Growing Non-GMO Velvet Queen Sunflower Flower Seeds

Velvet Queen sunflower seeds are recommended exclusively for outdoor growth because of their 60+ inch height. Plants grow so vigorously that there is little reason to start seeds indoors. Sow Velvet Queen 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 Velvet Queen seeds indoors 3-4 weeks prior to the last frost. Harden off before transplantation. Velvet Queen seeds will take 1-2 weeks for germination.

Velvet Queen sunflowers may need staking if plants are grown isolated and away from the support of a garden. Plant 2-3 Velvet Queen sunflower seeds 1 inches deep and 8 inches apart in average, loamy, and well-drained soil in full sun. Adjust staking and wind protection as plants mature. Velvet Queen sunflowers are vigorous garden performers and require minimal care. Trim back branches to shape and keep Velvet Queen sunflowers from becoming weedy and invasive. Velvet Queen 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.

Velvet Queen Sunflower in the Flower Garden

Use Velvet Queen 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. Velvet Queen sunflowers fit into cottage, native, cut, prairie, and meadow flower gardens.

Harvesting Velvet Queen 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. When the flowerhead has unloaded, remove the bag and use the seeds for snacks, gifts, or next year’s crop!

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. Optionally, 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 Velvet Queen Sunflower Garden Seeds

The flowerheads will follow the sun throughout the day when young and invite a plethora of pollinators to the area throughout their lives.

Velvet Queen 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.

Sunflowers are natives of North America’s western prairies, plains, and meadows; including the temperate regions of Canada and Mexico. Many Native American tribes would traditionally plant sunflowers as the supportive "4th sister" to their other "3 sisters" staple crops (beans, corn, and squash).

Stories From Our Gardeners

"These unique and deeply colored flowers are a must-have this season for the optimal utility and beauty of everyone’s garden! "

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Velvet Queen Sunflower Seeds Per Package:

• 2 g Packet - Wholesale - Approximately 130 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 1,840 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 7,360 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 29,440 Seeds
• 5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 147,200 Seeds

Non-GMO Velvet Queen Sunflower seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.