I sowed three seeds in early spring
To begin their early life in pots
Hoping one at least would sprout
Within five days two tender shoots
Broke through the soil
And when six inches tall
The stronger was selected
For planting out and staking
To secure against the wind
This most vigorous of annual plants
Grew apace at inches day on day
Until it towered to eight feet tall
By July its golden head burst forth
Turning to follow the progress of the sun
As it traversed the summer sky
Its flower replicating in form and colour
Our nearest star
But by August its vibrant colour faded
Its brief glory had all too short a span
That once proud and golden crown
Now drooping and dulled by fading hues
Laying bare an abundant seed head
To feed the birds and squirrels
And provide the embryos
For next year’s sowing
When the sunflower
Will delight again