- Sunflowers are taking up more land in Thuringia
Farmers in Thuringia are increasingly turning to sunflowers on their fields. Breeding has contributed to the flowers thriving better in Thuringia, a spokesperson for the farmers' association said. Generally, the plant has low soil requirements and can adapt well to drought.
Moreover, there is increased demand for local produce, the spokesperson added. The seeds go to local oil mills or are processed into bird feed.
According to the State Statistical Office, the area for sunflower cultivation has increased again last year. It was 4,756 hectares in 2023, compared to 4,480 hectares in the previous year. In 2022, it was less than half of that. However, the farmers' association said that sunflower cultivation in Thuringia remains a niche.
In the current growing season, the plants are developing well. However, it is too early for a first assessment of the yield. The harvest is expected between late August and late September. In case of bad weather, it can extend into winter.
The surge in local produce demand has led to an increase in sunflower sales, with the seeds being sent to local oil mills or used for bird feed. Despite the increase in sunflower cultivation in Thuringia, it still remains a niche within the broader scope of agriculture.
