You have probably reached this page because you have scanned the QR code on a pack of our fundraiser Sunflower seeds in support of the Children of Ukraine. If you landed here for other reasons and would like further information, please contact us by email
Below you will find growing instructions, information about our project and some background information on the relationship between sunflowers and the Ukraine
Growing Sunflowers
Sunflowers are an easy to grow annual and like a sunny location. The seeds should be planted outdoors after danger of frost and when the soil temperature is about 18-21°C (65-70°F). Plant seed in groups of 3 seeds 6 mm (0.25″) deep, 30-40 cm (12-16″) apart. Thin each group of three to the strongest seedling once the second set of leaves has emerged and it is apparent.
If necessary, spray the plants with a mild fungicide once or twice in hot muggy periods to protect the plants from disease.
The seeds are edible and are ideal for use in bird feeders.
The Project
This project was created by the Rotary Club of Montreal-Lakeshore as a means of providing some support to Children physically and/or mentally traumatised by the events in Ukraine.
The two thousand seed packs that we sold were donated by Stokes Seeds, who also collaborated with us on the design of the package. Therefore all the funds received from the sale of these seed packs were used to support the children. Purchases by other Rotary Clubs in the District and by individuals enabled us to achieve our target of raising $10,000. In fact, thanks to some additional donations, we were able to send $12,000 to Save The Children for use in Ukraine.
Sunflowers and the Ukraine
The Sunflower (Soniashnyk in Ukrainian) has long been a strong symbol of Ukrainian national identity. As Russia’s “Special Operation” in Ukraine rolls along in its second year, the flower is a symbol of resistance, unity, and hope. Today, sunflowers are abundant across Ukrainian villages, gardens, and fields. They are also grown commercially making a very significant contribution to the Ukrainian economy. Sunflowers are worn as woven decorations in clothes and headdresses during celebrations.
Sunflowers are native to North America and Central America and have been cultivated here for at least 5,000 years. They were introduced and further developed in Eastern Europe in the 18th century. Mammoth Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) are known for their high quality and abundant sunflower seed oil. These classic giant sunflowers can reach 12 feet in height, with their heavy flowers up to about one foot across.
In June 1996, ministers from the United States, Russia, and Ukraine marked Ukraine’s nuclear weapon disarmament by planting sunflowers at the Pervomaysk missile base. U.S. Defense Secretary William J. Perry said at the ceremony that the three nations’ shared goal was “ensuring that our children and our grandchildren will live in peace.”
In 1986, after the Chernobyl disaster, scientists planted sunflowers – hyperaccumulators capable of extracting toxins from soil – to remove radioactive elements from the surrounding environment. A similar planting project took place in Japan after the 2011 Fukushima disaster.
Thank you for your interest and support.