Dharaseeds
Sunflower Seeds - Marley
Estimated delivery between February 09 and February 12.
Sunflower Seeds - Marley
The Marley Sunflower is a vibrant and easy-to-grow variety, renowned for its large, golden-yellow blooms and strong, sturdy stalks. This variety is a favorite for both ornamental gardeners and those looking to harvest seeds for snacking or culinary use. Known for its high seed production and striking appearance, the Marley Sunflower adds a touch of sunshine to any garden. It thrives in full sun, making it a perfect addition to any landscape or vegetable garden.
Key Benefits
- Stunning Yellow Blooms: Features large, bright yellow flowers that are a stunning addition to any garden.
- High Seed Yield: Produces an abundance of seeds that are perfect for roasting, snacking, or feeding birds.
- Fast-Growing: Known for its quick germination and growth, providing a fast visual impact in your garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, promoting biodiversity.
- Versatile in the Kitchen: Seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, or incorporated into dishes like granola, salads, and baked goods.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, robust plants that can reach 8–10 feet, with large, sturdy stems and a single, large bloom per plant.
- Flower Profile: Vibrant yellow petals with a dark, contrasting center that produces seeds for harvesting.
- Growth Habit: Grows tall and upright, making it an excellent focal point in the garden or as part of a sunflower hedge.
- Size: Flowers are typically 12–15 inches in diameter, with the plant itself reaching up to 10 feet tall.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season
- Plant in late spring after the danger of frost has passed, or in early summer for a later harvest.
- Best suited for regions with full sun and well-drained soil.
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1 inch deep.
- Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart to allow for healthy growth.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and maximum flower production.
Care Instructions
Watering
- Sunflowers are relatively drought-tolerant but will thrive with consistent watering, especially during dry periods.
- Ensure deep watering to encourage strong root systems.
Fertilization
- Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting time to support initial growth.
- For best results, side-dress with compost or additional fertilizer when the plants are about 2 feet tall.
Weeding and Mulching
- Keep the area around sunflowers free from weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.
- Mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Pest and Disease Control
- Sunflowers are relatively pest-resistant but can occasionally be affected by aphids, sunflower beetles, or rust.
- Use organic insecticides or introduce beneficial insects to control pests.
- Prevent disease by ensuring good air circulation around plants and avoiding overhead watering.
Harvesting
Maturity: Marley Sunflowers are typically ready to harvest in 70–90 days, depending on growing conditions.
- Seeds: Harvest when the flower heads are fully mature, and the back of the flower head turns brown. Gently pull the seeds from the head or cut the entire head and dry it before removing the seeds.
Storage
- Short-Term: Fresh seeds can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several weeks.
- Long-Term: For longer storage, roasted seeds can be kept in the freezer, while unroasted seeds should be kept in a cool, dry place.
Culinary Uses
- Roasted Seeds: Marley Sunflower seeds are perfect for roasting and making homemade snacks.
- Baking: Incorporate sunflower seeds into breads, muffins, and granola for a nutritious boost.
- Salads: Add raw or roasted sunflower seeds to salads for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Bird Feed: If you're not harvesting for yourself, sunflower seeds are an excellent food source for local birds.
Conclusion
The Marley Sunflower is a versatile and eye-catching plant that offers both ornamental value and practical uses. Whether you're looking to brighten up your garden with towering blooms, attract pollinators, or harvest delicious seeds, this sunflower variety is sure to deliver. With its fast growth, vibrant flowers, and high seed yield, Marley Sunflowers are a great addition to any garden.