Sunflower - Solar Eclipse
The central brown disc of Solar Eclipse is flanked by a ring of pure yellow petals with a rich red flaming, this gives a spectacular ring of fire to the bloom. It is ideal for height and stature in the border, and makes a fine cut flower.
Sow March to May thinly, 12mm deep in drills 30cm apart in well cultivated soil raked to a fine tilth. Germination usually takes around 21 days. Alternatively, you can sow indoors in late winter/early spring for earlier flowering. Sow individually into 7.5cm pots at 20-30C. When well grown, gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions before planting out after all risk of frost. When large enough to handle, thin seedlings to 3cm apart. Prefers a well-drained soil in full sun.