Sunrich Orange DMR is a compact F1 hybrid sunflower that blooms in just 60 to 70 days, delivering vibrant orange flowers that shine as cut flowers or garden accents. Bred for downy mildew resistance, this variety thrives in zones 2 through 11 and handles moderate water needs with ease. Its neat, bushy growth habit makes it surprisingly manageable even in smaller spaces, while the quick turnaround from seed to bloom means you can succession-plant every couple of weeks for continuous color all season.
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Moderate
2-11
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Moderate
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Orange petals open reliably in under 70 days, making this hybrid one of the speediest performers for cut flower production. The downy mildew resistance is a game-changer if you garden in humid climates where this fungal disease typically wreaks havoc. Its compact growth habit sets it apart from towering sunflower types, so it won't shade out neighboring plants or demand staking.
Sunrich Orange DMR excels as a cut flower, delivering long-lasting blooms that brighten indoor arrangements. The variety also shines in garden settings where its compact stature and consistent flowering fill gaps with reliable color throughout the growing season.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds into 72 to 50-cell flats 2 to 3 weeks before your intended planting date. Sunflowers dislike root disturbance, so handle transplants with care. Start seeds at soil temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
After the last frost date has passed, transplant seedlings outdoors into their final positions. Space plants 4 inches apart. Harden off seedlings gradually to help them adjust to outdoor conditions before final planting.
Direct seed after the last frost, sowing seeds 1/2 inch deep into warm soil. This is the recommended method and avoids transplant shock altogether.
For cut flowers, harvest when color first shows, when nearly open, or when completely open depending on your intended use and market preferences. For dried flowers, harvest blooms when completely open. Hang in a warm, dry location or use silica gel to dry.
Do not pinch plants under any circumstances. Single-stem sunflowers pinched back will produce low-quality blooms or no blooms at all. Allow the plant to grow naturally without topping.
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