How to keep zinnias from getting too tall?

As an experienced gardener who grows zinnias every year, here are several methods to control their height:1. Pinching Back- When: When plants are 6-8 inches tall- How: Use fingers or pruners to remove the top 2-3 inches- Result: Encourages bushier growth with more side branches2. Regular Deadheading- Remove spent flowers consistently- Cut back to a leaf node or side shoot- Prevents energy going to seed production3. Choose Shorter Varieties- Dwarf zinnias: 'Thumbelina', 'Persian Carpet', 'Lilliput'- Medium height: 'Profusion', 'Zahara' series- Check seed packets for expected height4. Proper Spacing- Don't overcrowd - plants stretch for light when too close- Follow spacing guidelines on seed packets (usually 6-12 inches)5. Strategic Pruning- Cut back by 1/3 in midsummer if they get leggy- They'll regrow bushier with more flowers- Best done in cooler weather or evening6. Light Management- Full sun (6+ hours daily) prevents stretching for light- Rotate containers for even light exposure7. Fertilizer Balance- Too much nitrogen = tall, weak growth- Use balanced fertilizer or one higher in phosphorus- Avoid over-fertilizing - zinnias aren't heavy feeders8. Support Methods- Use small stakes for individual stems- Grow-through grids for entire beds- Twiggy branches inserted around plants for natural supportPro Tips:- Start pinching early - it's more effective than correcting later- Water at base not overhead to prevent disease- Morning watering allows foliage to dry- Succession planting - new plants every 2-3 weeks for continuous bloomZinnias are remarkably resilient - you can be quite aggressive with pruning and they'll bounce back quickly with even more flowers!