The Nebraska Extension Special Agronomy Project gives 4-H members an opportunity to experience a crop that is, was or could be grown in Nebraska. Youth participate by receiving seed and resources to grow the crop, research traits of the crop and determine the viability of that crop in the part of the state they live in. The project allows 4-H members interested in agronomy to grow something fun, new and different. This year, we will be exploring a crop that can be marketed different ways, depending on the variety.
In the fifth year of the special agronomy project, youth will explore sunflowers! There are two types of sunflower production in Nebraska: those that are grown for oil production, and those that are grown for human food consumption, referred to as confectionery seeds. A portion of the oil seed production is used in the bird seed industry. Sunflowers are grown throughout the state of Nebraska, with the greatest concentration in western Nebraska. The variety we will be growing is a high oleic hybrid. Its oil profile, combined with a nice black seed color, ensures multiple market options.
To be eligible to enter an exhibit at the County and/or State Fair in the agronomy project area, enroll for the 2025 Special Agronomy Project through 4-H Online by enrolling in the Agronomy project.
Seed packets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call the Lancaster Extension office at 402-441-7180 to sign up for this special project. The seed packages are sponsored by Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County and one seed packet is granted per project, per family. Seeds will be mailed after April 30.
Find more information about the project at https://go.unl.edu/specialagronomy.