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When to Plant Sunflower Seeds in Kentucky

Whether you're growing sunflowers just for the cheerful blooms or for the tasty, nutritious seeds, you'll need to pay attention to suggested planting times to ensure successful growth in the temperate climate of Kentucky.
  1. Time Frame

    • The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service recommends planting sunflower seeds between April 1 and May 10. These suggested planting times result in a September harvest, as the flower takes 120 to 130 days to reach maturity.

    Specifications

    • Planting times will vary a small bit among the different planting zones of Kentucky. However, according to the Ohio State University Extension, the best planting times occur after the soil reaches a minimum of 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Considerations

    • If you wish to double your crop of sunflowers in order to produce more seeds, you will need to plant another crop at a later time. This second planting should occur no later than June 20.