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Guide to growing edible flowers

Sunflowers

  • Not surprisingly, sunflowers need sun! In hot micro- climates, some afternoon shade may be needed.
  • Prepare the soil as you would for vegetables.
  • Sunflowers thrive with regular watering, especially tall varieties.
  • Harvest sunflowers early in the day after the dew has dried. Remove lower leaves on the stem, leaving two or three higher up. Place harvested stems in a bucket of water for a few hours before arranging them in a vase.

Nasturtiums

  • Choose a spot with sandy, well-draining soil for best results. Nasturtiums thrive in sparse soil, providing more colorful blossoms.
  • Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Potted nasturtiums may need more frequent watering, with occasional dilute fish emulsion to replace lost nutrients.
  • Nasturtiums prefer sunny to partially shaded areas in the garden.
  • Nasturtiums are butterfly host plants, which can help deter aphids from other plants like roses and cabbage crops.

Johnny Jump-ups

  • Plant Johnny-jump-ups 6 to 8 inches apart for small-flowered cultivars and 10 to 12 inches apart.
  • Never water pansies in the late afternoon or evening since this encourages disease. Mulch around the plants with 2 inches of organic material to conserve moisture and reduce weed growth.
  • Mix a granular slow-release fertilizer into the soil as you are planting. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can make the plants susceptible to rot.
  • Remove old flowers for the longest bloom.