Sunflower

Q: What should you NOT plant next to Sunflower?

Some plants may compete with Sunflower for nutrients or attract similar pests. See the "Keep Your Distance" section for plants to avoid.

Helianthus annuus

The towering golden ambassador of summer that follows the sun across the sky, feeding pollinators while its seeds reward patient gardeners.

🌱 Root Zone: Deep Taproot

🌱 Annual ☀️ Full Sun 💧 Moderate Water 🌡️ Zones 3-9

🌻

Best Roommates 8

Tomato

Tomatoes benefit from pollinator attraction brought by sunflower companions. Compatible spacing and sunlight needs.

Marigold

Marigolds attract beneficial insects and create visual beauty near sunflowers; may deter some pests.

Cucumber

Trailing vines grow along ground while sunflowers reach up; they don't compete. Cucumber shade helps retain soil moisture.

Bean

Bush beans grow at ground level beneath sunflowers. Beans fix nitrogen, enriching soil for next crop.

Corn

Both are tall sun-lovers that create vertical garden zones. Corn provides wind protection for sunflowers; neither competes for root space.

Radish

Quick-maturing radish harvests before sunflowers shade the area. Loosens soil for deep sunflower taproots.

Spinach

Spinach benefits from afternoon shade of tall sunflowers. Harvests before sunflower canopy becomes too dense.

Lettuce

Lettuce thrives in the dappled shade of sunflower leaves without competition. Quick harvest before sunflowers mature.

Keep Your Distance 3

Potato

Sunflowers produce allelopathic compounds that inhibit potato growth. Root competition also occurs at medium depths.

Cabbage

Brassicas are stunted by sunflower allelopathy. Root competition and shade from sunflower canopy stresses growth.

Beet

Sunflower allelopathy affects beet growth and yield. Shade from tall varieties inhibits beet development.

Growing Guide

🌱 Planting

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
Transplant when soil reaches 65°F (18°C)
Space plants 18-24 inches apart
Plant in well-draining, rich soil with pH 6.0-6.8

💧 Water & Soil

Water deeply 1-2 inches per week
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds
Consistent watering prevents fruit cracking
Avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease

☀️ Light & Temperature

Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
Ideal temperatures: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
Protect from strong winds
Use row covers in cooler climates

🌿 Care & Maintenance

Stake or cage plants for support
Prune suckers below the first flower cluster
Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during fruiting
Monitor for common pests and diseases

Harvesting & Storage

🍅 When to Harvest

Harvest when fully colored but still firm
Ripe when gently pressed gives slightly
Best flavor developed at room temperature
Check daily during peak season

🏠 Storage Tips

Store at room temperature out of direct sun
Avoid refrigeration (cold ruins flavor/texture)
Use within 5-7 days for best quality
Can be frozen, canned, or dried for preservation

Troubleshooting Guide

🐛 Common Pests

Hornworms: Hand-pick or use Bt
Aphids: Spray with soapy water
Whiteflies: Use yellow sticky traps
Spider Mites: Increase humidity, use neem oil

🦠 Common Diseases

Early Blight: Remove affected leaves, improve airflow
Blossom End Rot: Ensure consistent calcium supply
Cracking: Maintain even watering
Powdery Mildew: Increase air circulation

Get Growing

Ready to add Sunflower to your garden? Find high-quality organic seeds to get started.

Find Sunflower Seeds

Common Questions

What are the best companion plants for Sunflower?

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a deep taproot root plant. The best companions include Tomato, Marigold, Cucumber, Bean, Corn, Radish, Spinach, Lettuce.

What should you NOT plant next to Sunflower?

Avoid planting Potato, Cabbage, Beet near Sunflower as they may compete for nutrients or attract similar pests.

Can I grow Sunflower in a container?

Sunflower has a deep taproot root system, so choose a deep container (at least 12-18 inches) for best results.