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Ankeny, Iowa

This is my first time growing giant sunflowers. I am growing the Mammoth variety. I am just wondering if anyone can tell me how fast and tall they usually grow. I also want to know when the plant should flower from time of seed germination, how many days, it should take. My plants are only about 10 days old. Any other information such as websites about growing giant sunflowers or any other tips would be greatly appreciated.

8/7/2006 7:56:19 PM

Bay Area

It's basically the same question whether you ask how long it takes for the giant sunflower to mature or how fast and tall they grow. It all depends on what variety you grow and where you grow it. Giant sunflower usually takes three to four months to mature and flower, but one variety that takes four months in one area may take just three in another. The usual groth rate is about three to four inches per day at its peak, but a 20+ ft monster can grow a foot per day at its peak. For more info on watering, pollination, fertilization, etc., see http://www.geocities.com/sunflower_info/

8/8/2006 3:02:26 AM

West Amwell, NJ

If they are 10 days old, and you live in Delaware state then you have a problem, because they aren't going to make full height. Most likely they will bolt when it starts getting colder and you will get very small plants. You need to plant sometime in May if you live in Delaware.

8/12/2006 10:16:21 PM

Ankeny, Iowa

Thank you for your help guys. I guess next year I'll plant my sunflowers earlier. But I think they will probably be fine as long as it doesn't get too cold. Because they're in a sheltered corner by the side of my house. I guess I'll wait and see what happens. Thanks again.

8/13/2006 12:44:21 PM

Lexington, Ky

When can one tell when the seed is ready? Any pointers on how to harvest and what to do with the heads after harvest. I would like to eat half the seeds and replant the other half next year....

Jamie

8/15/2006 4:04:22 PM

Bay Area

There are a couple of signs to watch for seed developement. First the sunflower head would slowerly bent with weight as the seeds developed slowly after bloom. More than a month after bloom the bracts turned brown, petals all gone, and the back of the head is turned from green to yellow. The head is ready to be harvested.

8/15/2006 4:31:25 PM

Indianapolis,Indiana

You can always let the birds have a treat.

8/15/2006 4:48:57 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

Jamie, unless you have several acres to dedicate to sunflowers, you can feed 99% to the birds...10" sunflower will prbly have 1K seeds or more...unless you have isolated your flowers early, there is no way to tell what they will look like next year...the old controled pollination thing. I am trying mesh bags this year. Remember, them bees are always busy...Keep the faith, brother...the Commonwealth will Rule!!!!!!!!!!! Peace, Wayne

8/15/2006 10:31:31 PM

Lexington, Ky

If Doves will eat it, I will leave them in the patch(yummy!)

Thanks All;

Jamie

8/16/2006 10:54:07 AM

Owensboro, Ky.

Jamie, you wouldn't shoot them poor helpless doves would ya? LOL Peace, Wayne
PS Never seen a dove at my sunflowers, although last year, late in Aug, about 20 or 30 goldfinches showed up and chowed on my dark seeded sunflowers, cool to look at, but would be real hard to clean for eating. And would prbly take 3 or 4 to make a bite!!!!! Keep on!

8/16/2006 10:29:07 PM