Teddy Bear Sunflower

20 Seeds

Teddy Bear Sunflower is a charming dwarf sunflower variety that produces large, fully double, fluffy golden-yellow blooms resembling soft teddy bears. The compact plants are ideal for containers, borders, flower beds, children's gardens, and cut flowers. The blooms attract bees and other pollinators, while the plant adds bright color to gardens throughout the growing season. It thrives in the Gulf when planted during the cooler months.

Best Planting Time

• October to February (recommended)
• Late September in cooler Gulf regions.
• Avoid sowing during the hottest summer months.

Seed Preparation

• No soaking is required.
• Optional: Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 2–4 hours before sowing to speed germination.
• No cold stratification is needed.

Soil Preparation

Use fertile, loose, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Garden soil
• 30% Compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite or coarse sand

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.0–7.5

Sowing Method

• Sow seeds directly into the garden or large containers.
• Plant seeds 2–3 cm deep.
• Place 1–2 seeds per hole.
• Thin to one healthy seedling after germination.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 20–28°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 18–30°C
• Requires 6–8 hours (preferably 8+ hours) of direct sunlight daily.

Watering

• Keep the soil lightly moist during germination.
• Water deeply when the top 3–5 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Once established, water regularly but avoid waterlogged soil.

Germination Time

• 7–10 days

Plant Spacing

• 30–40 cm between plants.
• 50–60 cm between rows.

Flowering

• Blooms approximately 55–70 days after sowing.
• Remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
• Excellent for ornamental gardens and fresh floral arrangements.

Fertilization

• Mix compost into the soil before planting.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage instead of flowers.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow during the cooler season for the best flower quality.
• Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool.
• Provide support if plants are exposed to strong winds.
• Ensure good air circulation to reduce fungal diseases.
• Monitor for aphids, caterpillars, birds, and powdery mildew.
• Teddy Bear Sunflower performs beautifully in flower beds, borders, patios, balconies, containers, and pollinator gardens throughout the Gulf.