ABSTRACT
Extreme natural events influencing soil water availability are major factors limiting yield and oil quality in oilseed crops. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of water deficit and surplus water on yield, oil content and on the fatty acid profile of sunflower plants sown in main and second crop seasons in two soil classes in Rio Grande do Sul State. The experiment was carried out in Santa Maria, RS (Ultisol) and Panambi, RS state, Brazil (Oxisol), Brazil, and comprised three water conditions (water deficit, water surplus and control) in a randomized block design. The hybrid Helio 250 was sown in early September (main crop season) and in early January (second crop season) in both soil classes. Yield, yield components, oil content, oil yield and fatty acid profile were herein analyzed. Yield and yield components were affected by water conditions, sowing dates and soil class. The soil class had no significant effect on oil content, yield or quality. Water deficit was more harmful to oil yield and quality than water surplus. Water deficit was responsible for increased oleic fatty acid contents and for linoleic content reduction.
Key words:
Helianthus annuus L.; water stress; fatty acids