Sunflower Oilseed — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Helianthus annuus |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 5–10 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 10–29.4 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 80–110 |
| Measured from | Seed |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 20.3–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 121.9–213.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 30.5–61 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–10 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Plant seed 1 in deep and 8–12 in apart in rows spaced 24–30 in; oilseed varieties like 'Peredovik' or 'Rostov' are grown more densely than confection types to reduce branching and produce a single large head per plant. Harvest when the back of the head turns yellow to brown and the seeds are hard — cut heads and hang upside-down in a covered, airy space to cure. Rub seeds out over a screen, then cold-press for oil or roast and use as a whole food. Birds are the main pest; protect ripening heads with netting or paper bags.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
OpenPlantDB · sunflower-oilseed
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0