Glimmering with hope and promise, sunflowers are a perfect example of the triumph of life. Blossoming in the summer warmth, they quickly become a stunningly bright floral spectacle that warms our hearts.
But these cherished blooms are only around for a brief period. The lifespan of the Sunflower is fleeting; from germination to expiration takes just two months.
Beginning as seeds, tiny sprouts push their way through the soil to find nourishment from the Sun. As they reach the sky, blossoms open at every stage, from tight buds to spectacular faces with dark center disks spilling over into bold petals. During this time, energy is gathered for future growth and development until fruiting can begin.
The vibrant show takes an emotional toll; soon, wilted petals start to scatter on the breeze, announcing the end times for these majestic beauties. Drooping heads bow in sorrow as their stores of energy run out and they eventually collapse onto themselves, creating dense packets filled with numerous seeds waiting eagerly beneath some nearby soil surface in anticipation of next year’s repeat performance.
After such a vibrant finish, it’s hard not to marvel at what we’ve witnessed during those precious days when we were graced by golden rays of sunshine atop brave stalks, proudly standing in homage and beauty, enjoying what little time we had together before bowing out gracefully until we meet another day again–many moons away!