How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Sunflowers
Giant or dwarf, single stem or branching, sunflowers are cheerful, easy and great for birds and bees.
Choose your sunflower
Single-stem varieties produce one big head and are best for cutting or for giant heights. Branching types produce many smaller flowers over a long season. Pollen-free varieties are best in vases because they do not drop pollen.
Planting
Sow seeds an inch deep directly in the garden after the last frost, in full sun. Protect young seedlings from birds and slugs with a light cover until they are a few inches tall.
Quick tips
- Stake tall varieties in windy spots
- Sow every two weeks for a long season
Seeds for you and the birds
When the back of the flower head turns yellow-brown and petals drop, cut heads and hang them to dry, or leave them standing for finches and other birds to feast on.
