Sunflower Desire Red - Unwins - 30211340

Not Available Sunflower Desire Red - Unwins - 30211340

Not Available

Dwarf variety with unique red flowers. Long flowering period. Award-winning dwarf red sunflower va...

Currently unavailable

Currently out of stock

This product is not available at the moment. Check back later or explore other options below.

Product Information

Full details

This guide is for gardeners seeking a unique, low-maintenance sunflower for containers and borders. The Unwins Sunflower Desire Red offers a dramatic, velvety crimson bloom and a long flowering period, providing vibrant color late into autumn. A potential caveat is its need for consistent moisture, especially during warm weather.

All features

Model Part Number	30211340
Brand	Unwins

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What is the main benefit of the Sunflower Desire Red?

Its unique, deep red velvety petals offer a dramatic visual impact, setting it apart from traditional yellow sunflowers.

Can I grow this sunflower in a pot?

Yes, this is a dwarf variety specifically recommended for pots and borders due to its manageable size.

How long does it flower for?

It has a long flowering period, typically from July through to October.

When is the best time to sow the seeds?

You can sow indoors from March to May, or outdoors from May onwards, after the risk of frost has passed.

Does it attract insects?

Yes, it is RHS Pollinator friendly and will attract bees and other beneficial insects to your garden.

Are the seeds edible?

Yes, the mature seed heads can be dried, and the seeds can be harvested and eaten.

What kind of soil does it prefer?

It prefers well-drained soil and requires a sunny location for optimal growth.

Troubleshooting

Seeds are not germinating

Ensure soil is consistently moist and temperatures are within the recommended range (15–20°C indoors, or after last frost outdoors). Avoid sowing too deeply.

Seedlings are weak or leggy

Provide more light. Ensure seedlings are not shaded from direct sun once they have emerged indoors. Keep them in a cooler environment (minimum 10°C) once growing.

Flowers are small or wilting

Ensure adequate watering, especially during hot, dry periods. Feed plants regularly once flowering commences. Check for sufficient sunlight.

Plants are falling over

While this variety has strong stems, ensure plants are not overcrowded. In very windy locations, consider providing minimal support or planting in a more sheltered spot.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Adds a dramatic and unusual color to garden displays.
Long blooming season extends visual interest.
Compact size makes it perfect for container gardening.
Flowers are excellent for cutting and indoor arrangements.
Attracts pollinators, benefiting garden ecosystem.
Easy cultivation from seed.

Cons

Requires consistent watering, especially in hot conditions.
Needs a sunny location for optimal growth and flowering.
May require protection from strong winds if not in a sheltered spot.
Seeds can be slow to germinate if conditions are not consistently warm.
Dwarf variety, so may not provide the towering height some expect from sunflowers.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Sowing Indoors:

Fill small pots (7–8cm) with seed compost.
Shake and level the compost, then firm gently.
Water well with a fine rose.
Sow seeds individually, about 1cm deep.
Place in a propagator at 15–20°C or cover pots with cling film and keep in a warm room.
Once shoots appear, remove cling film and keep seedlings in a light position, shaded from direct sun.
Grow on at a minimum temperature of 10°C.

Sowing Outdoors:

Choose a sunny flowering position.
Pre-water the soil.
Sow seeds about 1.5cm deep.
Keep the soil moist until seedlings are established.
Thin seedlings as required.

Planting Out (for indoor-sown seedlings):

Gradually accustom plants to outdoor conditions over 2–3 weeks.
Plant out after the risk of frost has passed.
Water well until plants are established.

Aftercare:

Water plants well, especially during warm weather.
Feed regularly once flowering begins.

Compatibility:

Thrives in full sun.
Suitable for pots, borders, and beds.
Requires well-drained soil.

Care:

Monitor for watering needs, particularly in containers.
Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming, though not essential for this variety.