Sunflower - Helianthus King Kong

Helianthus annuus - King Kong

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

Sunflowers rotate their flower heads throughout the day to follow the sun. This phenomenon is called heliotropism. Seeds contain around 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 face south or southwest. They require constantly moist soil that should never dry out. The plant might not recover and would die. Plants don't root deeply, so it's better to provide support at the stem to prevent breaking. Once the seeds begin to ripen in the faded flower heads, we cut off the entire flower, which can extend the flowering period.

• Sow seeds in late April to early May directly into the soil at a depth of about 2.5 cm and spacing of about 20 cm. Seedlings can also be pre-grown at home in seed trays and transplanted to beds as young plants.

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

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

• Very humid environments result in blackening of the stem. Waterlogging and insufficient support can cause the plant to uproot or the stem to break. Aphids most commonly occur on plants. Immediately treat affected plants with Decis.