How to harvest sunflower seeds

Harvesting sunflower seeds is very rewarding. To grow a plant successfully, start with a seedling and provide consistent care throughout its growth cycle. So let’s see how to harvest sunflower seeds.

Harvesting sunflowers involves collecting the mature flower heads and extracting the seeds. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to harvest sunflowers:

1. Observe maturity: sunflowers are ready for harvest when the back of the flower head turns yellow or brown, and the petals have dried and begun to fall off. The seeds inside the flower head should appear plump and full.
2. Choose the right time: It’s best to harvest sunflowers on a dry, sunny day, as wet conditions can increase the risk of mold or rot. Wait until the morning dew has evaporated, and the flower heads are fully dry.
3. Prepare the tools: You’ll need a pair of sharp garden shears or pruners to cut the sunflower stems. Additionally, prepare a clean, dry container or a bucket to collect the harvested flower heads.
4. Cut the stems: Position the shears or pruners just below the flower head, leaving a few inches of stem attached. Make a clean cut to avoid damaging the flower head.
5. Remove leaves (optional): If desired, you can remove the leaves from the stem, leaving only the flower head attached. This can make handling and drying the sunflowers easier.
6. Dry the flower heads: Hang the harvested sunflower heads upside down in a well-ventilated area, such as a shed or a garage. Tie a string or twine around the stem and hang them from a hook or a drying rack. Ensure there is enough space between each sunflower head to allow for proper airflow.
7. Allow for drying time: The sunflower heads typically take several weeks to fully dry. During this time, the seeds will continue to mature and dry out. You can test the readiness of the seeds by pressing your fingernail into one. If it leaves an indentation, the seeds need more drying time.
8. Extract the seeds: Once the sunflower heads are completely dry, it’s time to extract the seeds. Place a large clean bowl or a tray underneath the flower head to catch the seeds as they fall. Use your hands or a fork to rub or scrape the seeds from the head. Alternatively, lightly tap the head to encourage the seeds to fall.
9. Separate the seeds: Remove any remaining debris or chaff from the seeds. You can do this by gently blowing on the seeds or using a fine-mesh sieve to sift out the impurities.
10. Store the seeds: Transfer the clean, dry sunflower seeds to airtight containers, such as glass jars or resealable bags. Store them in a cool, dark, and dry place to maintain their quality. Properly stored sunflower seeds can remain viable for several years.

Now you can enjoy your freshly harvested sunflower seeds for roasting, snacking, or even saving some for replanting in the future.

Pruning Shears, 4 Pack Garden Shears with Gardening gloves, Clippers Handheld, Stainless Steel Garden Snips, Lengnoyp Pruners for Gardening

20% Off $9.98 $7.98 (as of November 18, 2025 19:02 GMT +07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Widely Used: Pruning shears for gardening include 3 different blades and gloves for a variety of general pruning work. Great for trimming flowers, plants, bonsai, hydroponics, herbs, light branches and so on. Shears gardening tools are ideal for prun... read more

Misawce Outdoor Solar Metal Watering Can Small Hanging Decorative Waterproof Lights for Garden Decor, Yard Lights, Outside Patio Lawn, Gifts for Mom Grandma Women Birthday,1 pack, Warm White

43% Off $21.99 $12.63 (as of November 18, 2025 04:53 GMT +07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

【Small Garden Decorative Light】 Solar watering can lights (with shepherd hook) comes with 6 strands of LED flashing string lights (60 LEDs), the light cord is 17.7 inches long and can be easily bent and shaped into any shape you like, perfect for DIY... read more

Garden Kneeler and Seat with Wider Thicker Kneeling Pad, Heavy Duty Garden Stool Includes Gardening Tools Pouch and Bag, Convertible Garden Bench Kneeling Chair - Gifts for Parents Women Seniors

Now retrieving the rating.

$49.99 (as of October 27, 2025 09:04 GMT +07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

1. WIDER AND THICKER KNEELING PAD – Enhanced comfort for extended gardening with a spacious 10.2-inch wide, 1.6-inch thick EVA foam surface. This garden kneeler provides optimal support for knees and back while planting or weeding, reducing strain du... read more

Plant Stakes,18 Inches Natural Garden Bamboo Sticks,BOVITRO 20Pcs Plant Support Stakes for Tomatoes,Beans,Vegetable and Potted Plants

Now retrieving the rating.

28% Off $9.99 ($0.50 / count) $7.16 ($0.36 / count) (as of October 27, 2025 09:04 GMT +07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

[High Quality] - The Bamboo stakes are made of high quality natural bamboo.It’s very strong and durable,great for plant support!Each stakes is inspected manually to ensure quality. [Multipurpose Use] - Perfect for indoor and outdoor plants.It's great... read more

Garden Hoops Grow Tunnel, 6 Sets of 7FT Greenhouse Hoops for Raised Beds, Rust-Proof Fiberglass Frame for Garden Netting, Small Greenhouse Kit, Shade Cloth, Plant Row Covers, 30pcs

$19.99 (as of November 18, 2025 19:02 GMT +07:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Eco-Friendly Material: Our garden Hoops are made from high-quality fiberglass that will never rust and are anti-oxidation, good flexibility and can be used for a long time without affecting the soil, and plants. Mini Greenhouses Kit: hoop houses are ... read more