In 2025, our client in the Cherkasy region chose to grow Pegasus sunflowers in their fields. The sowing and feeding system were selected to achieve the highest possible yield on soil previously used for wheat.
Predecessor and sowing conditions
The predecessor crop was wheat, which influenced soil preparation and fertilisation. To increase the efficiency of soil resource use, agronomists applied deep ploughing and thorough cultivation before sowing.
The Pegasus hybrid was sown on 30 April 2025 at a rate of 57,000 seeds per hectare, which is optimal for ensuring sufficient plant density and efficient use of space. This density allows for uniform plant development and minimises competition for nutrients.
Pegasus hybrid nutrition system
Particular attention was paid to comprehensive plant nutrition, which included:
- 100 kg/ha of UAN – to ensure rapid initial nitrogen nutrition;
- 100 kg/ha of ammonium sulphate (AS) – to support plant growth and development;
- 120 kg/ha of Duofertil fertiliser – a complex fertiliser to provide macro- and microelements.
This combination of fertilisers provided the plants with the necessary amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur at key stages of development, which contributed to active growth, the formation of a powerful root system and high productivity.
Growing and harvesting stages
During the growing season, agronomists monitored the condition of the crops, fertilised them and protected them from weeds, pests and diseases. The Pegasus hybrid showed resistance to typical sunflower diseases and good adaptation to the weather conditions of the region. Weeds were removed with Euro-Lightning herbicide at a rate of 1.2 l/ha.
Harvesting was carried out on 24 September 2025, which corresponds to the optimal ripening period for the hybrid and minimised seed losses.
Results and efficiency of sunflower cultivation
At the end of the season, the yield was 38.3 cwt/ha. This result confirms the effectiveness of the correctly selected hybrid, optimal sowing density and comprehensive nutrition system.
The case study showed that with the right agricultural techniques, it is possible to obtain a high and stable sunflower yield that brings maximum return on invested resources.