Mission:
The mission of the Sunflower Research Unit is to develop new knowledge and technology that benefit the sunflower industry and consumers. Research is conducted to develop (1) a diverse germplasm base that leads to enhanced yield potential and quality characteristics, (2) methods to transfer usefultraits from wild species and other sources into cultivated sunflower, and (3) management strategies for insects and diseases with reduced pesticide use to increase profitability and protect the environment.