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Sunflower 'Arikara' Organic
Organic Seed

Sunflower 'Arikara' Organic

Helianthus annuus
Arikara is named after the Indigenous tribe that grew and pounded it into a highly nutritious sunflower meal. Touseled golden petals are arrayed around single and multi-headed flowers on tall, sturdy plants. Introduced commercially in 1930.
SKU #S1374OG
$3.25
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
7
Lifecycle
Annual
Annual Hardiness
Half Hardy Annual
Mature Size
10-12' h x 2-3' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Regular to rich, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
Golden yellow
Features
Great Cut Flower
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Beneficial Insects
Notable
Certified Organic Seed Available
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1/4"
Sprout Time:
5-14 days
Seed To Bloom:
12-14 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Not recommended, as sunflowers grow very quickly and do best planted directly.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow after last frost.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Sunflowers' full heads of bloom follow the sun, an attribute called heliotropism. Be sure to plant them where they receive a full day of sun, spaced well apart. Water infrequently but deeply once established to encourage vigorous, deeply rooted plants that can withstand summer storms. A favorite cut flower–plant in back borders in informal cottage gardens, at the edge of vegetable gardens, or as a leafy and flower-filled hedge, where it attracts butterflies, bees, and birds. Sunflower petals are edible and used mostly in mixed flower confettii. Their flavor has been described as bright and almost nutty, but with a hint of floral bitterness.
Final Spacing:
2-2.5'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
About 1" of water per week, though they will tolerate some dryness.
Soil pH:
Acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Add 2" of compost and mix in prior to planting. Once established one application of a low nitrogen organic fertilizer is beneficial.
Diseases & Pests:
Space well apart for increased air circulation to discourage foliar disease that may develop in wet weather. Remove crop residues after the season is over and rotate crops.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when flowers start to open.