How to grow sunflower seeds at home?

Growing sunflowers from seed is one of the most rewarding gardening experiences! I've been growing them for years and here's my approach:

Wait until after last frost when soil has warmed - sunflowers hate cold soil. Plant seeds directly in the ground 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart (thin later to 12-24 inches depending on variety). They need full sun - at least 6-8 hours daily.

Choose your variety based on purpose: giant types for impressive flowers, shorter varieties for containers, or confectionery types for eating. Soil should be well-draining but they're not too picky. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots.

Support tall varieties with stakes in windy areas. Harvest seeds when flower backs turn brown and seeds look plump - cover with mesh bags to protect from birds if saving seeds.

Burpee's sunflower growing guide has variety-specific advice!

Hey there! I'm a sunflower fanatic - I grow them with my kids every year. Here's our simple method that never fails:

We start by choosing fun varieties - 'Teddy Bear' for fluffy flowers, 'Mammoth' for giants, and 'Autumn Beauty' for mixed colors. We plant in late spring when the soil feels warm to the touch. My kids love pushing the big seeds into the soil!

We don't bother with fertilizer - sunflowers aren't picky. The key is full sun and not overwatering. When they're about 2 feet tall, we put stakes beside them and tie loosely - prevents heartbreak if they fall over in wind.

For eating seeds: let flowers mature fully until backs are brown and dry. Cut heads with a foot of stem, hang upside down in dry place, then rub seeds out. Roast with salt for delicious snacks! The birds get whatever we drop - everyone wins!