Mammoth Sunflower – MIg

Description

Mammoth Sunflower is a classic heirloom variety prized for its towering height, enormous golden-yellow flower heads, and large edible seeds. Plants can grow up to 3–4 meters tall, producing impressive blooms that may reach 30–40 cm in diameter. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, while the mature seeds are excellent for snacking, roasting, baking, or feeding birds. This vigorous, fast-growing variety thrives in warm weather and performs exceptionally well in the UAE.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Outdoors: Direct sow seeds in September and again in February for the best results.

Planting & Care Tips

• Light & Soil: Plant in full sun in fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost.
• Depth & Germination: Sow seeds 2–3 cm deep. Germination typically occurs within 7–10 days.
• Spacing: Space plants 45–60 cm apart, with 75–90 cm between rows.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during establishment, then water deeply as needed, especially during flowering.
• Feeding: Apply compost before planting and feed with a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to encourage strong stems and large flower heads.
• Harvest: Flowers begin blooming in approximately 80–100 days. Harvest seeds once the backs of the flower heads turn yellow to brown and the seeds are fully developed.
• Harvesting Tips: Cut mature flower heads and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated location before removing the seeds for storage or consumption.