Encouraging volunteers?

[Big D]

Our neighbor has a gorgeous row of sunflowers along the back of her property line that re-seeds itself every year. I'd like to continue the row of flowers across the back of our yard as well. She'll let me have whatever seeds I want, what I'm wondering is do I need to save the seeds and plant them next spring, or is there anyway to encourage volunteers in my yard by shaking the flower heads out this fall over my yard?

eta: I'm in zone 4

[kriket]

we used to have a plot that reseeded. When I moved here I tried it, but the squirrels and birds found it first! So, I would say you don't have to really do much, maybe keep the weeds out, and add some compost. Unless you have birds and such that are stealing, then you may want to harvest and resow. Since your neighbor doesn't have a problem I wouldn't think you would.

[mattemma04]

I would save the seeds mostly,but you could try and mix some up in the soil.My wildlife would get at it in no time.I have HUGE sunflowers that were absolutely beautiful until the squirrels climbed each and chewed off the heads. I really dislike squirrels.