The sunflower is one of the most recognisable and best-loved flowers. Sunflowers are not a true native species but are a beneficial plant in gardens and our ecosystem. Bees are attracted to sunflowers for their nectar, and they provide seeds for wild birds such as Bullfinch, Coal Tit, Greenfinch and the House Sparrow.

Sunflower seeds can be sown directly into the ground, 60cm apart in rows. However, we recommend to sow sunflower seeds in pots from any time between March and May, keeping them well-watered until they have grown into seedlings of approximately 15cm in height and are ready to plant out at the end of May when all the risk of frost has passed. These sunflower seeds will grow to 5-7ft tall.

Once planted out, keep them well watered, feed weekly to encourage them to grow tall and stake where necessary.

Mixture Specifications

• Perfect for pollinators, creating habitats and food for a wide range of bees, butterflies and other pollinators. Provides seeds for birds.
• Species lifecycle: Annual
• Access to light: Requires good access to light
• Optimal sowing period: March to June or August to October
• Flowering Period: May to September
• Species included: Giant Sunflower Only