What To Know
- You can store the seeds in a sealed container or a paper bag.
- You can harvest the seeds by cutting the heads off the plants and placing them in a sunny spot to dry.
- By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow sunflowers from last year’s seeds and create a vibrant display in your garden.
Sunflowers, with their radiant blooms and towering stature, are a beloved addition to any garden. Their cheerful presence brings a touch of summer magic, attracting pollinators and adding a pop of color to the landscape. While purchasing new sunflower seeds each year is a common practice, it’s also possible to grow sunflowers from seeds saved from previous seasons. This not only saves money but also allows you to select seeds from your favorite varieties, ensuring a vibrant display year after year. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the steps involved in growing sunflowers from last year’s seeds, ensuring success in your sunflower-growing endeavors.
Selecting the Right Seeds
The first step in growing sunflowers from last year’s seeds is selecting the right seeds. Not all sunflower seeds are created equal. Some varieties are better suited for saving seeds than others. Open-pollinated sunflowers, which are not hybrids, are the best choice for seed saving. These varieties produce seeds that will grow into plants that are true to the parent plant. Hybrid sunflowers, on the other hand, are not as reliable for seed saving. They may produce plants that are different from the parent plant, or they may not produce seeds at all.
Preparing the Seeds
Once you have selected the right seeds, you need to prepare them for planting. The first step is to clean the seeds. This involves removing any chaff or debris from the seeds. You can do this by gently rubbing the seeds between your hands or by using a fine-mesh strainer. Once the seeds are clean, you need to dry them. You can do this by spreading them out on a paper towel or by placing them in a warm, dry place.
Storing the Seeds
Once the seeds are dry, you need to store them in a cool, dry place. The ideal temperature for storing sunflower seeds is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. You can store the seeds in a sealed container or a paper bag. It’s important to keep the seeds away from moisture and pests.
Planting the Seeds
When it’s time to plant the seeds, you need to prepare the soil. Sunflowers prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can improve the soil by adding compost or manure. The seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart.
Watering and Fertilizing
Sunflowers need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. You should water the plants deeply once a week. You can also fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Pests and Diseases
Sunflowers are susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Some common pests include aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles. Some common diseases include powdery mildew and downy mildew. You can protect the plants from pests and diseases by using organic pest control methods and by keeping the plants healthy.
Harvesting the Seeds
When the sunflowers are finished blooming, the seeds will start to mature. The seeds are ready to harvest when they are plump and black. You can harvest the seeds by cutting the heads off the plants and placing them in a sunny spot to dry. Once the seeds are dry, you can store them in a cool, dry place.
Wrapping Up: A Rewarding Experience
Growing sunflowers from last year’s seeds is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the beauty of these cheerful blooms year after year. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow sunflowers from last year’s seeds and create a vibrant display in your garden.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Can I grow sunflowers from seeds that I bought from the store?
A: Yes, you can grow sunflowers from seeds that you bought from the store. However, it’s important to choose open-pollinated varieties, as hybrid varieties may not produce seeds that will grow true to the parent plant.
Q: How long does it take for sunflowers to grow from seeds?
A: Sunflowers typically take about 80 to 120 days to grow from seeds to maturity.
Q: How tall do sunflowers grow?
A: Sunflowers can grow to be anywhere from 2 to 12 feet tall, depending on the variety.
Q: What is the best time to plant sunflower seeds?
A: The best time to plant sunflower seeds is in the spring, after the last frost date.
Q: How often should I water sunflowers?
A: Sunflowers need regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. You should water the plants deeply once a week.
Q: How often should I fertilize sunflowers?
A: You can fertilize sunflowers every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
