When to Plant Sunflowers in Nebraska
In a typical Nebraska location, sow outdoors May 1 – May 15. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Apr 22 in Elkhorn and as late as May 18 in Alliance.
Direct sow 1-3 weeks after last frost once soil has warmed; taprooted, resents transplanting.
Sunflowers Planting Dates by City
| City | Direct sow |
|---|---|
| Omaha | Apr 25 – May 9 |
| Lincoln | May 1 – May 15 |
| Bellevue | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Grand Island | Apr 30 – May 14 |
| Kearney | May 7 – May 21 |
| Fremont | Apr 30 – May 14 |
| Hastings | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Norfolk | May 7 – May 21 |
| North Platte | May 10 – May 24 |
| Columbus | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Papillion | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| La Vista | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Scottsbluff | May 15 – May 29 |
| South Sioux City | May 6 – May 20 |
| Beatrice | May 1 – May 15 |
| Chalco | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Lexington | May 3 – May 17 |
| Alliance | May 18 – Jun 1 |
| Gering | May 15 – May 29 |
| Elkhorn | Apr 22 – May 6 |
Showing the 20 most populous of 20 Nebraska cities. Dates are estimates from each city's NOAA frost normals and university extension timing guidelines. See all Nebraska cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant sunflowers in Nebraska?
In a typical Nebraska location, sow outdoors May 1 – May 15. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Apr 22 in Elkhorn and as late as May 18 in Alliance.
When is the last frost in Nebraska?
The average last spring frost in Nebraska ranges from April 15 in Elkhorn to May 11 in Alliance, 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 Nebraska
- 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