Time of sowing
- Spring Crop :
In the low and mid-hills, the spring crop may be sown in the second fortnight of February. In high hills, sowing may be done in the end of March or beginning of April.
- Summer Crop :
In low rainfall areas, the summer crop may be sown with the onset of monsoon (June-July). In areas of high rainfall, a delayed sowing in the month of July is advisable as three should be no rains at the ripening time otherwise the seed is likely to decay in the disc.
Seed rate and method of sowing
A seed rate of 10-12 kg per hectare is sufficient to ensure good crop stand. The seed before sowing should be treated with Captan at the rate of three gram per kg seed. Bold and certified seed should be used. Sunflower should be sown 60 cm apart in lines with a plant to plant spacing of 25-30 cm. The seed should be sown at 3-4 cm depth for better stand. If moisture is deficient in the soil, the seed may be soaked in water for 6-8 hours before sowing. After 10-12 days of germination, extra seedlings should be uprooted to provide a space of 25-30 cm between plants in rows.
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