How to Grow, Harvest & Prepare Sunflower Seeds

Growing

• Sunflowers need full sun and well-drained soil enriched with composted manure or 10-10-10 fertilizer. Plant the seeds directly in the garden two weeks after the last frost. Cover the seeds with an inch of soil and space them according to the packet instructions. Maintain a weed-free bed and water during dry spells.

Harvesting

• Flower heads are mature when they face downward, and the back of the flower turns lemon yellow in color. To protect them from birds, cover the flower heads with a paper sack secured with a twist tie or wrap them in cheesecloth. When the seeds are dry and rub off easily, cut the flower head.

Preparing

• Make a brine of 2 qts. of water and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of salt. Soak the seeds overnight in the brine. Drain the seeds and dry them on paper towels. Place them in a shallow baking pan and roast them for 30 to 40 minutes at 300 degrees, stirring occasionally. After removing the seeds from the oven, add a teaspoon of butter and salt to taste. Stir to coat the seeds.