Sunflowers

[tim_n]

I've just hacked down one of three monster sunflower plants on the lottie.

It was taller than me (about 7ft I recon) with a sunflower head which was around 2ft accross.  The yellow bits were dropping off at the slightest touch and the head was drooping down to right angles.

Question 1: was this too soon?  I've trimmed off the leaves and rubbed off the little flowers off the seed pods - they're massive but very white.  I ate a few, very sweet and sticky. (the stuff inside not outside).  I've hung it to dry in the shed away from the mice.

Question 2: Can I dry out the 5" thick stem to use as a "cane" or should I wood chip it before it rots?

[tim_n]

[saddad]

I would have left the head longer... the sweetness goes quickly (converts to starches) If the seedcasesaren't empty they should be fine. The stems take ages to rot so I'd chip them.  :)

[manicscousers]

we've been told to burn the stems as they are very rich in potash?
we use them for canes for a year  :)

[macmac]

I've been growing sunflowers for years just because they're lovely and latterly to hang up the dry heads for the birds :)Reading this thread can I eat any variety or do you have to grow a special type?What's the best way to harvest them? am I asking stupid questions  ::)

[saddad]

There are some hull-less ones that are easier to eat/roast.. but they are all edible after you prise the outer coat off... the Infnats love them when we are planting for the competition (after we check for nut allergy!!)  ;D