When it comes to the benefits of plants, most of us tend to think about how they purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. However, not all plants are equal when it comes to producing oxygen. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the zinnia plant and how much oxygen it can produce.
Zinnias are annual flowering plants that belong to the Asteraceae family. They are native to North and South America and come in a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and white. Zinnias are popular garden plants because of their vibrant colors and long blooming season.
Like all plants, zinnias produce oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, plants use energy from sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (sugar) and oxygen.
Zinnias have a high rate of photosynthesis due to their large surface area and high chlorophyll content. Chlorophyll is the pigment responsible for capturing light energy during photosynthesis. The more chlorophyll a plant has, the more efficiently it can produce oxygen.
The amount of oxygen a plant produces depends on several factors, including its size, age, and environmental conditions. However, according to a study conducted by NASA, zinnias have one of the highest rates of oxygen production among indoor plants.
In the study, researchers found that a single zinnia plant can produce approximately 0.069 milliliters of oxygen per hour per gram of biomass. This means that a typical zinnia plant weighing 100 grams can produce around 6.9 milliliters of oxygen per hour.
While this may not seem like a lot, it’s important to remember that plants produce oxygen continuously throughout the day and night. A single zinnia plant can produce enough oxygen to support one person for approximately 12 hours.
In addition to producing oxygen, zinnias offer several other benefits:
Q: Can zinnias grow indoors?
A: Yes, zinnias can be grown indoors as long as they receive plenty of sunlight and are kept in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water my zinnia plant?
A: Zinnias prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How long do zinnia plants live?
A: Zinnias are annuals, which means they complete their life cycle in one growing season. However, they can self-seed and come back the following year if left to do so.
Q: Do zinnias attract pests?
A: While zinnias are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, they can attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap can help to prevent infestations.
Q: Can zinnias be used for cut flowers?
A: Yes, zinnias make excellent cut flowers due to their long vase life and vibrant colors. To maximize their vase life, cut zinnias in the morning and place them in a vase with fresh water and floral preservative.
In conclusion, zinnias are not only beautiful and easy to care for, but they also have a high rate of oxygen production. Adding zinnias to your garden or indoor space can help to improve air quality and support the health and well-being of those around you.