How to grow Sunflower in the UK
Helianthus annuus
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Children's classic. Plant a Russian Giant for show; multi-headed types last longer. This guide covers when and how to sow Sunflower, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Sunflower
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Sow | May Plant | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Any reasonable, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun, sheltered from wind
- Sowing depth
- 2 cm
- Spacing
- 30–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow indoors Apr or direct May
- Growing
- Stake tall varieties; very hungry and thirsty
- Harvest & upkeep
- Leave seed heads for the birds in autumn
- Watch for
- Slugs on seedlings, birds
Companion planting for Sunflower
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
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Sunflower FAQs
When should I sow Sunflower in the UK?
In the UK, sow Sunflower in April. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
What grows well with Sunflower?
Sunflower grows well alongside Courgette, Cucumber, Butternut Squash. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Sunflower?
Keep Sunflower away from Potato, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Sunflower need?
Sunflower prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Sunflower easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Children's classic. Plant a Russian Giant for show; multi-headed types last longer.