SpringSummerFallWinter

About Sunflowers

Sunflowers are companion flowers and a seed crop, not an herb. Dwarf types stay 12–36 inches; giants reach 8–12 ft. Birds will vote on harvest day.

When to Plant

Direct-sow after last frost when soil is 60°F+. Succession-sow for a longer bloom.

How to Plant

Sow 1–1.5 inches deep (2–3 inches is too deep for many varieties). Space 12 inches for branching types, 18–24 inches for giants. Full sun. Stake giants once the head has begun to weigh the stem.

When to Harvest

For seed, cover heads with paper bags when the back of the head turns yellow. Cut when the back is brown, dry, and rub out seed. For cut flowers, harvest when petals just lift.