THE INFLUENCE OF PRODUCTIVE MOISTURE RESERVES IN THE SOIL ON THE DURATION OF THE MAIN PHASES OF GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF SUNFLOWER PLANTS

The availability of soil with productive moisture has a decisive influence on the duration of the main phases of growth and development of sunflower. A sufficient supply of moisture contributes to a faster and more uniform passage of phases, starting from seed germination and ending with the formation of a basket and ripening. Lack of moisture, on the contrary, leads to a delay in development, a reduction in interphase periods, especially the flowering phase, and, as a result, to a decrease in yield and seed quality. Therefore, monitoring and maintaining optimal soil moisture levels is a key factor for successful sunflower cultivation and realizing its potential