How To Handle Wilting Sunflowers?

Sunflowers wilt due to various factors such as dryness, wetness, unhappiness, or illness. They typically bloom in summer and fall. If you notice your sunflowers drooping, it’s important to water them deeply at the base to replenish moisture levels in both the roots and stems. Proper sowing and watering can decrease the risk of damping off.

Sunflowers can quickly go from thriving to dying due to insufficient sunlight, poor drainage, improper soil pH, overwatering, lack of fertilization, or damage from pests. When a sunflower starts wilting, it may be thirsty, have pests, or be ready for harvest. To address these issues, check your stems and water frequently, re-cut them, and change your water solution. If the sunflowers begin to droop early, cut their stems short and place them in warm water to give them an added boost.

If the plant is weak, providing support to the drooping head can help get the flowers up again. You can use a stake or use big disk flower heads to stomp them, dig them into the soil, or light fires. Water them with one inch (2.5 cm.) of water per week depending on rainfall. Check the soil prior to watering and allow the top ½ inch (1.25 cm.) to dry.

When potted seedlings are dry and droopy but haven’t outgrown their container, deep water them. If the sunflower heads are droopy, revive them by cutting the stem at an angle, placing them in hot water, and supporting the head with support. Repot the plants carefully and check for tangled or wadded up roots.

To prevent pests or diseases, amend the soil with organic matter before planting next year and water deeply every 4-5 days after planting. Water your sunflowers two hours before removing them from the garden bed and pick them during the first hours of dawn to absorb previous damage.