Sunflower Seeds - Midnight Rouge

Growing Non-GMO Midnight Rouge Sunflower Flower Seeds

Midnight Rouge sunflower seeds are recommended exclusively for outdoor growth because of their potential for 60+ inches height. Plants grow so vigorously that there is little reason to start seeds indoors. Sow Midnight Rouge seeds directly after the final frost in a sunny spot at the north end of the garden and sheltered from strong winds. Always plant tall sunflowers towards the north end of a garden because it will not take long for the area to be cast in a season-long shadow if not properly planned. However, for early spring blooming, start Midnight Rouge seeds indoors 2-4 weeks prior to the last frost. Harden off before transplantation. Midnight Rouge seeds will take 7-14 days to germinate.

Midnight Rouge sunflowers may need staking if plants are grown isolated and away from the support of a garden. Plant 2-3 Midnight Rouge sunflower seeds 0.5-1 inch deep and 18 inches apart in average, loamy, and well-draining soil with full sun. Adjust staking and wind protection as the plants mature. Midnight Rouge sunflowers are vigorous garden performers and require minimal care. Trim back branches to shape and keep Midnight Rouge sunflowers from becoming weedy. Midnight Rouge sunflowers can handle mild drought but for the biggest and brightest blooms, water whenever the soil is fully dried. Fertilizer is optional in good garden loam. Always follow package instructions with fertilizers.

Midnight Rouge Sunflower in the Flower Garden

Use Midnight Rouge sunflowers in your annual garden as a backdrop or a back border. They equally succeed when cultivated in rows, blocks, singles, or scattered in a field. Midnight Rouge sunflowers flow into cottage, native, cut, prairie, and meadow flower gardens.

Harvesting Midnight Rouge Sunflower

To collect the seeds, wait until the petals have faded, and then use a mesh bag such as a seed collecting bag. Place the mesh bag over the flowerhead and secure it on the stem so critters can’t crawl inside. Over the next 3-4 weeks, the seeds will fully ripen and then release into the bag. When the flowerhead has unloaded, remove the bag and use the seeds for snacks, gifts, or next year’s crop!

For cut flowers: while in full bloom, snip off the stem with sharp scissors. Store in cool, clean water and swap out the water every 1-2 days for optimal longevity. Optionally, tie a few stems together and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated but sheltered location for everlasting dry flowers in 2-3 weeks!

About Midnight Rouge Sunflower Garden Seeds

The flowerheads will follow the sun throughout the day when young and invite a plethora of pollinators to the area throughout their lives.

Midnight Rouge is gorgeous, but has more uses than just beauty. The leaves can be cattle food and the stem fiber can be used to make paper. The dried stems can also be a substitute for firewood.

Sunflowers are natives of North America’s western prairies, plains, and meadows. They grow wild in the temperate regions of Canada and Mexico. Many Native American tribes would traditionally plant sunflowers as the supportive stalk to their “3 sisters" staple crops (beans, corn, and squash).

Stories From Our Gardeners

"These unique and deeply colored flowers are a must-have this season for the optimal utility and beauty of everyone’s garden and home! "

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Midnight Rouge Sunflower Seeds Per Package:

• 4 g - Wholesale - Approximately 130 Seeds
• 1 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 986 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 3,900 Seeds
• 1 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 15,700 Seeds
• 5 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 78,800 Seeds
• 25 lb - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 394,400 Seeds

Non-GMO Midnight Rouge Sunflower seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.