Sunflowers are easy to grow from seed outside provided that they are kept moist during germination & seedlings are protected from slugs (use Sluggo). Also, protect plants from groundhogs & deer. Sow seeds outside 6/1-6/30, 6” apart. Thin to 18” for full size plants.
For cut flowers, harvest young (newly opened) flowers with tight centers and place in water, out of the sun immediately.
Sunflowers are an easy seed saving crop although they will cross easily with other sunflower varieties. Minimum population size: 5. Cut seedheads when seeds are mature but before the birds get them all! Place seedheads to dry in a dry location with good air circulation.
