Summary
sunflower , with their towering stature and cheerful blooms , are a dear increase to any garden . Growing them from last year ’s cum is a rewarding experience that not only bring through money but also ensures the continuance of yourfavorite varieties . Here ’s a comprehensive guide to aid youcultivate vivacious sunflowersfrom the seminal fluid you ’ve economise .
Harvesting Seeds
Begin by harvesting seeds from mature helianthus heads in the fall . Choose great , embonpoint seedsthat are free of any blemishes . appropriate the heads to dry good in a well - ventilate areabefore take away the seeds .
Storing Seeds
Once the seeds are dry , store them in anairtight containerin a coolheaded , glowering , anddry place . This will preserve their viability for up to three years .
Preparing the Seeds
Before planting , drench the seeds inwarm waterfor 24 hours . Thisprocess helps softenthe source coating and improves sprouting rates .
Soil Preparation
sunflower thrive in well - drain soil that is productive inorganic subject . Amend your soil with compost or manure to enhance its fertility . Theideal pH rangefor sunflowers is 6.0 to 7.5 .
Planting
found the seminal fluid 1 to 1.5inches deepin the soil . Space them 6 to 12 column inch apart , count on the change . Water the seeds well after planting .
Watering and Fertilizing
Water thesunflowers regularly , specially during red-hot anddry weather . Avoid overwatering , as this can contribute to origin rot . Fertilize the plant once a calendar month with a balanced liquid plant food .
Deadheading
As thesunflowers bloom , deadhead them by take thespent blooms . This encourages the flora to produce more flowers and prolongs the blooming full stop .
Supporting the Plants
Tall sunflower varieties may need support to prevent them from tumble over . instal interest or cages around the plants to supply constancy .
Harvesting
Sunflowers are ready to glean when the back of theflower heads turn brownand the seeds are embonpoint . Cut the heads from the industrial plant and allow them to dry in a warm , dry place .
Seed Storage
storage theharvested seedsin anairtight containerin a cool , sorry , anddry placefor up to three class .
Troubleshooting
Information You Need to Know
Q : Can Igrow sunflowersfrom any sunflower seeds?A : Yes , you cangrow sunflowersfrom anysunflower seeds , no matter of whether they are from a intercrossed or open - cross-pollinate kind . Q : How long does it take for sunflowers to mature?A : The time tomaturity varies dependingon the variety . nanus varieties can mature in as piffling as 60 days , whilegiant varietiesmay take up to 120 days . Q : Can Iplant sunflower seeds directlyin the garden?A : Yes , you canplant sunflower seeds directlyin the garden , but starting them indoors inseed traysallows forearlier bloomsand better control over germination conditions .
