How to Make Sunflower Seeds from the Flower?

To make sunflower seeds from the flower, you need to harvest and process them correctly. Here’s how:

Harvesting the Sunflower Head

1. Cut the Flower Head: Once the sunflower head is mature, carefully cut it from the stalk.

Extracting the Seeds

2. Preparation: Place the flower head on a flat surface.
3. Dislodge the Seeds: Rub the center of the flower head to dislodge the seeds.
   • The seeds should come out fairly easily when they are ready.
4. Sun Drying: Once seeds are collected, allow them to dry out further in the sun on a flat surface to reduce moisture.

Important Considerations

• Timing: Harvest the sunflower head when the back of the head turns brown and the petals have dried up. This is an indication that the seeds are mature.
• Pest Control: Keep an eye out for squirrels and birds, as they also enjoy sunflower seeds. If they're getting to them, you certainly can too.

Using the Seeds

The reference provided is specifically for salted, roasted sunflower seeds. Once the seeds have been extracted, they can then be prepped and roasted using the following:

1. Brine Prepare a brine of salt water. Soak the seeds in the brine for several hours.
2. Dry Remove the seeds and spread them on a baking tray.
3. Roast Roast the seeds in the oven at a low temperature until dried and roasted.
   • This provides the desired roasted flavor.
4. Enjoy Once roasted, the seeds are ready to eat.