How to Grow Teddy Bear
Helianthus annuus
Your complete guide to growing Teddy Bear.
📷 Wikipedia: Common sunflowerWhen to Plant Teddy Bear
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 Teddy Bear
✓ Good companions
Fix nitrogen in soil that sunflowers can utilize, while using stalks for support
Attracts pollinators and may improve sunflower seed production
Provide habitat for beneficial insects and complement sunflower's growing habits
Use sunflower stalks for natural support while benefiting from shade
Benefits from sunflower's shade and wind protection during hot weather
Repel aphids, whiteflies, and other pests while attracting beneficial insects
Act as trap crops for aphids and cucumber beetles, protecting sunflowers
Attract pollinators and beneficial predatory insects like ladybugs
✗ Keep away from
Produces juglone toxin that stunts sunflower growth and can kill plants
Releases allelopathic compounds that inhibit sunflower germination and growth
Compete heavily for nutrients and may increase susceptibility to shared fungal diseases
