sunflower seeds

How long must I leave the flower heads on the plant before I take the seeds? I have some beautiful burgundy one this year and want to save some seeds, but the goldfinces eat the small seeds if I leave the old flower head on the dry. Thanks, Lou

Perhaps cut the whole head off and hang them in a dark and dry area like a basement or garage. Then they could dry out away from the birds. I did that for a few years to save the seeds. I figured if the birds were after the seeds, then they must be ready. I've even dried the whole head and hung that in the winter for the birds.

Thanks for the info. I didn't know if the seeds would be viable if they weren't dry before picking. Thanks!!! Lou

I had some miniature and the birds like to got all the seeds. I had pulled them and left them in the back part of the yard and when I started looking for the seeds they were almost all gone. I promised a few people seeds and don't think I will have enough to cover everyone. I didn't think about the birds but should have known because they were all over the plants when they were in the ground. Live and learn.