How Should Sunflowers Be Planted In Florida Soil?

Sunflowers thrive in full sun, so choose a spot with plenty of sunlight and cover the area with a light layer of soil. Water the area gently and keep the soil moist. In Florida, sunflowers can be planted from late winter until early fall, with the coldest months causing problems.

To prepare the soil for planting sunflowers in Florida, start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date and transplant seedlings outdoors once all danger of frost has passed. The ideal soil for sunflowers should be nutrient-rich and well-drained, with the best germination occurring when the soil is 70-85°F. Swamp sunflowers (Helianthus angustifolius) are perfect for hot, dry sites, including coastal areas.

Sunflowers should be planted 1 to 1½ inches deep and about 6 inches apart after the soil has thoroughly warmed. If desired, multiple seeds can be planted and thinned to the strongest contenders when the plants are six inches tall. Give plants plenty of room, especially for low-growing varieties that will branch out.

Plant sunflower seeds during the warm months, keeping the soil moist and in a sunny window. Plant one seed per starter pot and keep the soil moist. When planting, consider planting in narrow rows with close seed spacing to cull weaker plants later.

According to the University of Florida, sunflowers grow happily in your gardening region, requiring full sunshine and well-draining soil. To grow sunflowers, add well-rotted manure or garden compost before planting and use containers and the little bit of ground you have. Sunflowers do not like to be transplanted, so they are best grown in fertile, well-drained, moist soil with plenty of mulch.