Where to Find Sunflower Seeds for Planting Near Me

Sunflowers are one of the most iconic flowers, with their bright yellow petals and tall stalks that reach towards the sun. Many gardeners like to grow sunflowers from seed for their vibrant beauty and because they attract bees, butterflies, and birds. But where can you find sunflower seeds for planting if you want to grow your own?

Why Grow Sunflowers?

Sunflowers are relatively easy to grow from seed and bring many benefits to your garden Here are some of the top reasons to plant sunflowers

• Happy pollinators Sunflowers attract bees butterflies hummingbirds, and other pollinators with their sweet nectar. This makes them a great addition for any pollinator-friendly garden.

• Bird feed After the flower heads dry out they produce abundant seeds that are loved by birds. Leaving the spent flower heads standing provides natural bird food through the fall and winter.

• Cut flowers: Many sunflower varieties make excellent cut flowers. Their long vase life means you can enjoy cheerful sunflower bouquets indoors.

• Edible seeds: The seeds can be harvested and eaten from both ornamental and edible sunflower varieties.

• Fast growing: Sunflowers are rapid growers, often reaching their mature size within a couple months of planting.

• Easy to grow: Sunflowers thrive in full sun with well-drained soil. Their resilience makes them a good choice for beginner gardeners.

Where to Buy Sunflower Seeds Locally

When it’s time to plant sunflowers, look for seeds near you at these local sources:

Garden Centers

Most independently-owned garden centers and nurseries carry a selection of sunflower seeds. Browse the seed racks to find varieties best suited to your climate and gardening goals. Garden center staff can offer planting tips and advice.

The Home Depot, Lowes, and other home improvement stores typically stock popular sunflower seed varieties in their garden centers from spring through early summer. Look for brands like Burpee, Ferry-Morse, and American Seed.

Farmer’s Markets

Local farmers often sell seeds at farmer’s markets and farm stands. These are great spots to find region-specific sunflower varieties that will thrive in your area’s growing conditions. Talk to the farmers about their favorite sunflowers to grow.

Feed Stores

Agricultural feed and supply stores aimed at farmers typically carry a wide range of sunflower seeds, including seeds for planting as well as for birdseed mixes or livestock feed. While geared toward large-scale growers, feed stores will sell packets to home gardeners as well.

Online Shops

Ordering sunflower seeds online is an easy option if you can’t find what you want nearby. Popular online seed sellers include Burpee, American Seed, Outsidepride, and Seed Savers Exchange. Make sure to check shipping times so your seeds arrive in time for spring planting.

Many seed companies also sell directly through their own e-commerce sites, allowing you to order seeds and have them shipped directly to your door. This is a good option for rare or heirloom varieties.

What to Look for When Buying Seeds

With so many seed options, what should you look for when purchasing sunflowers?

• Days to maturity: Consider how long your growing season is. Shorter season varieties mature in 65-75 days while mid and late season types need 80 days or more.

• Height: Compact varieties grow to only 2-4 feet tall while giant sunflowers can reach 12 feet or more. Pick height based on your space limitations.

• Color: In addition to traditional yellow, sunflower varieties come in shades of orange, red, burgundy, and multiple colors. Go for a mix for lively variety.

• Petal shape: Flowers can be single or double petaled. Doubles create fuller-looking blooms.

• Pollen-free: If you plan to cut flowers for indoor displays, look for pollen-free varieties that won’t shed.

• Eating seeds: For snacking, choose types labeled as eating seeds for the best flavor.

By considering your climate, space, and purposes, you can find the perfect sunflower seeds to plant near you this growing season. Soon your garden will be brightened by cheerful sunflowers nodding in the sunshine.