Russian Giant
Tall, classic single yellow flowers with large heads for cutting and seed.
When to plant Sunflowers in Aberdeen
Helianthus annuus
Fast-growing half-hardy annual grown for bold summer flowers and edible seeds. Sow under cover or direct outside once the risk of frost has passed, then give plants a sunny, sheltered spot and steady watering while they establish.
180 cm · Full Sun · Moderate Water
Calibrated to Aberdeen · last frost ≈ 30 Apr
| Activity | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sow indoors | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Plant out | No | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Harvest | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Growing guide
What to do through the growing season
01
Sow Seeds Indoors
26 Mar to 9 AprSow seeds around 26th March - 9th April in individual small pots or deep modules. Cover with of compost, keep them in bright light, and keep the compost just moist while they germinate.
02
Harden Off Seedlings
30 Apr to 14 MayFrom 30th April to 14th May, move seedlings outside for longer spells each day so they adjust to wind and sun. Keep them sheltered from cold nights and check the compost so the roots do not dry out.
03
Plant Out
14 May to 28 MayPlant out from 14th May once the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Space plants apart, water them in thoroughly, and use fleece or a cloche if cold nights are still forecast.
04
Support Young Plants
28 May to 23 Jul Dates as each sowing reaches this stageFrom 28th May to 23rd July, fit a cane or stake beside tall plants before they become top-heavy. Tie stems loosely with soft twine and keep the base weed-free so the roots can spread.
05
Deadhead & Maintenance
30 Jul to 28 Oct Dates as each sowing reaches this stageFrom 30th July to 28th October, deadhead branching varieties so they keep flowering. For single-stemmed sunflowers, cut the flower for indoor display or leave the head to ripen for seed. Water during dry spells.
Suggested varieties
Popular varieties of Sunflower to consider
Mongolian Giant
A very tall variety with broad leaves and large flower heads, good for a bold display.
Teddy Bear
A dwarf, double-flowered type with soft, shaggy blooms for pots and smaller gardens.
Autumn Beauty
A mixed-colour variety with branching stems and several medium-sized flowers on each plant.
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