When Is It Safe to Remove Protection from Sunflower Seedlings?
Asked by GreenThumb1234
I'm using the plastic bottle method to protect my sunflower seedlings from pests after some earlier losses. Now, I'm curious about when I can safely take the bottles off and let them grow on their own. I'm located in SE England, and I don't have issues with deer or rabbits, but there are birds, foxes, cats, squirrels, and possibly some rodents around.
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Honestly, I just plant more sunflowers than I actually need because I've learned that birds and squirrels will take their share regardless. It's just part of the deal!
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I usually wait until my seedlings are about 6 inches tall and have a couple of sets of leaves before removing any protection. Most of mine have survived just fine that way!
SunflowerStarter21: Thanks! I’ll definitely give that method a try.
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I'm not exactly sure when you can safely take them off, but I had a beautiful sunflower once that got ruined by ants invading the stem, right when it was about to bloom. So, keep an eye on those little critters!
OhNoAnts93: Oh great, just what I needed to hear!
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FirstYearGardener82: Yeah, it’s my first year too, so I guess I’ll have to learn the hard way!