Can You Plant Sunflowers in Late Summer?
Sunflowers are the iconic flowers of late summer and fall, with their tall, elegant stems and cheerful, round blooms. But what if you didn’t plant them in spring or early summer? Can you still enjoy these beauties in late summer?
The answer is yes, but it depends on where you live. In warmer climates, you can get a second planting in for mid and late fall flowers. However, in colder climates, it may be too late to get a successful bloom before the first frost.
When to Plant Sunflowers in Late Summer
Sunflowers are typically planted in spring or early summer for late summer and fall blooming. However, if you live in a warmer climate, you can plant sunflowers in late summer for a second blooming in mid and late fall.
In USDA zones 8 and higher, you should be able to get in a second crop of sunflowers. Start sowing the seeds in mid or late August for the best results.
How to Grow Sunflowers in Late Summer
If you do choose to grow a new crop of sunflowers in late summer, here are some tips:
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Choose the Right Variety: Not all sunflower varieties are suitable for late summer planting. Choose varieties that are known to bloom quickly, such as ‘Teddy Bear’ or ‘Sunspot’.
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Prepare the Soil: Sunflowers prefer well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. Amend the soil with compost or fertilizer before planting.
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Plant the Seeds: Sow the sunflower seeds about a half inch (1 cm.) deep in the soil. Space the seeds 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm.) apart for smaller varieties, and a couple of feet (61 cm.) apart for larger varieties.
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Water Regularly: Keep the soil moist, especially after planting. Sunflowers need about an inch of water per week.
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Thin the Seedlings: Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out so that the strongest plants remain.
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Fertilize (Optional): If your soil is not fertile, you can fertilize the sunflowers once they start to bloom. Use a balanced fertilizer according to the package directions.
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Control Weeds: Keep weeds under control to prevent them from competing with the sunflowers for water and nutrients.
Enjoying Your Late Summer Sunflowers
With a little care, you can enjoy a second blooming of sunflowers in late summer and fall. These cheerful blooms will brighten up your garden and provide a touch of summer magic to the cooler months.
Remember to choose the right variety, prepare the soil properly, and water regularly for the best results.
