suppose a garden brim with sunflowers , their golden heads sway gently in the summer breeze . These pollyannaish giants are a joy to grow , whether you ’re an expert gardener or just receive your hand dirty for the first prison term .
In this guide , we ’ll share insider crown and tricks for nurturing vibrant , healthy sunflowers , comprehend everything from soil prep to watering and pruning . quick to lend a burst of sunshine to your backyard ? Let ’s get started !
Understanding Sunflowers
Species and Varieties
Sunflowers are a member of the Asteraceae family , which include daisies , asters , and chrysanthemums . There are over 70 species of sunflowers , and they come in a variety of size , shapes , and color .
Here are a few democratic types to consider :
1.Giant Sunflowers : These can grow up to 16 foot marvelous and have prominent , yellow prime that can be up to 2 feet in diameter . Examples let in ‘ Mammoth ’ and ‘ Russian Giant . ’
2.Dwarf sunflower : These are smaller and more summary , idealistic for container gardens or small spaces . change include ‘ Teddy Bear ’ and ‘ macula . ’
3.Red helianthus : feature cryptic red petals and a dark center , these helianthus leave a striking contrast to traditional yellow flower . ‘ Velvet Queen ’ is a popular variety .
4 . Multi - headed Sunflowers : These have multiple flower heads on a single stem , create a arresting display . ‘ Autumn Beauty ’ and ‘ Italian White ’ are excellent choices .
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Historical Significance
sunflower have been school by humans for thousands of years . aboriginal to North America , they were first domesticated by the indigenous the great unwashed of the region , who used them for food , medical specialty , and oil .
The helianthus was then introduced to Europe by Spanish explorer in the 16th century , where it became a popular ornamental plant . In the nineteenth century , Russian husbandman began cultivating helianthus for their petroleum , which is still used today in cooking and cosmetics .
Sunflower Anatomy
Sunflowers are bang for their distinctive white-livered petal and gloomy centers , but there is more to these plants than meets the heart . The peak fountainhead , or capitulum , is actually made up of hundreds of individual flowers , called floret .
The taboo petals of the sunflower are uninspired and serve to pull pollinator , while the inner florets comprise both manly and female reproductive organs . The marrow of the flower , make out as the receptacle , is where the seeds are produced . helianthus have a taproot system , which grant them to absorb water and nutrients from deeply within the stain .
Overall , understanding the different metal money and diversity of sunflowers , their diachronic significance , and their anatomy is essential for successfully produce these beautiful plants .
Planting and Care
When to Plant
Sunflowers boom in affectionate weather and should be plant after the last frost when the soil has warmed to at least 55 ° F . calculate on the diverseness , they typically take 70 to 100 days to blossom .
They can also be take off indoors 2 - 3 weeks before transplanting . Plant the seed 1 - 2 inch recondite and 6 inches aside . If part indoors , use peat pots or other biodegradable container to forefend damage the soft root during transplant .
Selecting the Right Location
Sunflowers need full sun to turn properly , so choose a spot that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per Clarence Shepard Day Jr. . Ensure the soil is well - drained to prevent waterlogging .
Preparing the Soil
Sunflowers choose loose , well - drained soil rich in organic matter . Before planting , relax the ground to a depth of 12 to 15 inches and remove any weeds or dust . blend in compost or well - decompose manure to meliorate soil birth rate and texture .
Planting the Seeds
plant life helianthus seed about 1 in cryptic and 6 inch apart . For elephantine varieties , space the seeds 2 to 3 foot apart . Sunflowers have all-inclusive root system and need plenty of room to mature . Water the seeds immediately after plant and keep the filth moist until the seeds shoot , ordinarily within 7 to 10 days .
Caring for Sunflowers
Watering
Sunflowers are comparatively drouth - large-minded but postulate veritable lachrymation , especially during ironic spell . Water deeply once or twice a week , ensuring the soil stay moist but not waterlogged .
Fertilizing
Sunflowers are big feeder and gain from regular fertilization . expend a balanced plant food ( for example , 10 - 10 - 10 ) every 4 - 6 week . Organic options like compost or well - molder manure are also effective .
Pruning and Staking
While sunflowers do n’t require much pruning , removing beat or damage leaves can help forbid disease . marvellous varieties may postulate staking to support their laborious pass , especially in windy area .
Managing Pests and Diseases
sunflower are comparatively pest and disease - complimentary , but they can be susceptible to fungous diseases in humid conditions . To preclude fungal growth , keep off overhead tearing and see to it adequate zephyr circulation around the plants .
Common Pests
Diseases
Maximizing Growth
Fertilization Strategies
Sunflowers are sound feeders and require even fertilization to maximize development . you should use a balanced plant food , such as a 10 - 10 - 10 or 20 - 20 - 20 formula , every two to three week during the develop season . Be certain to follow the manufacturer ’s instructions for diligence rate .
In addition to even fecundation , contain organic thing , such as compost or aged manure , into the soil before planting can allow a deadening - acquittance rootage of nutrients throughout the growing season .
Supporting Tall Varieties
marvellous helianthus varieties can benefit from additional support to prevent them from topple over in strong current of air . One common method acting is to sneak in a stake or bamboo pole next to the plant and bind the stem to the backing using a subdued , elastic material such as twine or garden tape .
Another alternative is to habituate a cage made of sturdy wire or meshing to beleaguer the works and provide bread and butter from all English . This can also assist deter pests and provide a commodious structure for attaching additional supports , such as netting or trellis , if needed .
By following these simple strategies , nurseryman can help see their sunflowers reach their full potential and grow beautiful bloom throughout the originate season .
Harvest and Post-Harvest
Determining Harvest Time
Determining the right time to harvest sunflowers is important to see the germ and blooms are at their good . The idealistic time to harvest sunflowers for seeds is when the flower head has turn chocolate-brown and the back of the head is yellow . If the top dog is still green , the seeds will not be mature enough and will not germinate . For harvesting blooms , it is good to do so when the petals have full opened and the flower is at its point .
Harvesting Seeds and Blooms
To harvest sunflower seeds , cut the read/write head from the stem with a sharp tongue or scissors . Then , rate the mind in a theme suitcase or hang it upside down in a dry , well - ventilated expanse until the come are whole teetotal . Once teetotal , transfer the seeds from the head and put in them in an airtight container in a coolheaded , ironic place .
For harvesting blooms , switch off the prow at an slant with a incisive knife or scissors hold . Remove any leaves that will be below the water line in the vase . Place the blooms in a vase with fresh pee and vary the water system every two days to secure the flowers last longer .
Storing and Preserving
To preserve sunflower blooms , hang up them upside down in a juiceless , dark place until they are completely juiceless . Once ironical , they can be used in a variety of crafts and medal .
To stash away sunflower seeds , localise them in an airtight container in a cool , ironical place . Sunflower seminal fluid can last up to a year if stored by rights . If you want to save seeds for planting , verify to mark the container with the sort and escort reap .
Growing helianthus is a delightful and rewarding experience . By choosing the proper varieties , providing proper caution , and managing pests and diseases , you’re able to love these beautiful flush all summertime long . Whether you ’re aiming for predominate giants or thickset dwarfs , sunflowers will clear your garden and bring joy to your outdoor space . felicitous gardening !
Source: Reddit
