Sunflower heads and seeds

[ceeceeholt]

Could chickens eat the sunflower seeds right out of the flower heads or is it better for them to just eat the seeds? We are growing sunflowers for the chickens and we were wondering if they would just pick them out themselves? Thank you

 

[sourland]

They may help themselves to the seeds. Many people dry the flower heads and then suspend them in the run much asyou might use a flock block. This gives the birds something to do and cuts down on boredom in non free range birds.

 

[chfite]

I throw the entire plant into the run. The chickens take care of it. They eventually eat or shred the entire plant. It mixes in with the sand.
Sheet composting. No muss, no fuss.

Chris

 

[3riverschick]

How long does it take for a sunflower to grow?
Is it too late to plant sunflowers in western PA?
I have three 4x8 beds I just finished de-weeding/ It's a bit late for the garden I wanted to put i them. But the beds could handle sunflowers. Anyone have a preferred variety for chickens to eat?
Thanks!
Karen

 

[burnyourmoney]

I planted about 20lbs of black oil sunflower seeds from TSC. They are growing well. E-how says 90 days to maturity so you might just make it.

 

[3riverschick]

I planted about 20lbs of black oil sunflower seeds from TSC. They are growing well. E-how says 90 days to maturity so you might just make it.

Great! Yes, I have that long. We have a nice Indian Summer out this way in western PA.
Thanks! Karen