Growing Sunflower

helianthus annuus : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
        P P            

(Best months for growing Sunflower in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 30°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 20 - 45 cm apart
  • Harvest in 10-11 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Cucumbers, Melons, Sweetcorn, Squash
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Your comments and tips

02 Oct 16, Josie (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
I have had the same when I harvested the seeds from the King sunflowers from the season before and planted them. They look mutant !
04 Oct 16, Chris (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
Maybe an F1 hybrid so they won't grow true in following generations?
20 Sep 16, Jaxon K (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
How do i protect the sunflower heads from birds
01 Oct 16, May (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
If you want to save the seeds before the birds eat them, you can tie lightweight bags, made of gauze or something that can breathe and allow sun through around the flower heads, though it is not as pretty as having the flowers out in the open. Reflective surfaces that move in the wind and reflect flares of sunlight are supposed to also deter birds, because it irritates them or creates the illusion of fire... I know some people hang old cd's amongst their plants, but I haven't tried it, because again, not so pretty.. Not sure if it works and obviously when it is overcast and there's no wind, there won't be any movement or bright light to reflect.. But maybe worth a try?
13 Apr 16, Susan Stewart (Australia - temperate climate)
Is the sunflower root edible? If so, is it similar to the helianthus variety known as Jerusalem Artichoke?
10 Feb 16, Beverley Hall (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
What month is best to plant sunflower seeds?
09 Feb 16, linn (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
hi there, i live in broome in north western australia, was wondering when is the best time to plant sunflowers
10 Mar 15, (Australia - temperate climate)
I am trying to grow giant sunflowers from seed I purchased at a reputable seed dealer, I can get a 40% germination rate in seed pots but the seedlings are very leggy and tend to lay down at 7.5cm high. In the ground I did get three to sprout, quite upright about 10cm high but then nothing. No further growth for around around four weeks. What am I doing wrong? Good quality potting soil, slow release in soil and I also use fish emulsion about every 8 weeks. All my other plants in the garden and pots are thriving. Any ideas? Please
20 Feb 20, Bazza (Australia - temperate climate)
Hi, Are you using manure from a farm ? Your description sounds like Clopyralid poisoning.
04 Jun 14, Reynet (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Good day My daughter getting married in April 2014 \we need 150 sunflowers. when must i plant them. We stay in Pietermartizburg KZN
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