CROPS - Growing sunflowers: Part 2

Planting dates, plant density and weed control all affect yield. Follow these guidelines to ensure that you produce the best crop possible.

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Part 1 of this sunflower production series discussed soil requirements, yield potential and cultivars (see FW, 28 May). This article will look at planting and weed control.

Use a mouldboard or chisel plough to break the soil surface; this will ensure maximum rainfall infiltration, reduce run-off, and provide a suitable seedbed.

Sunflower is usually cultivated in rotation with maize or sorghum and benefits from the dense mulch of these crops. Mulch protects the soil against the impact of raindrops, which seal the surface and reduce infiltration.

• Planting date Sunflowers can be planted from the beginning of November to the end of December in South Africa’s eastern areas and until mid-January in the western areas. When choosing a planting date, consider the onset and last dates of frost, soil temperature, the crop’s moisture requirements, the rainfall pattern, other crops being cultivated, and the risk of bird damage. High soil temperature during planting will lead to poor emergence, a problem in sandy soil in the warmer western areas. Planting here should be carried out before mid-November, when soil temperature is lower.