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Learn How To Plant, Care and Grow Gorgeous Sunflowers

Annual Sunflowers, Perennial Sunflowers


Cherished for their beauty, Sunflowers (Helianthus) are striking ornamental annuals or perennial plants grown for their colorful summer and fall blooms. Fast-growing, they can reward you with glamorous blooms between 55 and 100 days after planting, depending on the variety grown. They are exceptionally carefree plants if they are given a well-chosen site. Here are some basic rules that need to be followed to enjoy their splendid flowers.

Fun Facts about Sunflowers

  1. Sunflowers are heliotropic, meaning that they follow the movement of the sun. This is called solar tracking, and it helps the plant to maximize its exposure to sunlight.

  2. The tallest sunflower on record was over 30 feet tall! It was grown in Germany in 2014.

  3. Sunflowers are native to North America and were cultivated by Native Americans as a source of food and oil.

  4. Sunflowers are an important source of food and habitat for birds and other wildlife, including squirrels and deer.

  5. Sunflowers are used in phytoremediation, a process that uses plants to remove toxins and pollutants from contaminated soil.

  6. Sunflower seeds are a popular snack and are often roasted and salted.

  7. The oil extracted from sunflower seeds is used in cooking and as a base for many cosmetic and beauty products.

  8. The sunflower is the state flower of Kansas and is also a symbol of the sun and happiness.

  9. Sunflowers have been used as a decorative motif in art and design for centuries and are often associated with the Impressionist movement in painting.

  10. Sunflowers can be grown in a variety of colors besides yellow, including red, orange, and even bi-colored varieties.

Where to grow Sunflowers

Sunflowers can be grown in a variety of locations, but they do have some specific requirements. Here are some tips for where to grow them:

  1. Climate: Sunflowers prefer warm temperatures, so they grow best in regions with hot summers and mild winters. However, they can still be grown in cooler climates with shorter growing seasons.

  2. Choose a sunny location: Sunflowers need full sun to thrive, so choose a location in the garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

  3. Consider soil conditions: Sunflowers prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or compacted, consider adding compost or aged manure to the planting area to improve drainage and fertility. They are not fussy about soil conditions as long as the soil is not waterlogged.

  4. Check for space: Sunflowers can grow quite tall, so make sure that you have enough space in your garden to accommodate their height. Dwarf varieties are available if space is limited.

  5. Watch for wind exposure: Sunflowers can be susceptible to wind damage, so choose a location that is somewhat sheltered from strong winds.

Overall, sunflowers are relatively adaptable and can be grown in a variety of locations. As long as you provide them with plenty of sun, well-draining soil, and some support as needed, they should grow well and provide a cheerful addition to your garden.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 10
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Plant Family Helianthus - Sunflowers
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Maintenance Low, Average
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers
Attracts Birds, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow
Compare All Helianthus - Sunflowers Great Plant Combination Ideas with Helianthus - Sunflowers Guides with Helianthus - Sunflowers

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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.

Guide Information

Hardiness 3 - 10
Plant Type Annuals, Perennials
Plant Family Helianthus - Sunflowers
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Early,Mid,Late)
Fall
Maintenance Low, Average
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Cut Flowers
Attracts Birds, Butterflies
Landscaping Ideas Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow
Compare All Helianthus - Sunflowers Great Plant Combination Ideas with Helianthus - Sunflowers Guides with Helianthus - Sunflowers

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