Sunflowers

  Hello, Flower Doctor here, Sunflowers, an annual plant, have big, daisy-like flower faces of bright yellow petals (and occasionally red) and brown centers that ripen into heavy heads filled with seeds. American natives, sunflowers are grown for their beauty and they are also harvested for seed. Most sunflowers are easy to grow as long as the soil is not waterlogged. They are best grown in locations with 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Sunflowers are heavy feeders so the soil needs to be nutrient-rich with organic matter or composted (aged) manure. Or, work in a slow release granular fertilizer deep into your soil. If possible, put seeds in a spot that is sheltered from strong winds, perhaps along a fence or near a building. When cut, handle sunflowers gently. Remove any foliage from stems that will be in water. Re-cut stem on angle before placing in water that contains commercial flower food. Arrange sunflowers in tall containers that provide good support for their heavy heads and change the water every day to keep them fresh. Keep in cool place away from sunlight and heating.