Before you toss those drooping sunflower heads into the compost pile this fall, consider what you’re throwing away. Those faded blooms could provide free seeds for next year’s garden, nutritious food for backyard birds, or even a natural alternative to expensive store-bought bird feeders.
Sunflowers are one of the few garden plants that continue providing benefits long after their colorful petals disappear. Their large seed heads can hold hundreds of seeds, making them valuable for gardeners who want to save money while supporting local wildlife.