At our farm, sunflowers aren’t just a pretty sight—they’re a season-long celebration. Our Blooming Giants trail spans approximately 12 acres across 10 fields, offering visitors a stunning display from July through November. We succession plant our sunflowers so that, no matter when you visit for pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, you’ll be greeted by a field of towering golden blooms, included with your admission.
The variety we grow is called Mammoth Grey Stripe (sometimes called Giant Grey Stripe or Grey Stripe), a variety of Helianthus annuus. These giants are known for their tall, single-stem plants, large golden-yellow flower heads with dark centers, and large, edible seeds with distinct grey stripes—perfect for roasting, snacking, or saving for next season.
Why We Grow Sunflowers
- Attracting Pollinators: Sunflowers draw bees, butterflies, and other pollinators that help our fruits and vegetables thrive.
- Photo-Ready Beauty: Their towering stature and vibrant blooms create the perfect backdrop for family photos and Instagram-worthy shots.
- Food for People & Pollinators: Both the flower and the seeds serve as nourishment—edible seeds for humans and wildlife alike.
- Seed Preservation: After harvest, seeds are saved to ensure the next year’s fields bloom just as beautifully. Seeds are a promise of tomorrow.
Fun Sunflower Facts
- Sunflowers can grow up to 12 feet tall in optimal conditions.
- The flower head is actually made up of hundreds of tiny flowers, called florets, which mature into seeds.
- Sunflowers track the sun during the day, a phenomenon called heliotropism.
- The seeds of the Grey Stripe sunflower are not only tasty but also nutrient-rich, packed with healthy fats, protein, and minerals.
Curious about harvesting your own sunflower heads? [Watch this video on how to harvest sunflower heads] for tips and tricks straight from our farm team.
Our Blooming Giants trail is more than just a pretty view, it’s a living ecosystem that supports pollinators, enriches the farm, and gives visitors unforgettable experiences. Come walk among the sunflowers, snap a few photos, and see why these giants are a highlight of our farm season!
