did you know?

Annual sunflowers are native to the American prairies. Their nectar is a source of energy for bees, and their ripe seeds are valuable for attracting finches and other birds.

symbolism:

During Victorian times, sunflowers were used to symbolize bright hopes for the future.

general maintenance:

Stake if needed. Remove yellow leaves throughout the season to keep plants tidy. Do not deadhead, allowing seeds to mature. After frost, once birds have harvested seeds or plants are no longer attractive, cut to the ground. Plants grown from harvested seeds may not be true to type.

pests/diseases:

Caterpillars, weevils, powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot may occur.

controls:

Handpick caterpillars and weevils, or apply To discourage powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot, space plants for adequate air circulation, and avoid wetting leaves when watering. Pick off diseased leaves where practical, and remove and destroy severely infected plants.

how to sow/plant:

After danger of frost has passed and soil temperature reaches 50°F, direct sow seeds 1 inch deep, 6-8 inches apart. Or sow indoors in peat pots 2-3 weeks before last frost, and transplant outdoors 6-8 inches apart. Water after planting.

water and fertilize:

Keep soil uniformly moist, and fertilize biweekly with a balanced fertilizer, following label directions.

garden hint:

Sunflowers don't transplant well, but you can start them 2?3 weeks before the last frost date, using 3-inch peat pots. Simply plant the pots right in the garden after all danger of frost has passed.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Attractive Fruit
• Attracts Birds
• Heirloom
• Native

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

• Culinary/Edible (Seeds can be roasted; add flower petals to salads)
• Cut Flower
• Everlasting (>double sunflowers can be dried)

combine with:

love-lies-bleeding cosmos ('Bright Lights'), morning glory Mexican sunflower and zinnia