Sunspot Sunflower Information
Dwarf Sunspot sunflower (Helianthus annuus ‘Sunspot’) reaches heights of only about 24 inches (61 cm.), which makes it ideal for growing in the garden or in containers. The stems are sturdy enough to support the big, golden yellow blooms, measuring about 10 inches (25 cm.) in diameter– perfect for cut flower arrangements.
Growing Sunspot Sunflowers
Plant dwarf Sunspot sunflower seeds directly in the garden in late spring or early summer when all danger of frost has passed. Sunflowers need plenty of bright sunlight and moist, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil. Plant small batches of Sunspot sunflower seeds two or three weeks apart for continual blooms until fall. You can also plant seeds indoors for earlier blooms. Watch for seeds to germinate in two to three weeks. Thin Sunspot sunflowers to about 12 inches (30.5 cm.) apart when the seedlings are large enough to handle.
Caring for Sunspot Sunflowers
Water newly planted Sunspot sunflower seeds frequently to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water seedlings frequently, directing the water to the soil about 4 inches (10 cm.) from the plant. Once the sunflowers are well established, water deeply but infrequently to encourage long, healthy roots. As a general rule, one good watering per week is adequate. Avoid soggy soil, as sunflowers are drought-tolerant plants that tend to rot if conditions are too wet. Sunflowers don’t need a lot of fertilizer and too much can create weak, spindly stems. Add a small amount of general-purpose garden fertilizer to the soil at planting time if your soil is poor. You can also apply a well-diluted, water-soluble fertilizer a few times during the blooming season.
