Sunflower Seeds - Autumn Beauty

(Helianthus annuus.) Annual. 75-85 days to maturity. This Autumn beauty is like Branching Sonya and Evening Sun, a multi-headed sunflower. Colours range from bright yellow to gold to dark burgundy. Sounds dreamy like a late Summer sunset! Under ideal conditions one plant can have up to two dozen flowers blooming at the same time. Plants grow 5-8’ tall. Organic.

------------------------------------------------------------------

Timing: Direct seed after last frost or start indoors 2-3 weeks before last frost date. *If direct seeding, watch for slugs. They LOVE sunflower sprouts.

Seeding:  Sow seeds ½” deep, cover with soil and water well; 14-21 days to germination; thin young plants to 1 foot apart.

Growth Habit: Upright growth 5 to 8 feet height; flowering side branches surround the main stem; flowers 4-5” diameter.

Sun Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Light, well-drained soil 

When to Harvest: Flowers can be harvested while still tight, or just after they open. 

How to Harvest:  Cut flowering branches from central stem

Uses: Autumn Beauty is an outstanding cut flower with a long vase life. Sunflower petals are edible and make beautiful additions to salads, sauces and desserts; dried petals can also be used in homemade body care products, like soap and bath salts. In the garden, plants provide nectar and habitat to pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds.