The sunflowers are done in our back lane but the seeds are now attracting birds – primarily American goldfinch (Carduelis tristis) but also house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus), chestnut-backed chickadee (Poecile rufescens) and house sparrow (Passer domesticus).

That’s one of the many benefits of growing sunflowers. Not only do you (and insects) get to enjoy the flowers during the summer, when they go to seed in the fall many species of birds are provided with a great source of food.