Describe the gray mold disease and it's symptoms in sunflower, (2) describe the maturity index of sunflower?

Gray mold disease in sunflowers is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. Symptoms of gray mold disease include grayish-brown lesions on leaves, stems, and flower heads. These lesions may be covered in a fuzzy gray mold and can eventually cause wilting and death of the plant.

The maturity index of sunflowers refers to the stage at which the seeds are fully developed and ready for harvest. This is typically determined by the color of the back of the sunflower head, which changes from green to yellow or brown as the seeds mature. Other indicators of maturity include the drying and drooping of the sunflower head, as well as the presence of black stripes on the seeds. Harvesting sunflowers at the correct maturity index ensures optimal seed quality and yield.