Texas summers can be brutal. The heat, drought, and sun can wear you out, both as a gardener and for your plants. But if you’re still eager to grow something, sunflowers are a great option, as long as you plant them at the right time.
Best Time to Plant Sunflowers in Texas
The best time to plant sunflowers in texas is in the spring, but if you missed that, you can still plant them by the end of July. Sunflowers take about two to three months to grow, so planting them late in summer will still allow you to enjoy them in the fall.
Should You Plant sunflowers in texas in Summers?
Sunflowers in texas, especially when it hits over 100°F, isn’t the best time for planting. Andrea DeLong-Amaya, a gardening expert, says that planting in the middle of summer can be tough because of the heat and lack of rain. Plants need lots of water to survive, and using up all your water resources during a hot summer is not ideal. However, sunflowers can still be planted, and they can handle the heat better than most plants.
Why Sunflowers Work Well in Texas
Sunflowers love the sun (at least 8 hours a day) and don’t mind dry soil. They’re tough plants that can handle Texas heat and drought, which makes them perfect for our tough climate. Plus, birds will love eating the sunflower seeds when the flowers bloom.
Space Your sunflowers in texas
If you’re planting bigger sunflowers, make sure they have enough space. They can grow tall and wide, and their large flowers can shade out smaller plants. Pick a sunny spot, preferably on the north side of your garden, to avoid crowding.
Best Sunflower Varieties for Texas
Common sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are the best choice for Texas, especially for dry areas. They handle heat and dry soil better than other flowers, and they attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds.
Sunflowers grow well in both East and West Texas, though East Texas gardeners might need to water them more often during the summer heat.
Taking Care of Sunflowers in the Texas Heat
If you plant sunflowers in the summer, here are some tips to help them thrive:
- Watering: Sunflowers don’t need a lot of water, but you’ll need to water them deeply during dry spells. Water the base of the plant, not the leaves, to prevent mold.
- Mulch: Spread mulch around the plants to keep the soil cool and retain moisture.
- Pruning: Trim off any dead or yellow leaves to help the plant grow better and stay healthy.
Partridge Pea: A Good Companion for Sunflowers
If you’re looking for another heat-tolerant plant, consider partridge pea. It’s native to Texas, loves full sun, and can handle dry conditions. It also attracts wildlife like deer and quail.
Other Plants for Hot Texas Summers
If you’re itching to plant more, here are a few other options that do well in the Texas heat:
- Zinnias: Bright, colorful flowers that bloom until fall. They’re drought-tolerant and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Mexican Bush Sage: A tough plant that thrives in Texas heat and attracts pollinators.
- Black-eyed Susans: Another Texas native that loves the sun and dry soil.
When NOT to Plant Sunflowers in Texas
Avoid planting in the peak of the Texas heat, usually in July and August. Even sunflowers can struggle in these extreme conditions without enough water.
Plan for Fall Gardening
If you’re not ready to brave the summer heat, don’t worry. Fall is a much better time to plant sunflowers in texas and other Texas-friendly plants. Cooler temperatures and potential rain make fall the perfect time to get your garden started.
Now is a great time to plan your fall garden. You can research plants, map out your garden, and order seeds for cooler weather.
Final Thoughts
Sunflowers are a great choice for adding color to your garden and attracting wildlife, even in the hot Texas summer. Just be mindful of the heat, conserve water, and make sure your plants have enough space. Whether you plant now or wait for fall, sunflowers will brighten your yard with their beauty and resilience.
So, when should you plant sunflowers in Texas? Late summer to early fall is your best bet if you want to enjoy their stunning blooms before the cooler months arrive.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ’s):-
1. What is the best month to plant sunflowers?
The best months to plant sunflowers in texas are typically April to May in most areas. This gives the seeds enough time to grow before the summer heat kicks in.
2. What month do you plant sunflowers in Texas?
In Texas, April to May is the ideal time to plant sunflowers. If you miss that, you can also plant by the end of July, but earlier is better for the best results.
3. How long do sunflowers take to grow?
Sunflowers usually take 2 to 3 months (around 70 to 90 days) to grow from seed to full bloom.
4. Can sunflowers grow in heat?
Yes, sunflowers can grow in heat. In fact, they love the sun and can tolerate high temperatures and dry conditions better than many other plants.
5. Do sunflowers like hot weather?
Yes, sunflowers do like hot weather. They thrive in full sunlight and can handle the intense heat, which makes them a good choice for hot climates like Texas.