How to Grow Sunflowers in South Africa
The sunflower, or Helianthus annuus L in Latin, is an oleaginous plant in the family Asteraceae. This substantial annual plant can reach a height of 4 meters. The name “sunflower” refers to the way that sunflower flowers face the sun during the day. The root system of the sunflower is quite robust. Unlike most conventional crops, it can acquire water and nutrients from depths of up to 2 meters because to a lengthy root pivot.
The plant can tolerate some water stress thanks to this characteristic. Sunflowers adapt to decreased water and nutrient concentrations in deep, structured soils and grow well there.
Sunflowers thrive in fertile, wet, well-drained soil with lots of mulch and need full sun to flourish mulch. Since sunflowers dislike being transferred, it is better to grow them from seed. When producing seeds, big or Russian variants are desired.
Sunflower cultivation
Similar to growing corn, growing sunflowers calls for the highest plant density per hectare and the most even spacing between the rows.
We promote the use of single seed pneumatic drills (air seeders), which, unlike mechanical seeders (Brazilian type drills), permit extremely exact sowing, seed by seed, even if the seeds are not precisely calibrated. Another crucial element for ensuring regular germination is the seeder’s capacity to distribute the seed at the proper depth (in time and space).
What month are sunflowers in South Africa in bloom?
South African sunflower is typically grown on dry land in the summertime rainy season (November to March)
Where in SA are sunflowers grown?
The Free State and North West of South Africa account for the majority of the nation’s sunflower production. About 79% of the nation’s total sunflower production is produced in these provinces. Sand to clay soil types are typically found in the regions where sunflowers thrive.
How long do sunflowers need to grow from seeds?
They can flower after 11 to 18 weeks following seed sowing, depending on the type. In light of this, it is a good idea to sow sunflower seed every two weeks, ensuring a steady supply of cheery sunflowers all summer long. Sunflowers are simple to raise from seed, making them perfect for expanding with kids
How to keep your seeds safe
Grow to a height of 1 to 2 meters (4 to 6 feet), thus they require staking or wind protection. Use nets or paper sacks to keep birds away from ripening seed heads. Sunflower heads strung for chickens to peck are quite popular!
How long does it take a sunflower to grow?
Sunflowers come in many distinct types, and they all develop at differing rates. However, it typically takes a plant between 80 and 120 days.
