Velvet Queen Sunflower

10 Seeds

Velvet Queen Sunflower is a spectacular ornamental sunflower known for its large, velvety deep burgundy to mahogany-red flowers with a dark chocolate center. The branching plants produce multiple blooms over a long flowering season, making them excellent for cut flowers, borders, pollinator gardens, and ornamental landscapes. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. This annual sunflower performs exceptionally well 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 (25–30°C) for 2–4 hours before sowing to promote faster germination.
• No cold stratification is required.

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 the strongest 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 while avoiding waterlogged soil.
• Water early in the morning whenever possible.

Germination Time

• 7–10 days

Plant Spacing

• 35–45 cm between plants.
• 60–75 cm between rows.

Flowering

• Blooms approximately 60–75 days after sowing.
• Produces multiple flowers over several weeks.
• Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
• Excellent for bouquets and floral arrangements.

Fertilization

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

Gulf Climate Tips

• Grow during the cooler season for the richest flower color.
• Apply organic mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool.
• Stake taller plants if exposed to strong winds.
• Ensure good air circulation between plants to reduce fungal diseases.
• Monitor for aphids, caterpillars, birds feeding on seeds, and powdery mildew.
• Velvet Queen Sunflower grows beautifully in flower beds, borders, large containers, cottage gardens, and pollinator gardens throughout the Gulf.