Learning Download: How to Grow Sunflowers

Sunflowers are one of the easiest flowers to grow from seed. Sunflowers grow wonderfully along a border and are a good option to grow with children.

Before Planting: Sunflowers are very tough and can grow in nearly any soil, but prefer full sun.

Planting: Sunflower seeds do best when planted directly into the garden after the last frost date has passed. Plant seeds 6 inches apart and 1 inch deep in a shallow trench.

Watering: Sunflowers need water the most during their growth period, which is 20 days before and after flowering.

Fertilizer: Sunflowers typically do not require fertilizing because they grow so easily, but a slow-release granular fertilizer can be added to poorer soils as the better the soil, the bigger the flowers will grow.

Days to Maturity: Sunflowers bloom around 120 days

Harvesting: In addition to storing the flowers in a vase to lighten up a room, Sunflower seedlings can be harvested once the flowers are done blooming and have spread their for culinary use.

Tips: Do not grow Sunflowers near potatoes or pole beans, as their leaves, seeds and stems emit a substance that inhibits some other plant’s growth.