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
24 Mar 22, Pete (USA - Zone 8b climate)
What ph is required for sunflowers. Im guessing 7.0. Do they benefit from composted chicken droppings?
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02 Aug 21, Renee (USA - Zone 6a climate)
Is it too late to plant sunflower seeds in Ohio (zone 6) and expect results?
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06 Aug 21, (USA - Zone 6a climate)
Go by the guide here.
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06 Jul 21, Tracey (USA - Zone 9b climate)
I’m new at this and just picked a 6ft sunflower roots and all in Texas and I’m going to replant in Arizona Zone9B. How often do they have to be watered?
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10 Jul 21, Anon (USA - Zone 11b climate)
The longer you leave to transplant something the harder it is to have it survive. The roots can not take up enough water to keep a full grown plant a live. In zone 9b you should have harvested the sunflower by now. You transplant when plants are young 2-6 new leaf stage
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07 Jul 21, Liz (New Zealand - temperate climate)
If they survive the move and don't have too much root damage, then water every two to three days. to keep the roots damp but not swamped.
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05 May 21, Lisa (Canada - zone 4a Temperate Warm Summer climate)
My sunflower seedlings are ready to plant outside. Can they withstand a little frost ? Or should I wait to transplant until the end of may
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06 May 21, Anonymous (Canada - zone 4a Temperate Warm Summer climate)
Probably you could wait another week or two. Judge by your local conditions.
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07 Apr 21, Donna Mourra (USA - Zone 10b climate)
I'm looking for a sunflower plant for Zone 10
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08 Apr 21, Anonymous (USA - Zone 10b climate)
Google a sunflower seed selling website and pick one out.
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Showing 51 - 60 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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