Field Crops> Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)> Weed Control and Earthing

Intercultural operations are essential to minimise the competition of sunflower plant with the weeds. Weedfree conditions up to 60 days after sowing results in better yield performance. When the plant attains a knee high stage earthing should be done along the rows. This provides safeguard against lodging which is likely to occur at heading stage if winds of high velocity blow. Use of alachlor or pendimethalin at the rate of 1.5 kg a.i. per hectare applied as pre-emergence has been found effective in controlling weeds in sunflower crop. Fluchloralin (Basalin) at the rate of 1 kg a.i. per hectare dissolved in 800-1000 litres of water could also be used as pre-planting.