Sunflowers in Full Bloom in Saraburi and Lop Buri Provinces

(16/12/2012)

Bright yellow sunflowers dazzle visitors to Saraburi and Lop Buri provinces during this time of the year when the cool season arrives in Thailand. Both Saraburi and Lop Buri in the central region invite visitors to join their sunflower festivals from November 2012 to February 2013, when sunflowers are in full bloom and become a fantastic sight of the two provinces. The sunflower is a native plant of North America. It was first introduced to Thailand in 1978 and now this plant is grown in many areas in the country. In Saraburi, sunflower fields are found mainly at foothills in the districts of Kaeng Khoi, Muak Lek, Wang Muang, Phra Phutthabat, and Nong Don. In Lop Buri, they are found mainly in Mueang, Phatthana Nikhom, and Chai Badan districts. Originally, Thai people grew sunflowers as decorative plants. Later, they extracted oil from sunflower seeds, which have also become a favorite snack for many. Sunflower oil, which is said to contain high protein and low cholesterol, is extracted from sunflower seeds. The geographical features and climatic conditions of Saraburi and Lop Buri provinces are suitable for sunflowers which have become a cash crop there. Apart from promoting seasonal attractions, the organizing of the annual sunflower festivals in the two provinces is seen as a way to boost sunflower farming, as well. It is easy to grow this plant, as it does not require much care. Buyers from oil-extracting factories come to buy sunflower seeds from growers at their farms. Sunflowers can be used as an ingredient to produce soap and margarine, and sunflower meal can be made into animal feed. This plant can also be processed into various products, such as sunflower juice. During the sunflower festivals, both provinces will make known the best spots for photographers to get good pictures. Contests of sunflowers and sunflower photos will also be held. Close to each other, Saraburi province is only 108 kilometers from Bangkok, while Lop Buri is lying 154 kilometers north of Bangkok. Both provinces boast many cultural and natural attractions. For instance, there are vineyards open all year for visitors to Saraburi, especially Muak Lek district, where they can either taste fresh grapes and processed grape products such as wine, grape juice, and grape jam. Among major attractions in Lop Buri are the Three Pagodas, or Prang Sam Yot, a symbol of Lop Buri, and Pasak Jolasid Dam, which has emerged as a popular day trip for many tourists. Sunflowers in full bloom during this time of the year are turning Saraburi and Lop Buri into a flower paradise for visitors.