Beach sunflower 'Vanilla ice'

60 Seeds

Seeding Beach Sunflower 'Vanilla Ice' is a great way to grow this pale yellow, daisy-like sunflower that’s both drought-tolerant and pollinator-friendly. Despite the name "Beach Sunflower," 'Vanilla Ice' is actually a compact annual sunflower (Helianthus debilis or annuus, depending on the seed source) with creamy lemon blooms and dark centers—perfect for borders, wildflower gardens, or containers.

🌱 When to Start

• Indoors: 4–6 weeks before your last expected frost.

• Outdoors: Direct sow 1–2 weeks after the last frost when soil warms to 60°F+ (16°C+).

🧾 What You Need

• Seeds of Helianthus annuus 'Vanilla Ice' (aka "Beach Sunflower")

• Seed trays or pots (if starting indoors)

• Well-draining seed-starting mix

• Sunny windowsill or grow lights

• Optional: Heat mat

🌿 How to Sow

1. Fill containers with moistened seed-starting mix.

2. Sow seeds ¼–½ inch (6–12 mm) deep.

3. Water gently—avoid oversaturating.

4. Keep warm: Ideal germination temp is 65–75°F (18–24°C).

5. Light: Provide strong light as soon as seedlings emerge.

⏱️ Germination: 7–10 days

🌞 Transplanting Outdoors

• Harden off seedlings for 5–7 days before transplanting.

• Plant spacing: 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart.

• Sun: Full sun (6+ hours per day).

• Soil: Well-draining, not too rich (over-fertilizing = weak stems).

• Height: About 3–5 feet (90–150 cm), with bushy, branching growth.

✂️ Care Tips

• Water: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established.

• Fertilizer: Minimal—too much nitrogen = fewer blooms.

• Staking: Usually not required for this variety.

• Deadheading: Optional, but removing spent blooms may encourage more flowering.

🐝 Bonus:

• Great for pollinators (especially bees).

• Can be used in cut flower arrangements.

• Self-seeds lightly in some climates.