Here’s a concise guide to growing sunflowers
1. Choose a Sunny Spot: Pick a location with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Soil should be well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic (pH 6.0–7.5).
2. Sow Seeds Directly: Plant seeds 1–2 inches deep and 6–12 inches apart (depending on the variety) after the last frost. Sunflowers dislike transplanting, so direct sowing is best.
3. Water Regularly: Keep soil moist until seedlings emerge, then water deeply once a week. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
4. Support Tall Varieties: For giants like 'Russian Mammoth', stake stems when they reach 1–2 feet tall to prevent wind damage.
5. Fertilize Sparingly: Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) once or twice during the growing season, but avoid excess nitrogen, which may reduce flower size.
6. Harvest Blooms: Cut flowers when petals fully open and the back of the head turns yellow. For seeds, wait until the head browns, then dry and collect. Sunflowers are hardy and perfect for beginners—they thrive in warm weather and attract pollinators! 🌻
