Info: Annual. "Claret" is the ideal sunflower for the vase because it is unusually velvety dark red and multi-stemmed for a sunflower. Flower diameter about 15 - 20 cm. Due to its height of about 130 cm, it is excellent for background planting in beds.
Care: Start in a warm place (greenhouse/windowsill), sow 2 - 3 cm (dark germinator) deep in pots, about 2 - 3 seeds per pot. From mid-May (frost-free) the plants can be planted outdoors, but first acclimate them to the outside temperatures (harden off). From mid-May, direct sowing can be done outdoors, directly at the location. Keep temperatures and moisture constant. Use sowing soil! Plant spacing 50x50 cm.
Use: "Claret" is particularly suitable for vase cutting, as well as for planting fences and flower beds.
Gardening tip: Nutrient-rich, well-drained soil and sufficient moisture promote good development. Additional fertilization is advantageous. The durability of sunflowers increases enormously if the stems are placed in boiling water for about 1 minute. Then immediately place them in the vase.
Sowing: Pre-cultivation: March - April; Direct sowing: May - mid-June
Germination: 7 - 14 days at 15°C
Location: Sunny
Flowering: From July - September