Sunflower KWS APACHE CL

Stability and control: working with KWS Apache CL

When you enter the field with the KWS Apache CL sunflower hybrid, you immediately notice the uniformity of the crop. As a simple hybrid, it behaves predictably throughout the entire cycle — from sowing to harvesting. For an agronomist who values a systematic approach, the ability to use the CLEARFIELD technology is a decisive factor: weed control, including broomrape, is managed efficiently without unnecessary field passes.

Field performance and harvesting

The plant height (160–180 cm) features a sturdy stem, minimizing the risk of lodging during adverse weather. The convex head, medium in size, fills well with seeds. Importantly for combine operators, the elongated, narrow-ovate seeds do not require complex header settings: at the right cylinder speed, harvest losses are minimal. The hybrid shows strong resistance to major diseases:

• Full resistance to downy mildew.
• Reliable immunity against Sclerotinia and Phomopsis.
• Resistance to Phoma and powdery mildew.

Economics and oil content

With a growing period of 120–130 days, Apache CL is a versatile option for most regions. It matures before the onset of rainy seasons, and an oil content of 50–55% makes it highly attractive to processors. This is a case where high oil content meets robust plant architecture. The hybrid is low-maintenance: standard agronomic practices and precise timing of herbicide application allow you to fully unleash the genetic potential of KWS German breeding.