Russian Giant
Tall, classic single yellow flowers with large heads for cutting and seed.
When to plant Sunflowers in Brighton
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 Brighton · last frost ≈ 10 Apr
| Activity | January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sow indoors | No | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Plant out | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No | No | No | No |
| Harvest | No | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Growing guide
What to do through the growing season
01
Sow Seeds Indoors
6 Mar to 20 MarSow seeds around 6th March - 20th March 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
10 Apr to 24 AprFrom 10th April to 24th April, 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
24 Apr to 8 MayPlant out from 24th April 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
8 May to 3 Jul Dates as each sowing reaches this stageFrom 8th May to 3rd 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
10 Jul to 11 Nov Dates as each sowing reaches this stageFrom 10th July to 11th November, 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.
Related plants
Explore similar plants you might like
Basil
Sow indoors February to March, plant out April to May, harvest June to September. Frost risk November to April.
Brussels Sprouts
Sow indoors February to March, plant out April to May, harvest October to March. Frost risk November to April.
Calabrese
Sow indoors February to March, plant out April to May, harvest June to September. Frost risk November to April.
Sunflower guides by town
See how Sunflower timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.