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B&Q£3.99Visit shop B&Q - Helianthus Annus Sunflower Astra Gold 1 Packet (30 Seeds)
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The Thompson & Morgan Astra Gold sunflower is an ideal choice for gardeners of all ages, including children, seeking a classic yet unique floral display with its distinctive ruffled petals. This tall-growing hardy annual provides a vibrant, high-impact aesthetic perfect for the back of garden borders, though it requires a site with full sun and well-drained soil to thrive throughout the summer months.
| Model Part Number | KA9986 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
While they prefer the ground for their height, they can be grown in large, sturdy containers, provided the pot is deep enough to support the root system and heavy enough to prevent tipping.
Direct sow outdoors from April to May, or indoors from March to April.
Plant seeds at a depth of 1cm (1/2 inch) to ensure they are covered but can still reach the surface easily.
While not strictly required, a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil is preferred. Regular watering is more critical for success than heavy fertilization.
Germination takes up to 21 days, and they will bloom during the summer months after reaching maturity.
Ensure soil temperature is warm enough (if outdoors) and check that seeds were not buried deeper than 1cm.
Sunflowers this tall may require staking in windy locations to provide support as they grow.
This is often due to insufficient sunlight or lack of regular water during the germination and development stages.
For outdoor success, sow seeds from April to May in drills 1cm deep and spaced 45cm apart. Once seedlings emerge, thin them to 30cm apart. If starting indoors from March to April, use 7.5cm pots at a controlled temperature of 20-25C (68-77F). Always harden off indoor plants before moving them to a permanent outdoor location after the final frost. The most critical care step is ensuring the site receives full sun and has well-drained soil; water regularly throughout the growing season to support the plant's rapid height gain.
