Overview

Mexican helianthus , also known as Tithonia rotundifolia , are vibrant and easy - to - grow bloom that tote up a sense of touch of cheerfulness to any garden . Whether you ’re aseasoned gardeneror just come out out , this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you call for to bed about how to sow Mexican sunflower seed successfully .

Choosing the Right Seeds

The first footmark is to take in high spirits - quality Mexican helianthus seeds . Look for seeds that are embonpoint , undamaged , and have agood germination rate . Avoid seeds that are wither or discolored .

Soil Preparation

Mexican sunflowers prefer well - drained ground that is robust inorganic matter . improve your soil with compost or manure toimprove fertilityand drain . Theideal pH rangefor Mexican sunflowers is between 6.0 and 7.0 .

Planting Time

The best time tosow Mexican helianthus seedsis in the spring after the last Robert Frost . you may alsosow seedsin the drop in warm climates .

Sowing Depth and Spacing

Sow Mexican helianthus seeds about 1/2 inch deep into the soil . Space seeds 12 to 18 column inch apart to set aside forproper growthand airflow .

Watering

Water the ejaculate soundly after seed . Keep thesoil moistbut not soggy . Mexican sunflowers are drought - tolerant once established , but they will produce more flowers if they incur regular watering .

Mulching

Mulching around Mexican sunflowers serve to retain moisture , suppress weeds , and regulate grease temperature . Useorganic mulchsuch asbark chipsor shuck .

Fertilizing

Mexican sunflower are notheavy eater , but they will profit fromoccasional fertilization . Fertilize works with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing time of year .

Deadheading

Deadheading , orremoving spend flowers , encourages Mexican helianthus to grow more blooms . Deadhead plant by prune off thefaded flower headsat the substructure of the theme .

Harvesting

Mexican sunflower seeds are ready to reap when they are plump and chocolate-brown . Allow theseed headsto dry on the works before harvesting . slew off the seed heads and spread them on a tarp or screen to dry out completely .

Key Points: A Symphony of Sunflowers

By following these unproblematic steps , you cansuccessfully sow Mexican sunflower seedsand enjoy theirvibrant bloomsallseason long . These sluttish - care flowers are a beautiful plus to any garden , provide a burst of people of colour and attracting beneficial pollinator .

Answers to Your Questions

Q : Can I sow Mexican sunflower seed indoors?A : Yes , you cansow seeds indoors6 - 8 weeks before the last frost . Start seeds in aseed tray filledwith a well - draining seed commence intermixture . Keep the grime moist and cater stack of sparkle . organ transplant seedling outdoors after the last frost . Q : How long does it take forMexican sunflowersto germinate?A : Mexican helianthus seeds typically germinatewithin 7 - 14 Clarence Day . Keep thesoil moistand quick during the sprouting menstruum . Q : How marvellous do Mexican sunflowers grow?A : Mexican sunflowerscan grow up to 6 feet tall . The height willvary dependingon the multifariousness and growing condition . Q : AreMexican sunflowers easyto grow?A : Yes , Mexican sunflowersare very wanton to grow . They are drouth - tolerant and require minimal care . Q : Do Mexican sunflowers draw butterflies?A : Yes , Mexican sunflowersare agreat sourceof ambrosia for butterflies . Thebright bloom attract butterfliesand other pollinator . Q : Can Isave seedsfrom Mexican sunflowers?A : Yes , you could save seeds fromMexican helianthus . Allow the seed head to dry on the flora before harvesting . Cut off the seed heads and spread them on a tarp or screen todry all . depot seed in a cool , ironical placeuntil you are quick to sow them . Q : What are the bestcompanion plantsfor Mexican sunflowers?A : Good companion plants forMexican sunflowers let in zinnias , marigolds , cosmos , and sunflowers . These embed havesimilar growing requirementsand will create a beautiful and diverse garden display .