The SUMATRA sunflower hybrid is an early-maturing and adaptable HTS hybrid developed by Syngenta. It features high resistance to bird damage, including races A-F, as well as to false powdery mildew. With a drought tolerance rating of 6, the hybrid demonstrates good adaptation to dry conditions, making it suitable for cultivation in Northern, Western, and Central regions of Ukraine, as well as in the Forest-Steppe, Polesie, and Northern Steppe areas. The hybrid’s yield ranges from 30 to 56 centners per hectare, positioning it as one of the high-yielding options in its segment. SUMATRA belongs to the linoleic-type sunflower with seed oil content up to 49%, ensuring high-quality oil. The hybrid is resistant to herbicides, particularly Granstar, and is recommended for cultivation using the ExpressSun® technology, which involves classical soil cultivation methods and crop rotation adherence. For optimal plant development, it is recommended to follow the advised planting density: 35–40 thousand plants per hectare under dry conditions and 45–50 thousand under moderate humidity. A distinctive feature of the SUMATRA hybrid is its resistance not only to diseases such as sclerotinia and phomopsis, but also to fungal pathogens, enhancing harvest reliability. However, it is not recommended to overplant, as this may reduce productivity. Due to its adaptability and resistance to adverse conditions, the SUMATRA hybrid is an optimal choice for farmers seeking a stable and high-quality sunflower harvest across various climatic zones of Ukraine.
