Growing Sunflower

helianthus annuus : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
S S             S S S S
T T T             T T T
P P             P P P P

(Best months for growing Sunflower in South Africa - Summer rainfall regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 30°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 20 - 45 cm apart
  • Harvest in 10-11 weeks.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Cucumbers, Melons, Sweetcorn, Squash
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Your comments and tips

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for South Africa | for all countries
20 Sep 16, Jaxon K (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
How do i protect the sunflower heads from birds
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01 Oct 16, May (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
If you want to save the seeds before the birds eat them, you can tie lightweight bags, made of gauze or something that can breathe and allow sun through around the flower heads, though it is not as pretty as having the flowers out in the open. Reflective surfaces that move in the wind and reflect flares of sunlight are supposed to also deter birds, because it irritates them or creates the illusion of fire... I know some people hang old cd's amongst their plants, but I haven't tried it, because again, not so pretty.. Not sure if it works and obviously when it is overcast and there's no wind, there won't be any movement or bright light to reflect.. But maybe worth a try?
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10 Feb 16, Beverley Hall (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
What month is best to plant sunflower seeds?
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04 Jun 14, Reynet (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Good day My daughter getting married in April 2014 \we need 150 sunflowers. when must i plant them. We stay in Pietermartizburg KZN
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10 May 14, robert tshivhidzo (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
i need to be one of sunflower growering i need your help
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05 Dec 13, Tony Sieh (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Dear Sir/Madam, I am exploring the possibility of grow South African species of sunflower in Malaysia. From what I have heard, South African sunflower is ideal for the South East Asia climate as well. Is there any expert who I can talk to about this? Where can I get the seedlings? Thank you so much for helping! Regards, Tony
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16 Jan 13, koos (South Africa - Semi-arid climate)
best seeds to eat
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09 Aug 12, anneli (South Africa - Humid sub-tropical climate)
Getting married in November and want to use sunflowers. Are they available then. How long until they bloom from the time you plant them?
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Showing 21 - 28 of 28 comments
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What fertiliser is best for growing sunflowers? Do they also need more potasium? Please help!

- Jan Brand

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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