Van Gogh produced nearly a dozen paintings of sunflowers. They’re among his most celebrated works.
It’s easy to see why. The sunflower is sturdy and delicate, bold and intricate, and grows like a weed in sun-drenched Southern France.
It will grow like crazy in your Southern California garden, too.
The sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is native to North America. Archaeological evidence suggests that indigenous peoples began domesticating sunflowers as early as 3000 BCE.
Grown for their seeds and oil, they also played a role in cultural and spiritual practices. By the 16th century, sunflowers were introduced to Europe, eventually landing on van Gogh’s easel.
An AI-generated image of a sunflower painting, with apologies to van Gogh.
5 Sunflower Varieties for Southern California
- Mammoth Grey Stripe can reach up to 12 feet. Its imposing heads produce abundant edible seeds, while the plant offers a striking visual in a garden.
- Autumn Beauty boasts a striking mix of warm hues, including gold, bronze, and burgundy. It grows up to 6 feet tall.
- Sunrich Orange is a favorite among florists. This pollen-free sunflower features perfectly round, vibrant orange blooms ideal for cut flower arrangements. The variety thrives in Southern California’s sunny conditions.
- Lemon Queen is a multi-branching sunflower producing numerous light-yellow blossoms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. It grows well in hot, dry climates and is ideal for wildlife gardens.
- Teddy Bear is a compact, bushy dwarf sunflower variety that grows to about 2–3 feet. It’s an excellent choice for container gardening or smaller spaces, and its fluffy, double blooms are cheerful and unique.
Young sunflowers are heliotropes that follow the sun, while mature flowers point east.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Light
- They’re called “sunflowers” for a reason. They love the sunlight and need at least 6 hours of direct sun daily.
- In extremely hot climates, partial shade during peak heat can be beneficial.
Temperature
- Sunflowers are heat-loving plants, so they thrive in warm climates.
- They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but do best between 70–85°F during the day and above 50°F at night.
Soil
- Sunflowers prefer well-drained soil with good fertility and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Loamy soils that retain moisture but don’t get waterlogged are ideal.
- Amend the soil with lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.
A field of sun-worshiping sunflowers.
Steps for Planting Seeds
- Start by loosening the soil in the planting area to a depth of about 12 inches. Remove any weeds, rocks, or debris that could impede growth. Mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Test the soil pH and amend as needed.
- Select a location in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Ensure the spot has good air circulation to prevent mold and fungal issues.
- Sow the sunflower seeds directly into the prepared soil after the last frost. Place each seed about 1–2 inches deep and space them 6–12 inches apart, depending on the variety. Allow more spacing for larger varieties.
- Water the area gently to settle the soil around the seeds. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as the seeds germinate, which usually occurs within 7–10 days.
- For tall sunflower varieties, consider staking or adding supports once they reach about 2 feet tall to prevent them from bending or snapping in strong winds.
- Once the seedlings sprout, remove weaker plants to give the healthiest ones room to grow.
Sunflowers make excellent cut flowers for arrangements.
Sunflower Plant Care
Water
- Water the plants deeply once a week with about 1 inch of water.
- In hot and dry conditions, increase watering frequency or add mulch around the base to help retain moisture. Avoid getting water on the leaves.
Fertilizer
- Sunflowers are heavy feeders, especially during their rapid growth phase. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks until they reach maturity.
- Use compost and organic fertilizers as an alternative.
Plant a sunflower or two in your garden. The bees will love you for it!
Pests & Diseases
- Sunflowers are pest-resistant, but watch out for aphids, slugs, and snails.
- Hand-pick any that you see, or use natural pest control methods.
- Downy mildew and powdery mildew are common sunflower diseases that can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Harvesting Sunflowers
- Harvest time varies based on the variety, but most will be ready for picking about 3 months after planting.
- Watch for signs like drooping heads, yellowing leaves, and drying petals to determine when the seeds are mature.
- Cut off the head of the flower with about a foot of stem attached. Hang them upside down in a warm, dry area to fully ripen before harvesting the seeds.
The perfect spiral pattern of sunflower seeds.
FAQs: Growing Sunflowers
Q: Can you grow sunflowers in pots?
Dwarf varieties like Teddy Bear can be grown in large containers. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage and is in a sunny spot.
Q: How long do sunflowers take to bloom?
Sunflowers bloom in 6–12 weeks, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Q: Are all sunflower seeds edible?
Some varieties are bred for their ornamental value and may not produce edible seeds. Always check the seed packet or consult with a gardening expert.
Q: Do sunflowers need to be replanted every year?
Most sunflower varieties are annuals that complete their life cycle in one growing season and must be replanted yearly. However, some perennial varieties, like the Maximilian sunflower, can return year after year.
Q: How tall can sunflowers grow?
The height of sunflowers depends on the variety. Mammoth varieties can grow up to 12–16 feet tall, while dwarf varieties like Teddy Bear typically reach only 2–3 feet.
Q: Can sunflowers grow in sandy soil?
Yes, as long as it’s amended with organic matter to improve fertility and moisture retention. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root issues.
Q: Do sunflowers follow the sun?
Young sunflowers are heliotropes, meaning their heads turn to follow the sun’s movement during the day. Once they mature and their blooms open, they usually face east to maximize morning sunlight.
Q: Are sunflowers good for pollinators?
Sunflowers attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Varieties like Lemon Queen are particularly suited for pollinator gardens.