Ashleigh Smith
Yes! You absolutely can grow sunflowers late in the summer as long as you have enough days left in the season before the first fall frost comes. Sunflowers are known as a late summer bloom however, they play a big role in the fall as well. You are sure to find plenty of sunflowers displaying their beautiful showy petals from August to November in landscapes as well as interior design.
Start planning now for your show-stopping fall decor, Thanksgiving centerpieces, and fresh flower bouquets. Some of my favorite fall decor combinations include the iconic sunflower, colorful corn varieties, pumpkins, oak leaves, and dried wheat bundles. Try your hand at a DIY floral arrangement with a harvest from your very own garden. Add a touch of brightness throughout your home as the daylight begins to shorten.
Growing Fall Harvest Sunflowers
Usually, sunflowers need 55-75 days to start blooming. If you live in hardiness zones 8 or higher you can plant in mid to late August. Below Zone 8 you can still see some good blooms if your plant as soon as possible up to early August. When starting seeds during the summer the most important thing to be aware of is how moist your soil is. Check on your seeds regularly and hand water for additional moisture when needed.
General Sunflower Growing Information
TLM Unique Sunflower Recommendation
Chocolate Cherry Sunflower
55-75 Days until Blooms form (dependent on chosen variety)
4-10 Days to Germination
Full Sun
Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil
Sow seeds ½” deep
Keep your soil moist
Thin After Sprouting
- Large Varieties - 1ft apart
- Small Varieties - 6-8 in apart
Early frost can stunt growth
Varieties good for late summer planting include the Sungold Dwarf, Teddy Bear, or the Italian White
- Height: 72 inches
- Bloom: 5-8 inches
- Days to Blooming: 65-75
- Ideal for gardens or as a cut flower
About the Author
I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
3 comments
jo Carpenter
I’m looking for some heather to place in a planter in my courtyard. Thoughts and/or plants? Parrish, Florida 34219
Erin Harkness
Perfect timing on this article, thanks for sharing! A bunny got my last batch of sunflower seedlings and I was afraid it was too late to give it another try. Your article has given me hope that I might still get a good show in my NC 7b/8 garden and I’m going to start some more. Any suggestions on how to keep the bunnies away from these? 🤦🏻♀️
Rosanna Castro
I need your catalog.
Further Reading
10 Natives of the Southwest USA for Pest Control
Written By Lara Wadsworth The Southwestern United States is a region incredibly unique to the rest of the country. The hot, dry weather can be challenging for plants and animals to thrive without additional help. That is why gardening with natives can ...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-157 min read0Spring Into Action - Celebrating Earth Day
Written By Chelsea Hafer Spring is quickly arriving, and that means that Earth Day is near! Earth Day is the perfect occasion to appreciate our wonderful planet and all that it does for us and think of ways you can give back to it. In this blog post, w...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-154 min read0Everything You Need To Know About Rain Gardens
Written By Lara Wadsworth Rain gardens are quickly gaining popularity for their perfect marriage of utility and beauty. What simply looks like a beautifully landscaped garden is actually a native habitat that serves as a storm drain and water sponge. B...
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-085 min read1Northeastern Natives for Attracting Beneficial Insects
Written By Lara Wadsworth The Northeastern United States is rich with American history, but did you also know that it is rich in plant biodiversity? Nature has learned through time how to work in harmony with the various species that attempt to thrive....
Ashleigh Smith
2024-04-086 min read1