Sunflower 'Moulin rouge'

30 seeds

How to Seed Sunflower ‘Moulin Rouge’ (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 and humidity can damage young seedlings.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 2–3 cm deep in moist soil.
   Plant directly in the ground or in large pots, as sunflowers do not like root disturbance.

3. Soil:
   Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 50% garden soil + 30% peat moss + 20% compost.
   Avoid heavy or waterlogged soils.

4. Light & Temperature:

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

   • Requires full sun — at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.

   • In the Gulf, provide full morning sun and light afternoon shade to prevent leaf burn.

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

6. Transplanting:

   • Direct sowing is best, but if started indoors, transplant when seedlings are 10–15 cm tall.

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

   • Handle seedlings gently to avoid damaging roots.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Needs full sun and warmth for healthy flowering.

   • Watering: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging.

   • Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks or mix compost into the soil before planting.

   • Support: Provide stakes or plant near walls to protect tall stems from strong Gulf winds.

   • Maintenance: Remove spent flowers to encourage side blooms.

   • The ‘Moulin Rouge’ variety produces deep, velvety red sunflowers with dark centers, perfect for borders, pots, and cut flower displays.

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