Efforts to fortify the DEKALB brand sunflower lineup with NuSun(TM) hybrids are being intensified this year with the opening of a research facility and nursery in Fargo, ND. This facility anchors 10 satellite testing locations spread throughout North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota. 

"More than 300 traditional (linoleic) and NuSun (mid-oleic) sunflower hybrids are being developed and tested at the locations this year, with plans to triple that number for 2000," says Geoff Thomas, Monsanto supporting crops product lead. "The ramped-up production effort marks a commitment to convert the DEKALB elite sunflower lineup to more and more NuSun hybrids."

Thomas says the majority of testing will be on NuSun hybrids. NuSun sunflowers were first introduced in 1998 as a healthier oil alternative to traditional sunflower oil. Generally, NuSun hybrids are more profitable for growers to raise because of premiums paid by the snack food industry.

"Establishing this sunflower research station greatly enhances our opportunities to develop newer and better products for an ever-growing sunflower market," says Thomas. "The development, evaluation and testing done at these locations strengthens our position as the world’s largest hybrid sunflower research company."

While breeders and testers at the station will develop and evaluate sunflower hybrids for the world
market, they will emphasize the development of hybrids specifically adapted for key U.S. growing
regions.

Plot demonstrations are planned this fall allowing growers to evaluate selected hybrids first hand.

Monsanto is a life sciences company committed to finding solutions to the growing global needs for food and health by sharing common forms of science and technology among agriculture, nutrition and health. The company’s employees make and market high-value agricultural products, pharmaceuticals and food ingredients. 

NuSun is a trademark of the National Sunflower Association.

Company news release
N2519