b'MANITOBA CROP ALLIANCE DEVELOPS CONFECTION SUNFLOWER HYBRIDSTwo high-performing hybrids from the program were registered this yearBy Katherine StanleyManitoba was once home to more thanover 90 per cent of sunflowers in Canada. Manitoba Crop Alliance 200,000acresofconfectionsunflowersToprovideManitobafarmerswithan C onfection sunflower is a unique cropeach year. However, with a lack of breedingimprovedconfectionsunflower,Manitoba improvements,sunflowersfellbehindtheCrop Alliance (MCA) began a farmer-funded that offers value to Manitoba farm- genetic advancements of other crop choicesbreedingprogramin2011,theonlysun-ers. The crop has a deep and complexthat had more in-crop herbicide options andflower breeding program in Canada. rooting system that allows unique access toimproved genetic packages.MCAevaluatespotentialhybridsinits soilmoisture,improvessoilstructureandNonetheless, demand for sunflowers hasbreeding program based on a variety of traits contributessignificantabove-andbelow- remained high, with prices as high as 50 centsthat contribute to improved agronomic char-ground biomass.per pound, and Manitoba remains home toacteristics,meetmarketrequirementsand exhibit adaptation to Canadian growing con-ditions. Through this, MCA aims to make confec-tionsunflowersacompetitivecropchoice for Manitoba farmers. Developed sunflower hybrids are herbicide tolerant (ExpressSun), andhaveimprovedresistancetorustand downy mildew. *Previously called EX359239** Previously called EX2000306/EX20306Results from Manitoba Crop Alliance Sunflower Variety Performance Trials are available at mbcropalliance.ca MoreSUNFLOWERSon page 9PHOTO: MANITOBA CROP ALLIANCE8SEED MANITOBA 2025SEEDMB.CA'