Production and Commercialization of Helianthus annuus L. for Cut Flowers in Texcoco, Mexico

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the process of sunflower production (Helianthus annuus L.) for fresh cutting flowers, considering two sowing dates, growing degree-days, and commercialization. Design/Methodology/Approach: A completely randomized experimental design with subsampling was used, with five repetitions per treatment (sowing date), in order to analyze the variables: number of leaves, height, and flower diameter. Vincent Choice Dark Eye Ball™ sunflowers were sown in black plastic boxes with 8 cm of soil on January 31 and February 11, 2020, at 153 plants per m-2 in a greenhouse. Later, the seedlings were grown in the open field until harvesting, after which they were given added value and then locally traded. In addition, the growing degree-days (GDD) were calculated. Results: The sunflowers registered a height of 55 cm, 13 leaves per stalk, and a flower diameter of 6.88 cm. Late sowing favored the height and diameter of the flower. The sunflower hybrid required more GDD to reach commercial flower maturity in the first sowing date. The cost-benefit ratio was 1.38. Study Limitations/Implications: Seeds were sown on only two dates. Findings/Conclusions: The production process involved planning, management, and commercialization. The sunflower hybrid required on average 499 GDD to reach the cutting point. The added value increased the price fivefold.