Keep it in the bag
Soil temperatures are too low to plant sunflower yet, sunflower like maize wants quick germination and even emergence. 10°C at seed depth is wanted
Target Date
Early to mid May is optimum so as to make use of warming soils.
Seed bed
Sunflower hates compaction and waterlogging, aim for a well made fine seedbed and roll if capping is not a risk.
Calibration
A good even plant population will aid weed control, give an even maturity and quicker drydown making harvesting a breeze. Time spent getting the seed rate right is a must.
Drilling
Drill at an even depth into moisture, drilling too shallow will increase the likelihood of bird depredation so try to get 40mm (1 ½ “) of soil cover. Drill slowly to minimise bunching up in row if not using a precision drill.
Weed control
Ensure that you follow manufacturer recommendations when applying herbicide.
Pests
Be vigilant in the first 3 weeks after drilling. Rooks and pigeons will be active from just before first light. Covered seed will assist in deterring rooks looking for seed and pigeons will nip out the cotyledons just prior or at emergence. So use bird-scaring devices. On the heavier soils slugs numbers need to be assessed and pellets applied if damage is observed.
Lets do our bit right and I’m sure Mother Nature will do the rest, have a good year.
Brian Fletcher
Seed Services
|
