sunflowers

Hi...I use sunflowers as a wind break for my pumpkins (on topic !). I'll be
entering the heads  into a Local fair this fall and I need to know how to
store them. In the past I have had problems with mold and with the inchworms
or small caterpillars that eat the seeds.(and mice and squirrels).  This year
I'd like to do it right and hang them in a dry place til contest time as they
are done growing (I think).I soaked the heads in bleach and water for 5 mins
to kill the worms and the spores and they are drying in the sun now.
....will this be ok?
....will they shrink as they dry?(its a largest head contest)
....is there a better way?
....can i still give the seed to my kids gerbils after the contest?
....and most important...when do you know that the heads  are done growing?  
Thanks for any info......Glenn A.
Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index