Scientific Name: Helianthus annuus
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Helianthus
Plant Type: Annual
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Soil pH Level: 6.0 - 7.5
Soil Texture: Sandy & Loamy
Sun Exposure: Full
Bloom Time: Summer
Appearance Description: Sunflowers are large bright yellow flowers with large seeded centers. Depending on teh variety, they can grow up to 8-feet tall.
How to Plant:
1. Amend compost into native soil.
2. Rake and use hands to loosen soil.
3. Plant large seeds 1-inch deep and 4-6 inches apart.
4. Each row should be 30-inches apart.
5. Mix in fertilizer after planting.
6. Water generously directly after planting.
How to Maintain:
1. Watering should be done deeply but not on a regular basis.
2. Feed your plants sparingly with a specially formulated plant food.
3. It may be necessary to stake your plants to encourage straight growth.
Top Varieties:
1. Mammoth
2. Autumn Beauty
3. Sunbeam
4. Teddy Bear
Fun Facts:
1. Sunflowers are often associated with the summer season.
2. Sunflowers attract butterflies and birds.
3. The center of sunflowers can be dried out and used as a bird feeder.
4. Some sunflower varieties are used in cooking oil and margarine.
5. Sunflower seeds are a common seed for snacking and can be homemade.
Related Soil:
Schultz Moisture Plus Potting Mix
Related Plant Food:
Schultz All Purpose Water Soluble
Schultz Bloom Plus Water Soluble
Schultz Flower & Vegetable Extended Feed
Schultz All Purpose Extended Feed
Schultz Granular Rose & Flower Plant Food
Schultz Granular All Purpose Plant Food