Sep 1, 20222 min read

Sunflower Seed Facts:

Quick Fun Facts

The Good, The Bad, And the Spooky

As we explored sunflower seeds in our home school thematic unit, sunflower seeds have great health benefits but also a slightly sneaky darker side too. Much like the character from Jory John's, "The Good, The Bad, And The Spooky", which planted into our lesson plan perfectly. If you have yet to read this story or make it a lesson plan, I would definitely add it to your list. A fun and humorous story that the kids loved, which lead to a further study of where sunflower seeds come from, how they grow, and if they are good- or bad- for us to eat.

"I'm in a bad mood.

A baaaaaad mood."

- Mr. Seed

What We Discovered

After dissecting sunflowers, tasting the seeds, and planting our own, we discovered there is so much to learn about these tall and whimsical forbs with those massive quantities of seeds. So let's get roasting and highlight some of the facts about sunflowers, their seeds, and just what Mr. Seed is all about.

"I'm A Bad Seed"-MR. Seed

Well, as most things go, eating a sunflower seeds has it's pros and cons.

The GOOD: Eating sunflower seeds has many health benefits such as lowering heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. They are also a great source of vitamins that help fight off viruses, boost energy, and reduce acne breakouts.

The BAD: They are also a source of saturated fats, that can increase LDL cholesterol if too many are consumed. Likewise, if too many seeds are eaten, it can also lead to kidney problems and weight gain.

"Is It Possible That I've Overreacted?"

-Mr. Seed

It's Unbelievable! Each sunflower head has between 1,000 to 2,000 seeds! Each seed can vary in appearance. The most common seed for eating usually has a black and white striped hull. Yet another astounding fact is that some species of sunflowers can grow to be over 16 feet tall with the heads reaching up to 12 inches in diameter!

"Seed On A Mission Here!"-Mr. Seed

Young sunflowers turn or "move" to face the sun throughout the day. The young flowers face east to meet the rising sun. As the sun moves across the sky, the bloom gradually follows. Once the sun sets, the flower then spends the night making its way back to east facing for the next sunrise. As the flowers mature they stop sun tracking and their blooms always face eastward.

"Wow, Now this is a treat."-Mr. Seed

Sunflower seeds can be used in a variety of ways. They can be added to nutrition bars, salads, muffins, breads, and stir fry. Or enjoyed as the ever favorite baseball game snack.