- How often should the perennial sunflower be watered?
- When and how to fertilize the perennial Helianthus?
- How do I properly prune sunflowers as a perennial?
- Is winter protection required?
With its yellow flower discs, it shines like a bet with the summer sun. The slightly smaller flower size compared to annual Helianthus compensates the perennial sunflower with imposing appearance and robust longevity. Read here what care the majestic blossom beauty really values.
The perennial sunflower blooms much longer than its annual sister
How often should the perennial sunflower be watered?
Water a sunflower plentifully and regularly. Since the moisture evaporates quickly in a sunny location, watering twice may be necessary on warm summer days. In the early morning and in the evening hours, pour the irrigation water directly onto the root disc.
When and how to fertilize the perennial Helianthus?
A characteristic of the sunflower is its high nutrient requirement. Fertilize the magnificent flower every 8 to 14 days during the growth and flowering period with compost, horn shavings (32.93€) and lime. In addition, shower the root disc monthly with nitrogen-rich nettle manure. In September, stop the nutrient supply so that the plant prepares for the coming winter season.
How do I properly prune sunflowers as a perennial?
There are various occasions when it is advisable to use secateurs on sunflowers. How to cut the monumental summer beauty correctly:
- Cut back wilted flower stalks in the hope of reblooming
- Cut off stunted or obviously diseased shoots and leaves
- In autumn, shorten the flower stalk to 20 cm
Since the sunflower seeds are an invaluable source of food for the birds in the garden in winter, nature-conscious gardeners leave the sunflowers in the bed until early spring. Only then is the perennial cut off to a hand’s breadth above the ground.
Is winter protection required?
Perennial sunflowers are assigned to winter hardiness zone Z7. Here, the frost hardness extends to a range between - 12.3 and - 17.7 degrees Celsius. In regions with harsh winters, we still recommend protection against the biting frost. Spread a layer of fall leaves and needle twigs over the root disc.
Place perennial sunflowers in pots on a block of wood in front of the south wall of the house. Wrap the container in a warm layer of jute, fleece or bubble wrap.
tips
Characteristic of the perennial sunflower is its vehement urge to spread. So that a perennial Helianthus does not conquer the entire garden over time, it should be planted in combination with a root barrier. Boards embedded in the planting pit, an impenetrable geotextile (€107.71) or concrete blocks are excellent at keeping rampant roots in check.