You can bring zinnias indoors in the winter if you want to protect them from the cold temperatures. However, it’s important to note that zinnias are true annuals, which means they have a natural lifespan and will eventually die, even with proper care. Bringing them indoors may extend their lifespan slightly, but they are not typically long-lived plants.
If you have limited space indoors, it may be a good idea to prioritize the most tender plants that you really don’t want to risk losing, rather than trying to bring in all your zinnias. This could include rare or valuable varieties, or plants that hold sentimental value for you.
To bring zinnias indoors, start by carefully digging up the plants from the garden, taking care not to damage the roots. Choose healthy, vigorous plants with no signs of disease or pests. If you have multiple zinnias, you can select the strongest ones to bring indoors.
Once you have dug up the zinnias, gently shake off any excess soil from the roots. It’s a good idea to trim back the foliage to reduce stress on the plants during the transition. Leave about 4-6 inches of stem attached to the plant.
Next, prepare a container for each zinnia plant. Use pots that have drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, as zinnias do not like overly wet conditions. Fill the pots with a well-draining potting mix, and plant each zinnia at the same depth it was growing in the garden.
Place the potted zinnias in a location indoors that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Zinnias require at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day, so choose a spot near a south-facing window if possible. If natural light is limited, you can supplement with artificial grow lights to ensure the plants receive adequate light.
Water the zinnias when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. It’s also a good idea to provide some humidity for the plants by placing a tray of water near them or using a humidifier.
While zinnias can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, try to keep the indoor temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal growth. Avoid placing the plants near drafts or heating vents, as sudden temperature changes can stress them.
It’s important to keep in mind that even with the best care, zinnias may not thrive indoors for an extended period of time. They are best suited for outdoor growing and are typically grown as annuals in gardens. However, bringing them indoors can provide temporary enjoyment and allow you to enjoy their beauty for a little longer during the winter months.
If you have a garage or other cool storage area, you can also consider storing your zinnias in pots, in soil, for the winter. Before the first frost, dig up the zinnias and pot them in containers filled with well-draining soil. Place the pots in a cool, dark location, such as a garage or basement, where temperatures stay above freezing but remain cool. Water the plants sparingly throughout the winter to prevent the soil from completely drying out. In early spring, when the danger of frost has passed, you can reintroduce the potted zinnias to the outdoors.
While you can bring zinnias indoors in the winter, it’s important to remember that they are true annuals and will eventually die, even with proper care. Consider bringing in the most tender or valuable plants, and storing the rest in pots, in soil, in a cool location such as a garage. Enjoy their beauty while they last, and look forward to planting new zinnias in the next growing season.
