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(Helianthus spp)
Introduction
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 Sunflowers are members of the Aster family originating from north-west America. They have large, decorative, daisy-like flowers that are usually golden yellow in colour and which bloom from summer to autumn. The plants have hairy, often sticky leaves and tall, rough stems that can grow up to 3 metres high. Each plant produces from one to seven flowers. Sunflowers are frost hardy, prefer full sun and need protection from the wind. They are grown for cut flowers, for their oil, and for their edible seed.
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Growing Sunflowers
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Propagation:
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From seeds |
| Yields |
2–4t/ha of seed. Flower heads vary. |
| Plant Density |
20–60 plants/m2 maximum (usually sown at lower rates than this) |
| Time of flowering: |
Summer |
| Crop protection: |
Some support needed if growing in a windy area |
| Soil type: |
Most soil types are suitable for sunflower cultivation. The soils must be fertile and well drained. Water well in dry conditions. Soils used in raised beds should be sterilised before use. pH6–7 |
| Fertilisers: |
A basic application of phosphate fertiliers with additional nitrogen in multicrop situations. |
| Pest/Diseases: |
Botrytis, Powdery mildew, Fungal spotting, Rust, Aphids, Caterpillars, Sclerotinia, Verticillium, Snails |
| Harvesting: |
Most sunflower varieties have a vase life of 2–3 weeks. They should be cut when the flowers are almost completely open. |
| Marketing: |
The export potential of cut sunflowers is unknown at this stage. Local markets exist for the flowers and some seed. Prices vary. |
| Further Info: |
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Related Topics
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