Sunflowers come from North and Central America. There are two main types. Helianthus annuus is not hardy and is therefore only kept as an annual plant. Perennial sunflowers, on the other hand, are for the most part hardy and bloom in the garden for many years.

Annual sunflowers are not hardy

Annual sunflowers are not hardy

Annual sunflowers do not survive sub-zero temperatures. However, it is also not worth wintering them indoors, as they only thrive for one year anyway and have to be sown again the next year.

When the sunflower blossoms have faded, the popular sunflower seeds ripen inside. In autumn, harvest the seeds or cut the flowers to dry.

The kernels can be used as bird feed in winter. They can also be roasted as a snack or used in the kitchen for baking. It's also worth saving a few seeds for next year's sowing.

Sunflower perennials overwinter

Most sunflower perennials are hardy. Like the Jerusalem artichoke, for example, they don't need any winter protection at all.

Cut off more sensitive varieties above the ground in autumn. Cover - if available - a layer of mature compost on top or pile up some leaves. In spring, lift off the mulch to allow the sun to warm the soil better.

Some perennials are not hardy. They must be dug up in the fall and wintered indoors. It is best if you only cultivate such varieties in pots.

  • dig up shrubs
  • Plant in a pot with garden soil
  • Keep cool but frost-free
  • Occasionally give some water

Stop fertilizing after September

Perennial sunflowers should no longer be fertilized from September at the latest. The fertilizer increases the risk that the perennials will not survive the winter.

Sow and plant out sunflowers in spring

Since the annual sunflowers do not tolerate frost at all, you may only sow them outdoors when the soil is warm enough.

You should wait until the end of May before planting early sunflowers outdoors. Before that, the risk of night frosts is still too great.

tips and tricks

Annual sunflowers usually have only one or a few flowers. When these have faded, the plant's time is over. It can then be cut, leaving the root in the ground.

Category:

Vegetable garden