Bumper Production of Sunflower, A New Era of Self-Sustenance in Oilseed Farming

Sunflower, a recently introduced oilseed crop, has been cultivated as an ornamental plant in India since ancient times. With the ability to produce a substantial quantity of high-quality oil per unit area and time, this sun-loving plant has become economically significant. Sunflower cultivation in India commenced in 1965, and according to estimates from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), around 388,000 hectares of land were dedicated to commercial sunflower cultivation during 1975-76. Sunflower, emerging as a novel oilseed, is gaining prominence in the production of vegetable oils, contributing to self-sufficiency in this sector.

The climate and soil conditions in Madhya Pradesh make it particularly suitable for sunflower cultivation. Sunflower seeds contain 42-48% oil, which is beneficial for individuals with high blood pressure and heart-related conditions. Sunflowers, known for their constant orientation towards the sun, have flowers that bloom during sunrise and close during sunset. These plants thrive in waterlogged areas around villages, gardens, road edges, and even cultivated fields. With distinct purple-hued flowers, sunflower plants are found in various regions, particularly Bihar, Odisha, Gujarat, and southern India. The sunflower, with its exceptional growth and adaptability, represents a resurgence of an ancient plant that continues to play a vital role in India's agricultural landscape.

Soil Preparation and Optimal Sowing Time:

These crops can be cultivated in almost all types of soil. Even in areas where it is not possible to grow other cereal crops, these crops can be successfully cultivated. They are often grown in weaker varieties, such as those with undulating terrain, low water retention capacity, or shallow surfaces. They are suitable for cultivation in light soil with good drainage. For soil preparation, plowing should be done during the heat, and after the rainfall, the field should be plowed again or harrowed to make the soil well-pulverized. For sunflower cultivation, it is advisable to sow seeds from mid-October to the end of November, after the harvest of the Kharif crop in irrigated, areas. Delayed sowing has adverse effects on germination. Sunflower seeds should be sown from the first week of September to the last week of September immediately after the end of the monsoon in rained areas.

Suitable Varieties of Sunflower:

1. Jwalamukhi: Maturity: This variety matures in 85-90 days. Estimated Yield: Produces approximately 30-35 quintals per hectare. Oil Content: The oil content is around 42-44%, Plant Height: The plant reaches a height of 160-170 cm.
2. Surya: Maturity: Surya variety matures in 90-100 days. Estimated Yield: Yields approximately 8-10  quintals per hectare. Oil Content: The oil content is about 38-40%, Plant Height: The plant's height ranges from 130-135 cm.
3. BSH-1: Maturity: This variety matures in 90-90 days. Estimated Yield: Produces around 10-15 quintals per hectare. Oil Content: The oil content is approximately 41%, Plant Height: The plant's height is approximately 130-150 cm.

Utilization of Sunflower:

Sunflower oil has a higher percentage (45-50%) compared to other oilseed crops. The oil from sunflower is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and, when refined, possesses a pleasant taste, maintaining excellent quality. With high protein content (40-44%) and a balanced amino acid profile, sunflower becomes a valuable feed for high-quality nutrition in livestock and poultry farming. Sunflower, harvested in the flowering stage, produces excellent quality fodder, particularly beneficial for dairy cattle. The nutritional richness of sunflower contributes to the formulation of superior feed for livestock, especially dairy cattle.

Medicinal Significance of Sunflower:

Sunflower primarily works to pacify cough and asthma. The entire plant contains alcoholic extracts with anti-cancer properties. Crush the seeds into a paste and apply it as a poultice on the forehead for 2-3 days to alleviate migraine pain. For ear pain and ear discharge, prepare a medicinal oil from its buds and juice; instill a few drops of this oil into the ears. It is effective in relieving earaches. Recommended diet: Provide only clarified butter (ghee), khichdi (a dish made from rice and lentils), and buttermilk. Crush its roots in cow's milk and administer it to the patient; it aids in eliminating kidney stones. Tie its leaves on boils; it helps reduce swelling. It acts as an anthelmintic, particularly effective against worms. Prepare a decoction of its leaves to alleviate fever.

Sunflower Diseases and Management: Bud Wilt (Sclerotinia) Disease Bud wilt is a major ailment affecting this crop. In the initial stages, a light brown spot appears near the stem on the backside of the flower. Apply M-45 or Captan 1250-1500 grams per hectare at a 15-day interval when flowers start blooming.

Root and Stem Rot: This disease can occur at any stage of the crop, but it is more prevalent during the formation of seeds in the flowers. The roots of affected plants become stunted and soft. Sometimes, these plants break and fall near the ground. Treat seeds with Thiram or Captan at 3 grams per kilogram for seed treatment and maintain adequate soil moisture to prevent this disease.