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Sunflower Seeds - Chocolate

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$24.99 $14.99

Estimated delivery between February 09 and February 12.

Sunflower Seeds - Chocolate

The Chocolate Sunflower Seed is a striking and flavorful variety of sunflower, known for its rich, dark brown seeds and its bold, nutty flavor. These sunflowers stand out not only for their unique seed color but also for their attractive, large blooms. Chocolate Sunflowers are perfect for gardeners looking to add a touch of drama and beauty to their garden while also enjoying a delicious, edible harvest.

Key Benefits

  • Distinctive Color: Produces dark brown, almost chocolate-colored seeds that add a visual appeal and flavor profile that’s different from traditional sunflower seeds.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Packed with essential nutrients such as vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, making them a healthy snack or addition to meals.
  • Tall and Showy Blooms: These sunflowers grow tall, with flowers that reach up to 8-12 inches across, adding beauty to the garden or landscape.
  • Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant flowers attract bees and other pollinators, helping to support a healthy garden ecosystem.
  • Edible and Versatile: The seeds are perfect for roasting, snacking, or incorporating into a variety of culinary dishes.

Variety Features

  • Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants with dark green leaves and large, vibrant yellow flowers with dark centers. The seeds are medium to large in size and are encased in dark brown or black shells.
  • Flavor Profile: The seeds have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor with a rich, almost chocolate-like aftertaste, perfect for snacking or adding to baked goods.
  • Growth Habit: These sunflowers grow upright and can reach heights of 6 to 10 feet, with a single large flower per stem. They tend to have strong stalks, making them resistant to wind.
  • Size: Typically grows to a height of 6–10 feet, with flower heads measuring 8–12 inches in diameter.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

  • Plant seeds in the spring after the last frost date, as sunflowers thrive in warmer weather.
  • They prefer full sun and will grow best in temperatures between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C).

Planting Details

  • Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1–2 inches deep in well-drained soil.
  • Spacing: Space seeds or seedlings 12–18 inches apart in rows about 24–36 inches apart to give them enough room to grow.
  • Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Well-drained soil is crucial to prevent root rot.
  • Sunlight: Requires full sunlight to thrive and produce large, vibrant flowers.

Care Instructions

Watering

  • Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Sunflowers are drought-tolerant once established but will perform better with consistent moisture.
  • Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilization

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) when planting to support initial growth.
  • If growing in nutrient-poor soil, a second application of fertilizer can be given once the plants reach about 12 inches tall.

Weeding and Mulching

  • Keep the area around the plants free of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.
  • Use mulch to keep the soil moist, prevent weed growth, and regulate temperature.

Pest and Disease Control

  • Pests: Sunflower seeds can attract aphids, caterpillars, and birds. Use natural pest control methods such as neem oil or row covers to protect them.
  • Diseases: Susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants appropriately and avoid watering leaves.

Harvesting

Maturity: Chocolate Sunflower seeds typically mature in 70–85 days, depending on growing conditions.

  • Size: Harvest when the backs of the sunflower heads turn yellow or brown, and the seeds look fully developed.
  • Method: Cut the flower heads off the plant with a sharp knife or garden shears. Hang the flowers upside down in a cool, dry place for a few weeks to fully dry out before extracting the seeds.

Storage

  • Short-Term: Sunflower seeds can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
  • Long-Term: For longer storage, sunflower seeds can be frozen to maintain their freshness for up to a year.

Culinary Uses

  • Snacking: Roasted Chocolate Sunflower Seeds are a healthy and delicious snack, perfect for munching on their own or mixed with other seeds and nuts.
  • Baking: Add sunflower seeds to bread, muffins, or granola bars for added texture and nutrition.
  • Salads: Sprinkle toasted seeds over salads for a crunchy, nutty addition.
  • Cooking: Sunflower seeds can also be incorporated into stir-fries, casseroles, or trail mixes for an extra flavor boost.

Conclusion

Chocolate Sunflowers are not only a beautiful addition to any garden but also provide a unique, flavorful harvest that is both nutritious and versatile. Their tall, striking blooms and rich, nutty seeds make them a standout choice for gardeners looking to combine beauty and practicality. Whether used as a snack, in baked goods, or as a garden feature, Chocolate Sunflowers are sure to impress.

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.

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