Sunflower is an easy to grow annual plant. The plant has a thick, hairy, erect stem that gives rise to a large flower head. The plant has large, broad, oval, lower leaves alternately arranged on the stem and smaller, narrower upper leaves that are individually attached to the stem.

The flower head is a large disc that reaches 10-30 cm (4-12 inches) in diameter and is made up of 16-30 individual golden yellow flowers. The outer flowers are sterile and produce the outer flower petals, while the inner flowers mature to seeds in the central disc. Sunflowers are annuals, harvested after one growing season.

Sunflower Planting and care

• It is recommended to grow sunflower from seeds directly in the garden bed, as they do not like to be transplanted and do not grow often. From seed they will grow very quickly under the right conditions.
• Sunflowers are sensitive to frost, so don’t sow until the last frost.
• Sunflower will grow at a minimum daytime temperature of about 60 ° F (16 ° C), although a range of 74 to 84 ° F (23 to 28 ° C) is preferable.
• Choosing a location in full sun is essential.
• Sunflowers adapt to most soil conditions, but the ideal soil will be rich in organic matter and well-drained.
• Maintain moderate soil moisture and fertilize lightly to maximize growth and flowering.
• Cut away old flowers to encourage more flower formation.