SproutSmart
SproutSmart Intelligent Garden Sowing

Sunflower

Planting Schedule

Add Sunflower to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of 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

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsDirect Sow
Last FrostMay 4th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsMay 4th
Harvest BeginsJul 13th
Harvest EndsOct 5th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity70
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitUpright
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)55
Min Night Temp (°F)40
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions


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.
Botanical illustration of Sunflower

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.