How to Grow Wild Sunflowers

Wild sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are fast-growing annuals found throughout North America. They are adorned with several bright yellow blooms, as opposed to the 1 giant flower characteristic of many cultivated varieties. The plants grow up to 8 feet tall and bloom during summer and early fall. Wild sunflowers thrive in exposure to full sun and fast-draining soil that is kept lightly moist. The seeds can be sown outdoors as soon as frost danger has passed.

Spade
Well-rotted manure

Instructions

- 1
  Cultivate the soil at the growing site to a depth of 8 to 10 inches.
- 2
  Remove vegetation clumps and large rocks.
- 3
  Amend the soil with a 2- to 3-inch layer of well-rotted manure.
- 4
  Sow the wild sunflower seeds and cover them with 1/2 to 1 inch of soil, depending upon the size of the seed.
- 5
  Water until the soil feels moist, but not drenched.
- 6
  Thin the sunflower seedlings when they are 3 to 4 inches tall, leaving a space of 2 feet between each plant.
- 7
  Water deeply when less than an inch of rain falls in a 1-week period.
- 8
  Pull weeds from around the plants as often as necessary.

The Best Daisy Varieties for Cutting

Will a Coleus Plant Grow From a Leaf?

Growing Annuals