How to Grow Ring of Fire
Helianthus annuus
Your complete guide to growing Ring of Fire.
📷 Wikipedia: Common sunflowerWhen to Plant Ring of Fire
Planting windows vary by USDA hardiness zone. Look up yours by ZIP code.
| Zone | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May – June | July – September | — |
| Zone 2 | April – May | June – August | — |
| Zone 3 | April – May | June – August | — |
| Zone 4 | March – April | June – July | — |
| Zone 5 | March – April | May – July | — |
| Zone 6 | March – April | May – July | — |
| Zone 7 | February – March | April – June | — |
| Zone 8 | February – March | April – June | — |
| Zone 9 | January – February | March – May | — |
| Zone 10 | January | February – April | — |
| Zone 11 | January | January – March | — |
| Zone 12 | January | January – March | — |
| Zone 13 | January | January – March | — |
Companion Plants for Ring of Fire
✓ Good companions
Attracts hover flies and parasitic wasps that control pest insects
Attracts pollinators and beneficial predatory insects, improves soil
Repels aphids, whiteflies, and thrips while attracting beneficial insects
Attracts beneficial insects and provides habitat for natural pest predators
Attracts beneficial wasps and ladybugs that prey on garden pests
Repel nematodes and aphids while attracting beneficial insects
Act as trap crops for aphids and cucumber beetles, repel squash bugs
Attracts butterflies, bees, and beneficial predatory insects
✗ Keep away from
Produces juglone toxin that inhibits growth and can kill sensitive plants
Releases allelopathic compounds that suppress nearby plant growth
Create excessive shade and compete aggressively for nutrients and water
