Can You Plant Bird Sunflower Seeds? A Complete Guide
Yes, you can plant bird sunflower seeds, although the germination rate and the type of sunflower you get may be unpredictable compared to using seeds specifically intended for planting. You might get lucky and grow beautiful sunflowers, or you might end up with smaller, multi-headed varieties or even nothing at all.
Understanding Bird Sunflower Seeds
Birdseed sunflowers are primarily cultivated for their high oil content and suitability as bird food. Unlike seeds specifically bred for ornamental purposes or seed production, birdseed sunflowers often represent a mix of varieties or even hybrids. This difference affects several factors crucial for successful cultivation.
Benefits and Potential Drawbacks
Planting bird sunflower seeds presents both advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Birdseed is typically cheaper than seeds specifically labeled for planting.
- Accessibility: Easily available at most grocery and pet stores.
- Potential for variety: You might get a surprise mix of different sunflower types.
Cons:
- Unpredictable results: Germination rates, flower size, and plant height can vary widely.
- Weed seeds: Birdseed mixes may contain weed seeds that can contaminate your garden.
- Oilseed varieties: Likely to produce smaller flowers with less impressive blooms compared to ornamental varieties.
- Untreated seeds: Can be prone to disease and pest infestations.
Choosing the Right Seeds from Birdseed
While you can’t guarantee success, selecting the right seeds from your birdseed mix can improve your odds:
- Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (BOSS): These are the most common type in birdseed and generally have a decent germination rate. They’re also a good source of oil for birds!
- Avoid: Seeds that are cracked, broken, or show signs of mold or insect damage.
- Separate: Carefully sort the sunflower seeds from other types of birdseed to minimize the risk of introducing unwanted plants.
Planting Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to maximize your chances of success when planting bird sunflower seeds:
- Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve fertility.
- Sowing: Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep and 6-12 inches apart, depending on the expected size of the plant.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist until the seedlings emerge.
- Thinning: Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, thin them out to allow for adequate spacing.
- Fertilizing: Side-dress the plants with a balanced fertilizer a few weeks after germination.
- Pest Control: Monitor the plants for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overwatering: Sunflowers prefer well-draining soil and can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
- Planting too close together: Crowding can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
- Neglecting pest control: Sunflower seeds are a popular food source for birds and other animals. Protect your plants from damage by using netting or other deterrents.
- Ignoring soil conditions: Sunflowers need fertile soil to thrive. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to ensure optimal growth.
- Expecting hybrid results: Do not anticipate the vibrant colors, size, or disease resistance associated with hybrid sunflower varieties. You’re likely to encounter greater variability.
Comparison of Birdseed vs. Ornamental Sunflower Seeds
| Feature | Birdseed Sunflower Seeds | Ornamental Sunflower Seeds |
|---|---|---|
| Seed Type | Mixed varieties, often BOSS | Specifically bred varieties or hybrids |
| Germination | Potentially Lower, less consistent | Usually High, consistent |
| Flower Size | Typically Smaller | Larger, showier blooms |
| Plant Height | Variable, often shorter | More predictable, can be very tall |
| Flower Color | Mostly Yellow | Wide range of colors available |
| Purpose | Bird Food | Ornamental Purposes |
| Cost | Usually Less Expensive | More Expensive |
| Disease Resistance | Usually untreated, Less resistant | Potentially treated and more resistant |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will all the seeds in birdseed germinate?
No, not all seeds in birdseed will germinate. The viability of the seeds depends on their age, storage conditions, and whether they have been treated to prevent germination. Also, some seeds might be damaged or infertile.
Are bird sunflower seeds treated with anything that would prevent germination?
Some birdseed may be treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting during storage or to deter pests. If you are unsure, try germinating a small batch of seeds on a damp paper towel to see if they sprout before planting them in your garden.
How long do sunflower seeds from birdseed take to germinate?
Sunflower seeds typically germinate in 5-10 days under optimal conditions (warm soil and consistent moisture). However, the exact germination time can vary depending on the specific variety and environmental factors.
What kind of sunflowers will I get from birdseed?
You are most likely to get black oil sunflower plants, as these are commonly included in birdseed mixes. However, the exact type of sunflower you get is unpredictable and may be different from what you expect. You might also get volunteer sunflowers if the birds have scattered seeds from a previous year’s crop!
Do I need to soak the seeds before planting?
While not strictly necessary, soaking sunflower seeds in water for a few hours before planting can help to soften the seed coat and speed up germination. Be careful not to soak them for too long, or they may rot.
Can I plant birdseed sunflower seeds in containers?
Yes, you can plant birdseed sunflower seeds in containers. Choose a large container with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix. Remember that sunflowers need plenty of sunlight, so place the container in a sunny location.
What kind of soil is best for birdseed sunflowers?
Sunflowers prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic materials to improve its fertility and drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH is ideal.
How much sun do sunflowers need?
Sunflowers need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Choose a sunny location in your garden where the plants will receive ample sunlight throughout the day.
How often should I water birdseed sunflowers?
Water sunflowers regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Established sunflowers are relatively drought-tolerant.
What kind of fertilizer should I use for birdseed sunflowers?
Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) to fertilize sunflowers a few weeks after germination. Side-dress the plants with fertilizer according to the package instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
How do I protect my sunflowers from birds and other pests?
You can protect your sunflowers from birds and other pests by using netting or other physical barriers. You can also try planting companion plants that repel pests, such as marigolds or nasturtiums. Be vigilant in monitoring your plants for signs of infestation and take appropriate action if needed.
When should I harvest the seeds from my birdseed sunflowers?
Harvest the seeds when the back of the flower head turns brown and the seeds begin to dry out. Cut the flower head off the stalk and hang it upside down in a well-ventilated area to dry completely. Once the seeds are dry, you can remove them and store them in an airtight container. Remember that seeds from birdseed varieties won’t be uniform in size or appearance.