- How is the sunflower in the pot watered?
- How often does the potted sunflower need to be fertilized?
- Can the plants be repotted?
- Do sunflowers need to be cut in pots?
- What diseases and pests can occur?
- Can sunflowers be overwintered in pots?
- tips and tricks
Sunflowers in pots or tubs look very decorative on the balcony or terrace. But they will only thrive if they are properly cared for. What you have to consider when caring for the popular summer flower in the bucket.
Potted sunflowers need a lot of water
How is the sunflower in the pot watered?
Potted sunflowers need a lot of water. Daily watering is mandatory. But make sure that there is no waterlogging.
The plant pot should always have a drainage hole and stand on a saucer. Place a shard of pottery over the vent hole to keep it from clogging.
Excess irrigation water should be poured out as soon as possible.
How often does the potted sunflower need to be fertilized?
As a heavy feeder, the sunflower in the pot needs a lot of nutrients. Fertilize at least once a week with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.
Mature compost, horn shavings (€32.93) or nettle manure are ideal.
You can also fertilize sunflowers in pots with liquid fertilizer from the garden store, as the hormone-treated seeds of small sunflower varieties should not be eaten anyway.
Can the plants be repotted?
Sunflowers are annual plants. They are usually not repotted. Only if the planter is far too small should you place the flower in a larger container or, if possible, plant it outdoors.
Do sunflowers need to be cut in pots?
Annual sunflowers do not need pruning at all. Faded flower heads can remain on the stem, where they will ripen by themselves.
If you want to dry sunflowers, on a day that is as dry as possible, only cut those flowers that are not yet fully open.
What diseases and pests can occur?
Leaf spot disease, powdery mildew and downy mildew as well as various fungal diseases can all affect sunflowers. Diseases rarely occur in an airy, warm location.
You should watch out for these pests:
- lice
- thrips
- bugs
- leaf miner
- caterpillars
Can sunflowers be overwintered in pots?
Most sunflowers are annuals. Only perennial perennials must be overwintered frost-free.
tips and tricks
If you want to grow sunflowers in a pot, you should give preference to small varieties. "Double Dandy", "Teddy Bear" or "Yellow Knirps" are well suited. However, keep in mind that the seeds have been treated and the seeds collected from the flowers usually do not germinate.