Sunflower Field
at Guy Farm, Meath
At Guy Farm, we’re passionate about growing beautiful and vibrant sunflowers. Our family-run farm in Co. Meath offers a unique opportunity to experience the joy of picking your own sunflowers.
Picking your own sunflowers is a lot of fun! Not only do you get to take home a beautiful bouquet, but you also support local agriculture and contribute to the sustainability of our planet. There’s something truly special about connecting with nature in this way.
When to Visit?
Our sunflowers typically begin to bloom in August. To ensure you’re picking at the optimal time, keep an eye on our social media channels for updates. We’ll let you know when the sunflowers are ready for picking.
Pick-Your-Own Sunflowers with our Honesty Box system
Growing
- Sun Worshipers: Sunflowers are known for their heliotropism, meaning they turn to follow the sun throughout the day.
- Rapid Growth: Sunflowers are one of the fastest-growing plants, often reaching their full height within a few months.
- Deep Roots: Sunflowers have deep roots that can extend several feet into the ground, helping them to absorb water and nutrients.
Uses
- Culinary Delight: Sunflower seeds are a popular snack and are used in various culinary applications, including birdseed, oil, and butter.
- Symbolism: Sunflowers often symbolize happiness, optimism, and loyalty. They are also associated with the sun and solar energy.
Fun Facts
- Giant Varieties: Some sunflower varieties can grow to be incredibly tall, with records surpassing 30 feet!
- Colorful Variations: While the classic sunflower is yellow, there are also varieties with orange, red, and even brown petals.
- Ancient History: The sunflower is believed to have originated in North America and was cultivated by Native Americans for food and oil.
Style
- Fashion Inspiration: Sunflowers have inspired fashion trends, appearing on clothing, accessories, and home decor.
- Floral Arrangements: Sunflowers are a popular choice for floral arrangements due to their vibrant colours and cheerful appearance.
Sunflowers are a popular choice for gardens in Ireland due to their cheerful appearance and relatively easy care. Here are some specific tips for growing sunflowers in Ireland.
Planting Time
- Ideal Time: The best time to plant sunflowers in Ireland is typically between April and May, after the risk of frost has passed.
- Soil Temperature: Aim for a soil temperature of at least 10°C for optimal germination.
Germination
- Planting Depth: Plant sunflower seeds about 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds about 30 cm (12 inches) apart to allow for adequate growth.
- Germination Time: Sunflower seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days under favourable conditions.
Growing Season
- Sunlight: Sunflowers require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Support: Taller sunflower varieties may require staking or support to prevent them from toppling over.
Harvesting
- Timing: Harvest sunflowers when the petals are fully open and the back of the flower head is golden brown.
- Cutting: Cut the stems at an angle to allow for better water absorption.
- Conditioning: Place the cut sunflowers in a bucket of water immediately after harvesting.m pumpkins every year!
