Grow “Joker” Sunflowers from fresh Helianthus annus flower seeds. The Joker is a hybrid variety of Sunflower that produces 6 to 7 inch, pollen free flowers. This beautiful Sunflower displays double, bi-colored blooms in shades of red, orange & yellow. Each plant will stand to a mature height of roughly 4 to 8 feet tall. The stems may need support until maturity. Once established, they are very strong and will stand upright with no need for stakes or support. Helianthus annus is grown as an annual flowering plant that grows quickly, blooms profusely through the summer months and later dies with the first frost. Sunflowers are among one of the easiest flowers to grow from fresh flower seeds. They are also seen as one of the most popular and sought after varieties when it comes to gardening. Sunflowers will make a great cut flower for floral arrangements & bouquets and are best used directly outdoors as a border plant, along driveways & fences or in fields by the masses. The Joker is just one of the many hybrid varieties we have to offer. For more colorful varieties, check out our other species listed in the Sunflower category. You may consider purchasing our “Double Dance” mixture for a blend of 14 of our most colorful hybrids. We also offer many other bi-colored Sunflowers such as “Cherry Rose” or “Ruby Eclipse” Quick Facts Type: Flower Color: Red & Yellow Height: 4' to 8' Tall Width: 18" Spread Season: Annual Zones: All Environment: Full sun Sowing The Seed Sunflowers are not particularly fond of being transplanted, but if started indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Sow at a depth of 1/2” under topsoil. Transplant entire pots into the garden, or direct sow when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. Stakes may be necessary to support your Sunflowers, only until the stems become stronger enough to stand on their own. Growing Conditions Sunflowers grow long taproots and may rot if the roots become waterlogged. It is recommended to check your sowing area for hard, compacted soil prior to sowing. Renew any hard, compacted soil with a mixture of compost. Sunflowers will enjoy an area of full sunlight for the majority of the day and should be watered daily so that the soil is kept moist until germination has occurred. Germination & Growth Joker Sunflower seeds will begin to germinate within 7 to 10 days after sowing. The plants will grow to a mature height of 4 to 8 feet tall and can be spaced roughly 6 to 12 inches apart from one another. Joker Sunflower is an annual, branching variety, that produces double, bi-colored flowers in shades of red, orange & yellow. They have light brown to yellow-green centers.