By Amy-Lynn Albertson
N.C. Cooperative Extension

The Rowan County Extension Master Gardener Plant Sale is happening next weekend, on May 3, from 8:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the old agricultural center located at 2727 Old Concord Road. Last week, I discussed some of the shade-loving plants available at the sale. This week, I want to highlight some vibrant, sun-loving plants that we will offer.

Sunflowers are among the most well-known and beloved garden plants. They are one of my favorite flowers, and the Master Gardeners will have several native perennial varieties available. The original sunflower, native to the prairies of the United States, typically grows between 6 to 10 feet tall. Sunflowers are resilient plants; the large-flowered varieties prefer rich, well-fertilized soil. However, due to the many cultivars available, sunflowers can thrive in a variety of garden settings. If you let the seeds ripen on the plants, you will create a natural bird feeder in the fall, attracting cardinals, blue jays, woodpeckers, grosbeaks, chickadees and other birds.

One native variety we will have is the Schweinitz’s sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii), which is native to the Piedmont region of North Carolina. It grows between 3 to 6 feet tall and blooms from September until frost. This sunflower features small yellow flowers and often grows in clearings and along the edges of upland forests.

Another wonderful option is bee balm (Monarda), which is a favorite among pollinators. It boasts reddish-orange flowers that attract bees and butterflies during the hot summer months. We will have several varieties available to keep you and the pollinators busy.

Additionally, I highly recommend the Stokes’ aster. It begins blooming sporadically in late spring but is especially prized for its stunning flower display in midsummer and fall. With its lavender, pink or white cornflower-like flowers, the Stokes’ aster is a favorite among pollinators. It is also excellent for cutting and demonstrates remarkable drought tolerance.

These plants, along with various trees, vines and shrubs, will be featured at the Rowan County Master Gardener Plant Sale. For more information on landscape plants or other horticultural topics, please contact the Rowan County Extension Center at 704-216-8970 or visit our website at rowan.ces.ncsu.edu.

Amy-Lynn Albertson is director of the Rowan County Extension.