Mexican sunflower

Water Mexican sunflower plants deeply and regularly during the growing season. Aim to water them 2 to 3 times a week during the hot summer months. In spring and fall, 1 inch of water per week should be enough, but adjust amount of water depending on the amount of rainfall. To determine when to water, stick your finger in the soil about 2 inches deep. If it feels dry, it is time to water.

Mexican sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia) thrives in sunny locations and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. During the spring and summer months when the days are at their longest, Mexican sunflower plants may benefit from up to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. During cooler months (fall and winter), they can get by with as little as 4 hours of direct sunlight daily. It is important to note that Mexican sunflower plants do not do well in areas with a lot of shade.

Mexican sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia) should be lightly pruned early in the season, around mid-spring and then again in mid-summer. When pruning in mid-spring, cut lateral stems down to about 4 inches above the ground. When pruning in mid-summer, remove the central stem and any dead flower stems close to the ground. This will encourage new lateral stems to form and encourage an additional flush of blooms. More vigorous pruning can also be done in late summer, if necessary, to help control the size of the plant.