Johnny Butterflyseed’s Monarch Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are not just a beautiful addition to your garden but also a vital resource for pollinators, including the majestic Monarch Butterfly. Whether you’re a novice gardener or a seasoned green thumb, growing these sunflowers can be a rewarding endeavor. This guide will provide you with all the necessary steps to successfully plant and nurture Monarch Sunflowers across USDA Zones 1 through 11.
25 “Monarch Sunflower” Seeds (Helianthus Annuus)
The “Monarch Sunflower” stands tall at an impressive 7 feet, ruling over the garden with its vibrant yellow crown. Flowering in less than 80 days and ready to seed in under 125 days, it’s a prodigious producer not just of nectar, but also of a bounty of sunflower seeds that court a wide range of subjects, from birds to bees to all the loyal subjects of the insect realm. 50+ seeds from Johnny Butterflyseed.
Understanding Your Zone
USDA Zones range from 1 (the coldest) to 11 (the warmest). It’s essential to know your specific zone as it will influence the planting time and care of your sunflowers. You can easily find your zone by checking the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map online.
Seed Preparation
Before planting, it is beneficial to prepare your Monarch Sunflower seeds to enhance germination:
20 Hairy Balls Milkweed Seeds (Asclepias physocarpa) for U.S. & Mexico
Thriving as a perennial in Zones 8–11, Hairy Balls Milkweed (Asclepias physocarpa) reach an impressive height of 32–72″. Also recognized as swan plant, swan milkweed, and, of course, balloon plant, this is a must-have addition to your butterfly garden. More than 20 seeds. Southern US & Northern Mexico.
Soaking: Soak the seeds in water for 12 to 24 hours to soften the outer shell.
Stratification: In colder zones (1-6), consider stratifying your seeds by placing them in a moist paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag and storing them in the refrigerator for about 2 to 4 weeks.
Planting Time
Zones 1-3: Plant indoors in late March to early April; transplant outdoors after the last frost.
Zones 4-7: Direct sow outdoors after the last frost, typically from mid-April to May.
Zones 8-11: Plant outdoors from late winter to early spring, avoiding the hotter months.
20 Florida-Native Sandhill Milkweed Seeds Ascslepias Humistrata Pinewood Milkweed
With Johnny Butterflyseed’s Sandhill Milkweed seeds, you’re not just planting flowers; you’re cultivating a living mosaic of nature’s marvels. Florida Native.
Sowing the Seeds
Location: Choose a sunny spot with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Sunflowers thrive in well-drained soil.
Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to about 2 feet deep and mix in compost to improve fertility.
Planting: Plant seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Once the seedlings develop and are about 6 inches tall, thin them to about 2 feet apart to give each plant enough room to grow.
The Adventures of Johnny Butterflyseed – Author Signed First Edition Children’s Book
Save the monarchs!
Johnny Butterflyseed and his fairy friend, Raven Silverwing, embark on a mission to save the rapidly disappearing butterflies. They enlist the help of Queen Venus Goldwing and her kingdom of monarchs to educate and inspire kids to become butterfly farmers. At first, Johnny faces his own internal struggle with self-doubt and fear in his ability to make a difference, but then soon develops a mindset that allows him to not only get started, but also make progress one day at a time. Through challenge after challenge, Johnny learns that he is not alone in his mission and that there are many people who want to help. Together, Johnny, Raven, and Queen Venus educate thousands of children on becoming butterfly farmers.
Care and Maintenance
Watering: Sunflowers need regular watering to establish deep roots, especially in warmer zones. However, avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month to support growth.
Support: Taller varieties may need staking to prevent them from toppling over in strong winds.
Harvesting
Monarch Sunflowers typically bloom within 80 to 95 days after planting. Harvest the flowers in the morning when they are freshest, or wait for the seeds to fully mature if you plan to collect them.
125 Butterfly Milkweed Seeds (Asclepias Tuberosa) for North America 2024
More than 600mg of Butterfly Milkweed Seeds (Asclepias tuberosa). Origin Kentucky.
Planting Monarch Sunflowers can transform your garden into a lively habitat for butterflies and other pollinators while adding a splash of color to your landscape. With the right preparation and care, you can enjoy these stunning blooms from summer to fall… one day at a time!