Picking out and growing sunflower seeds

To pick out and grow sunflower seeds, follow these steps:

Harvesting the Seeds:

• Wait until the sunflower head has fully matured and the petals have dried and fallen off. The back of the flower head will turn yellow or brown.
• Cut the flower head from the stem, leaving a few inches of stem attached.
• Place the flower head in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Hang it upside down or lay it on a clean surface to allow further drying for 1-2 weeks

Extracting the Seeds:

• Once the flower head is thoroughly dry, remove the seeds. You can wear gloves if you prefer.
• Gently rub the flower head or use your hands to dislodge the seeds. The seeds are located in the centre disk of the sunflower head, surrounded by the petals. They are dark, flat, and somewhat tear-shaped.
• Collect the seeds in a clean container or paper bag. Discard any damaged or discoloured seeds.

Preparing for Planting:

• Before planting, you may want to store the seeds in a cool, dry place for a few weeks to further dry and cure them. This step is optional but can help improve germination rates.
• Label and store the seeds in a sealed container or envelope until you are ready to plant them.

Planting the Seeds:

• Select a suitable location for planting. Sunflowers thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.
• Prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or shovel. Remove any weeds or rocks.
• Plant the sunflower seeds about 1 to 2 inches deep in the soil, spacing them around 6 to 12 inches apart, depending on the sunflower variety. If you want to grow giant sunflowers, provide more space between plants.
• Water the seeds immediately after planting and keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, during the germination period.

Caring for the Seedlings:

• Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with regular watering, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist.
• As the sunflowers grow, provide support for the tall varieties by staking or using a trellis to prevent them from toppling over.
• Monitor for pests, such as aphids or snails, and take appropriate measures to control them.
• Optionally, apply a balanced fertiliser according to the package instructions to promote healthy growth.

Harvesting Sunflower Seeds:

• Allow the sunflowers to fully mature on the stalks until the back of the flower head turns brown and the seeds are plump and somewhat loose.
• Cut the flower head from the stem, leaving a few inches of stem attached.
• To remove the seeds, rub them off the flower head using your hands or a brush. You can also place the flower head in a bag and shake it vigorously to dislodge the seeds.
• Store the harvested seeds in a dry and airtight container until you are ready to consume or save them for planting next season.

Remember to check local regulations before collecting seeds from public areas or gardens that do not belong to you. Enjoy the process of growing sunflowers and have fun with the resulting beautiful flowers and nutritious seeds!