Sunflower 'Chocolate'

40 seeds

How to Seed Sunflower ‘Chocolate’ (Helianthus annuus)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when temperatures are mild (18–28°C / 64–82°F).

   • Indoors or nursery trays: From December to February for early planting before spring.

   • Avoid sowing from April to September, as Gulf heat can scorch seedlings and reduce bloom size.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 2–3 cm deep directly into moist, well-drained soil.
   Water gently after sowing. Sunflowers prefer direct sowing since their roots dislike disturbance.

3. Soil:
   Prefers fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 50% garden soil + 30% peat moss + 20% compost.
   Avoid clay-heavy or waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F).

   • Requires full sun for at least 6–8 hours daily.

   • In the Gulf, full morning sun and light afternoon shade help protect leaves from extreme heat.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 7–14 days under warm, moist conditions.

6. Transplanting:

   • If started indoors, transplant when seedlings are 10–15 cm tall.

   • Space plants 30–45 cm apart for strong stems and healthy flower heads.

   • Handle roots carefully — avoid breaking the main taproot.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Loves full sun; avoid fully shaded areas.

   • Watering: Water deeply twice a week; allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. Avoid constant wetness.

   • Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost every 3–4 weeks to encourage tall growth and rich color.

   • Support: Provide stakes or wind protection for tall varieties.

   • Maintenance: Remove faded blooms to extend flowering and improve appearance.

   • The ‘Chocolate’ Sunflower produces deep maroon to chocolate-brown blooms with a velvety texture, ideal for borders, pots, and cut flower arrangements.

   • Blooms from late winter through early summer in the Gulf region.