Harvesting Sunflower Seeds for Birds and Next Year’s Garden

Wait until the back of the sunflower head turns brown and dry with no green left. Birds are the best harvest indicator—when sparrows and wrens start picking seeds, it’s time. Cover the head with cheesecloth to protect seeds from wildlife. If rain threatens, cut the head and let it dry fully in an attic or carport. Rub seeds off with a gloved hand.

Save some for planting next spring; leave the rest for the birds.