Hybrid sunflower Dragon is an early-maturing simple hybrid developed by breeders of VNIIS and adapted for cultivation in central, southern, and eastern regions of Ukraine. The vegetation period is 103-107 days, allowing for a quick harvest. Plants reach a height of 170-190 cm, have a flat head with a diameter of 20-22 cm in a semi-tilted position. Seeds are black, medium to large size, with high oil content — 48 to 52%, making the hybrid attractive for oil production. Luster is 20-21%, and the potential yield reaches 47 centners per hectare, with average yields in partner farms at 33-39 centners per hectare. Hybrid Dragon exhibits high resistance to major sunflower diseases, including fusarium, phomopsis, rust, powdery mildew, gray and white mold, as well as tolerance to sunflower moth. Resistance to these diseases is rated at 7-9 points. Moreover, the hybrid demonstrates high resistance to lodging and seed shattering, contributing to yield retention. Special attention is given to drought resistance — it is very high, enabling successful cultivation of Dragon under hot and dry conditions. The root system is well-developed, and dark green leaves ensure good photosynthetic nutrition of plants. To achieve maximum productivity, optimal planting density should be maintained: in forest-steppe zones — 55-60 thousand plants per hectare, in steppe zones — 50-55 thousand. The hybrid is suitable for Express technology (under Granstar), simplifying crop care and protection. Seeds are supplied in bags of 150,000 units, available in standard and extra fractions. Hybrid Dragon combines high yield, stress and disease resistance, as well as high oil content quality, making it a profitable choice for farmers focused on efficient sunflower oil production.
