How to prune narrow-leaf zinnia

Throughout the growing season; pinch young plants when 6 inches tall. Snip spent blooms back to the nearest leaf node or lateral shoot with clean scissors or fingernails. Pinch the growing tip of young plants once to encourage branching.

Every 1–2 weeks during bloom period. Narrow-leaf Zinnia benefits from deadheading to extend blooming through the season. Remove spent flowers just above a leaf node or side shoot to encourage branching and fresh buds. Unlike large-flowered zinnias, it is somewhat self-cleaning, but regular deadheading noticeably prolongs the display. Pinch young plants once at 6 inches to promote bushiness.

Snip spent blooms back to the nearest leaf node or lateral shoot with clean scissors or fingernails. Pinch the growing tip of young plants once to encourage branching.