How do I care for Dwarf Sunflowers ??

[Pete E. Kruzer]

I bought several of these and have put them in larger containers. Trying to find out how to care for them has been impossible. A Google search revealed what's below. When the bloom has obviously lost its "looks" should it be dead headed? How do you get the buds on the upright stem to bloom? Any help would be appreciated.

BALLAD SUNFLOWER

Dwarf 24 inch plants (shorter in containers) produce large (up to 6 inches across) bright golden-yellow flowers with dark disks. Mildew resistant, easy to grow, high performing plants.

[beecrofter]

Do not overwater. Allow the medium to moderately dry, then water thoroughly. Avoid watering in the late afternoon as the foliage will stay wet during the night and create an environment favorable for powdery mildew.

Feed them with low phosphorus fertilizer, ie smaller middle number.

As for deadheading half the fun of sunflowers is watching the goldfinches eat.

[Bill who putters]

There is a danger here. One might end up feeding the birds suet, sunflower seeds and Sugar 1/4. Then god forbid there is niger for the hopeless lovers of beauty.