How do I protect sunflowers from pests?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Sunflowers can be faced with threats of deer, aphids, birds, and slugs, however, some defensive strategies keep the plants in good shape. One client had an 8-foot tall ‘Titan' crop that survived the deer raids by utilizing 7-foot fencing that was woven with a fishing line at the top. The fishing line moves unexpectedly, which startled the persistent browsers.
Aphid Management
- Mix: 1 tsp dish soap + 1 quart water
- Apply: Dawn or dusk to avoid sun-scorch
- Rinse: Spray plants with water after 4 hours
Slug Barriers
- Reapply: After heavy rain
- Width: 6-inch ring around stems
- Alternative: Crushed eggshells for small gardens
Prevent your birds from feasting on the seeds like beans by covering the heads with breathable mesh bags after the petals have dropped. One gardener was able to save her ‘Mammoth Grey' crop by repurposing old onion sacks that were loose enough to allow airflow but still scared the finches away. Change the deterrent every month so that the pests do not get too accustomed to the brazen actions in your garden.
Companion Planting
- Marigolds: Repel nematodes
- Nasturtiums: Trap aphids
- Garlic: Deters deer
Soil Health
- Rotate crops: Break pest cycles
- Avoid mulch: Near slug-prone plants
- Clean debris: Remove hiding spots
When the infestation level is high, beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, can be used as a control method. Release the beneficial insects right before dusk, close to the aphid clusters. They will feed on the aphids overnight! One urban gardener said their balcony garden improved after two releases of ladybugs. The key is to have a balance not to harm the beneficial insects, like pollinators, while also targeting pests such as aphids.
Read the full article: How to Plant Sunflowers: Expert Guide for Vibrant Blooms
