Hi ZenMan,
I've been super busy and had a terrible virus earlier this week but all is well now. I just wanted to thank you for your response to all my questions!! I figured out some stuff based on the information you've given me.
As far as germination, I believe I was overwatering my zinnia seedlings as well as not working the soil well enough before planting. There may have been large particles too close to where I planted, and thus, may have rotted them. I live in a double triplex and my landlord gave me permission to plant flowers in the front but I choose a spot that is not the most ideal because we don't have gutters. However, it is front of my giant living room window, so I wanted to be able to see them. When the Florida monsoons come, it is a nightmare for my baby plants but I am determined. So needless to say, that was a learning curve and I lost some plants. We had an unbelievable amount of rain Wednesday in a very short period of time (all of which comes barreling off the roof right behind my zinnia garden) I use a kiddie pool without the plug in it to slow the rate of water coming down near the garden. I only have to do this occasionally. This time, instead of losing all of my seedlings, I only lost 3 or so. I also have a zinnia/sunflower garden in the middle of the common area at my complex and put in my second round of seeds on Tuesday after I worked the soil better (making sure there was enough sand mixed into the miracle grow topsoil) and many of the seedlings have popped up today. I love that part! I think the problem with zinnia germination in that area was just not tilling well enough, as I only have a hand tiller and not nearly enough time. It was previously a weedy "lawn" so there was a lot of work to get it in shape. Now I think it is finally suitable. I am so looking forward to seeing my flowers grow.
We discussed plant life span here in Florida. I have noticed that my button box zinnias have definitely struggled with funky looking leaves, although it doesn't appear to effect the blooms most of the time. I also planted them too close together and now understand they need "breathing room".I have not sprayed anything on them but I am going to order some greencure soon.
My question to you now is about seed saving. Once I have pollinated a flower, I wait a few days before harvest, correct? Then, when I collect seeds, is there anything in particular that tells me a seed has been fertilized? I noticed some seeds are white while others are darker.
Thanks, as always, for all the information.
Carebear
