Dwarf Sunflowers - Key Growing Information

Neither children nor adults can resist the allure of a patch of sweet dwarf sunflowers.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

7-14 days at 70-75°F (21-24°C).

SOWING:

Direct seed (recommended) — Sow after last frost in groups of 3-4 seeds, 1/2" deep. Thin to one plant when true leaves appear. Transplant — Sow in final container, placing 1 seed per 6" pot or 3 seeds per gallon container, 3-4 weeks prior to planting out. Dislikes root disturbance. If transplanting to beds, wait for 3-4 true leaves to appear.

GROWING ON:

Grow at 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day and 50-60°F (10-16°C) at night. Warmer temperatures cause stretching; cooler temperatures cause plants to be more dwarf.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Sun.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Light, well-drained soil of low to moderate fertility.

PLANT SPACING:

8-12". Space plants so that leaves do not touch. Crowding promotes taller growth and weaker stems.

HARDINESS ZONES:

Annual.

HARVEST:

Fresh: Harvest when flowers are just beginning to open. Dried: Flowers are completely open. Hang or use silica gel.

USES:

Excellent in containers or for mass plantings.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Helianthus annus