Question
I would like general info on the advantages and disadvantages of growing sunflowers side by side. I have done this before with no ill effects, this year the sunflowers are thicker than usual and the potatoe plants are small and are dying early.  We live in central Pa, the summer started wet and warm but we recently had a week of extrem heat. Any coments or thoughts would be appreaciated.  Thanks, Rain.

Answer
Dear Lorraine,
I realize all gardners have their own methods for success, but I generally do not sow plants that produce underground next to the taller plants in the garden.  I prefer to sow plants of a more even height in the same area of the garden so they can "equally compete for the light."  I also tend to sow the plants that produce beneath the ground, i.e. potatoes, onions, beets; in the same relative section of the garden, due to drainage and shorter foliage that must still gain access to light.
This year has been interesting in the southern plains, as well.  We had a wonderfully warm and wet spring and it has now gotten dry and hot.  Our potato plants began dying early, but had produced fairly well.  I have noticed the sunflower fields look much healthier this year than last.
I hope this helped or at least offered another perspective.
Kind Regards,
Kindred
www.eingedi.us