EFN is an important source of carbohydrates for many insects, including numerous pest-munching beneficials who, in exchange for this sugar-rich nectar, help protect the sunflower from pests. Because sunflowers are frost sensitive, it is best to wait to start seeds in the garden until after the danger of frost has passed. Protect young seedlings from slugs with a ring of copper tape or organic iron phosphate-based slug baits.
Sunflowers come in a tremendous range of petal colors and plant forms. Don’t be afraid to grow several types together. The diversity of floral structure, color, and stature is both beautiful and helpful to the insect world.
