Growing on the High Plains: Sunflowers

By Skip Mancini

Published July 1, 2021 at 2:58 PM CDT

We’re celebrating Kansas today on Growing on the High Plains as we look at the state flower. A Midwest favorite for centuries, modern sunflower production now results in everything from decorative plants to edible seeds to expeller-pressed sunflower oil.

We’re celebrating Kansas today on Growing on the High Plains as we look at the state flower. A Midwest favorite for centuries, modern sunflower production now results in everything from decorative plants to edible seeds to expeller-pressed sunflower oil. We’ll discuss some of the current sunflower farming endeavors across Kansas, as well as some little-known facts about how to get the finest face on your own sunflower crop.

Growing on the High Plains

Skip Mancini

Years ago Skip Mancini left the rocky coast of Northern California to return to her roots in the heartland. Her San Francisco friends, concerned over her decision to live in a desolate flatland best known for a Hollywood tornado, were afraid she would wither and die on the vine. With pioneer spirit, Skip planted a garden. She began to learn about growing not only flowers and vegetables, but hearts and minds. If you agree that the prairie is a special place, we think you'll enjoy her weekly sojourns into Growing on the High Plains.

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