How To Grow Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers

Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are a striking variety known for their large, fluffy, fully double blooms. Unlike the traditional sunflower, the Giant Teddy Bear produces blooms with soft, golden-yellow petals that give it a plush, teddy-bear-like appearance. These sunflowers grow to a height of about 5-6 feet, making them perfect for garden borders, cut flower arrangements, or as a whimsical addition to any landscape.

   

Planting Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers

Sunlight: Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A sunny spot will promote strong growth and vibrant blooms.

Soil: Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Sunflowers are adaptable to various soil types but will grow best in soil enriched with organic matter like compost.

When to Plant: Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers are warm-season plants and should be planted after the last frost date in spring when the soil has warmed to at least 50°F (10°C). They are best direct-sown into the garden, but seeds can also be started indoors.

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 12-18 inches apart in rows or garden beds. Space rows about 24-30 inches apart to allow room for the plants to grow. Thin seedlings to the strongest plants once they are a few inches tall.

Starting Indoors: If starting seeds indoors, sow them 2-3 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 3-4 inches tall, making sure to harden them off first by gradually introducing them to outdoor conditions.

 

Caring for Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during germination and early growth. Once established, sunflowers are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth and healthier plants.

Fertilization: Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers are not heavy feeders but will benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost applied at planting time. If the soil is poor, you can side-dress with compost or a slow-release fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.

Mulching and Weeding: Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching also helps protect the shallow roots from temperature fluctuations.

Staking: Although Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers are shorter than traditional sunflowers, their large blooms may still require staking, especially in windy areas. Use stakes or garden twine to support the plants as they grow taller and heavier with flowers.

Pest and Disease Management: Sunflowers are generally hardy, but they can sometimes attract aphids, caterpillars, or slugs. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or hand-picking to manage pests. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases, and avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.

 

Harvesting Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers

Harvesting for Flowers: These sunflowers are perfect for cut flower arrangements. Harvest the blooms when they are fully open but still fresh. Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut the flowers with a long stem. Place them in water immediately to keep them fresh.

Harvesting for Seeds: Unlike many other sunflower varieties, Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers are primarily grown for their ornamental beauty rather than seed production. However, if you wish to harvest seeds, allow the flowers to fully mature and dry on the plant. The seeds can then be harvested once the back of the flower head turns brown.

 

Storing and Using Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers

Storing Flowers: Cut Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers can be placed in a vase with fresh water to keep them looking vibrant for up to a week. Trim the stems and change the water every few days to prolong the flowers' life.

Ornamental Uses: Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers are ideal for use in borders, garden beds, or as a focal point in flower arrangements. Their fluffy, double blooms make them a whimsical and unique addition to any landscape. They are also wonderful for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

 

Growing Tips

Companion Planting: Sunflowers make excellent companions for vegetables such as beans, cucumbers, and tomatoes. They can provide natural shade and attract beneficial insects to the garden. Avoid planting near potatoes, as they can share similar pests.

Succession Planting: For continuous blooms throughout the summer, consider succession planting every 2-3 weeks. This will ensure a steady supply of flowers in your garden.

Soil Preparation: Before planting, work in plenty of organic matter, such as compost, to provide essential nutrients and improve soil structure. Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil will produce the healthiest plants and the largest blooms.

 

Growing Giant Teddy Bear Sunflowers in your garden ensures a stunning display of fluffy, golden-yellow blooms that add a unique and cheerful presence. Their manageable height, large blooms, and ease of care make them perfect for gardeners of all levels!