How to Grow Shock-O-Lat
Helianthus annuus
Your complete guide to growing Shock-O-Lat.
📷 Wikipedia: Common sunflowerWhen to Plant Shock-O-Lat
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 Shock-O-Lat
✓ Good companions
Repels aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes while attracting beneficial insects
Attracts beneficial insects and provides structural diversity without competing for nutrients
Repels moths, fleas, and mosquitoes while attracting bees and butterflies
Repel nematodes, aphids, and other harmful insects while attracting beneficial pollinators
Act as trap crops for aphids and cucumber beetles, protecting nearby plants
Natural pest deterrent against aphids, tomato hornworms, and squash bugs
Attracts beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps for natural pest control
Attracts beneficial insects and butterflies while providing complementary colors
✗ Keep away from
Produces juglone, a toxic compound that inhibits growth and can kill sensitive plants
Releases allelopathic compounds that suppress growth of nearby plants
Can inhibit growth of nearby plants through allelopathy and compete heavily for nutrients
