Murfreesboro, TN - With more people moving to Rutherford County each month than almost anywhere else in the state, many newcomers are discovering the joys—and challenges—of putting down roots in Tennessee’s fastest-growing county. Fortunately, the UT-TSU Extension staff at the Rutherford County Agricultural Extension Service is here to help residents blossom, quite literally.

From learning how to nurture healthy lawns to choosing flowers that can handle the region’s famously rocky, clay-heavy soil, the team at the Lane Agri-Park (315 John R. Rice Blvd.) is a go-to resource for anyone eager to dig into gardening. One flower in particular is catching the spotlight: the sunflower.

Native to North America, sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are surprisingly easy to grow in Middle Tennessee’s climate. These cheerful giants can stretch anywhere from 20 inches to over 20 feet tall, with colors ranging from classic yellow to deep red, bronze, and even pink. Varieties like ‘Autumn Beauty’, ‘Concert Bell’, ‘Earth Walker’, and the towering ‘Mammoth’ thrive in the full sun and tolerate less-than-perfect soil, making them ideal for Rutherford County’s landscape.

“Sunflowers are a favorite not just because they’re stunning,” said one local Master Gardener, “but because they’re a magnet for wildlife. Bees, butterflies, and later, songbirds like goldfinches and chickadees all stop by for a visit.”

The Extension Service encourages gardeners—new and experienced alike—to sow seeds directly into the ground from May through October, as long as frost isn’t in the forecast. Planting successively every couple of weeks ensures steady blooms, and with minimal fuss, these hardy flowers flourish with just sunshine and occasional watering.

Local resources go beyond the garden beds, too. The Rutherford County Master Gardeners are available at the Tuesday and Friday Farmers Markets (7:00 AM to 1:00 PM) at the Lane Agri-Park, answering questions and offering guidance. For those who prefer tuning in, local radio station WGNS hosts Extension staff and Master Gardeners on-air every first and third Thursday morning (8:15–9:00 AM), sharing seasonal tips and solutions.

So whether you're dreaming of towering blooms in your backyard or hoping to add a splash of color along your driveway, sunflowers may be your perfect first step. With local experts by your side and the seeds readily available at any garden center, your Rutherford County garden just might become the envy of the block.