If they are standing straight just leave them the stems will thicken and they will bush outnow that they are getting more sunlight. If they are falling over stake them and tie with something soft like an old nylon cut in strips, until they can stand on their own.

Dale,

Spindly zinnia seedlings are usually a sign that you don't have enough light on them. If they were under fluorescent lights, they should be within 2 or 3 inches of the fluorescent tubes. They would like about 16 hours of light per day. Also, it helps to have a small electric fan blow on them to give them a little breeze, which exercises their stems to make them thicker and stronger. Young zinnias should get a complete nutrient formula that includes micronutrients. I use Better-Gro Orchid Plus because it is urea-free. I dilute it about one-half teaspoon per gallon. Lowe's Home stores usually carry it, or it is available at several Internet stores.

I also feed my zinnias a little potassium silicate to help them develop strong cell walls. Silicon isn't absolutely necessary for plant growth, but it can be very beneficial for plant health. Zinnias will absorb and use quite a bit of silicon, if it is available. Rice growers use a lot of it. A commercial product that contains silicon is ProTeKt. Some garden centers carry it, but it is also available at several Internet stores.

ZM

Thanks for the tips!!

dale