Sunflower Farming: Proper Methods and Techniques
Sunflower farming is a highly profitable venture. The soil and climate of our country are ideal for cultivating sunflowers. Farmers are earning financially by growing sunflowers on agricultural land and even on fallow land. Sunflowers are not just symbols of beauty but are also an important cash crop. The oil and cake produced from these flowers can be sold for additional income.
In this blog, we will discuss the proper methods and necessary techniques for sunflower farming.
Soil Selection and Timing
Sunflower can be cultivated in various types of soil, but medium to low loamy soil is most suitable for its growth.
- Not recommended to grow sunflowers in very low-lying land or areas where water tends to accumulate.
- Sunflowers also grow well in saline soils.
Best Time for Cultivation:
- Rabi Season: November-December.
- Kharif-1 Season: April-May.
- Kharif-2 Season: August-September.
The temperature should not drop below 15°C for sowing the seeds.
Land Preparation and Seed Sowing
Sunflower is a deep-rooted crop, so the land must be properly prepared.
- Plow the land 3-4 times and use a harrow to make the soil loose and smooth.
- Dividing the land into smaller plots makes maintenance easier.
- Row Distance: 50 cm.
- Plant Distance: 25 cm.
- Plant 2-3 seeds in each hole at a depth of 2-3 cm.
- Seed treatment and soaking the seeds in water for 6-7 hours improves germination.
Sunflower Farming: Fertilizer Application
For optimal yield, applying the right amount of fertilizer is crucial.
Fertilizer Requirements per Hectare:
- Urea: 180-200 kg.
- TSP: 150-200 kg.
- MOP: 120-150 kg.
- Gypsum: 120-170 kg.
- Zinc Sulfate: 8-10 kg.
- Boric Acid: 10-12 kg.
- Magnesium Sulfate: 80-100 kg.
Half of the urea and other fertilizers should be mixed into the soil. The remaining urea should be applied in two doses—first after 20-25 days and second after 40-45 days.
Irrigation and Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential for a good harvest.
Irrigation Schedule:
- First irrigation: 30 days after sowing.
- Second irrigation: 50 days after sowing.
- Third irrigation: 70 days after sowing.
- Keep the weeds under control and lift the soil between two rows of plants to apply around the base of the plants. This will strengthen the roots, helping the plant stand firm against storms and rain.
Pest and Disease Control
Cutworm:
- Eats the green parts of the leaves, leaving them white.
- Use kerosene mixed water. You can also apply Nitro 20 EC if needed.
Leaf Blight:
- Gray or dark brown spots appear on the leaves.
- Apply fungicides to control this disease.
Root Rot:
- White cotton-like growth around the base of the plant.
- Seed treatment can prevent this disease.
Aphids:
- Suck sap from the plant, turning the leaves yellow.
- Maintain cleanliness and apply insecticides if needed.
Harvesting
Sunflower seeds mature within 90-110 days after sowing.
Signs of Maturity:
- The leaves turn yellow.
- The flower head droops.
- The seeds turn black.
Yield: Depending on the variety, the yield per hundred square meters can range from 6 to 7.5 kg.
If sunflower farming is done following the proper techniques, it can be a highly profitable crop for farmers. Regular maintenance and following the right methods will ensure a good yield.
