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Forcing Sunflowers Early For A June Wedding
Susan P. emailed me this message in January. Of course I replied with my suggestions. Read the story and see her photos!
Subject: Sunflowers in June?
I love your website because you make the mystery of gardening so easy to understand for a non-gardener. Thank you!
I think I am dreaming an impossible dream. Maybe you can help.
So here we are in Wet and Shady Western Washington... and my daughter wants SUNFLOWERS for her wedding at the end of June. Who can blame her, growing up under cloudy skies?
We want to use them in her bouquet (just tie a few together with a ribbon) and as table decorations, perhaps in pots and a little red wagon we have. How impossible does this sound to a plant-pioneer like yourself?
Thanks for any suggestions you may have -- Sue P. of Bremerton, WA
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I'm delighted when I receive Sue's updates!
Below is her followup message and new photo.
Here are her healthy Sunflower Seedlings only 12 days later!
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Hello Karen,
You may remember my letter asking how I may force sunflowers in the Northwest to be available by the end of June for our daughter's wedding.
I want to let you know that I planted seeds on Feb 2, and some are beginning to sprout.
I did not find the wild sunflowers, but got what I could at the local market.
I planted several varieties in peat pots and also as an experiment sprouted some before planting.
I've included photos here of the Teddy Bear variety that has sprouted from the peat pots as of today, Feb 6.
I'm keeping my fingers crossed and following the instructions you sent, although I was disappointed not to find the variety of seeds you had recommended.
Enjoy the photos, and I will keep you posted.
Sue
PS: I have them in my bathtub with a heater in the room. I was waiting for the sprouts to come up before placing fluorescent lights on them. That's my chore for this weekend!
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Updates coming soon!
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