Growing Sunflower

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
P							P	P	P	P	P

(Best months for growing Sunflower in New Zealand - temperate regions)

P = Sow seed

Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 30°C. (Show °F/in)
Space plants: 20 - 30 cm apart
Harvest in 10-11 weeks.
Compatible with (can grow beside): Cucumbers, Melons, Sweetcorn, Squash
Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Large showy flowers, available in a variety of colours Giant or Russian varieties are best for seed production

Sunflowers do not like to be transplanted.

Grow to 1 - 2 metres (4 - 6 ft) so need staking or protection from the wind. Protect the seed heads from birds when ripening.

Use seeds fresh or toasted

Your comments and tips

29 Oct 17, Laura George (New Zealand - temperate climate): Could you please let me know - How big are the flowers on Drawf Big Smile and Primrose Queen F.1. Hybrid, we need them, about the size of a hand, say approx 14cm x 12cm??? For a wedding on 5th February 2018. We were going to plant them around 4th - 11th November, is that too early??? I would really appreciate your help. Thank you Laura
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24 Sep 17, Jaylin Driver (New Zealand - temperate climate): How long do sunflowers take to germinate?
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02 Mar 17, Bella (New Zealand - temperate climate): Hi Yesterday I scraped out a handful of sunflower seeds from a plant in a friends garden. I have them in a brown paper bag. Can I plant them today or do I need dry them out before I plant them. Thanks
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03 Mar 17, John (Australia - temperate climate): You would probably be better to buy a packet of seed or get a small handful from a produce store (they would likely give it to you). The seed you have may not be sufficiently dry and is likelt to rot. It is getting late to plant sunflowers unless you are in the warmer north of the country. Save your seed for next season or swap it for something else. Trust this helps.
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