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Can You Grow Sunflower in Michigan?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

Sunflowers grow brilliantly here — they love the warm season and produce quickly.

Plant zones

2a–11b

Michigan last frost

early April

Michigan first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–80 days

When to plant Sunflowers in Michigan

Direct sow

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 6 – Jun 26

Dates are approximate, based on Michigan's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Sunflower

Sunflowers are fast-growing cheerful and attract pollinators — some varieties produce edible seeds.

Direct sow after last frost in the sunniest spot available. No transplanting needed. Giant varieties need staking. Harvest seed heads when the back turns brown and seeds are firm.

Full sunflower growing guide →

Gardening in Michigan

Michigan has a humid continental climate moderated by the Great Lakes. Southern Michigan is Zone 5b-6a; the Upper Peninsula is Zone 4a-5a. Known for fruit crops along Lake Michigan.