The Suzuka sunflower has gained recognition among Russian farmers. This variety boasts unique characteristics that make it attractive for commercial cultivation and oil production. Proper planting and proper agricultural practices directly impact subsequent yields.
Description of the Suzuka sunflower hybrid
The Suzuka sunflower was developed in 2015 by the Swiss company Syngenta. In 2019, it was added to the State Register, making it available for cultivation in Russia.
The plant reaches 1.6-1.8 m in height. Its lack of branching makes it easy to handle and harvest. The leaves are green, and the flowers are orange-yellow.
Characteristics
The crop is flexible in terms of sowing time, allowing for flexible planting timing. It demonstrates consistent results even in poor soils, making it suitable for a variety of soil types.
Other characteristic features:
- It easily adapts to cultivation in dry conditions, which allows it to be successfully cultivated in regions with limited rainfall.
- Suitable for cultivation in the Central Black Earth and Middle Volga regions.
- Susceptible to white rot.
- Moderately susceptible to rust and phomopsis.
- Rarely affected by broomrape.
- Resistant to downy mildew.
Recommendations for cultivation
Sunflowers prefer well-drained, fertile soils, but show consistent results even in poor soils. Classic, minimum, or no-till farming techniques are recommended, including deep plowing to improve the soil structure and eliminate weeds.
- ✓ Optimal soil pH should be in the range of 6.0-7.5 for maximum yield.
- ✓ Humus content of at least 2% to ensure the necessary nutrition of plants.
Follow the recommendations:
- Sow seeds in spring when the soil warms up to +8-10°C.
- Avoid dense planting. The recommended planting density is approximately 50,000-55,000 plants per hectare.
- Plant the seeds at a depth of 5-6 cm in well-moistened soil.
- × Avoid planting in soils with a high water table, as this may lead to root rot.
- × It is not recommended to sow sunflower after crops susceptible to white rot due to the risk of infection.
Crop care:
- Watering. Despite the variety's drought tolerance, it requires moderate moisture during the germination and flowering phases. During dry periods, additional irrigation is necessary to ensure plant growth and development.
- Top dressing. The crop requires nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers. Apply fertilizers before sowing and during the active growth phase.
- Weeding. Regular weeding will help eliminate weeds that can compete with sunflowers for nutrients and water.
- Protection from diseases and pests. The crop is susceptible to white rot and rust, so preventative fungicide treatments are important. Regularly inspect plants for diseases. Apply insecticides to control pests as needed.
- • Apply micronutrients such as boron and zinc in the 4-6 leaf stage to improve seed oil content.
- • Use foliar feeding during the flowering period to strengthen plant immunity.
Advantages and disadvantages
Reviews from gardeners and farmers
The Suzuka sunflower boasts numerous advantages, making it a good choice for farmers across Russia. It's an excellent choice for beginning farmers, requiring minimal attention. Proper care is the key to bountiful harvests.