When is the Best Time to Sow Sunflower Seeds
The editor introduces the sowing methods and precautions for sunflowers, as well as when it's best to sow sunflower seeds. Detailed information is provided below.
When is the best time to sow sunflower seeds? (With planting methods included).
Sunflowers, also known as large-flowered purslane or pine leaf peony, have thick leaves, graceful plant shapes, and vibrant flower colors, making them highly ornamental.
Moreover, sunflowers are particularly hardy, not only can they be propagated by cutting, but they are also very easy to grow from seeds. Therefore, many people enjoy growing them on their balconies. So, when is the best time to sow sunflower seeds? What are the planting methods for sunflower seeds? Let's find out together.
Sunflowers, also known as large-flowered purslane or pine leaf peony, have thick leaves, graceful plant shapes, and vibrant flower colors, making them highly ornamental.
Moreover, sunflowers are particularly hardy, not only can they be propagated by cutting, but they are also very easy to grow from seeds. Therefore, many people enjoy growing them on their balconies.
So, when is the best time to sow sunflower seeds? What are the planting methods for sunflower seeds? Let's find out together.
When is the Best Time to Sow Sunflower Seeds?
Usually, the suitable sowing time for sunflowers is from April to September every year. If you plan to save seeds, April is the best time to sow.
When sowing, insert the pointed end of the sunflower seed vertically into the center, then cover it with soil and water moderately to keep the soil moist. The seeds will germinate in about 5 days.
Sunflower Seed Planting Methods
1. Pre-planting Preparation
Sunflower seeds are very small, with about 8,400 seeds per gram. It is common to use seed trays for sowing, slightly covering them with fine vermiculite, or just pressing them slightly after sowing to ensure sufficient moisture.
2. Soil Requirements
Sunflowers are highly adaptable and can even thrive in poor soil. However, for better cultivation, it is best to choose sandy soil, which has good looseness and drainage, meeting the normal growth needs of sunflowers.
3. Sowing Method
When sowing, insert the pointed end of the sunflower seed vertically into the center, then cover it with soil and water moderately to keep the soil moist. The seeds will germinate in about 5 days.
The optimal germination temperature for sunflower seeds is 21-24°C, and they will germinate in about 7-10 days. Since the seedlings are very delicate, keeping a higher temperature will make the seedlings grow quickly.
4. Post-germination Management
(1) Sunlight: If the sunflower seeds are not expired, the germination rate after sowing is very high. After germination, it is important to expose them to plenty of sunlight, as insufficient sunlight can lead to leggy growth, which is problematic.
(2) Watering: Do not water too frequently or directly. It is better to water by immersion method. Direct watering can easily wash away the young seedlings. Water only when the soil is dry, just enough to keep the soil moist.
(3) Fertilizing: Sunflowers do not require a high nutrient content, so during regular cultivation, you can occasionally scatter some compound fertilizer and apply some phosphorus and potassium fertilizer every two weeks before flowering.
5. Transplanting and Planting
Wait until the sunflower seedlings have grown about 5 true leaves before transplanting. They can be planted in the ground or in pots. After transplanting, water the plants.
After shading and ventilating for a day, the plants should be managed with full sun and fertilized once a week with a balanced nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium water-soluble fertilizer.
6. Flowering Management
During the flowering period, artificial pollination is usually necessary to improve seed setting. Pollination should be done around 10 a.m. every day, and it can be repeated 2-3 times. Introducing bees one week before flowering, with a beehive for every 5 acres, can also be effective.
In summary, sunflowers can be directly propagated with seeds, and the planting method is simple and easy. They require minimal watering and are easy to manage. Finally, note that the seeds easily disperse after the flowerhead matures, so they should be harvested in time.
The above information on sunflower sowing methods and precautions, as well as detailed information on when it's best to sow sunflower seeds, do you understand now?