To plant sunflower seeds successfully, follow these steps:
Preparation and Timing
- The best time to plant sunflower seeds is after the last frost, typically between April and May, though you can sow as late as mid-June
- Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with rich, fertile soil. Improve soil by adding well-rotted manure or compost if needed
- Sunflowers grow well directly in the ground or in pots. If starting indoors, sow seeds in pots in late March or April, then transplant outdoors after hardening off
Planting Seeds
- Sow seeds about 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) deep in the soil or compost
- Space seeds about 6 inches (15 cm) apart for smaller varieties and 12 inches (30 cm) apart for taller types. Rows should be 2 to 3 feet apart if planting multiple rows
- If sowing in pots, place one seed per pot filled with peat-free compost, cover with about 1 cm of compost, and water gently
- For better germination indoors, cover pots with a clear plastic bag or propagator lid and keep them in a warm spot until seedlings emerge (usually within 1-2 weeks)
After Planting Care
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; water regularly especially during dry spells
- Protect young plants from slugs and snails, especially if planted outdoors
- When seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin out the weaker plants if multiple seeds were planted together
- If planting tall varieties, stake them to prevent wind damage
- Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 2-3 weeks before planting outside
Growth and Harvest
- Sunflowers typically flower about 8 to 18 weeks after planting depending on variety and conditions
- When flower heads start to turn brown, cut them off and dry them in a well-ventilated area to harvest seeds
This method ensures strong, healthy sunflower plants that will thrive and produce beautiful flowers and seeds
