HELIANTHUS – Autumnus Beauty Mix

Growing Temp 70°F – 85°F
Days to Maturity 70-80 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: The ‘Autumn Beauty Mix’ Sunflower is a stunning blend of warm-toned blooms that adds a rich, vibrant display to any garden. These sunflowers are relatively easy to grow, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and their unique colors attract pollinators while providing beautiful cut flowers for arrangements. This mix offers a delightful array of hues ranging from deep reds to golden yellows, making it a favorite for both ornamental and functional purposes.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘Autumn Beauty Mix’ sunflower seeds outdoors in the spring after the last frost date, when soil temperatures are around 70°F. Sow the seeds about 1 inch deep and space them 6–12 inches apart in rows that are 2–3 feet apart. Water the seeds thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7–10 days. As the plants grow, they may need some support in windy areas to prevent breakage.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get a head start, sow sunflower seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use biodegradable pots filled with seed-starting mix, planting one seed per pot and covering it lightly with soil. Keep the soil warm, around 70°F, to promote germination. Once the seedlings develop their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden, spacing them 12–18 inches apart to allow for their mature size. Be sure to water well after transplanting to help them establish.

Harvesting: To know when to harvest ‘Autumn Beauty Mix’ sunflowers, watch for the flower heads to droop and the backs to turn yellow. This typically indicates that the seeds are ripe. Cut the flower heads in the morning when they are dry, leaving several inches of stem. If you plan to collect seeds, allow the heads to dry completely before removing the seeds, or cover them with a paper bag to protect them from birds and pests until you’re ready to harvest.