Sowing and Growing Sunflowers

A sunflower (Helianthus) is an annual plant from the composite family (Asteraceae) and is known for its large, sun-following flowers. Originally from North and South America, the plant is now grown almost all over the world. The sunflower blooms with large, often yellow flowers, but there are also other colours. The seeds are edible and are used, among other things, for the production of sunflower oil.

Growing and sowing sunflower

Sunflowers (Helianthus) owe their name to the fact that the young plants turn their flower heads with the sun. This stops once the plant matures. They can grow between 1.5 and 3.5 meters high, but there are also low-growing species. Sunflowers are easy to grow, the only thing that needs to be taken into account is that they get enough sun and water.

Sowing sunflower seeds

The seeds can be sown directly in open ground from April to mid-June. For earlier flowering, they can also be pre-sown indoors from the end of March and the young plants can be moved outside after ice saints. Let the plants harden off first.

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Location and soil for Sunflowers

Sunflowers need a sunny location. The soil must be well-drained and nutrient-rich. They prefer a somewhat sandy soil, heavy, compact soil, such as clay soil, is unsuitable. If necessary, the soil can be adjusted by working sand into it.

How to care for your sunflower plants

Keep the soil moist, especially during the germination period, but avoid overwatering, which can slow growth. Add organic matter to the soil and fertilize regularly to encourage growth. Tall species should be supported with, for example, bamboo sticks to prevent them from falling over. Protect young plants from slugs.

Is sunflower bee and/or butterfly friendly?

A sunflower is insect-friendly because it contains a lot of nectar and pollen. The flower attracts bees, bumblebees and butterflies, among others. Moreover, after flowering, the seeds are food for birds in winter.

Sunflower in the vegetable garden

Sunflowers are widely grown in vegetable gardens. The whole plant is edible, but usually only the seeds are eaten. In addition, this flower attracts many pollinators, which increases biodiversity in the garden. If necessary, leave the flowers after they have finished flowering. The ripe kernels are a welcome source of food for birds.

Is sunflower edible and/or medicinal?

All parts of the sunflower are edible. For example, the petals can be used raw in salads and young flower heads can be steamed. But usually only the seeds are harvested and eaten. The seeds are also processed into sunflower oil. Sunflowers and the seeds are healthy and contain many antioxidants, fiber and minerals, among other things.

Please note, we at Dutch Garden Seeds do not give medical advice. Always ask a professional if and how the plant can be used medicinally.

Sunflower Seeds in our collection

We have different types of sunflower seeds in our range, including organic seeds from the brand 'Buzzy Organic Seeds'.

Tips for sowing sunflowers

• Support the taller species to prevent them from falling over.
• Feed regularly to promote growth.

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