Free sunflower seeds for every child

Otter Garden Centres is giving children a real incentive to grow their own sunflowers this year and the chance to win some great prizes.

Parents and grandparents can collect the seeds from any of the company’s seven branches located in Devon, Somerset and Hampshire.

Otter Garden Centres MD, Jacqui Taylor says “Everybody loves sunflowers, they’re easy to grow, lovely to look at, and they provide food for birds and insects. Bees especially are fond of their pollen.

“This is a wonderful and simple way to encourage the younger generation to take an interest in plants, wildlife and the environment.”

To claim the free seeds, parents or grandparents should visit the garden centre’s website and fill in a form. They will then receive an e-voucher with full information on how to claim the seeds instore. Each packet contains around 15 sunflower seeds and free advice will be provided on planting methods to ensure healthy, tall sunflowers.

“Later in the year, we’re going to ask participants who would like to enter our competition to upload a photo of their tallest sunflower, and the winners will be able to collect their prizes from their nearest store. We’re hoping to see some gorgeous, towering sunflowers!”

The record for the tallest sunflower grown in the UK is currently held by Richard Hope of Wigan, whose plant grew to an amazing 26ft.

Jacqui adds “Is this the year that the South West takes the crown for the tallest sunflower in the country? We’d love it to be from one of our seeds!”

While the seeds are totally free, a collection tin will be sited near the seeds for any voluntary donations which will go to the branch’s local charity of the year.

To register visit: Otter Garden Centres Free Sunflower Seeds