Unprecedented Heat Waves Impact Sunflower Fields
As temperatures soar above seasonal norms in Türkiye, many sunflower fields in the critical development stage have dried up. The intense heat has caused soil to crack and halted the growth of crops, leading to severe concerns among farmers about their yields. Experts are now advocating for earlier planting times to mitigate the adverse effects of extreme heat, which can reduce yields by 30-40%.
Adverse Conditions in Edirne
Edirne, which did not receive adequate winter rainfall, is experiencing temperatures above seasonal averages and severe drought, negatively affecting sunflowers. Fields in the milk development stage are drying and cracking, with plant growth coming to a standstill. Farmers are increasingly worried about the complete loss of their crops.
Calls for Earlier Planting
Professor Dr. Yalçın Kaya, Head of the Department of Genetics and Bioengineering at Trakya University’s Faculty of Engineering and Director of the Plant Breeding Center, emphasized the need for earlier planting to avoid extreme heat during critical growth phases. Kaya stated, “Ensuring the right environment for the plant is paramount. Leaving the crop at the mercy of nature can lead to such adverse outcomes. Global warming is a stark reality affecting us profoundly, shortening winters and altering planting schedules. To adapt, we must plant sunflowers earlier to avoid extreme heat during the milk development stage.”
Importance of Water Conservation
Kaya also stressed the importance of water conservation techniques to minimize soil moisture loss. He highlighted the necessity of adjusting planting times for summer crops like sunflowers. “In regions like Çukurova, planting starts in February. For sunflowers, the crucial milk development stage requires cool weather and wind rather than rainfall. Extreme heat during this period can reduce yields by up to 40%. Ensuring this stage coincides with cooler weather is essential for optimal yields. From now on, we must adjust our planting schedules accordingly.”
Need for Drought-Resistant Varieties
Kaya pointed out the urgency of developing drought-resistant sunflower varieties. “Global warming is something we feel deeply. We need to focus on research and development to cultivate drought-tolerant sunflowers. Such initiatives should be supported by government incentives. If we cannot address drought, we have no choice but to learn to live with it, as we cannot irrigate all fields.”
The ongoing heatwave and drought conditions in Türkiye highlight the urgent need for adaptive agricultural practices and government support. As farmers face the harsh realities of climate change, strategic adjustments in planting schedules and the development of drought-resistant crops will be crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity.