Helianthus annuus
Sunflower is the ultimate symbol of summer with giant flowers turning to face the sun. A fast-growing plant that is easy to grow and attracts birds and pollinators.
Growing Guide & Production Protocols
Cultivation & Growing Guidelines
Helianthus annuus, commonly known as sunflower, belongs to the Asteraceae family and is celebrated for its bold, cheerful blooms and fast growth. Thriving in full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate fertility, sunflowers are heat and drought tolerant, making them ideal for summer landscapes, patio containers, and professional cut-flower production. Their striking color and pollinator appeal make them a favorite in both gardens and floral arrangements.
Reduce mist before evening; K-IBA can hasten rooting. pH 5.8–6.2, EC 0.8–1.2, feed 50 ppm N then 100–150 ppm N. Daminozide 1,200 ppm in week 4; extend day to 12+ hours. Pinch at transplant if desired. Fungicide at sticking and week 2.
Danziger’s sunflower breeding focuses on uniform flowering, strong branching, and a wide color spectrum—from classic golden yellow to bi-color patterns- for versatile use in pots, beds, and bouquets.
For more detailed growing tips – such as sticking guidelines, recommended PGRs, and scheduling protocols – check out our Helianthus annuus Growing Tips.
Common Production Base Specs
Core agronomic requirements applying across all Helianthus annuus series.
| Crop Type | Bedding - Annuals |
|---|---|
| Growing Guide & Production Protocols | Helianthus annuus, part of the Asteraceae family, is known for its iconic, massive golden-yellow flower heads and tall, sturdy stalks. This fast-growing annual thrives in full sun, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. With rapid growth and immense pollinator attraction, Helianthus annuus blooms throughout the summer, making it a favorite for background borders, cutting gardens, and agricultural landscapes that need bold, traditional summer impact. |
| Cultivation & Groweing guidelines | Maintain 68-72°F (20-22°C) early for rooting, then cool to 55-60°F (13-15°C) to tone and encourage compact growth. pH 5.8-6.2, EC 0.8-1.2, feed 100-150 ppm N. Allow moderate dry down between irrigations. Apply preventative fungicide at transplant. Apply Daminozide at 1,500-2,500 ppm or Uniconazole as needed for height control. |
| Growth Habit | Tall / Upright |
| PGR Requirements | Moderate to High |
| Recommended Formats | Gallons, Large Containers |
| Flowering Season | Summer |
Commercial Helianthus annuus Series Overview
Danziger offers a specialized Helianthus annuus lineup, with each series bred for specific growth habits and production goals. Danziger offers different series within this crop:
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SOL SEEKER™ Series
Explore Series: SOL SEEKER™ Series →Sol Seeker is a breakthrough breeding and grower-friendly, effortless option for any garden or patio.
This Helianthus series brings positivity, reminds us always to face the sun
and look on the bright side of life.- Little to no PGR needed
- Grower-friendly habit
- One pinch after 3 weeks from sticking
- Can fit well in a 12cm pot with little
PGR sprayed - Lower water consumption than other
commercial varieties - Sol Seeker™ Bronze Burst has more vigor than the other varieties in the series
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SUNBELIEVABLE™ series
Explore Series: SUNBELIEVABLE™ series →Danziger is proud to add the product of “Thompson & Morgan” to its annuals assortment:
Third place in this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year competition
Over 1000 flowers during the growing season
Multi-branching sunflower
Flowering from June to November
Perfect for pots and borders
Truly unbelievable garden performance
Luxurious foliage that deepens in color with age
