Sunflower ‘Compact Gold Spray’ (Helianthus annuus)

If you want a fine garden plant then let it grow naturally giving it about 60cm space. They grow from 60 to 90cm tall depending on soil conditions. I generally plant sunflower seed 1cm deep from November until January but October wouldn't be too early and in warmer gardens seed can be planted in September. They don't need a lot of extra irrigation and are happiest in full sun.

When to sow: Late September to January
Where to sow: Direct in a  prepared garden bed after the last frosts.
Depth to sow: 1cm
Aspect:  Full sun or as sunny a spot as possible.
Soil:  Prepared, well drained, fertilised soil. Add lime if soil is too acid.
Spacing: Between plants: 30 to 60cm

Directions:  If you want these for cut flowers then nip out the leader when it reaches 25cm in height. If you want a fine garden plant let it grow naturally giving it about 60cm in space. They grow from 60 to 90cm in height depending on soil conditions. They don’t need a lot of extra irrigation and are happiest in full sun.