Sunflower cultivation is highly vulnerable to drought stress, which not only reduces yield but also negatively impacts oil accumulation in seeds. Glycine betaine has gained attention as a practical solution to help sunflowers sustain productivity under limited water availability.

As an osmoprotectant, glycine betaine stabilizes enzyme function and membrane integrity to support photosynthesis during periods of stress. This allows carbon assimilation and energy production to continue, both of which are critical for seed filling and oil synthesis. Research trials have demonstrated that foliar application of glycine betaine during the flowering and seed development stages can improve leaf water status, resulting in higher oil content and increased seed weight.

For growers in drought-prone regions, integrating glycine betaine into crop management represents a practical and cost-effective strategy to maintain stable yields and safeguard sunflower oil quality, even under challenging climate conditions.