Sunflower Seeds - Branching Sonja
(Helianthus annuus) Annual. 100 days to maturity.
An incredible sunflower! 4 feet tall with many, many branching stems. Each stem will hold a sunny face, 4 inches in diameter. Great in the garden and a fabulous producer for flower arrangements.
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Growth Habit: Upright growth to 4 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 Plant: 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.
How to Plant:
Direct sow: sow seeds ½” deep, cover with soil and water well; 14-21 days to germination; thin young plants to 1 foot apart.
Transplant: sow seeds indoors ½” deep in individual pots or divided trays; transplant seedlings outdoors, after last frost, spacing them 1 foot apart.
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: Branching Sonja 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.