Sunflower seeds are among the easiest seeds to germinate, enabling any gardener to cultivate their own sunflowers. Starting them indoors first gives their seedlings time to adapt to outdoor conditions before being planted out into the ground. When transplanting or sowing new seeds outside, start hardening off approximately one week prior to their move; this helps minimize transplant shock caused by sudden temperature or light variations.
Soak seed before planting to increase germination. A solution of water and salt, or plain water can help soften its hard outer seed coat and expose its embryo for moisture absorption and kickstart growth. Though not necessary for every seed variety, soaking may help those that do not sprout easily sprout more rapidly.
Plant seedlings once the risk of frost has passed and soil temperatures are sufficient for work. Sow the seeds 1 to 2 inches deep, 6 to 12 inches apart in rows. Once flowers begin blooming, thin them by taking complete flower heads out and placing them into containers that will collect loose seeds.
As your sunflower heads mature, keep an eye out for birds and other critters who want to steal away the seeds for themselves. To protect your blooms from harvesters, cover them with white polyspun garden fleece until maturity or create tall wire barriers around your plants as a deterrent measure.
