Will birds eat my zinnia seeds?

As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that birds absolutely love to eat zinnia seeds. It is not uncommon to see birds, particularly goldfinches, feasting on the seeds of zinnia plants even before the petals have fully wilted. These colorful blooms are not only a delight to the human eye but also a treat for our feathered friends.

One of the reasons why birds are attracted to zinnia seeds is their high nutritional value. Zinnia seeds are rich in fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, making them a desirable food source for birds, especially during the colder months when food may be scarce. Additionally, zinnia seeds are relatively easy for birds to access and consume, which further adds to their appeal.

I have personally witnessed goldfinches flocking to my zinnia plants, pecking at the seeds with great enthusiasm. It is a joy to observe these beautiful birds enjoying a natural feast in my garden. Their vibrant yellow feathers stand out against the backdrop of colorful zinnia blooms, creating a picturesque scene that is a delight to behold.

If you are interested in attracting more birds to your garden, planting zinnias is a fantastic choice. These flowers not only provide a visual feast but also serve as a natural buffet for birds and butterflies. By planting zinnias in a designated bird and butterfly garden, you can create a haven for these creatures, enhancing the biodiversity of your outdoor space.

To further encourage birds to eat zinnia seeds, you can leave the flowers to fully mature and dry on the plant. This allows the seeds to fully develop and become more appealing to birds. Once the petals have wilted and the flower heads have dried, you can collect the seed heads and scatter them in a designated bird feeding area or hang them in a mesh bag or feeder. This provides easy access for birds to enjoy the seeds and ensures that they are well-fed.

Zinnia seeds are a highly desirable food source for birds, particularly goldfinches. These vibrant flowers not only add beauty to your garden but also attract birds and butterflies, enriching the biodiversity of your outdoor space. By allowing the zinnia flowers to fully mature and collecting the seed heads for bird feeders, you can create a haven for our feathered friends and enjoy the delightful sight of birds feasting on zinnia seeds.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.