4 Common Mistakes in Sunflowers (And How to Avoid Them)

Whether you're new to planting sunflowers or a seasoned grower, these common pitfalls can tank your results.

Mistake #1: Ignoring Soil Health

Skipping a soil test? That’s like driving blind. Sunflowers need proper nutrient balance to produce quality heads and seed. Always test first. Want to learn more? Check out this Soil Health for Sunflowers Resource.

Mistake #2: Planting Too Late

Late planting can throw off bloom timing, affect seed fill. Aim for May–early June for optimal performance, depending on your region.

Mistake #3: Overcrowding

Planting too thick can lead to thin stems, smaller heads, and more competition. For most situations, 20,000–25,000 seeds per acre is ideal.

Mistake #4: No Weed Control Strategy

Using a pre-emergent herbicide is a must when going after high yield sunflowers. Without herbicide planning, weeds will outcompete young sunflowers quickly. Sulfonylurea (SU) Tolerance and Imidazoline (IMI) Tolerance give more post-emergence flexibility, especially in fields with foxtail, pigweed, or grasses.

Tip: We include a free planting guide with every seed order—ask for yours when you buy!