Common Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

Helianthus annuus - Red

Native to North America. Sunflower is an annual plant that grows up to 4 metres tall and has only one large flower. There are also varieties as short as 30 cm with multiple stems and flowers. The flower heads reach a diameter between 10 and 40 cm. These varieties have more refined flowers, with both single and double-flowered cultivars available. It blooms from July until autumn.

The sunflower turns its flower towards the sun during the day. This phenomenon is called heliotropism. The seeds contain about 45% vegetable oil, proteins, glycerides, sterols and other elements. Sunflower oil is produced from them, which contains mainly linoleic and oleic acid. The seeds are edible. They are added to bread, pastries, salads, but can also be consumed on their own.

How to Grow Sunflowers

• Sunflowers require a sunny, warm location that is sheltered from wind. It should be south or southwest facing. They require consistently moist soil that should never dry out. The plant may not recover and could die. The plants don't root deeply, so it's better to provide support near the stem to prevent breaking. Once the seeds begin to ripen in the faded flower heads, cut off the entire flower - this can extend the flowering period.

• Sow seeds at the end of April to early May directly into the soil at a depth of about 2.5 cm and spacing of about 20 cm. You can also pre-grow seedlings at home in seed trays and plant young plants into beds.

• Well-drained loamy-sandy soil that is well supplied with nutrients is suitable.

• Apply complete NPK fertilisers once every 14 days. For example, you can use Kristalon or Cererit.

• Very humid conditions result in stem blackening. Waterlogging and insufficient support can cause uprooting or stem breaking. Aphids are the most common pests on these plants. Immediately treat affected plants with Decis.