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Sunflowers are easy to grow from seed and are ideal for growing with children. They can grow to heights of up to two meters, bear impressive, long-lasting flowers, and look fantastic in gardens and allotments. They make an excellent cut flower.

How to grow sunflowers at home:
To grow sunflowers you need a sunny, sheltered spot and a good soil – add plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost before planting, if you can. protect the young plants from slugs and snails and water your sunflowers regularly. You may also need to stake them if they’re in an exposed position.

When to plant sunflower seeds:
Sow sunflower seeds from April to May, individually in 10cm pots of peat-free, multi-purpose compost. Plant out into the garden when all risk of frost has passed, from early June.

Sow thinly, 12mm deep in drills 45cm apart in well cultivated soil raked to a fine tilth. Germination takes around 21 days. When large enough to handle, thin to 45cm apart. For Earlier Flowering: Sow indoors, individually in 7.5cm pots at 20-25C.

When well grown, gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions before planting out after all risk of frost.

Read more frequently asked questions about growing sunflower seeds.