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Fact | Step by Step Guide | Species | Soil | Seed Germination | Fertilizing | Diseases & Pests
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Soil Consideration |
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Sunflower plants are like any other plant. The better the soil the more heartier and robust the plant. However sunflowers do well in many different soil conditions.
Sunflowers grow quickly and if they don't have all they need in the soil they'll grow smaller and have smaller, less spectacular, flowers. If the soil is very compacted, they won't grow well at all, and may flower at less than 50 centimetres in height with minuscule little flowers
Sunflowers do best when grown on soils with adequate water-holding capacity, internal drainage and proper fertility. They will tolerate a wide range of soil types; however, one that is too high in nitrogen encourages excessive plant growth that will check maturity of the flower heads.
Adequate levels of phosphorus and potassium are recommended, and, as with any garden activity, frequent soil tests are recommended to get good results. The plant's roots go deep and spread extensively, so the sunflower can withstand some drought and nearby cultivation. Sunflowers should not be water stressed during the critical period; about 20 days before and after flowering.
Suitable compost for seeds and potting off is: 1 part leaf mould, 1 part sand, 2 parts loam. If this is not available, any good garden soil will do and it need not be very finely sifted. The seeds germinate readily and grow very rapidly.
| Sunflower Species | | Soil Considerations |
| Seed Germination | | Fertilizing | | Diseases and Pests |
