Phosphorus nutrients in sunflower – A review

Being an oilseed crop, sunflower responds well with phosphorus fertilization. In addition to germination and seedling establishment, growth attributes like plant height, stem diameter, root length and dry matter production increased with increasing levels of P. The response of P was more significant in P deficient soils. Seed yield and oil content also increased by P application. Phosphorus application also increased the uptake of N, P, K, Ca, Mg and S nutrients. Rock phosphate was found to be the most effective source in acid solis. In neutral and alkali soils, application of P with organic numures or bio-fertilizers like phosphobacteria showed good response.