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SW Ohio

I planted 2 big head sunflowers this year. Side by side. One has a nice flat seed head and the other is curling backwards. Looking for answers as to what causes the curling. Ive really enjoyed growing them and want to continue in the future. Any help or ideas about the curling would be appreciated. Thanks!

8/29/2017 7:16:31 AM

Western PA

The curling or domed is genetic. You will get a bigger head with the domed ones. When my weigh off measures, they measure " over the top in two directions and take the biggest measurement. All of mine have been domed over the past 5 years.
http://www.bigpumpkins.com/Diary/DiaryViewOne.asp?eid=230660

8/29/2017 7:39:40 AM

SW Ohio

Holy cow Lee! That is a whopper!
Well hmm. Maybe I wont crab too much about this goofy one now lol

8/29/2017 6:27:09 PM

Owensboro, Ky.

Lee, when they measure over the top, I am guessing they are following the curve (dome)? I have a dome type shape one growing now, and am curious as to how it should be measured at my event? Not a record, just curious as to how to place the tape. Peace, Wayne

8/31/2017 1:59:45 AM

Western PA

Peace Wayne,
Ultimately, it is up to your judges on how they measure. Their are no GPC rules on this as far as I know. Some clubs just measure in a straight line under the head.
My club measures over the dome in two perpendicular places to get the biggest measurement possible.
Hope that helps.

9/1/2017 9:07:28 AM

Owensboro, Ky.

Zappa, I am going to print this & take it to my weigh-off & hope they will follow the curve!!! Have had fun growing the giant sunflowers this year. Built a 15' tall trellis & have one over the top of it, with big curved head. Will wait till day b/4 weighoff & take entire plant!! Thanks again!! Peace, Wayne
Barbeetoo, you gonna make the KY weighoff?

9/3/2017 1:27:45 AM

SW Ohio

Wayne, I dont think I will have anything ready for KY. I need to plant earlier for that weigh off next year. One of my favorite weigh offs!

9/3/2017 8:21:36 PM