Sunflowers also known as Helianthus annuus are as beautiful and glows as the sun, it’s no wonder that they are their favorite thing to thrive i.n. sunlight. If you wish to plant sunflowers right now, look in this article to know when to plant and how late can you plant sunflowers according to weather conditions. Read below more details about how late can you plant sunflowers?
The latest you can sow sunflowers depends on the varieties being planted as varieties germinate at 70 degrees F but there is no harm in sowing as soon as the soil hits 60 degrees F.
How late can you plant sunflowers?
If these conditions are available, usually in late spring to early summer, you can easily plant them and expect the best results. If you are wondering is June too late to plant sunflower , answer these questions in yes and no for yourself-
- Availability of 2-3 frost-free months
- soil temperature is 55 to 60 degrees F
- sunlight for 7-8 hours per day
If you want to sow them early you can do that indoors in a pot and then plant them outside when the temperature is adequate.
How late can you plant sunflowers in Zone 5?
In zone 5, you will typically experience long cold climates and short growing time, planting in early July can prevent them from meeting frost.
How to plant sunflower plants?
- To increase the germination rate, soak them for 12 to 14 hours before planting.
- Perfect spot
A spot that gets enough 7-8 hours of sunlight, with slightly acidic well-drained soil, You can mix organic matter to obtain high-quality soil before a week of sowing seeds. How late can you plant sunflowers?
1. Spacing
Plant them according to their varieties, short ones under 5 feet can be planted 6 inches apart, and 12-15 inches apart for longer ones with rows at least 2 feet apart for proper growth and consumption of nutrients from soil i.e. prevent overcrowding.
2. Care
Plant the seeds one inch deep in warm soil, and water regularly especially in the growing season and in the youth to ensure germination which can be a 14 days long process, then one-inch water per week is the only requirement for them.
Growing sunflowers in pots
It is easy to grow flowers in pots, you can keep it in a garden or verandah and enjoy the flower in bloom or avail its beneficial seeds.
Keep in mind these points-
- Ensure that the pot is big at least 2 inches deep
- well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a temperature of 55 to 60 degrees F
- drainage holes in pots to prevent any waterlogging.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs) How late can you plant sunflowers:-
Q1. How late can you plant in California to ensure perfect bloom?
Ans. Mid-July can be the late month to sow seeds as California is a warm region.
Q2. Is it possible that if you are planting flowers along the fence, they will be okay?
Ans. Yes, it is even beneficial as it causes less wind damage and breakages with a nice support to flourish.
Q3. How late can you plant sunflowers in Florida?
Ans. Florida is too warm and can support two plantations in a year but avoid too harsh months and plant in early spring or late summer for optimal growth.
Q4. How late can you plant sunflowers in the fall to ensure bloom?
Ans. Planting is not recommended in fall as it is the season to bloom.
Q5. Do flowers come back every year from the same plant?
Ans. It depends on the chosen variety as annuals don’t come back and have one growing season but perennials have a long life span and come back from the same plant for several years.
Q6. Can I plant flowers in July and will it bloom or not?
Ans. Yes, living in a warm area comes with the benefit of growing it in July, using a fast-growing variety to lessen the chances of frost damage by frost.
