Sunflower sowing time boosts oil content, yields for farmers worldwide
Changing the time sunflower seeds are planted affects the amount of oil they produce. Early planting helps increase oil content, while late planting can reduce both the yield and quality of sunflower oil. Different hybrids of sunflowers respond to planting times differently with some showing higher oil content from early planting, and others from late planting. Studies from various countries have shown that late planting can lead to lower oil content and overall crop yield. Planting sunflower seeds when soil temperatures are between 10 to 12 degrees Celsius has been found to produce the highest yields. Overall, the time of year when sunflowers are planted can significantly impact the amount and quality of oil they produce.