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Can You Grow Sunflower in New Mexico?

US · USDA Zone 7b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

2a–11b

New Mexico last frost

late February

New Mexico first frost

early December

Days to harvest

60–80 days

When to plant Sunflowers in New Mexico

Direct sow

Feb 28

Harvest

Apr 29 – May 19

Dates are approximate, based on New Mexico'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 New Mexico

New Mexico has an arid continental climate. Albuquerque is Zone 7a; Santa Fe is Zone 6b; southern desert areas are Zone 8a-9a. Low humidity means dramatic temperature swings.

See what grows well in New Mexico →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Sunflower in New Mexico?

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

What zone is New Mexico?

New Mexico spans USDA Zone 7b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 8a).

When do you plant Sunflowers in New Mexico?

Plant Sunflowers Feb 28, harvest Apr 29 – May 19.