Soaking sunflower seeds prior to planting is not absolutely necessary.
‘It's actually advised to plant them directly in well-prepared soil and, afterwards, water them well to maintain consistent soil hydration for successful germination,’ Petar says.
However, there are times when soaking your seeds might help, Steve says.
‘If you plant your sunflower seeds out of season, then it might improve germination rates, as when you soak them, you help soften the seed coat which therefore prompts the germination process,’ he explains.