FrostCal

When to Plant Sunflowers in Alaska

In a typical Alaska location, sow outdoors May 23 – Jun 6. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Apr 11 in Ketchikan and as late as Jun 18 in Kalifornsky.

Method Direct sow
Days to maturity 70–100 days

Direct sow 1-3 weeks after last frost once soil has warmed; taprooted, resents transplanting.

Sunflowers Planting Dates by City

CityDirect sow
AnchorageMay 8 – May 22
FairbanksMay 23 – Jun 6
JuneauApr 27 – May 11
Eagle RiverMay 16 – May 30
BadgerMay 29 – Jun 12
Knik-FairviewMay 25 – Jun 8
CollegeMay 25 – Jun 8
WasillaMay 23 – Jun 6
SitkaMay 10 – May 24
LakesMay 23 – Jun 6
KetchikanApr 11 – Apr 25
TanainaMay 23 – Jun 6
KalifornskyJun 18 – Jul 2
KenaiMay 31 – Jun 14
Meadow LakesMay 23 – Jun 6
PalmerMay 13 – May 27
Elmendorf Air Force BaseMay 16 – May 30
BethelMay 28 – Jun 11
KodiakMay 6 – May 20
SterlingMay 27 – Jun 10

Showing the 20 most populous of 20 Alaska cities. Dates are estimates from each city's NOAA frost normals and university extension timing guidelines. See all Alaska cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant sunflowers in Alaska?

In a typical Alaska location, sow outdoors May 23 – Jun 6. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Apr 11 in Ketchikan and as late as Jun 18 in Kalifornsky.

When is the last frost in Alaska?

The average last spring frost in Alaska ranges from April 4 in Ketchikan to June 11 in Kalifornsky, based on NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals.

How long do sunflowers take to grow?

Sunflowers typically take 70–100 days from planting to harvest. Direct sow 1-3 weeks after last frost once soil has warmed; taprooted, resents transplanting.

Other Crops in Alaska

When to plant sunflowers in other states

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