Sunflower Seeds – Evening Sun

(Helianthus annuus) Annual. 75 days to maturity.

Evening Sun Sunflower is a multi-headed sunflower, like Branching Sonya & Autumn Beauty. Stunning bicolours range from a mix of oranges, pinks, reds, and yellows like the setting sun! Under ideal conditions one plant will have up to two dozen flowers blooming at the same time. Plants grow 6-8 tall.

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Timing: Direct seed after last frost or start indoors 2-3 weeks before last frost date. *If direct seeding, watch for slugs – they LOVE sunflower sprouts.

Seeding: Sow seeds deep, cover with soil, and water well; 14-21 days to germination; thin young plants to 1 foot apart.

Growth Habit: Upright growth 5 to 8 feet height; flowering side branches surround the main stem; flowers 4-5 diameter.

Sun Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Light, well-drained soil

When to Harvest: Flowers can be harvested while still tight, or just after they open.

How to Harvest: Cut flowering branches from central stem

Uses: Evening Sun Sunflower is an outstanding cut flower with a long vase life. Sunflower petals are edible and make beautiful additions to salads, sauces and desserts; dried petals can also be used in homemade body care products, like soap and bath salts. In the garden, plants provide nectar and habitat to pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds.