OOLTEWAH, TN – The sunflower fields at Smith-Perry Berries in Ooltewah are usually a spectacle this time of year, but this season has brought challenges due to significant drought conditions in the Tennessee Valley.
Hamilton County, in particular, has experienced a rainfall deficit of approximately five inches compared to previous years. Aubie Smith, the proprietor of Smith-Perry Berries, laments the impact of this dry spell on their sunflower crop, which has received less than an inch of rain over the past six weeks.
“The sunflowers are blooming about a week to ten days earlier than usual due to the stress they’ve endured,” Smith notes. “This year, they’re noticeably shorter, and some are already starting to bloom prematurely.”
The drought not only stunts the sunflowers’ growth but also threatens wildlife that depends on them. Smith explains, “As the sunflowers droop and dry out without sufficient rain, the seeds drop, providing food for birds like blackbirds, sparrows, and sandhill cranes during winter. If we don’t get more rain, there might not be enough moisture to produce seeds for them.”
Sunflowers typically require around an inch of rainfall per week to reach their full height. However, Smith fears it may be too late for this year’s crop to recover fully. “Even if it rains now, they won’t grow any taller. They’re about to bloom,” he emphasizes.
Despite the challenges, Smith remains hopeful for some relief. “When it’s this dry, most of the rain just runs off like concrete. But at this point, any rain would be welcome,” he reflects optimistically.
While the sunflowers are still in bloom, families are encouraged to visit for memorable photos. For updates on the sunflower season at Smith-Perry Berries, visit their Facebook page.
