Friday, May 21, 2010

Will wild birds be able to find and devour recently planted sunflower seeds?

They were planted by my 3 year old and I am concerned because the birds seemed to be attracted to the sunflower garden. The birds left some droppings in the area.





The seeds were planted at a depth of about 1- 1 1/2 inches under the soil. Should I restart the seeds indoors until they are at least 3 inches tall so my daughter is not disappointed if what I suspect is true? She planted 4 packs of seeds.

Will wild birds be able to find and devour recently planted sunflower seeds?
Birds don't usually dig up seeds they like them on the surface of the ground. But your idea of planting seedling is a good idea. They are more likely to survive and grow quicker.
Reply:You need to keep the area where you plant sunflower seeds constantly moist, otherwise they will not germinate. Water every day.





It is also possible they were planted too deep.





Birds would not know how to dig down for the seed, but squirrels will do that.





See source for information on growing sunflowers.
Reply:Not usually, if you have mice and chipmunks that is a different story, but personally I have never lost sunflowers to birds.
Reply:Your daughter will not be disappointed. They're fun to grow. One year I grew a Giant Variety and they grew 13 ft. tall and the flower head was almost as big as a wash tub. Good luck
Reply:You could cover the area with cheese cloth or fine mesh until they sprout. Garden centers usually have a stock.
Reply:I think you planted them too deep, and they won't grow. The seedlings are a good idea, as is the net.


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