1.Sowing & Germination

Sunflowers are famous for their vigor, but they have a sensitive taproot and prefer to stay where they are planted.

• →When to Plant: Direct sow outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 65°F.
• →Sowing Method: Direct Sow is highly recommended. If you must start indoors, use large biodegradable pots and transplant them before they become root-bound (usually within 2 weeks of sprouting).
• →Sowing Depth: 1 inch deep.
• →Spacing: Space seeds 18–24 inches apart. These giants need plenty of "elbow room" for their massive root systems and thick stalks.
• →Germination Time: 7–14 days.

2.Growing & Care

• →Watering: While sunflowers are somewhat drought-tolerant once established, they need regular, deep watering during their growth spurt and while the flower head is forming.
• →Feeding: These are "heavy feeders." Use a balanced organic fertilizer or a layer of compost at planting. Be careful with excessive nitrogen late in the season, which can lead to weak stalks.
• →Heliotropism: Watch the young plants! The flower heads will actually track the sun across the sky from East to West every day until the heads become too heavy and eventually settle facing East.

3.Harvest

• →Days to Maturity: 90–110 Days.When to Pick (for Seeds):The back of the flower head turns from green to yellow/brown.The tiny petals in the center of the disk fall off easily.The seeds look plump and the "striped" shells are hard.
• →Protecting the Crop: Birds and squirrels will try to steal the seeds before you get them. You can tie a mesh bag or a piece of cheesecloth over the flower head to keep the wildlife at bay.
• →Method: Cut the head off with about a foot of stem attached. Hang it in a dry, well-ventilated area to finish "curing" for a few weeks before rubbing the seeds off.

4.In the Kitchen

• →Roasting: To make snack seeds, soak the cleaned seeds in salt water overnight, drain, and roast at 300°F for 30–40 minutes until crisp.
• →Wildlife: If you don't want to eat them yourself, these are the best variety for filling winter bird feeders.
• →The Flower: The petals are edible! They have a slightly bittersweet, nutty flavor and look beautiful in salads.