Growing Non-GMO Italian White Sunflower Flower Seeds
Italian White sunflower seeds are recommended exclusively for outdoor growth because of their potential for 60 inches+ height. Plants grow so vigorously that there is no reason to start seeds indoors. Sow Italian White seeds directly after the final frost in a sunny spot at the north end of the garden and sheltered from strong winds. Always plant tall sunflowers at the north end of a garden because it will not take long for a garden to be cast in a season-long shadow if not properly planned. However, for early spring blooming, start Italian White seeds indoors 3-4 weeks prior to the last frost. Harden off before transplantation. Italian White seeds will take 1-2 weeks for germination.
Italian White sunflowers may need staking if plants are grown isolated and away from the support of a garden. Plant 2-3 Italian White sunflower seeds 1inch deep and 12 inches apart in average, loamy, and well-drained soil in full sun. Adjust staking and wind protection as plants mature. Italian White sunflowers are vigorous garden performers and require minimal care. Trim back branches to shape and keep Italian White sunflowers from becoming weedy and invasive. Italian White sunflowers can handle mild drought, but for the biggest, brightest blooms, water whenever the soil is fully dried. Fertilizer is optional in good garden soil. Always follow package instructions.
Italian White Sunflower in the Flower Garden
Use Italian White sunflowers in your annual garden as a backdrop or a border. They equally succeed when cultivated in rows, blocks, singles, or scattered in a field. Italian White sunflowers fit into cottage, native, cut, prairie, and meadow flower gardens.
Harvesting Italian White Sunflower
To collect the seeds, wait until the petals have faded, and then use a mesh bag such as a seed collecting bag: place the mesh bag over the flowerhead and secure it on the stem, so critters can’t crawl inside. Over the next 3-4 weeks, the seeds will fully ripen and then release into the bag.
For cut flowers: while in full bloom, snip off the stem with sharp scissors. Store in cool, clean water and change out the water daily for optimal longevity. For dried flowers, tie a few stems together with a rubber band and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated but sheltered location for dried flowers in 2-3 weeks!
About Italian White Sunflower Garden Seeds
Helianthus debilis is native to the prairies, plains, and meadows of western North America, including temperate regions of Canada and Mexico. Many Native American tribes would traditionally plant sunflowers on the north end of their gardens as the "fourth sister" to their "three sisters" staple crops of corn, beans, and squash.
Italian White is gorgeous, but has more uses than just beauty. The leaves can be cattle food and the stem fiber can be used to make paper. The dried stems can also be a substitute for firewood.
This is one of the few sunflowers which is branching and will produce multiple blooms per plant. Their bushy habit makes them unique and perfect for cut flower production or simply achieving a certain look that you desire in the garden.
Stories From Our Gardeners
"Creamy white sunflowers? Yes, please! How unique and wonderful but also beneficial for wildlife!"
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- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer
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Italian White Sunflower Seeds Per Package:
- 1 g packet - Approximately 140 Seeds
- 1 oz - Approximately 3,970 Seeds
- 4 oz - Approximately 15,880 Seeds
Non-GMO Italian White Sunflower seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.