Lemon Queen Sunflower is an heirloom variety renowned for its vibrant pale yellow petals and incredible ability to attract pollinators, especially bees. It’s the sunflower of choice for the Great Sunflower Project, a national study focused on tracking and supporting native bee populations. This multi-branched beauty produces an abundance of flowers throughout the summer, making it a perfect choice for cutting gardens. As autumn arrives, the seeds become a favorite for birds, adding wildlife interest to your garden.
Majestic and easy to grow, Lemon Queen thrives in almost any well-drained soil and is drought tolerant, making it a low-maintenance addition to your garden. Not just for show, sunflowers are edible, offering a bittersweet flavor that can add a pop of color to salads and desserts. The young buds, with their artichoke-like flavor, are also edible and can be grilled, marinated, or sautéed for a unique appetizer or side dish.
* SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILED GROWING INFO *
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• Growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in-house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Lemon Queen Sunflower
Latin Name: Helianthus annuus
Type: Annual
Life Cycle: Annual
USDA Zones: 3 - 10 (Grown as an annual in all zones)
Stratification: Not required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun
Moisture: Prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
Height: 5-7 feet
Spread: 2-3 feet
Color: Pale yellow petals with a dark center
Bloom Season: Blooms from mid-summer to early fall
Companion Plants: Ideal companions include corn, squash, cucumbers, and beans. Sunflowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects, improving the yield of nearby vegetables.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets
Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to a range of climates within its USDA zones; prefers warm, sunny conditions
~ Sowing ~
When to Sow Outside: Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost date, when the soil has warmed to at least 55°F (13°C).
When to Start Inside: Not typically recommended, as sunflowers do best when directly sown.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1 inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until seedlings are well-established. Avoid overwatering, as sunflowers prefer slightly dry conditions once established.
Light and Temperature: Lemon Queen Sunflowers thrive in full sun and warm temperatures.
Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-10 days.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing: If starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost when soil has warmed and seedlings have developed several true leaves.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and growth.
Transplanting: Gently transplant seedlings into prepared soil, taking care not to disturb the roots. Water well after planting.
~ Growing ~
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Once established, sunflowers are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from consistent moisture.
Fertilizing: Sunflowers benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost worked into the soil before planting. Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for pests such as aphids and caterpillars. Use organic pest control methods if necessary. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Maintenance: Stake tall sunflowers if necessary to prevent them from toppling over, especially in windy conditions.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: Harvest Lemon Queen Sunflowers when the petals begin to open, and the centers are still firm.
How to Harvest: Cut the stems at an angle just above a leaf node. Harvest early in the morning for the longest vase life.
Drying and Storing: Sunflowers can be dried for arrangements by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark place until fully dried.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow the flower heads to mature and dry on the plant. Once the seeds are fully developed and the back of the flower head has turned brown, cut the head and remove the seeds. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: Lemon Queen Sunflowers are a favorite among bees and other pollinators, making them a key addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
Origin: Sunflowers are native to North America and have been cultivated for centuries for their beauty and usefulness.
Nomenclature: The genus name "Helianthus" comes from the Greek words "helios," meaning sun, and "anthos," meaning flower.
History: Lemon Queen Sunflowers are particularly noted for their role in supporting bee populations through the Great Sunflower Project.
Potential Toxicity: Non-toxic and safe for consumption by humans and pets.
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in warm, sunny climates; suitable for a wide range of USDA zones.
