Sunflower Grand Admiral

Grand Admiral is a mid-early sunflower hybrid developed by the Scientific Institute of Selection (NIS) and intended for cultivation under the herbicide Grandstar. It features high yield potential up to 55 c/ha and average yield around 42 c/ha. The hybrid is adapted to various soil-climatic conditions, especially suitable for the forest-steppe and steppe zones of Ukraine with limited rainfall during the vegetation period. The vegetation period is 105-110 days, corresponding to the mid-early maturity group. Grand Admiral is characterized by high oil content in seeds — from 47 to 51%, making it advantageous for oil production. Plants reach a height of 160-180 cm, and flower head diameter varies from 18 to 22 cm. The flower head is convex with a semi-sloping inclination. Seed oil content ranges from 21-24%. The hybrid is resistant to various diseases and stress factors: high drought resistance and winter hardiness, as well as high resistance to black stem, powdery mildew, Phoma, rye, gray and white rot. Additionally, it shows high resistance to the pest — sunflower moth, and resistance to the parasite — sunflower bud mite at level A-F. To achieve maximum productivity, it is recommended to follow optimal seeding density depending on soil moisture: 55-60 thousand plants per hectare in zones with adequate moisture, 50-55 thousand — in zones with moderate moisture, and 45-50 thousand — in zones with insufficient moisture. Grand Admiral is suitable for processing using modern SUMO and EXPRESS SUN technologies, ensuring effective seed management and weed control. This hybrid is a reliable choice for farmers seeking high and stable sunflower yields under challenging climatic conditions.