A member of the Aster family, sunflowers are some of the funnest and easiest flowers you can grow, and they make for some pretty spectacular gardens! Follow these 6 tips for growing sunflowers in your garden and enjoy a garden-full of beautiful yellow flowers all summer long!
The sunflower is native to Central North America and has been grown for centuries.
Tips for Growing Sunflowers
Sunflower Varieties:
There are actually over 70 sunflower varieties and they all range in size. The smallest, a dwarf variety only reach 1 1/2 feet in height, while the mammoth variety can tower at about 8 feet in height.
Planting Time:
Plant sunflower seeds in early spring, or after the last frost date. Although you can sow seeds indoors ahead of time, they do prefer to be planted directly into the ground. Plant each seed about an inch deep, and about 6 inches apart.
Soil:
Sunflowers aren't finnicky about the type of soil they grow in. In fact, they'll grow in almost any type of soil as long as compost or other organic matter is added in. This is because sunflowers are heavy feeders, so be sure to add some organic matter to whatever soil you are using.
Sunlight:
As the name suggests, sunflowers love the sun! Be sure to plant them in an area where they will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Try to plant them on the northern side of your garden so they won't shade other plants.
Watering Sunflowers:
Water sunflowers in the spring, right when new growth begins. Even though these plants are drought resistant, watering them regularly will ensure brighter and bigger plants!
Bloom Time:
Sunflowers will develop their stalk during the spring, but will bloom all summer long until early fall.
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