Sunflower Seeds - Black Russian
Estimated delivery between February 09 and February 12.
Sunflower Seeds - Black Russian
The Black Russian Sunflower is a striking heirloom variety known for its dark, rich color and large, beautiful blooms. These sunflowers are not only visually impressive but also produce nutritious, flavorful seeds that are perfect for snacking, baking, or bird feeding. The Black Russian Sunflower thrives in a variety of conditions and is an excellent choice for both ornamental and edible gardening.
Key Benefits
- Dramatic Color: Known for its dark, almost black petals with a rich golden center, the Black Russian sunflower adds a bold, unique touch to any garden.
- Large Seed Heads: Produces large, round seed heads filled with tasty, nutrient-packed seeds.
- Edible and Nutritious: The seeds are high in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making them a great snack or ingredient for recipes.
- Attracts Wildlife: The seeds are a favorite for birds, making it a great addition to a wildlife-friendly garden.
- Resilient Growth: Tolerant of a variety of growing conditions, from dry to moderately moist soil, and can handle both hot summers and cold nights.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants that can grow up to 8–12 feet in height, featuring large, dark petals and a central seed head filled with seeds.
- Flavor Profile: The seeds have a slightly nutty, hearty flavor, making them ideal for both raw consumption and cooking.
- Growth Habit: Grows in a single-stemmed, upright form with minimal branching, allowing the sunflower to focus on producing large blooms and seeds.
- Size: Mature plants can reach up to 12 feet in height, with flower heads growing up to 12 inches in diameter.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start in early spring after the last frost for optimal growth.
- Ideal for regions with warm summers, as sunflowers thrive in temperatures between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C).
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1–2 inches deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds 6–12 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5).
- Sunlight: Needs full sun to thrive and produce the largest flowers and seeds.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid over-watering as sunflowers are drought-tolerant once established.
- Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
- Sunflowers are heavy feeders, so apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time, and again when they begin to flower for optimal growth.
Weeding and Mulching
- Keep the base of the plant clear of weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water.
- Mulch around the base of the sunflower to retain moisture and keep weeds in check.
Staking
- Due to their height, Black Russian sunflowers may benefit from staking to prevent wind damage.
- Use a soft tie to gently secure the plant to the stake as it grows.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for aphids, caterpillars, and squirrels that may damage seeds. Use organic insecticides or manual pest removal to manage infestations.
- Diseases: Sunflowers can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Black Russian Sunflowers typically reach maturity in 70–90 days, depending on growing conditions.
- Size: Harvest when the back of the flower head turns yellow and the seeds look plump and firm.
- Method: Cut the head off with a few inches of stem and hang upside down in a dry, cool area for seed extraction.
Storage
- Short-Term: Store sunflower seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
- Long-Term: For longer storage, sunflower seeds can be refrigerated or frozen for up to a year.
Culinary Uses
- Snacking: Roasted sunflower seeds make a delicious, crunchy snack.
- Baking: Add sunflower seeds to bread, muffins, or cookies for extra texture and flavor.
- Granola: Use sunflower seeds as an ingredient in homemade granola or trail mix.
- Bird Feed: If you don’t plan to eat all the seeds yourself, Black Russian sunflower seeds are an excellent choice for feeding birds.
Conclusion
The Black Russian Sunflower is an outstanding variety, valued for both its ornamental beauty and the delicious, nutritious seeds it produces. Whether you’re growing it for its striking appearance in the garden or harvesting the seeds for culinary or wildlife use, this sunflower is a versatile and rewarding addition to any garden. With its impressive height, unique color, and hearty seeds, the Black Russian sunflower is sure to make a statement.
Dharaseeds
Sunflower Seeds - Black Russian
Estimated delivery between February 09 and February 12.
Sunflower Seeds - Black Russian
The Black Russian Sunflower is a striking heirloom variety known for its dark, rich color and large, beautiful blooms. These sunflowers are not only visually impressive but also produce nutritious, flavorful seeds that are perfect for snacking, baking, or bird feeding. The Black Russian Sunflower thrives in a variety of conditions and is an excellent choice for both ornamental and edible gardening.
Key Benefits
- Dramatic Color: Known for its dark, almost black petals with a rich golden center, the Black Russian sunflower adds a bold, unique touch to any garden.
- Large Seed Heads: Produces large, round seed heads filled with tasty, nutrient-packed seeds.
- Edible and Nutritious: The seeds are high in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making them a great snack or ingredient for recipes.
- Attracts Wildlife: The seeds are a favorite for birds, making it a great addition to a wildlife-friendly garden.
- Resilient Growth: Tolerant of a variety of growing conditions, from dry to moderately moist soil, and can handle both hot summers and cold nights.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants that can grow up to 8–12 feet in height, featuring large, dark petals and a central seed head filled with seeds.
- Flavor Profile: The seeds have a slightly nutty, hearty flavor, making them ideal for both raw consumption and cooking.
- Growth Habit: Grows in a single-stemmed, upright form with minimal branching, allowing the sunflower to focus on producing large blooms and seeds.
- Size: Mature plants can reach up to 12 feet in height, with flower heads growing up to 12 inches in diameter.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Start in early spring after the last frost for optimal growth.
- Ideal for regions with warm summers, as sunflowers thrive in temperatures between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C).
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds 1–2 inches deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds 6–12 inches apart in rows 18–24 inches apart.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5).
- Sunlight: Needs full sun to thrive and produce the largest flowers and seeds.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid over-watering as sunflowers are drought-tolerant once established.
- Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
- Sunflowers are heavy feeders, so apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time, and again when they begin to flower for optimal growth.
Weeding and Mulching
- Keep the base of the plant clear of weeds, which can compete for nutrients and water.
- Mulch around the base of the sunflower to retain moisture and keep weeds in check.
Staking
- Due to their height, Black Russian sunflowers may benefit from staking to prevent wind damage.
- Use a soft tie to gently secure the plant to the stake as it grows.
Pest and Disease Control
- Pests: Watch for aphids, caterpillars, and squirrels that may damage seeds. Use organic insecticides or manual pest removal to manage infestations.
- Diseases: Sunflowers can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Black Russian Sunflowers typically reach maturity in 70–90 days, depending on growing conditions.
- Size: Harvest when the back of the flower head turns yellow and the seeds look plump and firm.
- Method: Cut the head off with a few inches of stem and hang upside down in a dry, cool area for seed extraction.
Storage
- Short-Term: Store sunflower seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
- Long-Term: For longer storage, sunflower seeds can be refrigerated or frozen for up to a year.
Culinary Uses
- Snacking: Roasted sunflower seeds make a delicious, crunchy snack.
- Baking: Add sunflower seeds to bread, muffins, or cookies for extra texture and flavor.
- Granola: Use sunflower seeds as an ingredient in homemade granola or trail mix.
- Bird Feed: If you don’t plan to eat all the seeds yourself, Black Russian sunflower seeds are an excellent choice for feeding birds.
Conclusion
The Black Russian Sunflower is an outstanding variety, valued for both its ornamental beauty and the delicious, nutritious seeds it produces. Whether you’re growing it for its striking appearance in the garden or harvesting the seeds for culinary or wildlife use, this sunflower is a versatile and rewarding addition to any garden. With its impressive height, unique color, and hearty seeds, the Black Russian sunflower is sure to make a statement.
Non-GMO
Dharaseeds are Non-GMO and free from genetically modified organisms.
High Germination Rate
Tested for high viability to ensure successful sprouting.
Heirloom Variety
Open-pollinated seeds preserved for quality and authenticity.
Chemical-Free
Free from synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and additives.