When to plant Sunflower in Atkinson County, GA
Plant Sunflower in Atkinson County from February 13 to March 6 in spring. Atkinson County sits in USDA Zone 9a, with last frost around March 6 and first frost on November 23.
When to Plant Sunflower in Atkinson County, GA
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a fast-growing North American native annual famous for its towering stems and brilliant yellow heads. It thrives in full sun and heat, producing large, pollen-rich blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and seed-eating birds. Varieties range from 18-inch dwarfs to 12-foot giants and nearly every color except blue.
Atkinson County, Georgia is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 6 and the first fall frost is November 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 262 days.
At an elevation of 193 feet, Atkinson County receives approximately 57.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Sunflower may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Sunflower, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Sunflower root diseases.
Atkinson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Sunflower Planting Timeline — Atkinson County, GA
Sunflower Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 13 | Feb 13 – Feb 27 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 13 | Feb 13 – Feb 27 |
| Direct Sow | February 13 | Feb 13 – Mar 6 |
| Bloom | May 8 | May 8 – Oct 9 |
Plant 1" deep · 18" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Bloom |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | Bloom |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
262 days in Atkinson County
Growing Tips for Atkinson County
Direct-sow 1 inch deep after last frost; germination takes 7-14 days at 65-75°F soil. Sunflowers dislike root disturbance so direct sowing is strongly preferred over transplanting. Plant in succession every 2 weeks for extended bloom. Stake tall varieties. Avoid overwatering — they tolerate drought once established. Birds will self-deadhead seed heads; leave them up through fall for wildlife.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Sunflower in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Sunflower in Atkinson County, GA?
Atkinson County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 6. Plan your Sunflower planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Atkinson County, GA?
Atkinson County, Georgia is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 6 and first fall frost is November 23.
When should I plant Sunflower in Atkinson County, GA?
In Atkinson County, GA, plant Sunflower after the last frost (around March 6) and before the first frost (around November 23). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Atkinson County, GA for Sunflower?
Atkinson County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Sunflower grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Sunflower grow in Atkinson County's climate?
Yes — Sunflower grows well in Atkinson County's temperate climate. Atkinson County averages a 262-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 6 and first frost around November 23.
Your Atkinson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Atkinson County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.