Sunflowers are more than just a photogenic crop in 2025-they're a strategic one. According to the latest certified crop data released August 1 by USDA's Farm Service Agency, U.S. sunflower acreage surged by 24%, far exceeding early season estimates. With 1.24 million acres planted nationwide, up from a projected 998,000 in June, sunflowers are outperforming expectations in both markets and fields.

North Dakota, the nation's longtime sunflower leader, accounted for 538,372 acres, nearly half the national total. But the sharpest gains came elsewhere: South Dakota jumped from 320,000 to 425,309 acres, and Kansas more than doubled expectations, planting 23,651 acres versus an estimated 10,000.

"Sunflowers really rose to the occasion," said John Sandbakken, Executive Director of the National Sunflower Association. He attributes the increase to one key factor: strong prices.

"When producers were planting, our new crop prices were very attractive," he noted. In fact, sunflower prices are up as much as $10 per hundredweight over last year, giving farmers a compelling incentive to plant amid tight oilseed stocks and volatile returns on corn, soybeans, and wheat.

This momentum follows a smaller 2024 sunflower crop, which drove sunflower oil prices upward, particularly in contrast to softer soybean oil markets. The result has been robust demand and favorable returns for growers.

"We're in a really good position," Sandbakken said. He added that market volatility stemming from the Ukraine-Russia conflict-historically a major factor in global sunflower exports-has eased, allowing U.S. growers to benefit from stable, supply-driven pricing.

Several states exceeded expectations: Colorado planted 68% more sunflower acres, Minnesota 14% more, and Texas 21% more than the June report suggested. Conversely, Nebraska and California planted 16% and 28% fewer acres, respectively. FSA data also listed over 40,000 acres in 'other' states, pointing to growing nationwide interest.

Crop health conditions also look favorable. Sandbakken reported that 70-80% of sunflower fields in North Dakota and Minnesota are rated good to excellent, with South Dakota growers sharing similar assessments. Pest pressure, notably from the red sunflower seed weevil, appears lower than in previous years.

By mid-August, an estimated 95-100% of the crop was in bloom, creating vivid, sweeping landscapes that double as a draw for agritourism. North and South Dakota tourism offices have embraced the boom, promoting sunflower trails and photo maps, with some fields even offering free seeds for visitors.

The National Sunflower Association supports these efforts, helping connect producers to tourism initiatives. "It's just a really good way to promote the crop to consumers," Sandbakken said. Tourists are advised to stay respectful of private property while capturing photos during the so-called "golden sun hours."