Sunflowers - Sowing and Growing Guide

Sowing & Growing Guide
When to Sow:

• Indoors: February to April
• Outdoors: April to May

Indoor Sowing:

1. Fill pots or seed trays with good quality, peat-free compost.
2. Sow seeds 1.5cm deep and cover lightly with compost.
3. Place in a warm location (around 18-21°C) to germinate.
4. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
5. Once seedlings are large enough to handle and all risk of frost has passed, harden them off gradually by placing them outdoors during the day for about a week before transplanting.

Outdoor Sowing:

1. Sow seeds directly into the garden after the last frost in April or May.
2. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil.
3. Sow seeds 1.5cm deep and about 30-45cm apart to allow plenty of space for growth.
4. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging.

Plant Care:

• Position: Full sun is a must!
• Soil: Well-drained and fertile. Improve poor soils with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially in dry periods, but avoid overwatering.
• Feeding: Use a balanced liquid fertiliser every couple of weeks during the growing season to promote strong growth.
• Support: Tall sunflowers may need staking to support their height and prevent them from toppling in strong winds.

Flowering & Harvesting:

• Expect blooms from late summer through early autumn. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
• If you’d like to save seeds for next year, leave a few heads to fully mature, then harvest the seeds once they are dry and hardened.