Bert Sunflower
Helianthus annuus. Fun and easy to grow! Sturdy and strong, great for cut flower production, containers or landscape. These pollenless dwarf plants have bright yellow flowers with a dark center that makes the flowers stand out on the lush green foliage. Sunflowers require full sun and well-drained soil. Direct seed outdoors after all danger of frost. Height 14-16''. Approx. 15 seeds/pkg.
Details
Growing Information
Planting:
Direct seed outdoors after all danger of frost is past. Dwarf varieties can be seeded inside in peat pots 3 weeks before planting out.
Sow 1 inch deep in light, well-drained soil. Keep moist until seed germinates in 10-14 days. Space in a full sun location 6-24 inches apart depending on variety. Giant varieties should be planted 20-24 inches apart, while cut flower varieties should be spaced 6-10 inches apart to get smaller heads and slender stems for bouquets.
Growing:
Water regularly but do not over fertilize. Cut flowers last 10-14 days. Drying sunflower heads: If drying outside they should be protected with plastic mesh or brown paper bags. Just cover the heads to keep the birds away.
Harvesting:
To harvest, cut the seed heads leaving 12 inches of stem attached. Hang in an airy place safe from birds and rodents. Heads should be dry in 2-3 weeks. Remove seeds by rubbing two heads together. You may store the seeds on the heads until you need them.