There are some flowers that seem to capture the feeling of summer better than any other, and sunflowers are right at the top of the list.
Perhaps it’s their cheerful faces that follow the sun across the sky, or the way they tower above us in late summer. Maybe it’s because they appeal to everyone, from keen gardeners nurturing giant varieties to children excitedly measuring their sunflower’s height every week. Whatever the reason, sunflowers have a unique ability to bring a smile to our faces.
Why we love sunflowers
Sunflowers have a wonderful way of making a garden feel alive. Their bold blooms bring colour and structure to borders, vegetable plots and containers, while their towering stems add a touch of drama that few other annual flowers can match.
They’re also fantastic for wildlife. Bees are drawn to the flowers throughout summer, while birds will often feast on the seeds later in the season if the flower heads are left standing.
Beyond their beauty, sunflowers remind us that gardening doesn’t always have to be complicated. With a packet of seeds, a sunny spot and a little patience, you can grow something truly impressive in just a few months (it’s really fun to do with the kids).
When to sow sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds can be sown indoors from March to April or directly outdoors from late April to June once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has started to warm up.
Starting seeds indoors often gives plants a useful head start, especially in cooler parts of the country.
Choosing the right spot
As their name suggests, sunflowers love sunshine. Choose a position that receives as much direct sunlight as possible throughout the day.
They also prefer fertile, well-drained soil and benefit from a sheltered location, as strong winds can damage taller varieties.
How to plant them
Sow seeds around 1.5cm deep and keep the compost or soil moist while they germinate.
If sowing outdoors, space plants according to the variety. Smaller sunflowers may only need 30cm between plants, while giant varieties will appreciate considerably more room.
Once seedlings are established, continue watering regularly, particularly during dry spells.
If you’re hoping to grow a sunflower that turns heads, a little extra care can make all the difference. Feed plants every couple of weeks with a balanced fertiliser, water deeply during hot weather and support taller varieties with sturdy canes as they grow.
Giant varieties can reach well over two metres tall in favourable conditions, making them a real talking point in the garden.
Which type?
There is far more to sunflowers than the classic giant yellow bloom.
Some gardeners love traditional tall varieties such as ‘Russian Giant’ and ‘Mammoth’, while others prefer compact types that work beautifully in pots and smaller spaces.
For something a little different, look out for varieties with rich bronze, orange or deep red petals that bring a striking contemporary feel to summer displays.
What to do after they’ve flowered
As summer draws to a close, you can leave flower heads in place for birds to enjoy, or harvest the seeds for next year’s garden.
Many gardeners also cut flower heads for indoor arrangements, bringing a little sunshine into the home long after they’ve been picked.
Everything you need…
Whether you’re growing your first sunflower or aiming for a new personal height record, the right compost, feeds, pots and seeds can help you achieve great results!
Visit us to explore our range of sunflower seeds and gardening essentials, and speak to our team for advice on choosing the best varieties for your garden – we have lots of sunflower plants in right now too if you want to take a short cut!
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