Growing Non-GMO Red Sun Sunflower Flower Seeds

Red Sun sunflower seeds are recommended solely for outdoor growth because of their 60+ inches height. Sunflowers generally grow so hardy and vigorously that there is little reason to start seeds indoors. Sow Red Sun sunflower seeds directly after the final frost in a sunny spot at the north end of the garden and shelter from strong winds. However, for early spring blooming, start Red Sun seeds indoors 3-4 weeks prior. Red Sun seeds will take 1-2 weeks for germination. Early plants may need staking in addition to wind protection, but the plant will become more stable out as it matures. Plant 2-3 Red Sun sunflower seeds per hole, spaced according to the suggestions provided.

Plant Red Sun sunflower seeds at the north end of a garden because it will not take long to overshadow an entire garden. Adjust staking and wind protection as plants mature. Red Sun sunflowers can handle mild drought but for the biggest, brightest blooms, water whenever the soil is fully dried.

Red Sun Sunflower in the Flower Garden

Red Sun sunflowers are hardy, easy to grow from seed, and thrive in many hot and drought-prone gardens across North America. Use Red Sun sunflowers in your annual garden as a backdrop or a border. They succeed when cultivated in rows, blocks, or singles. Scatter them in any bare spot of soil, or cultivate a line for zero-waste bird feeders! Red Sun sunflowers fit into a cottage, native, cut, prairie, and meadow flower gardens. They look right at home in an assortment of landscapes!

Harvesting Red Sun Sunflower

To collect the seeds, simply wait until the petals have faded and then obtain a mesh bag. Place the mesh bag over the flowerhead and secure it on the stem. A seed-collecting bag is great for this purpose. Over the next 3-4 weeks, the seeds will fully mature and release into the bag. When the flowerhead has emptied, remove the bag and use the seeds for snacks, gifts, or next year’s crop!

For cut flowers: in full bloom, snip off the stem with sharp scissors. Store in cool, clean water for indoor color, lasting at least 1-2 weeks. Change out the water daily for optimal longevity. Optionally, tie a few stems together with a rubber band and hang upside down in a well-ventilated but sheltered location for dried flowers in 14-21 days!

About Red Sun Sunflower Garden Seeds

Red Sun sunflowers are a big attractor of many types of pollinators.

Red Sun is gorgeous, but has more uses than just beauty. The leaves can be cattle food, the stem fibers can be used to make paper, and the dried stems can be a substitute for firewood.

A common misconception about flowering Helianthus annuus heads is that they track the sun across the sky. Immature sunflower buds will exhibit this tendency, while mature heads are fixed throughout the day, generally facing an eastern direction. The leaves and foliage, however, will lean towards the sun for full light advantage.

Stories From Our Gardeners

"The vibrant orange to red blossoms and unique branching habit allow this variety of sunflower to be distinguished and loved among all the sunflower varieties!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Red Sun Sunflower Seeds Per Package:

• 4 g - Packet - Approximately 70 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 500 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 2,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 8,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Red Sun Sunflower seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.