Velvet Queen sunflower is a beautiful, branched sunflower with gorgeous, dark red, velvet blooms with a dark center that can grow up to 5' high with 5" blooms. It is an early bloomer that is good for cutting. Plant sunflower seeds in a location that receives full sun. Sunflowers prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. Plant sunflower seeds directly in the garden after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Sow sunflower seeds 2-3cm (1 inch) deep and space them 30-45cm (12-18 inches) apart. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-14 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to 45-60cm (18-24 inches) apart to give them room to grow. Sunflowers require consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Water regularly, but do not overwater. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

Harvest sunflower seeds when the flowers have wilted and the back of the flower head turns brown. Cut the flower heads off the plant and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area for 2-3 weeks. Once dry, remove the seeds from the flower head and store them in an airtight container for later use. Soil Conditions: Well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Soil pH: 6.0-7.5. Planting Depth: Sow seeds 2-3cm (1 inch) deep. Germination: 7-14 days. Height at Maturity: Up to 5' (1.5 meters) tall. Days to Maturity: 80-100 days. Watering: Consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Sun/Shade: Full sun. Spacing after Thinning: Thin seedlings to 45-60cm (18-24 inches) apart.