Leggy Sunflowers ?

[Nigella]

Planted my seeds a little while ago now - and the larger seedlings are looking a bit leggy  .... what should I do ?

Was thinking of putting them outside under a cloche?

Will I have to support them with canes as they get bigger? 

[Marianne]

Mine are a little leggy too.  I have got round this problem by putting the plants outside in the garden and bringing them indoors before dark.  This will allow for MAXIMUM light, which is the cause of them being leggy if there is not enough.

Hope this helps - 

[GREENWIZARD]

i've a got the same problem.i've killed off quite a few by trying to support them so i'll try your method M.

[Marianne]

I hope it worked for you GW !? 

[Lily]

My Sunflowers are also leggy I have put them in a makeshift cold frame - lid off (previous use was a book shelf, but that's another story) I am hoping that the slugs and the frost don't get at them before they have time to mature.

[kenkew]

It's a tad early for sowing them. Why not do a second batch if you have the seed?
Helpful germination tip is to put the seed between two layers of damp tissue for 3/4 days. Sow the ones that show signs of growing, saves having to put two in a pot and loose the weaker one.

[wattapain]

Mine are getting a bit big now too - they're in the coldframe at present see hoe they go , bu I've got loads more at various stages so watch this space. 


Terri 

[GREENWIZARD]

looking good w .

[Granny_Smith]

I'd better get a move on then. Mine are still in the packet !!!

[Alimo]

Wow they look fab.  Mine are just pushing through the compost.

Alimo

[Marianne]

Terri, they look great !  And the leaves are so very big !     I have put mine in the mini greenhouse where the slugs cannot get but they do not seem to grow very quickly.

I did not buy any sunflower seeds this year, I pinched them from the bird mix !    I will have to wait for the end result.

[David K]

This is just my own personal opinion of course, sowing the seed in situ (in mid May) not only avoids this problem, but gives in just as good results.

[Marianne]

Yes you are right Mr rotivator.  I did that last year and my plants grew so very tall ! And no slug problem neither
 

[David K]

Thanks,  just finding my way around here, that was my first attempt at posting a message. 

[Marianne]

Welcome to these boards Mr rotivator.  We are a very friendly lot and everyone is out there to help you. 
 

[wattapain]

Terri, they look great !  And the leaves are so very big !     I have put mine in the mini greenhouse where the slugs cannot get but they do not seem to grow very quickly.

I did not buy any sunflower seeds this year, I pinched them from the bird mix !    I will have to wait for the end result.

Marianne - I've got lots left if you'd like some - they'r the Russian Giant ones.
PM mewith details if you'd like some.

Terri 

[David K]

Many thanks for the welcome, Marianne.  xx

I'm a newbie here, but have more than fifty years hands-on gardening experience.

I agree this does seem to be a very friendly place.

[Marianne]

Oh dear Wattapain ! You must think I am so very rude !

I have only just found your message to me !?  Thank you very much for the offer but I have plenty now - Thanks anyway !

 

[wardy]

Hello Mr Rotovator   

[kitty]

welcome mr r!