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 50°F and 86°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 8 - 18 inches apart
  • Harvest in 10-11 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Cucumbers, Melons, Sweetcorn, Squash
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Your comments and tips

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for USA | for all countries
05 Apr 23, (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Try internet sites.
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24 Mar 23, Wayne Thresher (New Zealand - temperate climate)
I lost most of my crop to the wet chill weather this past summer. I'll have to buy chook feed this year. Can anyone recommend the hardiest crop that can tough out changing climate. rainy, windy wet cold ... nevermind... I'm moving :) Same question for maize if you have knowledge
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27 Mar 23, (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
The weather works against us sometimes.
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21 Feb 23, Jordan (USA - Zone 5b climate)
Hi! We are looking to plant sunflowers from seeds in the North Shore of Chicago area, I believe we are zone 5b for zip code 60045. I have seen people reference "the guide" but am curious if someone could point me towards where I might find this magical panacea of information? Thank you! (Gardenate uses https://www.gardenate.com/zones/#zone-US)
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22 Feb 23, Anonymous (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
You work out your climate zone from the blue tab at the top of the page. Then go to the plant you want to grow - sun flowers.
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06 Jan 23, brilliant mdunge (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
can I plant sunflower in Southern upper south coast Ixopo Richmond areas ?
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13 Feb 23, (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
Find your climate zone then check the planting guide for that climate.
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27 Aug 22, Dylinda Matiga (Australia - tropical climate)
I don't think sunflowers like the tropics, I think they need long days to reach full potential If you start them in March they are scrappy if it's too wet they are scrappy. In Sydney they grow huge every variety In the tropics they are scappy, a couple yellow varieties just reach 6ft I'm in Philippines autumn beauty in Sydney is brilliant but here it's scrappy. I'm experimenting year round with some 20 varieties. Helianthus tuberous would be ideal, I can't get it D Every sunflower l know will grow scrapyif planted in autumn, the flower is yuk But if you know of autumn varieties please inform me Cheers D
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31 Aug 22, (Australia - tropical climate)
Plant after the wet season. Maybe it is your soil - have good draining soil. Try making a raised row or bed and plant in the top.
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21 Aug 22, Jennifer Bozick (USA - Zone 6a climate)
When is a good date to start planting Sunflowers in Kansas 6a growing zone?
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Showing 31 - 40 of 175 comments
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Taryn, in sub-tropical areas they should last well into autumn. You can plant now (January) to ensure they will grow through autumn, and start planting again in early spring.

- Chris

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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