Experts: Sunflower cultivation poised for unseen revolution with focus on nutrition

Sunflower cultivation is poised for a significant revolution, driven by technological advancements and a deeper understanding of the crop's nutritional needs. Experts at the Puro Girasol Congress, an initiative by Advanta, revealed that sunflowers are currently underperforming, with a yield gap of 30-35% across various regions.

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In sunflower cultivation, the gap between potential yield and the average obtained in the country is 30-35%, depending on the zone.

Diego Rotilli, a professor at the National University of La Pampa, noted that sunflowers could yield 3.5 tons per hectare in areas like western Buenos Aires, where the regional average is only 2.4 tons. This gap is attributed to several factors, including phosphorus and nitrogen deficiencies, suboptimal crop management, incorrect planting dates, and inadequate pest and disease control.

Trials have shown that phosphorus and sulfur are primary yield limitations. "In sunflower cultivation, the gap between potential yield and the average obtained in the country is 30-35%, depending on the zone," Rotilli stated. He emphasized the need for more attention to sunflower nutrition, utilizing diagnostic tools for each nutrient. "In the congress, it was explained that in a trial using saturation models, where everything necessary was provided for the crop to express maximum yield versus traditional management in the area, phosphorus and sulfur were the main yield limitations," he added.

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In the congress, it was explained that in a trial using saturation models, where everything necessary was provided for the crop to express maximum yield versus traditional management in the area, phosphorus and sulfur were the main yield limitations.

Recommendations for producers include choosing hybrids suited to the specific environment and planting date, as well as ensuring proper sowing depth and protecting the canopy from insects and fungi. Martín Díaz Zorita, a soil science specialist, stressed the importance of timely fertilizer application. "In fertilization decisions, it is important to analyze the nutrient content in the soil to detect deficiencies, but it is also important to consider the timing of fertilizer application," he said. He noted that approximately 65-70 kilograms of monoammonium phosphate per hectare are effective in correcting common soil deficiencies in western Buenos Aires.

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In fertilization decisions, it is important to analyze the nutrient content in the soil to detect deficiencies, but it is also important to consider the timing of fertilizer application.