Adding sunflowers to your garden is an effective way to attract finches and sparrows, according to the RSPB. The yellow blooms are easy to grow and provide a rich source of seeds that birds love, especially during the colder months.
Why Sunflowers Attract Birds
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) produce seeds that are high in oil and protein, giving birds essential warmth and energy. The RSPB states: "Fun to grow and enjoy in the summer, Sunflowers are a great source of food for finches and sparrows during the colder months. Their seeds are rich in much-needed oil and protein to give birds warmth and energy." Birds also help with pollination and pest control, eating common garden pests such as aphids, slugs, and caterpillars.
How to Grow Sunflowers
For best results, plant sunflower seeds from mid-April to late May. They can be sown directly outdoors from mid-May once the risk of frost has passed. If you missed this window, you can purchase sunflower plants from garden centres. Sunflowers thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and they typically bloom in August.
Additional Benefits for Wildlife
The RSPB adds: "Sunflowers are great plants to have in a wildlife-friendly garden. Bees, and sometimes butterflies, love the nectar and feed on the flowers when they're in full bloom. Then Greenfinches and Goldfinches will munch on the seedheads." Even without a garden, sunflowers can be grown in pots on a sunny balcony or indoor space.
Using Sunflower Seeds After Blooming
Once the sunflower head turns brown, cut it off and hang it in a dry, airy place. After the seeds have dried, rub them together to loosen them. These seeds can be sprinkled in the garden or placed in a bird feeder to provide food for birds throughout the winter.
