In this paper, the authors describe an investigation undertaken in 1988 and 1989 to study the effectiveness of locally marketed desiccants, 'Bi-pyridinium' and 'Fomesafen', in allowing an early harvest of sunflowers without loss in seed yield, oil content and quality. The experiment was carried out after the method of randomized complete blocks in four replications. The two desiccants, in two doses, were applied at 5-day intervals 18, 23, 28, 33 and 38 days after the flower completion (DFC). The harvesting was conducted seven days later, i.e., at 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 DFC. The results of the investigation are presented in four tables and eight graphs.