Planting

• 1). Plant your sunflower seeds between May 15 and July 1. Make sure soil temperatures are above 50 degrees F. The soil should be well-drained, but can range from sand to clay.
  
  
• 2). Dig holes that are 1 to 2 inches deep in rows. Planting in rows will allow for good cultivation.
  
  
• 3). Use a drill or corn planter but check the seed bag to see which plastic plates with filler rings are needed for your drill.
  
  
• 4). Place your sunflower seeds into the hole.
  
  
• 5). Put in a well-balanced fertilizer mixture. Add 50 pounds of phosphorus, 100 pounds of potassium and less than 100 pounds of nitrogen.
  
  
• 6). Make sure to cover your seedlings after you add the fertilizer.
  
  

Growing Sunflowers

• 1). Plan to plant your sunflowers where they will receive full sun for the entire day.
  
  
• 2). Water frequently, but make sure not to over-water as this will hurt your sunflowers. Leaving them with too little water will harm them as well.
  
  
• 3). Watch for sclerotina disease, which is a white mold. Recognize white mold by spotting rotting sunflower heads and stalks. Look for other disease such as rust and downy mildew. Prevent birds from causing problems by placing a plastic netting over your flowers. Keep diseases away by rotating your sunflower crop.
  
  
• 4). Put in a stake if your sunflower is having trouble standing on its own. Place a piece of wood or metal in the dirt next to the sunflower. Use a string and carefully tie the flower to the stake for the best results.