Helianthus annuus aka Sunflower
Taxonomy
Common names
Sunflower, Common SunflowerHow to care for Sunflower
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Sunflower, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Sunflower should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Sunflower loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Sunflower requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Common Sunflower is always in the right place to thrive.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Sunflower plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Sunflower is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.
Humidity
The Sunflower does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.
Fertilizer
The Sunflower should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Sunflower as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Sunflower’s native range is the Americas.
Flower
Yes, if you provide your Sunflower with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia