Sunflower – Mexican

HELIANTHUS – Mexicanus

• Growing Temp 60°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 90-100 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: The ‘Mexican’ sunflower is a unique and striking variety known for its vibrant orange and red flowers, making it a favorite among gardeners looking to add bold colors to their landscape. This sunflower is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in various conditions, including poorer soils. It attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens. The flowers can be used for cutting and in arrangements, and the seeds are also edible, adding nutritional value to your garden.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘Mexican’ sunflower seeds outdoors in the spring after the last frost date, ensuring the soil temperature is at least 60°F. Sow the seeds 1 inch deep and space them 18–24 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 7–14 days. Once established, these sunflowers are drought-tolerant and require minimal care.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To get a jump start on the growing season, sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with quality potting mix, placing one seed per cell and covering lightly with soil. Maintain a temperature of around 70°F for optimal germination. Once the seedlings develop their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted into the garden, spaced 18–24 inches apart. Be sure to water them well after transplanting to help them establish.

Harvesting: To determine when ‘Mexican’ sunflowers are ready for harvest, look for the flower heads to droop and the backs to turn yellow. This indicates that the seeds are mature. Cut the flower heads in the morning when they are dry, leaving several inches of stem for easy handling. If you want to collect seeds, allow the heads to dry completely, or cover them with a paper bag to protect them from birds and pests until you are ready to harvest.