How To Grow Safflower

If you’re looking for a beautiful, low-maintenance crop that’s both useful and drought-tolerant, learning how to grow safflower is a fantastic choice. This guide will walk you through every step, from seed to harvest.

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius) is an ancient plant prized for its vibrant orange and yellow flowers. Historically used for dye, today it’s grown mostly for its oil-rich seeds and as a birdseed ingredient. It’s a tough plant that thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it perfect for water-wise gardens. You’ll find it surprisingly simple to cultivate.

This section covers the core principles for success. Safflower isn’t fussy, but it does have a few key needs you should understand before you begin.

Why Grow Safflower?

There are several great reasons to add safflower to your garden. It’s exceptionally drought-resistant once established, saving you water. The flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The seeds can be harvested for bird feed, or you can press them for oil if you have the equipment. It also makes a wonderful cut flower for bold, rustic arrangements.

Climate and Growing Conditions

Safflower loves sunshine and heat. It grows best in regions with long, dry summers similar to its Mediterranean and Middle Eastern origins.

Sunlight: Full, all-day sun is non-negotiable. Aim for at least 6-8 hours of direct light.
Temperature: It germinates in cool soil but needs warm temperatures (70-85°F) for optimal growth. It can handle light frosts when young but matures in the heat.
Season: It’s an annual, completing its life cycle in one season. Plant in early to mid-spring.

Soil Requirements

Safflower prefers well-draining soil. It has a deep taproot that can rot in heavy, soggy earth.

Type: Sandy loam is ideal, but it adapts to poorer soils.
Drainage: Excellent drainage is critical. Avoid clay-heavy spots or areas where water pools.
pH: A neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH (6.0 to 7.5) is perfect.

Planting Your Safflower

You have two main options for starting your crop: direct sowing or using transplants. Direct sowing is generally easier and recommended.

Direct Sowing Seeds

This is the most common and effective method. Safflower seeds look like small, white sunflower seeds.

Timing: Wait until after the last expected frost date in your area. Soil temperature should be at least 40°F, but 50-60°F is better for faster germination.
Site Prep: Clear the area of weeds and rocks. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 8-12 inches. If your soil is very poor, mix in a little compost, but avoid rich, nitrogen-heavy amendments.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds 1 to 1.5 inches deep.
Spacing: Place seeds 6 to 10 inches apart in rows. Space your rows 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for air circulation and easy weeding.
Watering In: Water the seeded area gently but thoroughly to settle the soil around the seeds.

Starting Seeds Indoors (Optional)

If you have a very short growing season, you can start seeds indoors 2-4 weeks before your last frost.

Use deep pots or cell trays to accommodate the taproot.
Plant one seed per pot at a 1-inch depth.
Place under grow lights or in a very sunny window.
Harden off seedlings carefully for a week before transplanting outdoors, as they can be somewhat sensitive to shock.

Caring for Your Safflower Plants

Once established, safflower requires minimal attention. Here’s what you need to do during the growing season.

Watering Schedule

Watering is most important during germination and early growth. After that, safflower is remarkably drought-tolerant.

Germination: Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) until seedlings emerge, usually in 1-2 weeks.
Young Plants: Water weekly if there’s no rain, encouraging deep root growth.
Mature Plants: Once plants are 12-18 inches tall, you can reduce watering significantly. They prefer deep, infrequent soakings over frequent light watering. Overwatering can cause disease.

Weeding and Thinning

Keep the area around your young safflower plants free of weeds, witch compete for water and nutrients. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the safflower’s roots. If you planted seeds too close together, thin seedlings to the recommended 6-10 inch spacing when they are a few inches tall. This gives each plant room to branch out.

Fertilizing Needs

Safflower generally does not need much fertilizer, especially if planted in decent soil. In fact, too much nitrogen can cause excessive leafy growth and weak stems. If your soil is very poor, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time is sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen mixes.

Pests and Problems

Safflower is relatively pest-resistant, but a few issues can occassionally appear.

Aphids: These small insects may cluster on new growth. Blast them off with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
Rust: A fungal disease that appears as orange pustules on leaves. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent it. Remove and destroy affected leaves.
Birds: Birds love the seeds. This is only a problem as the flower heads mature and dry. You may need to cover heads with mesh bags if you want to save seeds for yourself.

Harvesting and Using Safflower

The reward for your patience comes in late summer. You can harvest safflower for different uses.

Harvesting for Cut Flowers

For floral arrangements, cut stems when the flowers are just beginning to open, early in the morning. Place them in water immediately. The petals are delicate, so handle with care.

Harvesting Seeds for Birds or Oil

This requires patience. Allow the flower heads to dry completely on the stalk. The petals will fade, and the head will turn brown.

Watch for the seeds to loosen easily—they should be plump and hard.
Cut the seed heads with several inches of stem attached.
Hang them upside down in a dry, well-ventilated area, like a shed or garage, with a paper bag or cloth underneath to catch any falling seeds.
Once fully dry (this can take a few weeks), rub the heads to release the seeds. Store seeds in a airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Using Your Harvest

Bird Feed: Simply mix the dried seeds into your wild bird feed mix. Safflower seeds are especially loved by cardinals, chickadees, and doves, while squirrels tend to avoid them.
Pressed Oil: Extracting oil requires specialized pressing equipment. The oil is light, flavorless, and high in unsaturated fats, suitable for cooking at high temperatures.
Dried Decor: The dried seed heads and stems can be used in autumnal wreaths and dried flower arrangements for a unique texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is safflower the same as saffron?

No, they are completely different plants. Saffron comes from the stigma of the Crocus sativus flower and is extremely labor-intensive to harvest. Safflower is sometimes called “bastard saffron” because its petals were once used as a cheaper dye substitute, but it does not have saffron’s flavor or culinary value.

How long does it take safflower to grow?

From planting the seed, safflower typically takes about 110 to 130 days to reach full maturity and produce dry seeds ready for harvest. You can cut flowers a bit earlier, around 80-100 days.

Can I grow safflower in a container?

Yes, but choose a large, deep pot (at least 12-15 inches deep and wide) to accommodate its taproot. Ensure the container has excellent drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix. Container plants will need watering more frequently than those in the ground.

What are good companion plants for safflower?

Safflower grows well with other sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants. Good companions include lavender, rosemary, thyme, and other Mediterranean herbs. Its deep taproot helps break up soil, which can benefit neighboring plants. Avoid planting it with heavy feeders that require lots of water or nitrogen.

Why are my safflower plants falling over?

This is usually due to one of three reasons: soil that is too rich in nitrogen (causing weak, leggy growth), overcrowding, or insufficient sunlight. Ensure you’ve spaced plants properly, planted in full sun, and avoided over-fertilizing. Some taller varieties may also benefit from light staking in windy areas.

Growing safflower is a straightforward and satisfying project for any gardener. Its resilience and multiple uses make it a standout in the summer garden. With its bright blooms waving in the breeze and the promise of seeds for your feathered friends, it’s a crop that truly keeps on giving with minimal input from you. Just remember the golden rules: plenty of sun, good drainage, and not too much fussing, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful and practical harvest.