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Bugs on sunflowers
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Author:  senegaltictac [ Wed Aug 06, 2003 8:51 pm ]
Post subject:  Bugs on sunflowers
I have many bugs on my sunflowers. First was aslender moth about a half inch long, just hangs out. Not sure what it is. When the flowers bloomed I got all colors of wasp looking bugs, along with many different types of bees. Then came spiders, flies, mantis, walking sticks, many bugs I've never seen before, and then the grasshoppers. The grasshoppers do not seem to be eating, just hanging out. Dont know why.
Have only used water and compost tea on the sunflowers. They are doing great. Tallest is 14 feet tall. The bugs and birds seem to have kept the pesky bugs in line.
Author:  cynthiac [ Sat Aug 09, 2003 10:17 am ]
Post subject: 
My sunflowers had problems with ants and aphids. More so the ants were obviously herding the aphids for honeydew. I didn't know what was going on till I did a little research and realized they weren't eating them; they were working together. They got a pepper-soap spray and that was that.


I still have not seen a mantis here. I may order some next year.

What kind of sunflowers did you plant?
Author:  senegaltictac [ Sat Aug 09, 2003 2:34 pm ]
Post subject: 
I planted Mammoths, some with edible seeds, Chianti hybrid[deep red color], and another hybrid that had petals all the way to the center that make it look fuzzy. I had all variety of ants also. They didnt cause a problem. I think there were enough predator bugs to keep it all balanced.
I did notice with feeding compost tea and not using any chemical enhancements that the stalks were much thicker at the base. The height on the fuzzy ones 18-24 inches according to the package. Mine were 6 feet tall. I feed compost tea through my lawn sprinkler when they are short enough. yhen use a soaker to water with when they are too tall and thick.
Author:  cynthiac [ Sat Aug 09, 2003 8:08 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh I just looked up the Chiantis! Those are gorgeous!! :shock:

I only grew California Greystripes and Lemon Queens this year. Next year I want to do some diff. colored ones. So the Chianti is on my list now! Thanks for the idea. :wink:

Are your fuzzy ones like the teddy bear sunflowers? http://www.veseys.com/store.cfm?product=668

If you have any seeds left over on the Chianti, and want to share. I'll send postage and a couple bucks for them. Just P.M. me when they are ready.

I wish I had done the compost tea earlier with mine. Next year I'll have to start them off with it.
Congrats on all of yours. Sounds like they are all very healthy and happy. :D
Author:  senegaltictac [ Sat Aug 09, 2003 11:37 pm ]
Post subject: 
Yes they look like teddy bear sunflowers. I cant find the seed packet right now to get the name. Ours grew 6 feet tall though and i remember the packet saying 18-24 inches.
Author:  senegaltictac [ Sun Aug 10, 2003 12:09 am ]
Post subject: 
I looked at the other sunflowers on the website. They looked more like the giant sungold and the height I have matches the described height. Thanks for the website. I may find some others to plant for next year.
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