Sunflower / Helianthus

Sunflower Description

The Sunflower is a very popular hardy annual flowering plant with gardeners. In latter years it has also become a florist's favourite. There is a wider variety of sunflowers available than many people realise. The classic image of sunflowers is of a single flower head on a very tall stem with view leaves however shorter varieties are available as are varieties with double bloom heads.

Sunflowers are now available in classic yellow, orange, red and cream. Helianthus provides an ideal backdrop to any garden flower border that has the space.

Cultivation of Sunflower Plants

Sunflower seeds should be sown in early spring into their final flowering position. Chooses a sunny site that has good drainage. Sow at least two seeds in each position and weed out the weaker seedlings leaving only the strongest to grow on.

The plants should be thinned out to about 30 to 45 cm apart from each other.

All varieties of Sunflower require staking with robust canes to prevent wind damage.

Deadheading will prolong the flowering season and will prevent self-seeding.

Sunflower Pests and Diseases

Helianthus can be prone to mould in wet conditions especially late in the flowering season.