Outdoor Drying

[Laura]

I would like to dry my seeds.
Last year, I did not get my sunflower seed completely dry and the bag molded.

I built a contraption about 2 x 2 with wood and screen. It's about 6 inches high, so the air can flow underneath.

How long do I need to leave things out in the sun to make double sure they are totally dry?

Thank you.

[NCLee]

Laura, IMHO, it's all a matter of timing for the type of drying that you're doing. Weather permitting, leaving sunflower heads on the stalk for as long as possible is the key. Then, as soon as they are dry enough, remove them from the stalk. Put the heads somewhere that's dry and lay them out in a single layer, just in case there's any excess moisture in the heads.

When I grew them, after that step, I'd simply put them in a large wicker basket, until I got ready to remove the seeds from the heads. The basket allowed good air circulation.

This is the same principle that I use any seed producting plant. With peas, for example, I keep an eye on them and pick just before they start bursting the pods.

Again, watching the weather is a factor. Even if something isn't quite ready, I'll pull it anyway if the forecast is for several days of damp weather that can burst the pods or allow mold to set in.

For the most part, it's easier to let Mother Nature do most of the work for you. :)

Hope these penny's help.
Lee