What's up with my sunflower?

<div class="batch_photo_img_div"><img id="batch_photo_img7319759634" title="IMG_1730" src="http://farm9.static.flickr.com/8146/7319759634_6f6971e0d3_s.jpg" alt="IMG_1730" width="75" height="75" /> <div class="batch_photo_img_div">Does anyone know why my sunflowers are getting these black splodges? Thanks, Janet

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I saw your photo frrom the other posting, and it reminded me of a hebe cutting I had grown that also was covered with black stuff. I discovered it was sticky and sooty, caused by aphids. Once I'd sprayed it it eventualy recovered. Have a close look at your sunflowers, it may be something similar.