When to Plant Sunflowers in Missouri
In a typical Missouri location, sow outdoors Apr 15 – Apr 29. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Apr 2 in Sikeston and as late as Apr 28 in Kirksville.
Direct sow 1-3 weeks after last frost once soil has warmed; taprooted, resents transplanting.
Sunflowers Planting Dates by City
| City | Direct sow |
|---|---|
| Kansas City | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| St. Louis | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
| Springfield | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Columbia | Apr 12 – Apr 26 |
| Independence | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| Lee's Summit | Apr 20 – May 4 |
| O'Fallon | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Saint Joseph | Apr 26 – May 10 |
| Saint Charles | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Blue Springs | Apr 14 – Apr 28 |
| Saint Peters | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Florissant | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Joplin | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Chesterfield | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Jefferson City | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Cape Girardeau | Apr 12 – Apr 26 |
| Oakville | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Wildwood | Apr 19 – May 3 |
| Wentzville | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| University City | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
| Ballwin | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Liberty | Apr 26 – May 10 |
| Raytown | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| Mehlville | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Kirkwood | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
| Maryland Heights | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Gladstone | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Hazelwood | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Grandview | Apr 14 – Apr 28 |
| Webster Groves | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
Showing the 30 most populous of 90 Missouri cities. Dates are estimates from each city's NOAA frost normals and university extension timing guidelines. See all Missouri cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant sunflowers in Missouri?
In a typical Missouri location, sow outdoors Apr 15 – Apr 29. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Apr 2 in Sikeston and as late as Apr 28 in Kirksville.
When is the last frost in Missouri?
The average last spring frost in Missouri ranges from March 26 in Sikeston to April 21 in Kirksville, 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 Missouri
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Winter Squash
- Pumpkins
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Corn
- Green Beans
- Peas
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Arugula
- Swiss Chard
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels Sprouts
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Onions
- Garlic
- Potatoes
- Sweet Potatoes
- Asparagus
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Dill
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Zinnias
- Marigolds
- Cosmos
- Nasturtiums
- Dahlias
When to plant sunflowers in other states