Plant sunflowers and show your support for Ukraine

Sunflowers have become a symbol of Ukraine’s resistance to the Russian invasion. Ukraine produces more sunflower oil than any other country on the planet.

Seeing a field of sunflowers turning in the sun is a memorable sight and now you can help Ukrainian farmers directly by buying sunflower seeds and planting them amongst maize and cover crops this year. The campaign is being supported by Bright Seeds, sister company of Bright Maize.

Proceeds from the seed sales will be distributed by the Ukrainian arm of Bright Maize parent company, MAS Seeds. You can purchase sunflower seeds for this cause by calling 01722 744494.

Charlie Dolphin, technical advisor at Bright Maize, says: “We were keen to show solidarity with the farmers of Ukraine, and the idea of planting sunflowers amidst spring-sown crops seemed an ideal way to catch the imagination. As well as the colour resonating with the Ukrainian flag, it will be easily visible to all and show the support of UK farmers for their Ukrainian counterparts.”

“Food production is the backbone of Ukraine’s economy and its ability to export commodities such as wheat is important to many countries in Europe. Similarly, the UK depends on a significant proportion of seed produced in Ukraine for planting in the agricultural and conservation sectors.  Apart from the current concerns about Ukraine’s future trading relationships, food producers in that country must be desperately worried about their own futures. 

“There is uncertainty about the extent to which this year’s spring-sowing will proceed and it is important Ukrainian farmers know others are thinking of them at this very challenging time. I hope it sends a signal that UK farmers support them and wish them well.”