The seed cost for this variety is usually higher, however. The large, striped seeded varieties are less attractive to birds than are the small black seeded varities. If other seed is not available, these can be planted with fair success, however. The field should be at least five acres in size to insure that there will be seed available throughout the winter months. Fields are more attractive to mourning doves if a pond with bare ground aroung the edges is nearby.
Doves also prefer tree or shrub rows nearby for roosting.
A dead tree or two near the field will also be used as a perch by the doves before they come in to feed. If crop residues or weeds are not a problem, disking is adequate to prepare the seedbed. Fertilizer will promote earlier flowering and increase yields. Use the medium flat plates for sunflowers planted in rows. Plant at the rate of 5 to 6 pounds of seed per acre.