Sunflower Seeds (Heirloom)

Enjoy the best heirloom sunflower garden—grown by hand!

Sunflowers are one of the most well-known flowers on the planet. The plants with the huge, golden daisy-like blossoms represent something for everyone. A vase of heirloom sunflowers lights up any space, and the seeds make a delightful snack if you can bear to leave the flowers on the plant! All ages adore these beauties—children, brides, and grandparents. Isn't it true that your garden isn't complete without a sunflower patch?

How to plant heirloom sunflower seeds

Heirloom sunflowers should be planted directly after the last frost, when the soil temperature has reached at least 55°F. Every 18 inches, plant two seeds together and cover with about an inch of dirt. Alternatively, three weeks before the last frost, start seedlings in 2-inch containers. Harden off sunflower seedlings once they have at least two sets of true leaves and transfer them outside with a foot between plants.

Understanding heirloom sunflower varieties

Heirloom sunflowers come in two forms: branching variants like Autumn Beauty and single-stem versions like Mammoth Grey-Stripe. All species of sunflowers produce beautiful blooms and healthy seeds, with the extra bonus of being able to pick your own color palette. Grow seedlings closer together if you're producing heirloom sunflowers for cut flower arrangements and bouquets. This will produce thinner, straighter stems. When the first petals start to turn color and unfold, it's time to harvest the flowers. Remove the sunflowers' remaining leaves off the stalks and submerge them in water.

The benefits of heirloom sunflowers

Heirloom sunflower seeds are high in nutrients that improve immunity, such as iron and selenium. Sunflower seeds include vitamin E and flavonoids, which help to decrease inflammation, as well as beneficial fats that help to control cholesterol and blood pressure. Cut sunflower heads once they have started to die back and dry in a cool, dark location to gather heirloom sunflower seeds for eating (away from birds and rodents). Soak the seeds in saltwater overnight to rehydrate them, then drain and put on a baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 200°F and roast for three hours for a delicious snack!

Heirloom sunflowers for microgreens

Sunflowers, believe it or not, produce delicious microgreens! Fill a seed tray with dirt and multi-sow a pinch of sunflower seeds in each cell to develop heirloom sunflower seedlings as microgreens. Water until the seedlings are two inches tall or have their first set of real leaves, whichever comes first. Cut portions of seedlings at the base with a pair of scissors. Enjoy these microgreens within a few days after picking, and plan weekly succession plantings to ensure a steady supply.

Whether you want heirloom sunflowers for gorgeous cut flower bouquets, salty snacking seeds, or nutritious microgreens, Eden Brothers has the variety for you! For more information about planting, growing, and harvesting heirloom sunflower seeds, see the Sunflower Seeds Planting Guide.