(Helianthus annuus), Arikara sunflower has been a historical varaity grown by the Arikara for generations. It used to be grown for consumption and medicine, however additional crops were left out for the frost as a way to incease its oil content. It was collected by Melvin Gilmore from the Arikara as Fort Berthold Reservation. up to 12' tall, flowers have a mix of both single and multi-head stalks.
Sunflower, Arikara
- Annual sunflowers with edible seeds
- Grows up to 12 feet tall
- Flower heads grow to 12-16 inches across
- 70 days
- 35 Seeds/Packet
Planting - How To Grow Arikara Sunflower
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Sow seeds outdoors 1/2" deep after danger of frost.
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Plant 6" apart
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Keep seeds moist however avoid over saturating seeds
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Make rows 24-36" apart
Harvesting - How To Harvest Arikara Sunflower
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Plan harvest in early morning or in the evening.
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If possible, harvest sunflowers when they are completely dry, if impossible due to birds, cut stalk up to several feet from the head and tie from the bottom and hang it somewhere safe upside down.
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Best seed are saved from heads that have been able to fully mature and dry on stalk.
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