Sunflowers are one of the most recognizable and beloved flowers in the world, known for their large and vibrant yellow blooms that can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. Many gardeners worldwide grow sunflowers, including in the United States, where they are popular for their seeds, oil, and ornamental value. You’ll find the sunflower season during the summer months, from early summer to late August, when they reach full bloom.
During the sunflower season, sunflower fields and farms come to life with rows of towering sunflower plants in bright yellow and deep red hues. Sunflowers are an annual plant that completes their life cycle within a year. They can be grown from seed in various conditions, including poor soil and drought-tolerant environments. Sunflowers prefer full sun and should be planted about 6 inches apart.
In addition to their ornamental value, sunflowers are also grown for their edible seeds, which can be harvested in the fall after the flowers have bloomed and the seed heads have dried. Sunflowers can also be grown as perennials with large blooms.
Whether you’re interested in growing sunflowers for your own sunflower seeds or oil or simply enjoying their beauty, understanding when the sunflower season is essential to grow sunflowers to their best. In our guide, you can learn more about this glamorous garden flower that always grabs attention. You’ll better understand your Helianthus Annuus and how to get the best-looking garden plants possible. (Read Can Sunflower Seeds Go Bad)
When Are Sunflowers Grown?
If you’re a sunflower enthusiast, you’re probably wondering when the best time to see these beautiful flowers blooming is. Sunflowers are in season during the late summer and early fall. Typically, sunflowers start blooming in August, with longer-season varieties and later-planted crops blooming into September.
Sunflower Varieties
There are many different varieties of sunflowers, ranging from annual to perennial and from giant to small. Annual sunflowers bloom in their first year and then die, while perennial sunflowers live for multiple years. Giant sunflowers can grow up to 16 feet tall, while smaller varieties produce smaller flowers.
Life Cycle of Sunflowers
Sunflowers grow from seeds, which can be planted directly in the ground or started indoors and transplanted later. They typically take 80-120 days to mature, depending on the variety. Sunflowers grow best in warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil.
Planting Sunflowers
To plant sunflowers, wait until the danger of early spring and frost has passed and the soil temperature is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit at the start of the sunflower season. Plant the seeds 2 cm deep and space them 60 cm apart. Sunflowers are drought tolerant and can grow in poor soil, but they require a sheltered location to protect them from strong winds.
Caring for Sunflowers
Sunflowers require minimal care, so you only need to water regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize them once or twice during the growing sunflower season. Deadhead flowers once they fade to encourage new plants and more flower production. (Read Iris Blooming Season)
Harvesting Sunflowers
Your sunflower patch is ready to harvest when the back of the flower heads turns yellow, and the petals start to dry and fall off. Cut the flower heads off the plant and hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated location to dry.
Sunflower Farms
Sunflower fields and farms are popular destinations during the peak sunflower season. Many farms offer u-pick sunflowers and other activities, such as hayrides and corn mazes, during the blooming phase.
Sunflower Varieties
When it comes to sunflower varieties, there are many options to choose from. Here are some of the most common types:
- Common sunflower (Helianthus annuus): This is the most well-known type of sunflower. Common sunflowers can grow up to 10 feet tall and have large, yellow flowers with dark centers. They are typically grown as annuals.
- Giant varieties: As the name suggests, these sunflowers can grow large. Some types can reach heights of up to 16 feet. They are often used for ornamental purposes.
- Perennial varieties: While most sunflowers are annual plants, some perennial types are available. These sunflowers will return year after year, making them an excellent choice for gardeners who want a long-lasting plant.
Some other sunflower varieties you might come across include:
- Red sunflowers: These sunflowers have red petals instead of the traditional yellow.
- Dwarf sunflowers: As the name suggests, these sunflowers are smaller in size and are a desirable choice for container gardens.
- Teddy bear sunflowers: These sunflowers have fluffy, round flowers that resemble teddy bears.
No matter which type of annual sunflower you choose, perennial sunflowers are easy to grow and care for, making them a fantastic addition to any garden.
Life Cycle of Sunflowers
Sunflowers are a flower known for their vibrant yellow petals and towering height. They are an annual plant, meaning they complete their life cycle in one growing season. (Read Weeds That Look Like Flowers)
Sunflower Growth Stages
The life cycle of a sunflower can be divided into several stages:
- Seed Stage: The seed stage is the first stage of a sunflower’s life cycle. Sunflower seeds are easily recognizable in shape and size. They are highly popular for consumption as they are both delicious and nutritious.
- Germination Stage: After planting the sunflower seed, it will begin to germinate, and the case will start to split as the roots shoot out and push down further into the soil. This stage usually lasts for about three days.
- Seedling Stage: Once the sunflower seed has germinated, it enters the seedling stage. During this stage, the plant will grow its first set of leaves.
- Vegetative Stage: The vegetative stage is when the sunflower plant grows its stem and leaves. This stage is important for the plant’s growth and development.
- Reproductive Stage: The reproductive stage is when the bud of the flower forms. This is the stage where the sunflower begins to produce seeds.
- Blooming Stage: The blooming stage is when the sunflower is fully grown, and its vibrant yellow petals are fully bloomed. This is the stage where the sunflower is at its most beautiful.
- Seed Development Stage: After the blooming stage, the sunflower produces seeds. This is the stage where the seeds mature and are ready for harvest.
Bloom Time
The blooming phase is the most exciting for many gardeners. The bloom time for sunflowers (Helianthus spp) can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions. Sunflowers bloom in the summer, with peak bloom time for larger flowers occurring in July and August. It’s important to note that not all sunflowers bloom simultaneously. Some varieties of sunflower heads may bloom earlier or later than others.
Caring for Sunflowers
Sunflowers are low-maintenance plants but require some basic care to grow and thrive.
Here are some tips for caring for your sunflowers:
Watering Sunflowers
Watering is crucial for young sunflowers, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Water the area around the roots, about 4 inches from the plants, daily until the seedlings emerge. Once the plant is established, water deeply but infrequently encourages the plant to grow deep roots. Water once a week with several gallons per plant, more often if the weather is very dry or hot.
Fertilizing Sunflowers
Sunflowers don’t require a lot of fertilizer, but a few extra nutrients can help them grow bigger and stronger. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 blend, once or twice during the growing season.
Pruning Sunflowers
Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can help prolong the blooming period of your sunflowers. Use clean, sharp shears to cut off the flowers just below the base of the bloom. Overall, sunflowers are easy to care for and can provide beautiful blooms for a few weeks throughout the day. They are a beautiful addition to your garden or even a music box with proper care.
Harvesting Sunflowers
How long do sunflowers bloom, and how do you harvest them for sunflower seed production?
When to Harvest Sunflowers
The best time to harvest sunflowers is when the back of the flower head turns yellow or brown. You should also try to harvest sunflower seeds from them on a dry day, as wet weather can cause the already harvest sunflower seeds to mold.
How to Harvest Sunflowers
You will need a few tools to harvest sunflowers: a sharp knife or pair of scissors, a bucket, and a drying rack. Cut the sunflower head off the stem, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Then, remove any remaining petals and leaves from the whole flower head.
Next, you will need to dry the sunflower head. You can hang it upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area. (Read Weed Killer That Won’t Kill Flowers)
Sunflower Seed Production
Sunflower seeds are a popular snack and ingredient in many recipes. They are also used to make oil and birdseed. Sunflower seed production is an important part of the harvesting process. To produce sunflower seeds, you must sow seeds and will need to plant sunflowers in the spring or early summer. The seeds will start to mature in late summer or early fall.
Sunflower Fields and Farms
Visiting a sunflower field or farm is a great option if you’re looking for a beautiful and unique summer experience. Sunflower fields are typically in season from early June to late August, depending on the location and climate.
Here are some tips and information on where to find sunflower fields, photography in sunflower fields, and visiting a sunflower farm.
Where to Find Sunflower Fields
Sunflower fields can be found all over the United States, but some states are particularly well-known for their sunflower fields. Texas sunflower fields are renowned, and you can find many Texas sunflower fields, including Wild Berry Farm and Sweet Eats Fruit Farm.
Professional Photography in Sunflower Fields
Sunflower fields are a popular location for professional photography, particularly for engagement, family, and senior portraits. Suppose you want professional photos taken when sunflowers are in season at a sunflower field. In that case, checking with the farm or field beforehand is important to see if they allow professional photographers.
Visiting a sunflower field or farm can be a unique and enjoyable summer experience. Whether you’re looking for how to care for sunflowers, take beautiful photos, pick your own sunflowers, or simply enjoy the beauty of these bright yellow and deep red flowers, many options are available year-round.
