How to Grow Surajmukhi ka Phool | Growing Sunflowers in Pots

Surajmukhi ka Phool is one of the most charming flowers you can grow in pots and gardens. Check out our detailed guide that will help you growing it easily!

Surajmukhi ka Phool is popular as sunflower, though it is also famous as various other names in different parts of India. These large blooms move according to the position of the sun, which also makes them quite interesting to look at! Let’s have a look at how to grow sunflowers easily in pots!

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Surajmukhi ka Phool Information

Surajmukhi ka Phool can grow to an impressive width of 8-15 inches. The flowers stand out with their broad central disk with short and yellow petals. These flowers grow on a hairy upright stem that can be be as tall as 2-4 feet. These blooms are annual and can complete their growth cycle in one year. The best time to plant these flowers in India is just after summer.

According to a research, the pharmacological survey on sunflower had revealed its curative power to different kinds of diseases. The health benefits of sunflower include blood pressure and diabetic control, skin protection, and lowering cholesterol and other functions.

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How to Grow Surajmukhi ka Phool in Pots?

You can quickly grow Surajmukhi ka Phool with fresh seeds from a nursery. Directly  sow them in pots or garden, water well, and make sure it gets plenty of bright but indirect light. They all germinate in 3=5 weeks.

To save time and efforts, it would be a good idea to get a well grown plant from a nearby nursery.

You can start the plant in a 10-12inches pot. Depending on the growth and spread, re-pot it into once size bigger pot every 1-2 years.

Check Out How to Grow Ketki ka Phool in Pots here

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Requirements to Grow Surajmukhi ka Phool

Sunlight

For the best blooms plant Surajmukhi ka Phool at a spot that gets a minimum of 6-7 hours of direct and intense sunlight. Failing to do so will result in no flowers.

As these plants are heliotropic (their flower heads follow the sun), a good amount of sun exposure will help them to remain straight rather than bending toward the direction where the light is most vital.

Soil

These flowers can grow well in almost any soil.  However, to boost the growth, amend the soil with plenty or vermicompost, coco peat, organic matter and a handful of cow dung manure at the time of planting. Doing this will help the Surajmukhi ka Phool to grow bigger and have intense hue!

Water

Surajmukhi ka Phool can grow in dry conditions, but watering them regularly encourages good blooming. The best technique to follow is to water the plant when the topsoil feels a little dry to the touch.

Do not water the plant on daily basis as it will attract root rot. Also, make sure the water is not spilling on the flowers and foliage.

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Taking Care of Surajmukhi ka Phool

Fertilizer

Surajmukhi ka phool will really benefit from a monthly dose of fertilizers that are high in phosphorus and potassium. Alternatively, you can also use a balanced feed, diluted to 1\2 of its strength, once in 2-3 weeks. This will promote the blooming.

Pruning

These flowers don’t require regular pruning but, if grown in clusters and pots, can benefit from occasional trimming. Trim sunflowers twice a year with pruning shears, once in late spring and once in summer. This will ensure every part of the plant gets proper sunlight exposure. It will also make them look clean and good.

Pests & Diseases

Several pests and diseases can disturb the growth of Surajmukhi. Birds and rodents usually get attracted to the seeds. However, you can save these seeds by covering the flower heads with netting to protect them from pests.

Moreover, sunflower moth lays its eggs on the plant, and the larvae feed on the flower heads, tunnelling and leaving holes in the seeds. Neem oil solution or insecticidal soap can help to cure these pests down.

Similarly, you might have problems with beetles or caterpillars eating the leaves of surajmukhi. Sunflowers also can be prone to fungal diseases, including powdery mildew and rust. Avoid wetting the foliage, overwatering, and provide plenty of sunlight to keep these diseases at bay.

Check Out How to Grow Genda ka Phool in India here!