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Starting
Sow seeds at a depth of 5 mm (1/4-1/2"). Space them 14-45 cm (6-18"). Starting indoors is not recommended, sunflowers do best is planted directly into the soil outside. Sunny, sheltered areas work best. Sow the seeds after the last spring frost date. Germination: 7-21 days
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Growing
Water a little or water a lot, you do you! Sunflowers are easy to get along with, they are drought tolerant but also like water. Likewise with fertilizing. Taller plants may need staking due to the weight of their huge heads.
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Harvesting
Maturity: 90-110 days. Let the seed heads dry on their stems if possible. If needed put a paper bag over the head to keep birds away or feed the birds, your choice. Don’t pick too soon, when the plant dies back it needs time to develop the seeds within their hulls. When the head is facing down, the petals have fallen off, and the back of head has turned from green to yellow, cut the head off leaving 30cm (12 inches) of stem attached. Dry indoors for another 2-3 weeks in a cool, dry place. All varieties of sunflower seeds are edible.
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Seed Saving
Remove the seeds by rubbing 2 heads together. Roast or eat raw, or save the seeds to plant again next year.
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Companion Planting
N/A