Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Sunflowers are among the easiest and most rewarding annuals to grow. They're also some of the tallest, with many varieties producing huge, saucer-shaped yellow flowers that tower over other plants in the border.
Helianthus annuus 'Little Dorrit' is a dwarf variety of sunflower, growing to a height of just 60cm. However, it bears huge, chocolate-brown-centred yellow flowers on single stems, above a mass of foliage. 'Little Dorrit' is ideal for growing towards the front of herbaceous borders and in pots, and makes an excellent cut flower.
For best results, sow Helianthus annuus 'Little Dorrit' seed in individual 10cm pots of moist seed compost in April to May, cover with cling film and place on a sunny windowsill or greenhouse bench. Remove the cling film once the seeds have germinated, and water plants regularly, allowing the water to drain. Pot on into larger pots with multipurpose compost, before eventually planting outside once all risk of frost has passed.
Sunflowers are hungry plants - enrich the soil before planting out with plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost, and water plants regularly. You may need to stake plants in exposed gardens.
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Helianthus ‘Little dorrit’ and wildlife
Helianthus ‘Little dorrit’ is known for attracting bees, beneficial insects, birds, butterflies/moths and other pollinators. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers and has seeds for birds.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is known to attract Birds
Birds
Is known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Helianthus ‘Little dorrit’ poisonous?
Helianthus ‘Little dorrit’ has no toxic effects reported.
