Sunflower

70d to harvest

Golden sunlight blooms with a confident, upright presence—Sunflower seeds yield heads that open like warm lanterns, their petals radiating rich, honeyed color. The texture is bold and substantial, with a satisfying snap to the seed and a deeply aromatic, nutty character that shines in simple, roasted preparations and classic sunflower spreads. Grow Sunflower for show-stopping garden color and a dependable harvest at about 70 days, perfect for feeding the birds and delighting your own seed-saving rituals.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 12b, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Dec 10th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	70
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common pests or diseases on Helianthus annuus, and how do I control them?

Watch for sunflower moth/caterpillars and chewing leaf insects; hand-pick early outbreaks and use an insect net or row cover until flowering. If you see white, powdery growth on leaves, treat with a horticultural oil or potassium bicarbonate and avoid wetting foliage since powdery mildew spreads quickly in humid, still air.

How often should I water Helianthus annuus during active growth?

Water deeply so the top 6–8 inches of soil stay evenly moist, typically about 1–2 times per week depending on heat and rainfall. During bud formation and early flowering, don’t let the soil dry out completely—consistent moisture supports larger heads, but avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root stress.

How can I tell when Helianthus annuus is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the back of the flower head turns yellow to tan and the seeds look plump with tight, mature shells (often about 70 days). The outer petals should have withered, and you should be able to rub a seed from the head without it being soft or hollow.