Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are one of the easiest plants to grow. The only real requirements are that they have to be placed in the sunniest location you can find and to be planted in very fertile soil. If these two requirements are met, you will have a successful sunflower crop.
Sunflowers can be started indoors but it is easier to start outdoors after the frost-free date. The basic instructions for planting sunflowers consist of digging a hole 1- to 1 ½- inch in depth and placing a seed in the hole. Once this is done, cover the hole with soil and window screen. Screen material will keep the birds and squirrels away from the freshly planted seed.
Sunflower type will determine how far apart the seeds are planted. Giant sunflowers are planted 3-feet apart with rows that are 4-feet apart. Regular-size sunflowers are planted 2-feet apart with their rows 3-feet apart. Miniature sunflowers are planted 1-foot apart and in rows that are 3-feet apart.
When sunflowers begin to bloom, apply a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium. Also, protect the blooms from pests, such as squirrels and birds, by creating covers for the blooms. This can be done by pulling old nylon stocking over the blooms or making cheesecloth covers that attach to the stem. Do not use plastic bags or anything that will not breath. This type of material will cause the plant material to rot.
Once the petals begin to droop and dry up, it is time to harvest the seed heads. To do this only requires a sharp knife and a well-ventilated area for drying. Cut the stem of the sunflower about 2-inches from the seed head. Tie the seed head off and hang upside down.
The remaining stalks of the sunflower are also useful in the garden so do not discard. They are wonder stakes for tomatoes, green beans or vines.
Once the seed heads have dried, it is time to remove the seeds. Rubbing two seed heads together easily dislodges the seed. The seeds can then be processed for use.
If sunflowers are being raised for human consumption, only plant black and white stripped or non-oil sunflower seeds. If the seeds are going to be for the birds, plant only black sunflower seeds. Below are some uses for both types of sunflowers.
Roasted Sunflowers
Ingredients
1-cup sunflowers
2 quarts water
½ cup salt
Steps
1. Place water into a saucepan and add salt
2. Rinse sunflowers and remove any remaining plant material, such as leaves or flower petals
3. Place sunflowers in saucepan.
4. Bring water to a boil and simmer for 1 to 1 ½ hours.
5. Drain on paper towels and let air dry completely.
6. Preheat oven to 325 F degrees.
7. Place sunflower seeds on cookie sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Stir them often.
8. When the seeds begin to turn brown remove them from the oven and cool completely before enjoying.
An alternative way of feeding the birds sunflowers is through a sunflower wreath.
Sunflower Wreath
Supplies
Dried sunflower seed head
Scissors or knife
Garden twine
Decorations of choice
Steps
1. Cut the stem flush with the seed head using a pair of scissors or knife.
2. Remove the center of the seed head with a knife and discard.
3. Run one end of the garden twine up thorough the middle of the seed head and up to the top of the seed head. Tie off and make a loop in the end of the twine. Trim the twine off.
4. Decorate the seed head with cornhusks, nuts, and other decorations to the desired effect.
5. Hang onto a fence, tree or shed door for the wildlife to enjoy.
Sunflowers can add a beautiful addition to any garden space along with indoor color. Do not limit yourself to human or bird food when you think about sunflowers. Instead, consider creating an indoor floral arrangement that lets the sunshine in with sunflowers.
