Sunflowers are typically propagated by sowing seeds, which are the natural way they reproduce. Therefore, new sunflower plants can be grown by sowing sunflower seeds. So, when is the best time to sow sunflower seeds? Let's find out below.
When is the best time to plant sunflower seeds?
The best time to sow sunflower seeds is usually in the spring, specifically around March to April. During this period, the temperature gradually rises, which is conducive to the germination and growth of sunflower seeds.
How to grow sunflower seeds effectively?
1. Seed treatment
Select healthy, mature sunflower seeds free from pests and diseases. Soak the seeds in a sterilization solution for 3-4 hours, then soak them in clean water for 6-8 hours. After soaking, wrap them in a damp cloth and place them in a warm environment (18-25℃) to germinate. Sprouts will usually appear after 5-7 days, at which point they can be planted.
2. Prepare the soil
Sunflowers prefer fertile, well-drained soil with a pH value ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. Before sowing, the soil can be tilled and an appropriate amount of organic fertilizer can be applied.
3. Sowing method
When sowing, insert the seeds into the soil with the pointed end facing down. The sowing depth is generally 1-2 cm. The sowing spacing is determined according to the variety and the expected plant size, and is usually kept between 30-50 cm.
4. Reasonable planting density
Reasonable planting density is beneficial for ventilation and light penetration, and improves photosynthesis. The principle is that tall, large-grained varieties should be planted sparsely, while short-stem and small-grained varieties should be planted densely. For oilseed varieties, the ideal density is 25,000-30,000 plants per hectare, and for edible varieties, it is 18,000-20,000 plants per hectare.
5. Post-broadcast management
After sowing, keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging. During the seedling stage, water appropriately to prevent root diseases. After emergence, thin the seedlings promptly, removing weak or diseased seedlings and retaining only strong ones. At the same time, cultivate and weed to keep the soil loose.
