Helianthus 'Tall Single'
sunflower (syn. Helianthus giganteus)
The sunny-faced flowers of this fun and easy to grow plant are universally loved. Appearing on tall stems, the flowerheads can grow up to 30cm (12in) across, and consist of a row of petal-like florets surrounding a large eye, which turns darker with age as the seeds develop. These seeds are loved by many different kinds of birds, so the plants are ideal for wildlife friendly gardens. Where space is limited Helianthus 'Tall Single' can even be grown in large pots, provided they are kept well fed and watered.
How to care for Helianthus Tall Single:
Whilst easy to grow, annual sunflowers in exposed situations may require staking or support. Water deeply but infrequently and feed sparingly to avoid prompting leaf growth over flowers. If you wish to harvest the seed, protect flower head with garden fleece to deter squirrels and birds, or cut the head and dry indoors.
Sowing instructions:
Under glass, start them off in late winter by planting the seeds up to 5cm (2in) deep in deep pots or root trainers filled with good seed compost. When large enough to handle, plant outside in spring after gradually hardening off. Alternatively, sow directly into a well-prepared seed bed in spring and thin to 30cm (12in) as they grow. If sowing outside, temporarily cover the bed with a net to protect the seeds from birds, and keep an eye out for slugs and snails when the seedlings emerge.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
approx 50 seeds
was £2.49
now £2.12
In stock
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(shipped within 2-3 working days)
3 × packets of seeds
was £7.00
now £5.95
£1.98 each
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
1
