Can you use black oil sunflower seeds for planting?

Black oil sunflower seeds are a very popular type of sunflower seed. They are a favorite for bird feeders because of their thin shells and high oil content that birds love. But can you use black oil sunflower seeds for planting?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can use black oil sunflower seeds for planting. Black oil sunflower seeds will grow just like any other sunflower seed. The resulting sunflower plants will produce flowers for cutting as well as more black oil sunflower seeds for eating or re-planting.

Black Oil Sunflower Seed Characteristics

Black oil sunflower seeds have been bred specifically for their high oil content. The thin black shells contain very meaty kernels that can make up over 40% oil. This high oil content is what makes them so attractive to birds.

Other characteristics of black oil sunflower seeds include:

– Thin black shells – This makes them easy for birds to crack open and access the seed inside. The thin shells also mean less waste in the shell when humans consume them.

– Small size – Black oil sunflower seeds are smaller than many other types of sunflower seeds. This smaller size also appeals to birds.

– High oil content – In addition to birds, the high oil content makes black oil seeds popular for human consumption too, whether as a snack or pressed into sunflower oil.

– Good flavor – The seeds have a mild nutty flavor from the high oil content.

– Black stripes – The seeds feature black stripes on the shell. This is where the “black oil” name comes from.

Growing Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

Black oil sunflower seeds can be grown just like any other sunflower variety. Sunflowers are easy to grow annual plants that do well in many different soil types and climates. Here are some tips for growing black oil sunflower seeds:

– Choose a sunny location. Sunflowers need at least 6 hours of full sun per day. More sun is even better. Pick a spot that gets sunlight most of the day.

– Prepare the soil. Sunflowers thrive in well-drained soil that is not too acidic. Mix in some compost prior to planting if needed to enrich the soil. Rake the top layer to create a fine surface.

– Plant after danger of frost. Once soil and air temperatures have warmed up past the risk of frost, you can plant the seeds directly in the ground. Wait 2-4 weeks after the last expected frost date.

– Plant 1 inch deep. Dig holes or a furrow 1 inch deep and drop a few seeds in each hole. Space the holes 12-18 inches apart. Cover lightly with soil.

– Water gently. Water the seeds well after planting. Then water gently to keep the soil moist but not soaked as the seeds germinate and grow.

– Apply fertilizer. When the seedlings are several inches tall, you can add a balanced fertilizer. Compost or manure will also help nourish the growing plants.

– Allow 75-90 days to maturity. Sunflowers take 70-90 days from seed to fully mature and dry flower heads.

Caring for Growing Plants

Sunflower plants need a few elements to thrive as they grow:

– Sunshine – Getting at least 6 hours of direct sunlight ensures maximum growth potential.

– Water – Consistent moisture is important, about 1 inch per week. Take care not to overwater.

– Space – Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart a couple weeks after sprouting.

– Fertility – Mix compost into the soil before planting and side dress with organic fertilizer when several inches tall.

– Support – Once flower heads form, they may need staking or support to keep from drooping over.

– Weed control – Mulch around the base of plants to prevent weeds. Carefully pull any weeds that do sprout.

– Pest management – Monitor for cutworms, aphids, mites, and other pests. Remove by hand or use organic sprays if needed.

With proper care while growing, black oil sunflower plants will thrive and produce their distinctive blooms.

Pollination for Seed Production

If you are growing black oil sunflower seeds in order to harvest the seeds for eating or future planting, then pollination is an important consideration.

Sunflowers are unique in that they can be both self-pollinating and cross-pollinating. Some of the flowering heads will self-pollinate, while others will cross with neighboring plants.

Having multiple plants together improves the chance and amount of cross-pollination. This gives higher seed yields.

Sunflower pollen is carried by bees, butterflies, and other insects. You can encourage pollinators to your garden by planting other flowering plants too.

If desired, you can also hand pollinate sunflowers by transferring pollen between flowers with a brush. Just be sure to only combine pollen between flowers of the same variety.

Harvesting Sunflower Seeds

Sunflower seeds are ready to harvest once the backside of the flower head has turned yellow and the bracts are turning brown. The seeds should be plump and full.

Harvesting sunflower seeds:

– Cut flower heads off the plants leaving a few inches of stem attached.

– Place cut heads in a breathable bag or on a tarp to allow drying & further ripening.

– After 7-14 days, rub the flower heads to detach the seeds.

– Remove seeds and chaff. Sieve to separate.

– Spread seeds in a single layer on screens or trays to complete drying if needed. Stir daily.

– Store thoroughly dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry area.

– Properly dried black oil sunflower seeds will remain viable for planting for up to 3 years if stored properly.

Eating Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

In addition to planting them, black oil sunflower seeds are also delicious and nutritious for human consumption.

Black oil sunflower seeds feature a thin shell with a soft texture. The seeds have a mild, nutty flavor from their high oil content, which can range from 40-50%.

The seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Just a 1⁄4 cup serving provides significant levels of:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	204
Fat	19g
Protein	6g
Fiber	3g
Vitamin E	35% DV
Magnesium	34% DV
Phosphorous	22% DV

Some ways to eat black oil sunflower seeds:

– Raw by the handful for snacking
– Sprinkled on salads or yogurt
– Added to granola or trail mixes
– Made into sunflower seed butter
– As the base for pesto sauce
– Baked into breads, muffins, and cookies

With their stellar nutritional profile and yummy flavor, black oil sunflower seeds are just as healthy as they are delicious.

Advantages of Black Oil Sunflowers

Some key advantages of growing and using black oil sunflower seeds:

– High oil content makes them excellent for eating
– Thin black shells are easy to crack open
– Produce nice flowers for cutting or leaving for birds to snack on
– Attract pollinators to the garden
– Provide edible seeds for humans and birds
– Mild flavor appeals to a wide range of tastes
– Easy to grow and care for as annual plants
– Grow well in a wide range of climates and soil types
– Both leaves and seeds are edible
– Versatile for eating raw, cooked, or pressed into oil
– Nutritious source of healthy fats, protein and fiber
– Stores well as a dried seed for long term use

With their versatility and ease of cultivation, black oil sunflowers offer a bounty of benefits to gardeners.

Potential Disadvantages

There are very few disadvantages to growing black oil sunflower seeds. However a couple things to keep in mind:

– Large plants need adequate space – Provide proper spacing and thinning.

– Flower heads may droop – Staking or trellising may be needed.

– Deer and birds love them – May need protection from nibbling wildlife.

– Soil needs drainage – Avoid overly wet soil that could cause root rot.

– Need day lengths over 12 hours to initiate flowering – Not suitable for fall planting.

– Allergies – Some people may be allergic to sunflowers.

Overall these issues are minimal and black oil sunflowers are generally extremely easy to grow. With proper care and adequate sunlight, they will thrive and produce an abundant harvest.

Growing Tips

Here are some helpful tips for successfully growing black oil sunflowers:

– Choose short season varieties if you have a shorter growing window. Look for maturity dates under 90 days.

– Growing from transplants rather than direct seeding can shorten time to maturity by several weeks. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before planting date.

– Give each plant 1-3 feet of space depending on variety. Thin seedlings when several inches tall.

– Plant in loose, compost-amended soil for best growth. They like slightly acidic to neutral pH.

– Fertilize when 1 foot tall and again at bud stage with compost or organic balanced fertilizer.

– Water field crops 1-2 inches per week if rainfall is insufficient. Provide ample moisture.

– Once flower heads appear, tie stems to a sturdy stake or trellis for support.

– For bird seed production, plant in rows for easier harvest. For ornamental uses, plant in clumps, rows, or scattered throughout the bed.

– Harvest flower heads for cuts when the ray petals first start to open. For seeds, wait until backs are yellow.

Common Pests and Diseases

Sunflowers are relatively problem free, but watch for these potential pests and diseases:

– Cutworms – Feed on stems and can cut down seedlings. Use cardboard collars or parasitic wasps to control.

– Aphids – Suck plant sap and cause distorted growth. Knock off with strong spray of water or use ladybugs.

– Sunflower moth larvae – Feeds on maturing seeds. Destroy crop residue after harvest. Rotate planting site.

– Downy mildew – Causes leaf discoloration and stunting. Improve airflow and avoid wet leaves.

– Verticillium wilt – Leaves wilt and eventually plant dies. Improve drainage and solarize soil before planting.

– Rust – Reddish brown spots on leaves that spreads rapidly. Space plants properly and destroy affected material.

– Powdery mildew – White fungal coating on leaves and flowers. Maintain good airflow and avoid wet foliage.

With preventative care and proper observation, damage from pests and disease can be minimized in the black oil sunflower crop. Be sure to remove and destroy affected plant material promptly to prevent spreading issues.

Growing in Containers

Black oil sunflowers can also be grown successfully in containers. Here are some tips:

– Use a container at least 12 inches wide and deep. This gives adequate room for roots.

– Make sure the container has drainage holes in the bottom to prevent overwatering.

– Use a quality all-purpose potting soil mixed with compost or worm castings.

– Amend soil with slow release organic fertilizer at planting time.

– Site container in full sun – at least 6 hours per day, more is better.

– Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy wet. May need watering daily in summer heat.

– Support heavy flower heads with garden ties attached to bamboo stakes.

– Grow only 1 or 2 plants per large container. They need all the root space they can get.

– Move container grown plants indoors or protect from frost in fall when temperatures drop.

Container growing allows flexibility in placement and care. With proper conditions, black oil sunflowers grow just as well in pots as they do when planted in the ground.

Companion Planting

Black oil sunflowers pair nicely with certain other plants in the garden. Companion planting is a great way to maximize garden space and get higher yields.

Some suitable companions for black oil sunflower include:

– Pole beans – Grow up sunflower stalks and do not compete for nutrients.

– Corn – Provides support for sunflowers and enjoys the same soil conditions.

– Cucumbers – Benefit from shade of large sunflower leaves.

– Radishes – Grow well with sunflowers and help deter pests.

– Marigolds – Repels some insect pests in the garden.

– Borage – Attracts more pollinators to benefit sunflowers and other plants.

– Mint – Masks scent of sunflowers from pests like aphids.

Avoid planting sunflowers near potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, or eggplant. These can share diseases with sunflowers in the same family.

With smart companion planting, your black oil sunflowers and other vegetables will see improved growth and protection from pests.

Conclusion

Black oil sunflower seeds offer a versatile way to add beauty and nutrition to your garden. The large, vibrant flowers provide cheerful color in the landscape. After they finish blooming, the nutritious seeds develop for eating or saving for future plantings.

Sunflowers are easy to grow from seed and care for as annual plants in most types of soil. With adequate sunlight and moisture, black oil sunflower plants will readily grow and produce an abundance of bright blooms and tasty seeds. The seeds store well for planting the following years too.

Pests and diseases are minimal, especially with proper preventative care. Both the seeds and young leaves are also edible, providing health fats, protein, fiber, and important vitamins and minerals.

If you are looking for an easy, ornamental flower that doubles as a source of edible seeds, black oil sunflowers are an excellent choice. Plant some of these multi-purpose beauties this year and enjoy their vibrant presence in your garden.