This giant among sunflowers is a fast grower that can reach 12' tall and produce 10" - 12" flowers! Not fussy about soil, it’s very easy to grow and drought tolerant.
Grow in a tight row to cover up that not-so-pretty chain link fence or make an attractive screen. Edible gray striped seeds invite birds in the fall (if you don’t eat them first!)
• Typically grows up to 8-12 ft. tall (240-360 cm) and 24-48 in. wide (60-120 cm). May need support.
• Prefers full sun and enjoys moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist, neutral to alkaline, well-drained soils. Site in a sheltered location, as the wind may catch the heavy heads.
• Low maintenance, this is an excellent choice for the back of perennial borders where the dazzling flowers are welcomed in any color scheme. Perfectly suited to the cutting garden, or cottage gardens.
• Attractive to birds, butterflies and bees, it is deer resistant.
~ planting ~
• Choose the right time:
Annual sunflowers are typically planted in the spring, after the last frost date in your area. Make sure that the soil has warmed up to at least 55ºF (13ºC) before planting. If you have a short growing season, you may want to start indoors.
• Prepare the soil:
Sunflowers prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller (about 2 ft. deep (60 cm) and adding compost or aged manure to the planting area.
• Plant the seeds:
Sunflowers can be planted directly in the garden or started indoors and transplanted later. To plant directly in the garden, make a hole that is about 1 inch deep (2.5 cm), drop in a seed, and cover with soil.
• Space the plants:
Sunflowers need plenty of space to grow, so make sure to plant them at least 12-18 inches apart, ), depending on the ultimate size of the plant. Larger varieties may need even more space.
• Succession Planting:
To enjoy continuous blooms from your annual Sunflowers, plant seeds every two weeks in succession from spring to early summer.
~ growing ~
• Watering:
Sunflowers need regular watering to establish a strong root system. Water deeply once a week or more frequently in hot, dry weather. Avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot and other issues. Once established, they can tolerate some drought.
• Fertilizing:
Sunflowers do not need a lot of fertilizer, and over-fertilizing can actually be harmful to the plant. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help to promote growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flower production.
• Supporting:
Tall sunflower varieties may need support to prevent them from falling over. Bamboo stakes will help support the stem and prevent them from breaking under the weight of the flower heads. Alternatively, plant them near a fence or wall for support.
• Deadheading:
Removing spent flowers can help to promote continued blooming and prevent the plant from putting energy into producing seeds. Simply snip off the spent flower with a pair of pruners or scissors.
• Weeds:
Keep weeds under control during the growing season.
• Mulch:
Add mulch to help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures.
