How to Grow Profusion Red
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Profusion Red
Zinnia × hybrida 'Profusion Red'
flowerProfusion Red is a compact zinnia cultivar bred for continuous flowering and disease resistance. It produces vibrant red semi-double flowers on bushy, self-cleaning plants that require minimal deadheading. This hybrid is highly valued for its prolific blooming throughout the growing season and low-maintenance care requirements.
When should you plant Profusion Red in your zone?
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Example Profusion Red timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Profusion Red
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Profusion Red blooms
Around Jun 6≈ 50 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Profusion Red dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 2-11; annual everywhere but performs best in zones 3-9
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Get my Profusion Red timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
10-14 daysTiny seed leaves emerge; plant develops first true leaves. Growth is slow initially.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light (12-14 hours daily). Maintain 70-75°F for optimal germination.
Vegetative
2-3 weeksPlant develops multiple stems and true leaves; begins forming a compact, bushy shape.
Harden off transplants gradually before planting outdoors. Pinch growing tips at 4-6 inches tall to encourage bushiness. Water regularly but avoid overhead irrigation.
Flowering (Early)
1-2 weeksFirst flower buds appear; plant transitions from purely vegetative growth to reproductive phase.
Ensure consistent watering and full sun exposure. Apply balanced fertilizer weekly. Remove any damaged leaves.
Flowering (Peak)
8-12 weeks or until frostPlant is covered with vibrant red semi-double flowers; continuous blooming throughout season with minimal deadheading needed.
Deadhead occasionally to encourage more flowers, though 'Profusion' is self-cleaning. Water at base of plant. Apply light fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Remove diseased leaves promptly.
Decline/End of Season
Until first frostFlowering slows as temperatures drop and frost approaches. Plant may show signs of stress from heat or disease.
Continue watering and light feeding until first frost. Pull up entire plant after frost kills it. Collect seeds if desired before discarding.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream to dislodge. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap. Increase humidity around plants. Remove heavily infested foliage.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Encourage natural predators. Remove affected leaves.
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Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants adequately. Avoid overhead watering. Apply sulfur dust or fungicide at first sign. Remove affected leaves.
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Spray with water to remove. Use insecticidal soap. Introduce ladybugs. Pinch off heavily infested stems.
Uses
Edible flower garnish
CulinaryZinnia petals are technically edible and can be used as colorful garnishes for salads, desserts, and beverages. They offer a mild, slightly peppery flavor. [source]
Cut and dried arrangements
HouseholdRed zinnias dry beautifully and retain their vibrant color well. They can be air-dried for use in wreaths, floral arrangements, and decorative crafts. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeProfusion Red zinnias are excellent nectar sources for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, supporting important garden pollinators throughout the season. [source]
Flower pressing and botanical art
CraftThe semi-double red flowers press and dry well for use in pressed flower art, bookmarks, and botanical crafts, retaining color for several months. [source]
Landscape color and curb appeal
HouseholdAs a prolific, low-maintenance bedding plant, Profusion Red provides consistent, vibrant red color for garden beds, borders, containers, and landscape designs from summer through fall. [source]
Harvest Tips
Profusion Red is an ornamental flower not typically harvested. For cut flowers, cut stems in early morning after dew dries. Cut just above a leaf node. Flowers last 7-10 days in a vase. Deadheading spent flowers encourages more blooms but is optional due to the cultivar's self-cleaning nature.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The 'Profusion' series was developed specifically for disease resistance and continuous self-cleaning blooms, requiring virtually no deadheading—a major advantage over traditional zinnias.
- 🌱 Zinnias originated in Mexico and were named after Johann Gottfried Zinn, an 18th-century botanist, though they weren't widely cultivated in Europe until the 1800s.
- 🌱 Profusion Red flowers can attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees simultaneously, making it one of the most beneficial flowers for pollinator-friendly gardens despite being an ornamental.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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