A Golden Glow in Okotoks: My Mystery Sunflower Story

A Golden Glow in Okotoks: My Mystery Sunflower Story

Two years ago, in the summer of 2023, I grew a radiant flower in my Okotoks garden that I believe is a type of sunflower, though its exact name escapes me. I started it from seed, drawn to its promise of beauty, and it didn’t disappoint. This photograph captures its vibrant charm—a memory of a golden bloom that brought joy to my yard and a reminder of the simple pleasures of gardening.

The flower in the image has the classic look of a sunflower, likely a variety of Helianthus annuus, with a large, round flower head filled with bright yellow petals surrounding a dark brown center packed with seeds. Its sturdy stem, standing tall at about 4 to 5 feet, and its broad, heart-shaped leaves are typical of sunflowers, though this one might be a smaller or dwarf cultivar given its slightly more compact appearance compared to the towering giants that can reach 10 feet or more. The golden petals seem to glow in the sunlight, a beacon of cheer against the backdrop of my garden, with a few green leaves framing the bloom like a natural canvas.

I likely planted this sunflower from seeds in late spring, around May 2023, just as I did with the pink cosmos I grew that same year. Sunflowers are easy to grow from seed, which aligns with my memory of starting this one that way. I would have sown the seeds directly into a sunny spot in my garden—sunflowers thrive with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight—after the last frost, ensuring the soil was well-draining. Okotoks’ climate, with its warm summer days, would have been perfect for this flower to flourish. I probably watered it regularly until it established, then let it bask in the sun, watching it grow taller each week until it bloomed in late summer, around August or September.

What I love most about this sunflower is how it embodied the spirit of my gardening adventures in Okotoks. Its bright, sunny face seemed to smile at the world, attracting bees and even the occasional butterfly, much like the pollinators I’ve always appreciated in my yard. It stood proudly alongside other blooms I’ve grown, like those delicate pink cosmos, adding a bold splash of color to my space. I can imagine taking this photo on a warm afternoon, the same kind of day when I’d later spot those chestnut Belgian Draft horses at the Okotoks parade, inspired by the beauty around me to capture the moment.

This sunflower, though I can’t recall its exact variety—perhaps a ‘Sungold’ or ‘Teddy Bear’ given its slightly fluffier, more compact look—was a testament to why I garden: for the sheer joy of watching something pretty come to life. It didn’t need a name to make me smile; its golden glow was enough. As I reflect on this flower now, with the sun trying to break through in Okotoks, I’m reminded of how these gardening memories warm my heart. This sunflower was a golden chapter in my story of growing beauty, one I’ll cherish and perhaps recreate with more seeds in the seasons to come.

Why a Cheap Greenhouse Might Be Your Best First Step

Starting Small: Why a Cheap Greenhouse Might Be Your Best First Step in Southern Alberta

Gardening in Southern Alberta comes with its own set of challenges—short growing seasons, unpredictable frosts, and the occasional hailstorm that can shred your best-laid plans. But for those looking to extend their growing season and protect their plants, a greenhouse can be a game-changer. 

If you’re new to greenhouse gardening or hesitant to invest big bucks upfront, starting with an affordable, “el cheapo” greenhouse—like the one pictured above—can be a smart move. It’s a low-risk way to dip your toes into the world of controlled growing, learn what works (and what doesn’t), and decide if a bigger, fancier setup is worth it down the road. 

Let’s explore why a budget greenhouse can be a practical, functional choice, and how it can teach you the ropes without breaking the bank.

The Beauty of Starting Small

The greenhouse in the photo is a perfect example of a budget setup: a simple metal frame draped with plastic sheeting, reinforced with some DIY ingenuity. It’s not glamorous, but it gets the job done. The owner of this greenhouse shared that it survived a season in Southern Alberta, even after a hailstorm tore through the plastic. A quick trip to the dollar store for replacement sheeting, some creative patching, and a bit of monitoring kept it functional. The plants inside thrived, proving that you don’t need a high-end structure to see real benefits.

 

Purchasing a cheap greenhouse—think $50 to $150 for a small, portable model—lets you test the waters without a major financial commitment. These setups are widely available at big-box stores, garden centres, or even online marketplaces. They often come as kits with a lightweight frame (metal or plastic) and a polyethylene cover, like the one in the image. While they’re not built to last forever, they’re perfect for learning the ins and outs of greenhouse gardening.

Spring Gardening Season Begins

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer in the spring, it's clear that the gardening season is upon us. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a novice gardener, now is the time to start preparing for a successful growing season. By taking the necessary steps to get yourself and your garden ready, you can ensure a bountiful harvest and a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy throughout the warmer months.

First, it's essential to assess your gardening tools and equipment. Inspect your shovels, trowels, pruners, and other tools to ensure they are in good working condition. Sharpen blades, replace any worn out or broken tools, and stock up on any essential supplies such as potting soil, fertilizers, and seeds. Additionally, take the time to clean and organize your gardening shed or storage area, making it easier to access everything you need when it's time to get to work.

 

Next, consider the layout and design of your garden. Whether you're planning a vegetable garden, flower beds, or a combination of both, take the time to sketch out a plan for your outdoor space. Think about sun exposure, soil quality, and the water needs of different plants as you plan where to plant each variety. This will save you time and effort in the long run and help you create a visually appealing and productive garden.

Gardening in Southern Alberta: Discover the Joys of Growing Sunflowers

 

Discover the Joys of Growing Sunflowers

Gardening is not only a popular pastime but also a rewarding and fulfilling experience. And when it comes to gardening in Southern Alberta, the options are endless. With its unique climate and abundant sunshine, this region offers a perfect environment to nurture a wide variety of beautiful and vibrant plants, including the ever-charming sunflower. So, if you're looking to add a touch of elegance and natural beauty to your garden, here's why growing a sunflower or two is an excellent choice.

Southern Alberta is blessed with a semi-arid climate that boasts long and sunny summers, providing ideal conditions for the thriving growth of sunflowers. These striking flowers, known for their vibrant yellow petals and towering stems, are a testament to the sun-loving nature of this region. Sunflowers are not only visually appealing but also symbolic of warmth, happiness, and transformation, making them a must-have addition to any garden.

The benefits of growing sunflowers go far beyond their captivating beauty. One of the most significant advantages of cultivating these radiant blooms is their ability to attract beneficial pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and birds are irresistibly drawn to the nectar-rich flowers, which aids in pollination and contributes to the overall well-being of your garden. By including sunflowers in your landscape, you are not only enhancing its visual appeal but also fostering a diverse and thriving ecosystem.

Gardening Sunflowers