How to Kill a Maximilian Sunflower

Maximilian sunflowers (Helianthus maximiliani) are a member of the aster family and grow wild throughout several portions of the United States. The sunflowers reach heights of 3 to 10 feet and feature several yellow flower heads on each stalk. The plant is considered desirable by many farmers and ranchers because it’s consumed by a variety of livestock. However, if left unchecked in your backyard, Maximilian sunflowers will quickly take over, stealing vital nutrients from your grass or garden. Use the correct measures to safely and effectively eliminate your unwanted Maximilian sunflowers.


Snip the heads off your unwanted Maximilian sunflowers with a pair of pruning loppers. This prevents the seeds from being released from the head, which then spread and resprout. If you don’t have time to eliminate the entire patch of Maximilian sunflowers in a single session, removing the heads also prevents reseeding from occurring before you continue or finish the chore. Toss the heads into a plastic garbage bag immediately.


Cut back the stem until slightly above ground level. Throw the stems away or place them into your compost pile. If the stems are large or extensive, use pruning shears or sharp scissors to cut them into more manageable chunks before discarding or composting.


Dig up the sunflower’s root ball with a small shovel or spade. Create a trench around the root ball and slowly dig until the roots themselves are reached. Gently lift the root ball from the ground and throw it into a plastic garbage bag. Examine the hole and remove any bits of root or shoots and throw away any before backfilling with the surrounding soil.


Examine the ground for any remaining seeds. Pay attention that every seed is picked up and discarded to ensure no further Maximilian sunflowers sprout.