When to Plant Sunflowers in Oklahoma: A Guide for Gardeners

When to Plant Sunflowers in Oklahoma?

Sunflowers are a popular flower for gardens and landscapes in Oklahoma, and for good reason. They’re easy to grow, they’re beautiful, and they’re a great way to attract pollinators. But when is the best time to plant sunflowers in Oklahoma?

In this article, we’ll discuss the ideal planting time for sunflowers in Oklahoma, as well as some tips for growing healthy and beautiful sunflowers.

We’ll also cover some of the different varieties of sunflowers that are well-suited for growing in Oklahoma, and we’ll give you some ideas for how to use sunflowers in your garden or landscape.

So if you’re thinking about planting sunflowers in Oklahoma, read on for all the information you need to know!

| When to Plant Sunflowers in Oklahoma | Month | Days after Last Frost |
|—|—|—|
| Early Spring | March | 60-65 |
| Late Spring | April | 55-60 |
| Summer | May | 50-55 |

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When to Plant Sunflowers in Oklahoma?

The best time to plant sunflowers in Oklahoma is in the spring, after the last frost date. Sunflowers are a warm-season crop that need a long growing season to reach maturity. The average growing season in Oklahoma is about 160 days, so sunflowers should be planted about 8 weeks before the last frost date.

Sunflower Varieties

There are many different varieties of sunflowers to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties for Oklahoma include:

• Mammoth Russian: This variety produces large, 12-inch flowers with a dark brown center. Mammoth Russian sunflowers are drought-tolerant and can withstand high heat.
• Teddy Bear: This variety produces small, 4-inch flowers with a yellow center. Teddy Bear sunflowers are perfect for containers or small gardens.
• ProCut: This variety produces large, 10-inch flowers with a yellow center. ProCut sunflowers are resistant to pests and diseases.

Pests and Diseases

Sunflowers are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:

• Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can damage sunflower leaves and flowers. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that can damage sunflower leaves. Spider mites can be controlled with a horticultural oil spray.
• Smut: Smut is a fungal disease that can cause sunflower heads to become covered in black spores. Smut can be controlled with a fungicide.

Sunflowers are a beautiful and easy-to-grow crop that can add a splash of color to any garden. By following these tips, you can successfully grow sunflowers in Oklahoma.

Here are some additional tips for growing sunflowers in Oklahoma:

• Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
• Water sunflowers regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilize sunflowers with a balanced fertilizer once a month.
• Deadhead sunflowers regularly to encourage more blooms.
• Harvest sunflower seeds when the heads are dry and brown.

With a little care, you can enjoy beautiful sunflowers in your Oklahoma garden for years to come.

When is the best time to plant sunflowers in Oklahoma?

The best time to plant sunflowers in Oklahoma is in early spring, after the last frost date. This is typically around the end of March or beginning of April.

How deep should I plant sunflower seeds?

Sunflower seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep.

How much space should I leave between sunflower plants?

Sunflowers need plenty of space to grow, so you should plant them about 2-3 feet apart.

How much water do sunflowers need?

Sunflowers need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water them deeply once or twice a week, or more often if the weather is hot and dry.

What kind of fertilizer do sunflowers need?

Sunflowers do best with a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. You can apply a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for sunflowers, or you can use a general-purpose fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.

What pests and diseases are common to sunflowers?

Sunflowers are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, caterpillars, powdery mildew, and rust. You can control pests and diseases by spraying your sunflowers with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, and by removing any diseased leaves or flowers.

How do I harvest sunflowers?

Sunflowers are ready to harvest when the petals have turned brown and the seeds are dry. To harvest, cut the stem about 6 inches below the flower head. Hang the sunflowers upside down in a cool, dry place to finish drying.

How do I store sunflower seeds?

Once the sunflower seeds are dry, you can store them in a cool, dry place for up to a year.

What are some common uses for sunflowers?

Sunflowers are beautiful flowers that can be used to add color and interest to any garden. They are also edible, and the seeds can be eaten raw or roasted. Sunflowers can also be used to make oil, birdseed, and biodiesel fuel.

the best time to plant sunflowers in Oklahoma is in the spring, from April to May. The ideal soil temperature for planting sunflowers is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunflowers need full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant plants, but they will produce more flowers if they are watered regularly. Sunflowers are a beautiful addition to any garden, and they are a great way to attract pollinators to your yard.