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How to Harvest Sunflower Seeds: 3 Uses for Sunflower Seeds

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Jun 7, 2021 • 2 min read

Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are gorgeous and functional plants that make a worthwhile addition to any garden. Gardeners plant sunflowers to feed pollinators like honeybees and to attract birds to ward off garden pests. Aside from making great companion plants, sunflowers also produce sunflower seeds that can be used for snacking, garnishes, and other recipes.

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When to Harvest Sunflower Seeds

Harvest sunflower seeds when the back of the flower blossom has turned brown or black and the seeds have dried and plumped. The head of the flower should be facing the ground, the foliage should have yellowed, and the flower petals should be wilting.

How to Harvest Sunflower Seeds

Harvesting sunflower seeds is a simple three-step process:

1. Dry out the flower heads: Leave your plucked flower heads in a cool, dry place until the seed heads have completely dried out.
2. Extract the seed: Gently rub the flower heads between your thumbs or use a fork to loosen and retrieve the sunflower seeds. You can also tie a cheesecloth around the sunflower head and hang it upside down to help gather the seeds.
3. Store: Keep them in a cloth or brown paper bag to prevent mold growth.

3 Uses for Sunflower Seeds

After harvesting your own sunflower seeds, you can use them for a number of purposes:

1. Snacking: You can roast sunflower seeds for a simple and easy snack. Start harvesting sunflower seeds when the back of the flower head has turned brown or black, and the seed heads have dried. Once you’ve plucked the loose seeds, soak them in saltwater overnight. Strain and dry on paper towels, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15–20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the seeds after they’ve lightly browned or their shells have cracked open.
2. Bird feeders: Add sunflower seeds to your bird feeder to help attract birds. Certain birds can also ward off pests and protect your sunflower plants.
3. Recipes: You can bake sunflower seeds into healthy granola and seed bars, or mix them with pine nuts to enhance the flavor of your pesto. Sprinkle sunflower seeds on salads, bread, and other baked goods for an added texture and crunch.

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Grow your own food with Ron Finley, the self-described "Gangster Gardener." Get the MasterClass Annual Membership and learn how to cultivate fresh herbs and vegetables, keep your house plants alive, and use compost to make your community - and the world - a better place.