Zinnias and marigolds are two of the most popular flowers that gardeners love to grow. They are not only beautiful but also low-maintenance, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike. However, the question remains: can you plant zinnias and marigolds together?
The answer is yes, you can plant zinnias and marigolds together. Both flowers are members of the Asteraceae family and have similar growing requirements. They both prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5, and enjoy moist soil without being overwatered.
When planted together, zinnias and marigolds can create a vibrant garden with a mix of colors and textures.
Companion planting is a popular gardening technique that involves growing different plants together to provide mutual benefits. In the case of zinnias and marigolds, they make great companion plants for a number of reasons.
They tend to grow in tidy, compact bushy forms, which make them easy to add to almost any area. They can also attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings while repelling harmful pests like aphids and whiteflies.
Key Takeaways
- Zinnias and marigolds can be planted together as they have similar growing requirements.
- Companion planting with zinnias and marigolds can provide mutual benefits and attract beneficial insects while repelling harmful pests.
- When planted together, zinnias and marigolds can create a vibrant garden with a mix of colors and textures.
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Understanding Zinnias and Marigolds
Characteristics of Zinnias
Zinnias are annual flowers that are native to Mexico and South America. They are known for their vibrant flowers that come in a range of bright colors such as red, yellow, orange, pink, and purple. Zinnias have a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from small, compact flowers to large, daisy-like blooms.
Zinnias belong to the genus Zinnia, which includes a range of species and cultivars. They are popular garden plants because of their easy care and long-lasting blooms. Zinnias thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, and they are relatively drought-tolerant.
Characteristics of Marigolds
Marigolds are also annual flowers that are known for their bright, vibrant colors. They come in a range of shades, including yellow, orange, and red. Marigolds have a distinct shape, with a round, pom-pom-like flower head and smooth leaves.
Marigolds belong to the genus Tagetes, which includes several species and cultivars. They are easy to grow and maintain, making them popular garden plants. Marigolds thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, and they are relatively drought-tolerant.
Both zinnias and marigolds are great options for gardeners who want to add vibrant, colorful flowers to their landscape. They have similar growth requirements, making them suitable to plant together in a cut flower garden, landscape, or in a pot.
Planting Zinnias and Marigolds Together
Ideal Conditions
Before planting zinnias and marigolds together, it is important to ensure that the soil conditions are ideal for both plants. Both zinnias and marigolds prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5. It is essential to test the soil and amend it to ensure the best growing conditions for the plants.
In addition, both plants enjoy moist soil, but it is important not to overwater them. The soil should be well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Organic matter can be added to the soil to improve its water-holding capacity.
Zinnias and marigolds thrive in full sun, so it is important to choose a location that gets direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. If planting in a pot, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep to allow for root growth.
Planting Procedure
To plant zinnias and marigolds together, first, prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of at least 6 inches. Add organic matter to the soil and mix it in well.
Next, dig holes for the plants, making sure that they are spaced at least 6 inches apart. Place the plants in the holes and fill them with soil, firming it around the plants.
Water the plants immediately after planting, and continue to water them regularly, making sure not to overwater. Fertilizers can be added to the soil to provide additional nutrients, but it is important not to over-fertilize, which can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.
Mulching can also be applied around the plants to help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weed growth. However, care should be taken not to cover the plant stems with mulch, as this can lead to stem rot.
Companion Planting Benefits
Companion planting is a technique in which different plants are grown together to benefit each other. In the case of zinnias and marigolds, there are several benefits to companion planting them together in a garden.
One of the main benefits of companion planting zinnias and marigolds is that they attract pollinators such as bees and beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies.
These insects are essential for pollinating vegetable gardens and can help control pests that may harm the plants. By planting zinnias and marigolds near vegetable gardens, you can attract these beneficial insects and improve the overall health of your garden.
Another benefit of companion planting zinnias and marigolds is that they can serve as a trap crop. Trap crops are plants that are grown to attract pests away from other plants.
In the case of zinnias and marigolds, they can attract pests such as aphids and whiteflies away from vegetables and herbs. This can help reduce the damage caused by these pests and improve the overall health of your garden.
In addition to attracting pollinators and serving as a trap crop, zinnias and marigolds can also help improve air circulation in a garden. By planting these flowers in between vegetable plants, they can help create a more open and airy environment. This can help reduce the risk of fungal diseases and improve the overall health of the garden.
Maintenance and Care
Zinnias and marigolds are relatively low-maintenance plants that are easy to grow together. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when caring for these plants.
1. Deadheading
Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers from the plant. This encourages the plant to produce more flowers and can extend the blooming period. Both zinnias and marigolds benefit from deadheading. It is recommended to deadhead zinnias once a week and marigolds as needed.
2. Fertilizer
Zinnias and marigolds do not require a lot of fertilizer. However, they do benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a month. A fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content can cause the plants to produce more foliage and fewer flowers.
3. Pruning
Zinnias and marigolds do not require much pruning. However, if the plants become leggy or overgrown, they can be pruned back to encourage bushier growth. It is recommended to prune zinnias and marigolds in the early summer before they begin to flower.
4. Other Maintenance
Other maintenance tasks for zinnias and marigolds include watering, mulching, and pest control. Both plants require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.
Mulching can help retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from growing. Marigolds are known for their pest-repelling properties, but both zinnias and marigolds can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and spider mites. Regular inspections and appropriate pest control measures can help prevent infestations.
Pest and Disease Management
When planting zinnias and marigolds together, it is important to keep an eye out for potential pest and disease issues that may arise. While both plants are relatively easy to grow and maintain, they can still be susceptible to certain pests and diseases.
One common pest that may affect both zinnias and marigolds are aphids. These small, soft-bodied insects can cause damage to the foliage and flowers of the plants by sucking the sap from the leaves. To manage aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are both effective and safe options for controlling aphids.
Another pest that may affect zinnias and marigolds are white sage beetles. These beetles can cause significant damage to the foliage and flowers of the plants. To manage white sage beetles, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, as well as hand-picking the beetles off the plants.
In addition to pests, zinnias and marigolds may also be susceptible to certain diseases such as fungal diseases and nematodes. To prevent fungal diseases, it is recommended to avoid overhead watering and to provide adequate air circulation around the plants. Nematodes can be managed by rotating crops and planting nematode-resistant varieties.
Other Companion Plants
Zinnias and marigolds are great companion plants that can be planted together in a variety of settings. However, there are other plants that can also be planted alongside these two flowers to create a beautiful and productive garden.
1. Vegetables
Tomatoes, squash, potatoes, peppers, carrots, radishes, and kale are all great vegetables to plant with zinnias and marigolds. These vegetables benefit from the pollination and pest-repelling properties of these flowers. In addition, the bright colors of the flowers can help attract pollinators to the garden, which can increase the yield of these vegetables.
2. Herbs
Basil, thyme, and lavender are all great herbs to plant with zinnias and marigolds. These herbs are known for their ability to repel pests and attract beneficial insects, which can help keep the garden healthy and productive. In addition, the fragrant flowers and leaves of these herbs can add a pleasant aroma to the garden.
3. Flowers
Sunflowers, cosmos, French marigolds, and salvia are all great flowers to plant with zinnias and marigolds. These flowers can add color and texture to the garden, and they can also help attract pollinators and repel pests. In addition, these flowers can provide a habitat for beneficial insects, which can help keep the garden healthy and productive.
4. Other Plants
Dahlias and asparagus are two other plants that can be planted with zinnias and marigolds. Dahlias are known for their large, colorful blooms, and they can add a dramatic touch to the garden. Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that can provide a tasty and nutritious addition to the garden.
Creating a Vibrant Garden
Planting zinnias and marigolds together can create a vibrant garden that adds a pop of color to any landscape. These two flowers complement each other well and can be grown together in a cut flower garden, raised beds, or even in pots.
Zinnias are available in a wide range of colors, including vibrant shades of pink, orange, and red. They can be planted in the front of a garden bed or along a trellis to add height and dimension.
Marigolds, on the other hand, are available in shades of yellow, orange, and even salmon. They are drought-tolerant and can thrive in hot, dry conditions, making them an excellent choice for gardeners in arid regions.
When planting zinnias and marigolds together, it is important to choose varieties that have similar growth requirements. Both flowers prefer well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. They can be planted together in raised beds or containers filled with a high-quality potting mix.
To create a vibrant garden, consider planting zinnias and marigolds in groups of three or more. This will help to create a cohesive look and make it easier to maintain the garden. Deadheading the flowers regularly will also encourage more blooms and keep the garden looking fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do zinnias repel insects?
Zinnias are known to attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects to the garden. However, they do not have any insect-repelling properties. In fact, some insects, such as aphids, can be attracted to zinnias.
What not to plant with zinnia?
Zinnias are generally compatible with most other plants. However, they should not be planted with herbs that prefer dry, sandy soils, such as lavender. This is because zinnias prefer well-drained soil that is kept moist.
Can I plant geraniums and marigolds together?
Yes, geraniums and marigolds can be planted together. They are both easy to grow and have similar growth requirements. Geraniums can also help repel some insects, such as mosquitoes.
What flowers pair well with marigolds?
Marigolds are one of those companion plants that seem to plant well with everything. However, some flowers that pair particularly well with marigolds include petunias, salvia, and zinnias.
What pairs with zinnias?
Zinnias pair well with a variety of flowers, including cosmos, snapdragons, and dahlias. They also look great when planted in mass plantings or mixed borders.
How do you plant zinnias in a flower bed?
When planting zinnias in a flower bed, it is important to choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. The soil should be prepared by adding organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve soil structure, drainage, and nutrient content.
Zinnias can be planted directly in the ground after the last frost or started indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. They should be spaced 6-18 inches apart, depending on the variety, and watered regularly to keep the soil moist.
Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below