How to Transplant False Sunflowers

Start transplants indoors six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date.

Select the proper site for the plant. False sunflowers prefer full sunlight and sandy, well-draining soil, with a high proportion of organic material. Loamy soils are best.

Plant false sunflower transplants in early spring, as soon as is practicable after the last frost date has passed. Perennials planted in the spring have more time to develop strong root systems, enabling them to withstand the low temperatures and frost heave that winter brings.

Dig a hole the same depth as the rootball, and twice as wide so that the plant rests at the same level it did in the container. High planting can result in excessive drying, while planting too low can make the plant more susceptible to rot.

Water false sunflowers heavily before transplanting, and soak for approximately one hour if planting from bare-root stock.

Insert the plant's rootball and water the transplant hole heavily to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

Soak Heliopsis transplants soon after planting and water sparingly thereafter. False sunflowers are adapted to relatively dry conditions, and can suffer if overwatered.

Mulch the area around the plant to prevent weeds and apply fertilizer at a rate of 1 lb. per 1,000 square feet of planting bed, if necessary.