Sunflowers: How to Grow, Cut & Keep Them Fresh
Few flowers say "Oklahoma summer" like a sunflower. Whether you're growing your own or arranging a market bunch, here's how to get the most out of this cheerful, sun-chasing bloom.
Sunflowers symbolize adoration, loyalty, and happiness — and they look the part. They're also one of the easiest flowers to grow in our climate and one of the most forgiving to cut and arrange, which makes them a perfect first flower for beginners.
When are sunflowers in season?
In Oklahoma, field-grown sunflowers hit their stride from July through September. Growers who stagger plantings (sowing a new row every couple of weeks) can stretch fresh sunflowers from early summer into the first weeks of fall.
Growing sunflowers in Oklahoma
- Full sun: at least 6–8 hours; they'll literally turn to follow it.
- Well-drained soil: amend heavy clay with compost so roots don't sit wet.
- Sow after frost: direct-seed once the soil warms in spring; they grow fast.
- Support tall types: Oklahoma wind topples giants — stake them or choose sturdy branching varieties.
- For bouquets: grow pollenless branching varieties; they don't drop pollen on your table and produce many cut stems per plant.
How and when to cut them
Harvest in the cool of early morning, when the bloom is just starting to open but the back of the head is still green. Cut the stem long, strip the lower leaves, and get it into water immediately. They'll keep opening indoors.
Keeping cut sunflowers fresh
- Use a clean vase and cool water — sunflowers are thirsty and hate bacteria.
- Re-cut stems at a 45° angle and strip submerged leaves.
- Change the water every two days — their hairy stems cloud water fast.
- Keep them out of direct sun and away from heat once they're cut and indoors.
With good care, cut sunflowers last 7–12 days. (See our full cut-flower care guide for more.)
Arranging with sunflowers
Sunflowers are a natural focal flower. Pair them with seasonal companions like zinnias, celosia, eucalyptus, and grasses for a relaxed, late-summer look. Cluster three or five together rather than spacing them evenly, and vary the stem heights so the heads don't all sit in one flat line.
Frequently asked questions
When are sunflowers in season in Oklahoma?
Field-grown sunflowers peak July through September, with staggered plantings extending availability into early fall.
How long do cut sunflowers last?
Typically 7–12 days with a clean vase, water changed every two days, and stems re-cut at an angle.
When should I cut sunflowers from my garden?
In the early morning, when petals are just starting to open but the back of the head is still green.
Crave a sunflower bouquet?
When they're in season, we feature Oklahoma sunflowers in fresh, hand-tied bouquets. Order yours while they're at their peak.