Peredovick Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

Peredovik Black Oil Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is widely regarded as the gold standard for feeding wild birds. Originally developed for its exceptionally high oil content, this Russian heirloom has become the sunflower most commonly used in premium commercial birdseed because it provides outstanding nutrition while producing a thinner shell that is easier for many birds to crack. Growing 5 to 7 feet tall, the plants produce large flower heads filled with hundreds of nutrient-rich black seeds that attract an impressive variety of backyard birds from late summer through winter.

Few plants rival Peredovik for attracting birds. American Goldfinches, Cardinals, Chickadees, Titmice, Nuthatches, Blue Jays, Purple Finches, House Finches, Evening Grosbeaks, Mourning Doves, and numerous native sparrows eagerly feed on the oil-rich seeds. The combination of high energy, abundant natural oils, and relatively thin seed coats makes this one of the easiest sunflower varieties for both small and large birds to enjoy. During migration and throughout the colder months, these nutritious seeds become an especially valuable food source.

Peredovik is easy to grow in full sun with average garden soil and rewards gardeners with dependable harvests year after year. While the bright yellow blooms attract bees and other beneficial pollinators during summer, the real show begins as the seed heads mature and flocks of birds arrive to harvest the crop. Many gardeners leave the flower heads standing through autumn and winter, allowing birds to feed naturally while adding seasonal beauty and wildlife activity to the garden.

Harvesting for Bird Food: Allow the flower heads to dry naturally on the plants until the backs turn brown and the seeds are fully mature. The heads may be harvested and hung in a dry, airy location before rubbing out the seeds for winter feeders, or simply leave the mature flower heads standing outdoors where birds can harvest the seeds themselves. Because of their exceptional oil content, properly dried seeds store well and provide one of the finest winter foods for wild birds.

Favorite Birds

• ★★★★★ American Goldfinch
• ★★★★★ Northern Cardinal
• ★★★★★ Chickadees & Titmice
• ★★★★★ Nuthatches
• ★★★★☆ Blue Jays
• ★★★★☆ Purple & House Finches
• ★★★★☆ Mourning Doves
• ★★★★☆ Native Sparrows

Seedman Notes

If you've ever purchased a quality wild bird seed mix, chances are you've already seen Peredovik Black Oil Sunflower at work. Its naturally thin shell and exceptionally high oil content have made it the preferred sunflower for feeding birds throughout North America. Here on the farm, we like to leave many of the mature flower heads standing until winter. It's remarkable how quickly the birds discover them, and watching Goldfinches, Chickadees, and Cardinals feeding naturally from the plants is every bit as enjoyable as filling a bird feeder.