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Upa Creek, MO

What are your seed start dates for a non graft watermelon or a tall sunflower? Curious to see the variety since I am growing both.

Thanks!

4/14/2026 8:13:16 PM

New England

And does it matter if you are going for a wide head vs tall sunflower? Direct sow sunflowers? Sorry to tag along smallmouth :-)

4/14/2026 11:02:05 PM

Bethlehem CT

Hey Luke, It's time!! I would start them both now.

4/15/2026 6:45:06 AM

Upa Creek, MO

Thanks Big Moon John, pnks are going, prob start melons this weekend.

Country Boy, I know a lot of people direct sow sunflowers, but I grew a 19 footer last year after starting inside. They get taken out easily by pests early so protection is a must. I'll start inside again this year.

Anyone else on start dates?

4/15/2026 10:50:17 AM

Grittyville, WA

I'm following Don crews I can't believe how early he starts his melons. I'd follow a sunflower discussion with interest but I can't contribute any meaningful ideas, they are outta my league.

4/15/2026 11:16:01 AM

Bethlehem CT

I agree about the sunflowers, they do start easily outside direct in the garden in cool soil, but they are really prone to being eaten too. Chipmunks, slugs, mice, squirrrels etc.

4/16/2026 8:12:53 AM

New England

Thanks folks. Inside it is for me.

4/16/2026 1:35:06 PM

Hadley Ny

Luke I like growing Sunflowers but never have for competition. Years ago (20 Plus) I grew 14 footers not trying and always direct planted. I've got Tall and others I'm going to plant this year. Had really good results always direct planting. But you can do both and see what works best for you.

4/16/2026 3:17:27 PM

Upa Creek, MO

Every time I direct plant something takes them out, but I do transplant pretty quick. I have hundreds of seeds from my 19 footer last year so will try both methods.

Funny thing about sunflowers is they have little natural protection against anything when young, but a tall full season one will have a stalk like an Oak branch by the end of the season.

Thanks

[Last edit: 04/16/26 6:09:20 PM]

4/16/2026 4:36:10 PM