What Not to Plant with Zinnias

Zinnias are beautiful and colorful flowers that are easy to grow in a variety of conditions. They can add a bright pop of color to any garden or landscape, but it's important to know what not to plant with zinnias to ensure their growth and health.

Avoid Planting Zinnias with These Flowers

While zinnias can be planted with a variety of flowers, there are some to avoid. For example, zinnias and petunias should not be planted together. Both of these flowers require a lot of nutrients and water, which can lead to competition and stunting of their growth. Additionally, zinnias and snapdragons should not be planted together. Although they are both popular summer flowers, snapdragons prefer cooler weather and may struggle to grow alongside the heat-loving zinnias.

Companion Plants for Zinnias

While some flowers should not be planted with zinnias, there are others that can thrive alongside them. Calendula, marigolds, and nasturtiums are all great companion plants for zinnias. They can attract beneficial insects, such as bees and ladybugs, which can help pollinate the zinnias and keep harmful pests at bay.

Zinnias and Vegetables

While zinnias can be paired with some vegetables, it is not recommended to plant them with others. For example, zinnias and tomatoes should not be planted together. Both of these plants require a lot of nutrients and may compete with each other. Additionally, tomatoes are susceptible to a variety of fungi and diseases, which can spread to the zinnias if they are planted too closely together. However, zinnias can be planted with onions, carrots, and radishes, which do not require as many nutrients and can grow alongside the zinnias without any problem.

Conclusion

Knowing what not to plant with zinnias can help ensure that they thrive in your garden or landscape. While you should avoid planting them with petunias and snapdragons, there are plenty of other companion plants, such as marigolds and nasturtiums, that can help enhance their growth and beauty. If you plan on planting zinnias alongside vegetables, make sure to avoid pairing them with tomatoes and opt for onions, carrots, and radishes instead.