Commodities

Sunflowers

Sunflower Seed Fumigation & Protectants

From North Dakota, South Dakota, and Kansas, sunflower production plays a vital role in edible oil markets, bird seed supply, and specialty seed production. Sunflower seed quality impacts, oil yield, seed integrity, market grade, long-term storage stability, and brand protection.

FSS provides sunflower-specific pest management solutions for growers, commercial storage facilities, oil processors, and seed operations.

Common Sunflower Storage Pests

Because sunflower seeds are high in oil content, temperature and moisture management are especially important to reduce pest and mold risks. Correct identification and monitoring are critical before selecting treatment strategies.

Sunflower Seed Fumigation Services

When infestations occur in bulk storage or processing facilities, fumigation may be required to eliminate all life stages. 

FSS supports sunflower storage with: 

  • Phosphine fumigation for bins and silos 
  • Monitoring and documentation 
  • Resistance-aware fumigation strategies 
  • Recirculation system consultation for larger bins 

Proper sealing and concentration monitoring are essential to achieving full control and preventing resistance development. 

We support: 

  • On-farm storage bins 
  • Commercial elevators handling sunflower 
  • Oil processing facilities 
  • Seed conditioning plants 

Empty Bin Preparation for Sunflower Storage

Prior to filling bins with sunflower seed: 

  • Remove all residual grain and fines 
  • Clean under floors and in aeration systems 
  • Apply residual insecticide treatments to interior surfaces 
  • Inspect structural sealing 

Because sunflower seed often follows cereal grain storage in mixed facilities, thorough cleaning is critical to prevent cross-infestation. 

FSS can assist with: 

  • Empty bin fumigation 
  • Residual treatment recommendations 
  • Structural inspection 
  • Monitoring setup 

Supporting the Sunflower Industry

FSS supports grain and oilseed industries through involvement in: 

Grain Elevator & Processing Society (GEAPS) 

National Grain & Feed Association 

Regional grain and seed industry groups 

We understand the operational and storage challenges unique to oilseed commodities in the Northern Plains. 

Shop Fumigants & Grain Protection Products

Prevention is often the most cost-effective strategy. FSS supplies grain protectants labeled for grain and oilseed, including Gravista® Insecticide, Diacon® IGR & Diacon®-D IGR, and Centynal™ EC + PBO-8.

Visit our online store to view available products.

Connect with a Sunflower Storage Specialist 

Visit our Ask the Expert page to speak directly with an FSS expert.

Plan it yourself with our free calculators.
Label-based application rates, exposure periods, and order quantities in minutes.
Fumigants are Restricted Use Pesticides — a current applicator license is required to purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pests affect stored sunflower seed?

Stored sunflower seed is mainly affected by the Indianmeal moth and various beetles that feed on the seed and its oil.

How should sunflowers be stored to prevent insects?

Store sunflowers clean, dry, and cool with good aeration, keep storage sanitized, and monitor regularly so problems are caught early.

Can sunflowers be fumigated and treated with protectants?

Yes. Sunflowers can be fumigated with phosphine when insects are present, and some protectants are labeled for oilseeds; always follow the product label.