Grey Striped
Plant October - November
Kg/ha 5 - 8 kg
Sunflower is a warm season broadleaf that is used as a cover crop - either as a "break crop" in certain crop rotations; or to add diversity to mixtures.
Sunflower has certain benefits as a "green manure":
-
Produces high levels of organic matter.
-
On termination of the crop, a dense moisture-conserving mat is formed.
-
Forms a deep, extensive root system that hosts mycorrhizal fungi.
-
The broad leaves and quick establishment assists in smothering weeds.
-
Attracts pollinators.
-
Used as part of "insect havens" - attracting insect predators.