For older Australians and people living with disability, sunflowers offer more than just beauty — it’s an opportunity to enjoy time outdoors, support wellbeing and stay connected to meaningful activities at home.

Whether grown in a garden, pot or on a balcony, sunflowers are easy to care for and well-suited to people of all abilities — especially with the right support from Just Better Care in-home support services.

Why Sunflowers Are Ideal for Home Gardening?

Sunflowers are a popular choice for home gardeners because they are:

  • Easy to grow from seed, even for beginners
  • Suitable for gardens, pots and small outdoor spaces
  • Visually uplifting and great for wellbeing
  • Attractive to bees, butterflies and birds
  • Ideal for sensory and accessible gardening

For people receiving aged care or NDIS support, activities like gardening can help build routine, confidence and enjoyment — particularly when supported by aged care services at home or NDIS in-home support.

When and Where to Grow Sunflowers?

Sunflowers love the sun and grow best in spots that receive at least six hours of sunlight each day.

Good places to grow sunflowers include:

  • Garden beds with good drainage
  • Pots or containers on patios or balconies
  • Raised garden beds for easier access
  • Large pots near a sunny window

Raised beds and containers can make gardening more comfortable, especially when combined with professional support from your preferred gardener.

How to Plant Sunflower Seeds?

Planting sunflowers is simple and can be enjoyed independently or with support:

  1. Plant seeds 1–2 cm deep in soil or quality potting mix
  2. Space seeds around 30–50 cm apart, depending on the variety
  3. Water gently so the soil is moist but not soggy
  4. Keep an eye out for seedlings, which usually appear within 7–14 days

This type of activity can be part of everyday routines, supported through NDIS daily living support or private home care.

Caring for Your Sunflowers

Once established, sunflowers are low maintenance:

  • Water regularly, especially in warm weather
  • Avoid overwatering — soil should be moist, not waterlogged
  • Support tall varieties with stakes if needed
  • Choose dwarf varieties for pots or smaller spaces

Sunflowers typically flower within 8–12 weeks, providing weeks of colour and enjoyment.

Accessibility and Safety Tips

Gardening should always feel safe and enjoyable. Helpful tips include:

  • Using lightweight tools and watering cans
  • Gardening from a seated position if needed
  • Wearing sun protection, gloves and sturdy footwear
  • Taking regular breaks, especially on warm days

For many people, having the right NDIS Disability support services or aged care services at home can make hobbies like gardening more accessible and enjoyable.

More Than Gardening: Supporting Wellbeing at Home

Activities such as gardening, cooking, music or creative hobbies can support mental wellbeing, routine and independence. With the right support to keep doing the things you love, these everyday moments can remain part of life at home.

How Just Better Care Can Support You?

At Just Better Care, we support older Australians and people living with disability to live independently and confidently at home.

Our comprehensive range of in-home support services includes:

Our local teams work alongside clients and families to provide choice, flexibility and person-centred care.

Ready to Get Support?

If you or someone you care for would like support to keep enjoying activities at home, we’re here to help.

 Contact Just Better Care