Sunflower – Teddy Bear

HELIANTHUS – Teddy Bear

• Growing Temp 60°F – 75°F

• Days to Maturity 70-80 days

Ease of Cultivation and uses: The ‘Teddy Bear’ sunflower is a charming variety known for its fluffy, pom-pom-like blooms that bring a unique texture to any garden. This sunflower is relatively easy to grow, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. It thrives in full sun and is perfect for adding a whimsical touch to flower beds, borders, or containers. ‘Teddy Bear’ sunflowers are also great for cut flower arrangements, providing a cheerful focal point with their vibrant yellow petals and dense blooms.

Direct Sowing: For direct sowing, plant ‘Teddy Bear’ 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 about 12–18 inches apart to allow for their bushy growth. Water the seeds thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 7–10 days. ‘Teddy Bear’ sunflowers are low maintenance and do well in a variety of soil conditions, making them an easy addition to any garden.

Early Sowing for Seedlings: To give ‘Teddy Bear’ sunflowers an early start, sow the seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before the last expected frost. Use seedling trays filled with a 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 have developed their first true leaves and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them into the garden or larger containers, spacing them 12–18 inches apart. Water them well after transplanting to ensure healthy root development.

Harvesting: To determine when ‘Teddy Bear’ sunflowers are ready for harvest, look for flower heads that have turned droopy and the backs that have turned brown, indicating maturity. Cut the flower heads in the morning when they are dry, leaving a few inches of stem for easier handling. If you wish 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.