinnia Profusion Series plants are easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips for their care:

Water: Water the plants deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Soil: Zinnias prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.

Sunlight: Zinnias need full sun to bloom profusely. They can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones: The Zinnia Profusion Series is an annual plant that is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. In cooler climates, it can be grown as a summer annual.

Common Pests & Diseases

Zinnias are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be affected by some problems. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect the Zinnia Profusion Series:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.

Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and brown. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew.

Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the flowers to rot and the leaves to turn brown. Remove infected parts of the plant and avoid overhead watering to prevent botrytis.

Habitat

The Zinnia Profusion Series is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in open, sunny areas. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the Zinnia Profusion Series be grown in containers?

A: Yes, the Zinnia Profusion Series is well-suited to container gardening. Choose a large container with good drainage and fill it with well-draining soil. Place the container in a sunny location and water the plant regularly.

Q: How often should I deadhead the Zinnia Profusion Series?

A: Deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Remove the entire flower head, including the stem, to promote new growth.

Q: Can the Zinnia Profusion Series tolerate drought?

A: While zinnias are drought-tolerant, they perform best with regular watering. Water the plants deeply when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Q: How do I propagate the Zinnia Profusion Series?

A: Zinnias are typically propagated by seed. Collect the seed heads after the flowers have faded and dry them out for a few days. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil in the spring, after the last frost.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to the Zinnia Profusion Series:

• Zinnia elegans
• Zinnia haageana
• Zinnia angustifolia
• Zinnia marylandica

References

• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/zinnia/growing-zinnia-flowers.htm
• https://www.almanac.com/plant/zinnias
• https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/annual/zinnia/