Sunflower Planting Methods and the Best Time to Plant Explained
The sunflower is a plant that many people love: its seeds can be eaten as a snack, and the flowers are ornamental too. Would you like to know how to grow it? When is the best time to plant sunflowers?
Sunflower planting methods and techniques, growing tips:
Sunflower roots spread widely and can withstand some drought. The best time to plant is from March to April. As for watering, it is best to water regularly during the most important growth period of about 20 days before and after flowering. Deep, regular watering helps promote root growth, which is especially useful for taller sunflower varieties with top-heavy flowers.
Sunflowers do not need fertilizer. However, because they grow vigorously (they can easily grow 6 feet in just 3 months), it is a good idea to add some slow-acting granular fertilizer to particularly poor, thin soil. The better their diet, the larger the flowers. Do not overdo the nitrogen, as this will delay flowering. Spreading a 2 or 3 inch layer of some kind of organic mulch over the soil will reduce moisture loss through evaporation and hold back weeds.
Although some sunflower varieties do not need any staking, supporting plants that are longer than 3 feet or that are multi-branched is a good idea. Their branches are very brittle, especially where they join the stem. The plants are easily affected by summer gales and rain. As needed, loosely tie the plants to a stake with lengths of cloth or other soft material.
When the seeds mature and harvest time approaches, birds and squirrels can become a problem. If you do not plan to use the seeds, it is fun to watch wildlife enjoy the bounty. You may want to cut off the flower heads and put them out in the sun to dry, so that wildlife can reach them more easily. Conversely, to deter birds and squirrels, barrier devices are the most effective. As the seed heads mature and the flowers droop, cover each one with white multi-spun garden fleece. It will let in light and air and keep creatures out. Also try cutting off a small number of leaves closest to the head to make it harder for birds to perch and feed.
Deer can easily wipe out a patch of sunflowers. Because they like the new tender leaves at the top of the plant, a 36 inch chicken wire barrier supported by 6 foot bamboo poles should keep them at bay. As the plants grow, simply raise the wire.
