“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadow. It's what sunflowers do.” - Helen Keller

If you have been following my facebook posts, you know that Sunflowers are my all time favorite flowers to grow. I usually grow Autumn Beauty Sunflowers with my watermelons to draw the bugs away from getting into the melons. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, but they are pretty nonetheless. 

I love sunflowers in general because they are very easy for me to grow and of course, remind me of my grandmother.

Known for their vibrant blooms and cheerful presence in gardens and fields. Here are my tips to growing these iconic symbols of summer:

Choose the Right Variety

• Select sunflower varieties that thrive in hot and sunny climates, such as 'Autumn Beauty,' 'Lemon Queen,' or 'Sunspot.' Consider the mature height of the variety to plan spacing and support accordingly.

Location and Sunlight

• Sunflowers require full sun exposure, so choose a location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid planting near tall structures or trees that may shade the sunflowers.

Soil Preparation

• Prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 12 inches. Incorporate organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability.

  

Planting Time

• Wait until after the last frost date, typically in late March or early April in Dry Creek, Louisiana, to plant sunflower seeds directly into the ground. Sow seeds at a depth of 1 to 2 inches and space them according to the variety's recommended spacing.

Watering and Maintenance

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged throughout the growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply once or twice a week, adjusting frequency based on weather conditions.

  

• Mulch around sunflowers to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a consistent soil temperature.

Fertilization

• Sunflowers are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to fertilization. Incorporate a balanced fertilizer or compost into the soil at planting time to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.

Support for Tall Varieties

• Tall sunflower varieties, such as 'Giant Russian' or 'Mammoth,' may require support to prevent them from bending or breaking in windy conditions. Use stakes, trellises, or netting for support as needed.

  

Pest and Disease Management

• Monitor sunflowers regularly for common pests like aphids, caterpillars, and birds. Consider using natural pest control methods such as neem oil or introducing beneficial insects.

• Prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and promptly removing any infected plant parts.

Harvesting for Bouquets

• While some may prefer to wait until sunflower heads become wilty for seed harvesting, many gardeners enjoy harvesting sunflowers when the blooms open completely in a bouquet. This timing ensures the freshest and most vibrant blooms for arrangements.

• Use a sharp knife to cut sunflower stems just above a leaf node, and immediately place them in a bucket of water to preserve their freshness.

  

Saving Seeds

• To save sunflower seeds for future planting, allow the flower heads to dry completely on the stalk. Harvest the seeds by rubbing them off the head and store them in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

By following these detailed tips and best practices, you can cultivate stunning sunflowers that not only enhance the beauty of Greentown Flower Patch but also provide delightful blooms for bouquets, events, and personal enjoyment. Happy gardening!