Sunflowers

Dwarf Sunflowers - Key Growing Information

Neither children nor adults can resist the allure of a patch of sweet dwarf sunflowers.
DAYS TO GERMINATION: 7-14 days at 70-75°F (21-24°C).

SOWING:
Direct seed (recommended) — Sow after last frost in groups of 3-4 seeds, 1/2" deep. Thin to one plant when true leaves appear. Transplant — Sow in final container, placing 1 seed per 6" pot or 3 seeds per gallon container, 3-4 weeks prior to planting out. Dislikes root disturbance. If transplanting to beds, wait for 3-4 true leaves to appear.

GROWING ON:
Grow at 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day and 50-60°F (10-16°C) at night. Warmer temperatures cause stretching; cooler temperatures cause plants to be more dwarf.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:
Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:
Light, well-drained soil of low to moderate fertility.

PLANT SPACING:
8-12". Space plants so that leaves do not touch. Crowding promotes taller growth and weaker stems.

HARDINESS ZONES:
Annual.

HARVEST:
Fresh: Harvest when flowers are just beginning to open. Dried: Flowers are completely open. Hang or use silica gel.

USES:
Excellent in containers or for mass plantings.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:
Helianthus annus