Authorities in Punjab have issued detailed guidelines for sunflower cultivation, aiming to improve crop yields through better management practices during the spring season.

According to the Punjab Agriculture Department, farmers are being advised to undertake timely thinning after germination, particularly for crops sown using planters or drills. Maintaining a plant spacing of nine inches has been recommended to ensure optimal growth.

The advisory also outlines irrigation and field management practices. For ridge or bed sowing, irrigation should be adjusted according to crop needs, while drill-sown fields should undergo at least one hoeing before the first watering. When plants reach around one foot in height, soil should be heaped around the roots to control weeds and prevent lodging.

Officials have stressed the importance of regular crop monitoring. Farmers are encouraged to inspect fields frequently and consult extension experts in case of pest or disease outbreaks.

Water management has been highlighted as critical. The first irrigation should be carried out 20 days after germination, followed by a second irrigation after another 20 days. Fertiliser application should vary depending on soil quality, with specific urea doses recommended at different growth stages.

The advisory reflects efforts to enhance productivity in sunflower cultivation through improved agronomic practices, as authorities seek to support farmers in achieving better yields.