Sunflower is one of the most important oilseeds in Ukraine. However, even experienced farmers can make mistakes when sowing it, which leads to crop losses and profits. Let's look at five of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Incorrect seeding depth
Sowing depth is critical for sunflower germination. Sowing too deeply slows down germination and reduces the energy of the initial growth, while sowing too shallowly increases the risk of seed drying out. The optimum depth for sunflower is 4-6 cm, depending on soil moisture and soil texture. Light soils allow for a slightly deeper sowing, while heavy soils allow for less.
How to avoid: Regularly check the actual sowing depth in the field and do not rely on the seed drill settings alone.
2. Violation of the sowing time
Sowing too early in cold soil results in slow and uneven emergence and increases the risk of disease. Sowing too late can shorten the growing season and reduce yield potential due to summer heat.
How to avoid: Sow sunflower when the soil temperature at the depth of planting consistently reaches +8…+10 °C. Use agrometeorological stations or thermometers for precise control. To control the optimal sowing time, analyse the weather indicators and sow when the temperature is stable or has a clear upward trend towards optimal parameters.
3. Uneven seed placement
Uneven sowing is one of the main causes of crop failure. Thickening or gaps in the rows create competition for moisture and nutrients or lead to uneven plant development.
How to avoid: Use precision seed drills and regularly check the seed drill settings and the condition of the seed discs, especially before the start of the season.
4. Ignoring soil conditions before sowing
Soil moisture and structure have a direct impact on the quality of sowing. A dry or waterlogged soil makes it difficult to form an optimal seedbed.
How to avoid it: Plan sowing at optimum moisture, when the soil crumbles easily, but does not crumble or stick to the implement. Correct pre-sowing tillage should ensure a fine cloddy soil structure.
5. Neglect of seed treatment
Poor quality or untreated seeds have lower germination energy and are vulnerable to soil pathogens and pests.
How to avoid: Use only certified seeds that have been treated with effective products against diseases and pests. Evrosem sunflower seeds are completely ready for sowing and are treated with a clothianidin-based insecticide, three fungicides (metalaxyl m, thiram and fludioxonil), a balanced complex fertiliser Evrostim Premium and a growth stimulator. It is fully protected, charged for the harvest and ready for sowing. It just needs to be filled into the seeder and sown.
Proper sowing is the basis of the future harvest. Adherence to agronomic recommendations will help to avoid major mistakes and maximise the potential of Eurosem hybrids.