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USDA Hardiness Zones

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11

USDA Zones 2-11 - Grows as a warm-season annual across all zones. Sunflowers are planted in the spring after the last frost and will complete their entire life cycle in a single summer season.

Best Performance in all zones with long, warm, sunny summers. Full sun is the most critical factor for strong stems and abundant blooms.

Northern Zones (2-5) - Plant seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Its relatively fast maturity time makes it a reliable bloomer even in areas with shorter growing seasons.

Hot Climate Zones (9-11) - Plant in early spring for a spectacular early summer display. A second succession can often be planted in late summer or early fall for blooms in the cooler autumn months.

Soil Temperature - Requires warm soil to germinate. The ideal soil temperature is 70-85 degrees F. Planting in soil cooler than 60 degrees F will result in slow or failed germination.

Growing Season - Requires approximately 60-75 frost-free days to reach maturity and begin flowering. It will continue to bloom for several weeks, especially if spent heads are removed.

Learn more about USDA Hardiness Zones here

Planting Tips

When to Plant:
Direct sow seeds outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and the soil is consistently warm (at least 65-70 degrees F). Sunflowers have sensitive taproots and do not transplant well, so starting them directly in their final location is highly recommended.

Where to Plant:
Choose a location that receives full sun (a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). They thrive in well-drained soil and are tolerant of average to slightly poor soil conditions. Avoid areas with standing water.

How to Plant:

Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 8-10 inches and clear the area of weeds.

Sowing: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. If planting in rows, space the rows about 18-24 inches apart. This spacing is suitable for this multi-branching dwarf variety.

Watering: Water the area thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist until seedlings emerge, which typically takes 7-14 days.

Care & Maintenance:

Watering: Water young plants regularly to help them establish strong roots. Once mature, sunflowers are fairly drought-tolerant but will produce better blooms with consistent, deep watering, especially during dry spells.

Fertilizing: Sunflowers are not heavy feeders. If your soil is poor, you can mix in a small amount of compost at planting time. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can cause weak, leggy stems with fewer flowers.

Support: Due to its short and sturdy stature, 'Teddy Bear' sunflowers typically do not require staking.

Pests: Keep an eye out for birds and squirrels who may try to dig up and eat the seeds after planting. Once the plants are established, they are generally pest-resistant.

Harvesting: For cut flowers, cut the stems early in the morning. Choose flowers that are just beginning to open their petals for the longest vase life. Place them in water immediately.

Sunflower Seeds - Dwarf Sungold Double - Teddy Bear - Helianthus annuus

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