Harvesting sunflower seeds?

Question

I planted sunflowers in my garden this year, and now I have 6" to 8" diameter heads full of sunflower seeds. Some of the fully formed seeds are starting to fall out of the heads, so I cut the heads off the stems. Do I need to dry the seeds/heads so the seeds do not mold? Do I need to dry the seeds before eating them?

Answer 1

i've always just put a brown paper bag (if you can still find them) over the head tying it closed.  Do this when the back of the head yellows.  This keeps the birds off while it drys.  When ready to harvest, just cut the stalk well below the head and hang in upside down in the shed or garage.  When it drys out, shake out the seeds or scrape the seeds out with your thumbs.  or-I put the head out in the winter snow to feed the birds.

Answer 2

separate the seeds from the head store seeds in paper or cloth bags(a cushion cover or pillow slip are fine)this stops them from sweating and getting damp.

Answer 3

If you are harvesting the seeds for planting next season I would recommend you leave them to dry. However, if you are harvesting them for consumption, it is not necessary for you to do so. Drying most of certain types of seeds is recommended. Some seeds though, should not be allowed to dry before planting.

Answer 4

you can pop the seeds out of the heads and dry roast in the oven. check out google for preparing the seeds.

Answer 5

I haven't done this myself but my friend has. Tie something around the head to collect the seeds while its on the stalk.  They never ate theirs but used them for the birds.