Sunflower Favorite

The sunflower variety 'Favorite' is a medium-early hybrid developed at the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution NIIHS 'South-East' and recommended for cultivation in the Volga region, including Volgograd and Saratov Oblasts. Plants reach a height of 140-150 cm, and the flower head diameter is 18-25 cm. The vegetation period in Saratov conditions is approximately 97-98 days, ensuring early seed maturity and allowing for sale at premium prices. The average yield of this variety is about 2.3 t/ha, with maximum yields reaching 33.4 c/ha, making it competitive under various weather conditions. 'Favorite' sunflower seeds have high oil content — 42-45%, and the 1000-seed mass varies from 69.2 to 120 g depending on growing conditions. They are well-suited for confectionery industry use as an alternative to nuts. The variety exhibits moderate resistance to diseases such as white rot, rust, and false powdery mildew, as well as to local strains of aphids and moths, contributing to stable yields and reduced losses during storage. 'Favorite' is adapted to Volga conditions and recommended for cultivation in the Lower Volga region. Its biological and agronomic characteristics make this variety attractive to farmers seeking an early, high-quality sunflower harvest with high commercial value. Due to its disease resistance, high oil content, and good seed shattering properties, 'Favorite' is a profitable choice for industrial cultivation and processing.