When to Plant Sunflowers in Regina, SK – 2026
Published: April 27, 2026
Regina is in Canadian Zone 3b (semi-arid windy Prairie). Last spring frost averages May 18; first fall frost September 20; the growing season runs about 125 frost-free days. Plant sunflowers in Regina from june 1 through 15 (after last frost — calgary june 7, edmonton june 2)..
Sunflowers Planting Window for Regina, SK
Direct sow sunflower seeds after last frost when soil reaches 10°C / 50°F. Most zones: April–June. Warm-season annual — does not tolerate frost. Days to bloom: 70–100 days from seed.
For Regina, SK specifically, the recommended planting window is June 1 through 15 (after last frost — Calgary June 7, Edmonton June 2).. Regina's flat terrain offers no natural windbreaks. Use a sheltered south-facing garden wall or fence to create a warmer microclimate. Black plastic mulch warms soil 2-4°C and extends the effective season. Wind-resistant varieties and windbreak planting are standard practice for serious Regina gardeners.
Sunflowers are tender annuals — frost kills them at any age. Direct sow only after last frost when soil reaches 10°C.
Best Sunflowers Varieties for Regina, SK
For Regina, SK (Canadian Zone 3b), choose varieties rated for your zone or one zone colder for reliable winter survival. The Canadian-bred or tested varieties below perform well in Saskatchewan conditions.
Tall (3 m) classic giant sunflower. 90 days to bloom — works in southern Ontario and BC; tight for Calgary/Edmonton.
Branching habit, 1.5 m tall, multiple golden-yellow blooms. 60 days. Excellent for short-season Prairies.
Cut-flower industry standard. 50-60 days. Successive sowings every 2 weeks for continuous Canadian blooms.
Branching pale yellow. 1.5-2 m tall. 90 days. Excellent for pollinators in Ontario and Quebec gardens.
60 cm container-friendly fully-double yellow blooms. 60 days. Works on Prairie balconies.
How to Plant Sunflowers in Regina
Sow method: direct sow after last frost. The steps below adapt the general planting advice for Regina, SK's climate and timing.
- →Direct sow sunflower seeds 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep, after the last frost when soil reaches 10°C (50°F).
- →Space giant varieties 60 cm (24 inches) apart; branching types 30 cm (12 inches); dwarf 20 cm (8 inches).
- →Choose a site with full sun (8+ hours) — sunflowers track the sun and lean toward shade.
- →Water consistently for the first 3 weeks; once established, water deeply weekly during dry periods.
- →Stake giant varieties at planting — adding stakes after the plant reaches 1 m (3 ft) damages roots.
- →Sidedress with balanced fertilizer when plants reach 60 cm (2 ft) tall — once is enough.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sunflowers in Regina, SK
When can I plant sunflowers in Regina?
Plant sunflowers in Regina from june 1 through 15 (after last frost — calgary june 7, edmonton june 2). based on the city's Canadian Zone 3b. Last spring frost: May 18; first fall frost: September 20; frost-free growing season: 125 days.
What Canadian zone is Regina?
Regina is in Canadian Zone 3b (USDA equivalent 3a). The climate is semi-arid windy prairie. Regina's flat terrain offers no natural windbreaks. Use a sheltered south-facing garden wall or fence to create a warmer microclimate. Black plastic mulch warms soil 2-4°C and extends the effective season. Wind-resistant varieties and windbreak planting are standard practice for serious Regina gardeners.
Are sunflowers winter-hardy in Regina?
Sunflowers are tender annuals — frost kills them at any age. Direct sow only after last frost when soil reaches 10°C.