Farmers Guardian
Arable

  • Kendall likens GM activists to 1930s nazis

    21 May 2012

    NFU President Peter Kendall has likened activists seeking to destroy the UK’s first genetically modified (GM) wheat to Nazis in the 1930s.

  • Fusarium threat if crops lodge

    21 May 2012

    FUSARIUM isolation data from the five CropMonitor fusarium live monitoring sites are showing stem base and leaf layer levels of microdochium nivale, at this stage of the season, to be the highest since 2008.  

  • Nature-friendly farming could open up new markets

    20 May 2012

    THE North West Brown Hare Project is linking up with Conservation Grade to promote nature- friendly farming in the North West and open up new grain markets for the region’s growers.

  • Disease threat adds to potato planting woes

    19 May 2012

    COLD, wet weather is continuing to hamper potato planting, with total plantings to May 4 standing at 76,080 hectares (187,918 acres) compared with 118,800ha (293,436 acres) at the same point last season.

  • Focus on keeping flag leaf clean in high disease season

    18 May 2012

    WITH T2 fungicide sprays under way in some regions, growers are being urged to treat septoria with respect in a season in which disease pressure is proving to be the highest seen for several years.

  • Do not allow spring delays to alter your T3 plans

    17 May 2012

    THE weather may have severely disrupted many fungicide strategies and heightened disease pressure this season but growers still need to think ahead to further sprays.

  • Shortage of fungicide products a real concern

    16 May 2012

    CONCERNS are mounting in the combinable crops sector over the prospect of shortages of key fungicide products as the season progresses.

  • Be mindful of chlorpyrifos as OWBM monitoring begins

    16 May 2012

    ORANGE wheat blossom midge (OWBM) monitoring has begun and, despite low levels of overwintering midge cocoons expected in soils, growers are being urged to use low drift nozzles and adhere to extended buffer zones.

  • £6.8m plant research site opened in Wales

    15 May 2012

    A NEW £6.8 million world leading research facility is one of two major developments officially unveiled in Wales this week.

  • MPs urge Government caution on GM crops

    14 May 2012

    AN INFLUENTIAL committee of MPs has called on the Government to refrain from licensing genetically modified (GM) crops until their benefits have been proved.

  • New crop milling wheat premiums are sustainable

    14 May 2012

    A feature of the 2011-2012 grain markets has been the fall in the milling wheat premiums, but some advisers believe this is a one off and growers should not ignore the potential premiums available for the coming season.

  • Bolting threat to beet if temperatures stay cool

    13 May 2012

    BOLTING levels could be higher in sugar beet crops than in recent seasons if temperatures remain cool over the next few weeks, the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) is advising growers.

  • Early slug control planning needed after wet weather

    12 May 2012

    KEEPING metaldehyde out of surface water has been a priority for advisers, farmers and operators over the last two years - and it is a trend which must continue as the current wet weather stimulates slug activity.

  • Carrot fly active has resistance management role

    12 May 2012

    CARROT growers have a new option for carrot fly control after the Horticultural Development Company (HDC) secured an Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) for the use of Coragen on carrots.

  • Scottish potatoes remain free from dickeya

    12 May 2012

    THE 2011/12 post harvest tuber survey for potato pathogen dickeya has been completed and all samples tested were found free of infection, Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) has announced.

  • OSR fungicide programmes keep disease at bay

    11 May 2012

    WITH Scottish oilseed rape crops part-way through what is expected to be a prolonged flowering period, the sclerotinia risk is heightened, but conditions have been too wet for petal stick and temperatures too low for infection.

  • Lower dose rate for new Shield 400 formulation

    11 May 2012

    SUGAR beet growers who have been using Dow Shield (clopyralid) for a number of years to control difficult and competitive weeds, such as volunteer potatoes, are reminded the new more-concentrated formulation, Dow Shield 400, contains twice as much clopyralid and so should be applied at half the dose rate per hectare.

  • New chairmen at AHDB

    11 May 2012

    HGCA board member Mike Hambly will take over as chairman of the British Cereal Exports advisory committee from November. The committee advises the HGCA board on export promotion activity.

  • New disease app for the iPhone

    11 May 2012

    BASF’S Cereal Disease ID app for iPhone users has been developed as a mobile form of the BASF and HGCA Encyclopedia of Cereal Diseases.

  • Blight special: An integrated approach to help control of alternaria in potatoes

    May 11, 2012

    Use of decision support systems could help to improve alternaria control in potato crops, trials results from SAC have indicated.

  • Blight special: 'Fight against blight' campaign highlights outgrade pile links

    May 11, 2012

    AS part of the Potato Council’s ‘Fight against blight’ campaign, the mapping of late blight outbreaks has demonstrated outgrade piles remain a significant source of blight in potato crops.

  • Multiple role for multisite fungicide in blight strategy

    May 11, 2012

    WITH late blight becoming more aggressive, new strains developing and the threat of early blight (alternaria) increasing in potatoes, there is evidence growers are increasingly turning to multisite fungicide mancozeb, according to a leading expert.

  • 4,000 people back campaign to protect GM wheat trial

    10 May 2012

    AROUND 4,000 people, including high profile celebrities, MPs, farmers and scientists, have signed a petition urging protestors not to destroy a genetically modified (GM) wheat trial.

  • Plan ahead to protect grain stores

    10 May 2012

    GROWERS are being advised a preventative approach to grain store preparation will be key this season as pest population levels pose a heightened risk.

  • Seven figure barley grant for James Hutton Institute

    9 May 2012

    THE Scottish leading plant research station, the James Hutton Institute, has been awarded £1.25 million for four research projects looking at the quality and reliability of malting barley.

  • Saturated ground delays Scottish T1 barley sprays

    9 May 2012

    Adverse weather over the past six weeks has taken its toll on crop health and development in many areas of the UK, especially in Scotland, where a lack of viable spraying days resulting from saturated ground is a cause for concern.

  • Blight special: Keeping ahead of blight still vital

    7 May 2012

    No grower can afford to allow blight into a potato crop. Teresa Rush met up with the field director of a leading potato supply business to get some practical advice.

  • Three new beet varieties top adjusted tonnes on RL

    6 May 2012

    FIVE new sugar beet varieties have been added to the British Beet Research Organisation’s Recommended List of sugar beet varieties for 2013.

  • Changes to seed potato terms boost confidence

    4 May 2012

    THE British Potato Trade Association (BPTA) this week launched revised terms and conditions surrounding the sale and purchase of seed potatoes, providing growers with much-needed confidence that claims for contamination will be dealt with effectively.

  • Current weather slows beet growth to a crawl

    4 May 2012

    Cool, wet weather conditions have been less than ideal for sugar beet growth, says the BBRO.

  • GM protestors pledge to press on with 'direct action'

    3 May 2012

    PROTESTORS threatening to destroy a trial of genetically modified (GM) wheat later this month have made it clear they have no intention of backing down, following a plea from the scientists behind the trials.

  • Extended flowering prolongs sclerotinia risk period in OSR

    3 May 2012

    THE unsettled weather and cool temperatures will complicate decisions on sclerotinia sprays in oilseed rape, experts involved in a collaborative research project to tackle the disease are advising.

  • Biofuels policy too reliant on imports, claims NFU

    3 May 2012

    THE NFU has slammed the Government’s ‘poor policy making’ on biofuels, after the latest figures revealed nine out of every 10 litres is made from imported feedstock.

  • Scientists urge protestors not to trash GM trials

    2 May 2012

    SCIENTISTS involved in the genetically modified (GM) wheat trial currently taking place in Hertfordshire have urged protestors not go ahead with plans to trash the site.

  • In search of better cereal crops

    1 May 2012

    NEW funding has recently been announced for nine separate research projects which are all aimed at delivering improvements in the main UK combinable crops.

  • Wettest April on record hits UK crop yields

    1 May 2012

    THE wet weather shows no sign of letting up as forecasters predict even more rain, with the south of England being worst hit.

  • Sclerotinia alert as risk to OSR crop increases

    29 April 2012

    GROWERS are being advised the sclerotinia risk in oilseed rape is increasing as a result of recent rain and increasing temperatures.

  • T1 fungicide timings slip as sprayers dodge April showers

    28 April 2012

    CONCERNS over the lack of rain may have dominated the headlines in recent weeks but the problem is, perversely, now one of too much rain as growers attempt to apply vital T1 fungicide sprays to winter wheat.

  • Improving the efficiency of nitrogen use

    27 April 2012

    A Nuffield ‘Fertiliser for the Future’ conference at Harper Adams University College examined opportunities for agriculture to reduce its reliance on manufactured fertilisers.

  • Information sheet to aid no-till decisions

    April 27, 2012

    HGCA has issued new information to aid decision making on adoption of no-till cultivations.

  • Mobile accurate weed identification

    26 April 2012

    BASF and ADAS have developed a weed identification app for iPhone users, which also gauges how widespread these weeds have become on the farm.

  • EU leaders thrash out plans for CAP revisions

    26 April 2012

    EUROPEAN farming union presidents have been gathering in Paris to discuss areas of mutual agreement and lobbying opportunities over the proposed Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) reform.

  • Saddle gall midge now active in cereal crops

    26 April 2012

    SADDLE gall midge larvae have been detected at monitoring sites and pupation is under way, according to the latest Pestwatch report.

  • Farm safety day in Somerset attracts the crowds

    25 April 2012

    THE number of fatal accidents on farms last year was more than three times higher than the UK industry average.

  • £4m project to give UK cereals a boost

    25 April 2012

    A £4M project aimed at improving cereals has been announced by the Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

  • New foliar fertiliser launched

    25 April 2012

    FOLIAR applied potassium fertiliser K-Leaf dissolves three times faster than alternative soluble potassium sulphate formulations, offering farmers and growers a practical solution to ensure potassium and sulphur can be applied to crops in a readily available form, says Solufeed.

  • Free soil analysis for BCN

    25 April 2012

    ?SUGAR beet growers concerned about levels of beet cyst nematodes in their beet fields are being offered a free soil sample and laboratory analysis when they place an order for the BCN tolerant sugar beet variety Annouschka KWS.

  • LEAF expands its centre of excellence network

    25 April 2012

    SUFFOLK arable farmers E.J. Barker and Sons are the latest entrants to LEAF’s (Linking Environment And Farming) network of demonstration farms.

  • Red Tractor showcases link to Olympic Games

    24 April 2012

    A five-day, UK-wide initiative is being launched by Red Tractor on Monday (April 30) to celebrate its link to the 2012 Olympic Games.

  • Reduce nitrogen dependency, says report

    23 April 2012

    THE Government is being urged to reduce the UK’s dependency on manufactured nitrogen and look at using it more efficiently.

  • Rainfall buys time for weed control in beet

    23 April 2012

    RECENT rainfall will have activated pre-emergence herbicides where they have been applied to sugar beet and will buy some time where post-emergence herbicides are delayed, says the BBRO.

  • Potato planting halted on heavier land

    22 April 2012

    APRIL showers have provided much needed moisture in many regions but have also interrupted potato planting on heavier soils, says the Potato Council.

  • Leading food industry figure calls for GM rethink

    21 April 2012

    A LEADING representative of the food manufacturing sector has called for a major rethink on attitudes towards GM technology in the UK and Europe.

  • Monitoring aphid resistance to neonicotinoids in-field

    21 April 2012

    A new project gets under way this season to monitor the UK population of myzus persicae (peach potato) aphids for resistance to neonicotinoid insecticides.

  • European Ombudsman opens neonicotinoids investigation

    20 April 2012

    THE European Ombudsman has opened an investigation into whether the European Commission has taken appropriate measures to combat increased bee mortality in the EU, which is potentially linked to certain insecticides.

  • Cost-effective soil sampling strategies

    20 April 2012

    BEST practice techniques for soil sampling have been revisited as part of an HGCA-funded research project on cost-effective soil sampling strategies (Project 3189).

  • Wildlife benefits of hemp crop revealed

    20 April 2012

    A recent study by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), has found hemp, in addition to becoming a profitable crop for growers, is also a highly prized crop for swallows and whitethroat.

  • Removal of tax incentives a blow to drought battle - Kendall

    19 April 2012

    NFU president Peter Kendall has said it is ‘insane’ farmers cannot write off tax against the construction of on-farm reservoirs.

  • Saddle gall midge alert

    19 April 2012

    SADDLE gall midge larvae have been detected at monitoring sites and pupation is under way, according to the latest Pestwatch report.

  • Yellow rust threat to triticale

    19 April 2012

    YELLOW rust has been the focus of much attention in the UK this season but in Denmark, triticale growers are already facing the prospect of significant crop losses as a result of the disease.

  • Red Tractor crops scheme enters final stage

    18 April 2012

    THE updated Red Tractor farm assurance scheme for crops and sugar beet is on the verge of being officially accepted EU-wide in time for this year’s harvest.

  • RPA opens call centres at weekends to help farmers

    17 April 2012

    FROM this Saturday (April 21), the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) customer service centre will be available at weekends and some public holidays to help those farmers and food producers who have yet to submit their 2012 Single Payment Scheme (SPS) applications.

  • Cereal growers share in success of Scotch whisky

    17 April 2012

    Success stories are few and far between in this time of recession, but the Scottish distilling industry, supplied by Scottish cereal growers, is thriving.

  • Seventeen counties now officially in drought

    16 April 2012

    AS large parts of the Midlands and South West England are today (Monday, April 16) officially declared in drought, Environment Agency Wales said it is also concerned for river levels - particularly in the east of Wales.

  • Winning the battle against blight

    16 April 2012

    THE weather, an unpredictable entity, is the number one factor in determining how significant blight will be to this season’s crops.

  • UK will be left behind if it ignores GM, claims MP

    14 April 2012

    THE UK will price itself out of the global market if it does not embrace biotechnology.

  • GM crops can help feed the world, WFU conference told

    12 April 2012

    TECHNOLOGY including genetic modification (GM) must be considered as the UK battles to increase food production sustainably.

  • Farmers thankful for April showers

    11 April 2012

    THE April showers which drenched parts of the country over the past week have come as a welcome break to arable farmers.

  • Disease control in limiting drought stress in winter wheat

    11 April 2012

    IF and at what point fungicide programmes for winter wheat should be adjusted in a dry season are the subjects of ongoing debate, but experts say some programmes may help crops cope.

  • Early nitrogen availability key to maintaining tiller numbers

    11 April 2012

    ?BRING forward nitrogen applications to winter wheat and maintain rates in prolonged periods of dry weather, even if crops are forward and highly tillered, agronomists are advising.

  • Low rainfall season decimates crop yields

    11 April 2012

    ?SUFFOLK estate manager Andrew Blenkiron is well acquainted with the effects of drought.

  • Dying bees could cost £1.8 billion-a-year, charity claims

    11 April 2012

    IT would cost the UK £1.8 billion each year to hand-pollinate crops without bees – 20 per cent more than previously thought – according to new research launched today by Friends of the Earth (FoE).

  • Improving OSR output to achieve best market value

    10 April 2012

    Greater precision has been paying increasingly good dividends across the 6,000 hectares (14,820 acres) of oilseed rape grown annually by The Co-operative Farms, the business’ head of arable operations has told FG.

  • Evidence of aphid activity during mild winter as signs of BYDV appear

    9 April 2012

    LATE migrations and continued development of aphids during the mild, early winter months has led to high levels of barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) in cereal crops this spring.

  • Epitrix emergency measures

    8 April 2012

    ?EMERGENCY measures to protect European Union potato crops against epitrix or potato flea beetle are expected to take effect from May 2012, according to the Food and Environment Research Agency.

  • Angled nozzles can help improve disease control and yields

    7 April 2012

    ?Agronomy advice and supply business Agrovista has put together best practice spray guidelines for T0 to T2 wheat fungicide applications this season, based on results from its own application trials.

  • Arable crop fertiliser applications broadly stable

    7 April 2012

    ?THE latest British survey of fertiliser practice carried out by Defra reveals a small increase in nitrogen applied to arable crops between 2010 and 2011, while applications of phosphate and potash remained unchanged.

  • NFUS opposes diffuse pollution rule changes

    6 April 2012

    THE NFU Scotland has ‘strongly opposed’ some of the Scottish Government’s proposals for changes to the General Binding Rules covering diffuse pollution.

  • Higher populations of spring germinating wild oats require treatment

    6 April 2012

    ?WITH reports of higher than normal spring germinating wild oats showing up in wheat, growers should plan which fields would warrant a herbicide application later on this spring.

  • New technology solution for OSR weed control

    6 April 2012

    ?Herbicide-tolerant oilseed rape varieties available commercially for the first time for drilling this autumn will be a welcome addition to the agronomy toolbox for growers struggling to cope with difficult-to-control weeds, believes one Kent farmer. Teresa Rush finds out more.

  • Frost damage advantage to chocolate spot infections

    6 April 2012

    ?CHOCOLATE spot symptoms being found on winter bean plants is the result of frost damage predisposing the plants to disease, or where bean plants are very vigorous, says the PGRO.

  • Sprayer washout essential to protect crops

    6 April 2012

    ?DO not put crops at risk of contamination or damage by compromising on sprayer hygiene this spring.

  • Cost efficiencies key while maintaining septoria control

    5 April 2012

    With higher rainfall than seen in the eastern counties arable heartland, septoria is without doubt the driver for disease control in wheat for Dorset-based Sentry regional manager Richard Peck, who manages arable enterprises across four farms located between Blandford Forum and Dorchester.

  • Treat and tackle active yellow rust now

    4 April 2012

    WITH levels of active yellow rust currently increasing dramatically across a wide range of varieties, growers are being advised to get on top of disease as early as possible.

  • Defra denies claims it is failing on the environment

    3 April 2012

    DEFRA has refuted claims that it is failing on a promise to reduce the impact of UK farming on our environment.

  • Forage based protein research underway in £2m project

    3 April 2012

    SCIENTISTS at Aberystwyth University are addressing the UK protein deficit through a five-year research project valued at £2.15 million.

  • Assessing the income effect of fungicide inputs

    3 April 2012

    Fungicides, applied correctly and at the correct timing, provide one of the cheapest ways to raise yield and quality and assure a level of consistency, making them one of the most efficient inputs in a grower’s toolbox.

  • Drought and frost could hit EU cereal yields, EU farmers warn

    2 April 2012

    EU farming representatives have warned that ‘severe drought’ and frost could have a profound impact on EU cereal yields this year.

  • England needs double normal summer rainfall, say experts

    2 April 2012

    SOUTHERN England needs twice as much rainfall over the summer than normal to get back to expected levels, experts have said.

  • Defra extends CFE funding

    2 April 2012

    DEFRA has agreed to extend funding for the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) for the rest of this year.

  • Be ready to take action against eyespot in maize

    31 March 2012

    EYESPOT in maize could be a big problem for growers this year following high levels of the disease in 2011.

  • Multi million pound biomass project is launched

    30 March 2012

    A £20 million initiative is under way in Wales that could open up new commercial avenues for farmers able to grow crops such as ryegrass, oats, miscanthus and other “greens”.

  • Farmers could be forced to reinstate permanent pasture - RPA

    30 March 2012

    THE Rural Payment Agency (RPA) has warned it might have to force farmers in England to return land back to permanent pasture if the current decline in this category of land continues.

  • Drought spreads north after scorching week

    30 March 2012

    FARMERS up and down the UK were left praying for rain this week as drought conditions spread to the north of England.

  • Early aphid alert issued

    March 30, 2012

    PEACH potato, grain and rose-grain aphids appeared much earlier than expected, according to the latest HGCA aphid news bulletin.

  • Lodging risk in thick, forward crops

    March 30, 2012

    THICK forward cereal crops this spring are at high risk from both root and stem lodging, making the use of growth regulators essential.

  • Precision management in the farming environment

    March 30, 2012

    PRECISION farming can deliver environmental and economic benefits, a team of RSPB researchers and advisers heard at a workshop at the RSPB’s Hope Farm in Cambridgeshire.

  • Sclerotinia epidemic threat is increasing

    March 30, 2012

    ?FURTHER development of sclerotinia is being reported in oilseed rape, including the first record from the Terrington monitoring site in Norfolk, according to the BASF/ADAS sclerotinia monitoring service.

  • Speeding up of breeding for drought and disease resistance

    March 30, 2012

    A NEW EU-funded project with the aim of speeding the development of drought and disease resistant crops is underway at the Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera).

  • Task force meets to tackle plant health fees increases

    March 30, 2012

    THE inaugural meeting of a new Plant Health Task Force takes place next month.

  • Teagasc applies for GM potato field study

    29 March 2012

    IRISH research and advisory organisation Teagasc is applying for a licence to carry out field studies using GM potatoes resistant to potato late blight.

  • Ciolos criticised over lack of CAP 'set-aside' detail

    29 March 2012

    THE European Commission has been criticised for refusing to reveal what type of land will be eligible for the ‘set aside’ areas proposed under its Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform package.

  • Prepare to tackle eyespot in maize crops

    29 March 2012

    EYESPOT in maize could be a big problem for growers this year following high levels of the disease in 2011.

  • Two gangmaster defendants order to pay £1,300 costs

    28 March 2012

    TWO defendants in the long-running gangmaster legal case have been ordered to pay more than £1,000 in costs.

  • GM wheat which repels aphids is planted at Rothamsted

    28 March 2012

    WHEAT plants which have been genetically engineered to produce an aphid alarm pheromone to repel the pests have gone into a field trial at Rothamsted.

  • Yorkshire now officially in drought

    28 March 2012

    AREAS of Yorkshire are now officially in drought, the Environment Agency announced today (Wednesday, March 28).

  • Threat of sclerotinia epidemic in OSR increasing

    26 March 2012

    FURTHER development of sclerotinia is being reported in oilseed rape, including the first record from the Terrington monitoring site in Norfolk, according to the BASF/ADAS sclerotinia monitoring service.

  • 'Anything on wheels' at risk from criminals, police warn

    26 March 2012

    THE countryside was facing targeted thefts by organised crime gangs, farmers were warned at a Lancashire Police conference on Thursday (March 22).

  • Agriculture must have fair access to water - NFU

    23 March 2012

    AS the UK is set for another warm and dry weekend, the NFU has highlighted the importance of ensuring agriculture has fair access to water, amid increased competition during drought conditions.

  • Alternative strategy to limit resistance

    March 23, 2012

    A NEW approach to broad-leaved weed control in spring cereals, based on fluoxypyr and florasulam, can simplify herbicide programmes and help limit the risk of herbicide resistance developing, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • Collaborative approach to finding efficiencies in cultivation systems

    March 23, 2012

    A NEW collaboration between agronomy and research organisation NIAB TAG and machinery manufacturer Amazone aims to provide farmers with practical, relevant information on the costs, efficiencies and agronomy impacts of different cultivation systems.

  • Focus on septoria at T1 despite recent low levels

    23 March 2012

    Rust has dominated the headlines in recent seasons, giving rise to concerns over a loss of focus on septoria tritici, the prime yield robber in wheat. Teresa Rush reports on the options for control this season.

  • NMR production report shows average SCC has fallen

    March 23, 2012

    AVERAGE somatic cell counts and calving intervals have dropped for the first time in a decade, NMR’s annual production report for the year ending September 2011, has revealed.

  • Risk from leatherjackets in cereals low this season

    March 23, 2012

    THE latest leatherjacket Pestwatch survey indicates a low to medium risk in cereals and generally low risk in grassland, with the exception of Yorkshire and certain regions in Scotland.

  • Sugar beet seeds business SESVanderHave UK unveils its team

    March 23, 2012

    SUGAR beet seed business SESVanderHave has announced the team for its newly-formed UK operation.

  • Target black-grass in maize this spring

    March 23, 2012

    ARABLE farmers in the eastern counties growing maize crops for AD power plants or livestock feed have the opportunity to target black-grass weeds with an alternative herbicide mode of action using a pre-emergence treatment.

  • Time for action as temperatures rise

    March 23, 2012

    WITH temperatures rising there is a need to tackle both established and newly-emerging black-grass, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • No impact of factory fire on September beet campaign

    22 March 2012

    SERVICE at British Sugar’s Cantley factory has resumed after a fire ripped through the plant.

  • Hybrids topping the list for 2012 drilling

    22 March 2012

    “A number of key influences have seen hybrids selling more quickly this year,” says Beckii Gibbs, seed manager at United Oilseeds. 

  • Aphids are expected early but virus risk to sugar beet is low

    22 March 2012

    FORECASTS from Rothamsted Research based on average temperatures in January and February indicate spring migrations of virus yellows-carrying myzus persicae (peach potato) aphids are expected to be a little earlier in date, and higher in number, compared with the long-term average.

  • Clawing back £75m of yield lost annually to septoria tritici

    22 March 2012

    Allowing septoria tritici to gain a foothold on 5 per cent of leaf 2 could cut bottom line margins for UK winter wheat by £75 million this season.

  • Potato planting progresses well

    22 March 2012

    POTATO growers are making good progress with planting in generally favourable weather.

  • Regional look at wheat disease control strategy

    22 March 2012

    Disease pressure and variety selection can often differ significantly between regions. Teresa Rush found out what these differences mean for disease control in practice from agronomists based in three different areas of the UK, during a BASF-hosted discussion.

  • No Russian wheat ban this year

    21 March 2012

    HAVING peaked in excess of  £172.50/tonne earlier this week, wheat futures on the London exchange were back to £170/t on Wednedsay morning.

  • Be vigilant for first signs of pollen beetle

    21 March 2012

    THE first sightings of pollen beetles have been reported, but as yet numbers are low and well below threshold levels.

  • ‘Virtual’ trials tour to help with fungicide decisions

    21 March 2012

    A WEBSITE which allows visitors to take a tour of ‘virtual trials’, offering information and data on disease control and yield comparisons in wheat from a range of fungicides, has just gone live.

  • Mildew risk in cereals

    21 March 2012

    IN spite of the dramatic swings in temperature experienced in recent weeks, cereal crops are still showing signs of active mildew, says Certis’ technical manager, Tudor Dawkins.

  • Strong case made for strobilurins at T1?

    20 March 2012

    With new SDHI fungicides staking their claim to the T2 timing in winter wheat, an opportunity arises to utilise one of the two strobilurin sprays permitted in a season at the GS31/32 (T1) timing.

  • Farmers tackle environment issues in Brussels

    19 March 2012

    A GROUP of UK farmers are heading to Brussels this week to call for greater support for wildlife conservation in our countryside.

  • Miscanthus DNA sequenced at Aberystwyth

    19 March 2012

    A significant breakthrough in the development of miscanthus as an energy crop has been achieved by researchers at Aberystwyth University’s Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences and USA-based, Ceres.

  • Fewer choices to tackle yellow rust issue

    19 March 2012

    Changes in rust ratings mean varietal resistances can change rapidly. Teresa Rush finds out more.

  • Beet drills make good progress as dry weather prevails

    March 16, 2012

    SUGAR beet drilling could be up to 50 per cent completed by the end of this week if the run of dry weather continues despite the stop/start progress to the campaign in East Anglia.

  • New topic sheet for yellow rust available

    March 16, 2012

    NEW information on reducing and managing the threat from yellow rust in wheat has been included in an updated version of the HGCA yellow rust Topic Sheet (Topic Sheet 112).

  • Rain arrives just in time for vining pea planting

    March 16, 2012

    DRILLING is underway in good conditions for Norfolk and Suffolk members of vining pea producer group Anglian Pea Growers.

  • Soil nitrogen supply is very variable

    March 16, 2012

    EXTRA care with fertiliser management will be required this spring following one of the driest winters on record.

  • Developing green business technologies and opportunities

    15 March 2012

    WELSH Assembly Environment Minister John Griffiths has visited a new facility which will collaborate with local companies to develop green business technologies and opportunities.

  • Sclerotinia service goes live in possible high risk year

    15 March 2012

    THE web-based sclerotinia monitoring service run by ADAS and BASF goes live this week for the 2012 season in what is a potentially early disease pressure year.

  • Soft rot in OSR taproots

    14 March 2012

    PATCHES of oilseed rape plants with a soft rot of the taproot have been found in some crops in south Lincolnshire, says ADAS.

  • Follow chlorpyrifos guidelines on spring cereals after grass

    14 March 2012

    GROWERS are being reminded about the importance of stewardship measures when applying chlorpyrifos to protect spring-sown cereals against leatherjacket attack.

  • England and Wales plantings up as Scottish area falls

    14 March 2012

    GOOD autumn planting conditions and relatively strong forward prices have resulted in a 5 per cent increase in the area of winter cereals and oilseed rape planted in England and Wales this season compared with last, according to the latest estimate from HGCA.

  • EU attacked after GM rule relaxation hits deadlock

    13 March 2012

    FARM experts have criticised the EU after ministers failed to agree to let individual countries decide whether to allow genetically modified (GM) crops.

  • Precision in every aspect has aided farm business growth

    13 March 2012

    It has been an impressive road of expansion for Colin McGregor whose astuteness now ensures business comes to him, and not the other way round.

  • Measures to combat drought welcomed by NFU

    13 March 2012

    THE NFU has welcomed measures designed to minimise the impacts of potential water shortages this summer.  

  • Hosepipe bans announced from April

    12 March 2012

    HOSEPIPE bans will come into force next month as the south of England battles against drought conditions.

  • BBC Panorama programme 'missed the point' - say experts

    9 March 2012

    BBC Panorama’s exposé on the Common Agricultural Policy may have spotted a loophole in the subsidy system - but missed where the money comes from and that farm subsidies are taxed.

  • Caution required as N-Min testing reveals wide ranging results

    March 9, 2012

    AGRONOMY and agchem distribution business Hutchinsons is advising growers to plan nitrogen and plant growth regulator programmes carefully this spring, after N-Min testing conducted by the company revealed a large variation in results.

  • Sugar beet drilling under way

    8 March 2012

    SUGAR beet drilling is well underway for the 2012/13 crop, although recent wet weather has meant stop/start progress for some early drillers, while other have held off waiting for a more prolonged dry period.

  • Scottish farmers could receive £25m cash 'bonanza' - Lyon

    8 March 2012

    SCOTTISH farmers could receive an unexpected £25 million cash boost to their Single Farm Payment (SFP) next year as the current EU CAP financing comes to an end in December 2012.

  • Common ground between Scotland and UK over CAP reform

    8 March 2012

    NFU Scotland chiefs have met with Defra to outline common ground in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform negotiations.

  • Plant breeding to take centre stage as pesticides enter ‘twilight era’?

    8 March 2012

    PLANT breeding constraints imposed through the cereal variety testing system and the end of the ‘pesticides era’ were among the topics touched on by leading academics at the RASE President’s Seminar.

  • Saving money is driver for investment in renewable energy

    7 March 2012

    GROWERS contemplating investing in renewable energy need to start thinking about the overall use of electricity on their farm to determine the financial benefit of an installation.

  • Returns from long-term potato storage only in high price years?

    7 March 2012

    TIME spent assessing the crop is time well spent, said North Norfolk potato grower Tony Bambridge, speaking at Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research.

  • Stick to guidelines to protect use of CIPC in stored potatoes

    7 March 2012

    WITH the Government starting to target pesticide risk areas with better technology, use of sprout suppressant CIPC in stored potatoes is increasingly coming under the spotlight.

  • Good store practice will help limit dickeya spread in potatoes

    7 March 2012

    The Potato Council staged a ‘Storage Forum (East)’ at its Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research station. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • RPA hits SPS targets but 3,000 farmers still waiting

    7 March 2012

    THE Rural Payments Agency (RPA) has already met EU targets to pay more than 95 per cent of the Single Payment Scheme (SPS) by the end of June.

  • Pea and bean weevil notching activity likely to increase

    6 March 2012

    PEA and bean weevil notching is present on winter bean plants and activity is likely to increase as temperatures rise.

  • Farmer receives owl award

    6 March 2012

    GLOUCESTERSHIRE farmer Mark Tufnell has been honoured for his exceptional contribution to barn owl conservation, made und-er the Conservation Grade ‘Nature Friendly Farming’ programme.

  • Plans to protect irrigation water supplies welcomed

    6 March 2012

    THE NFU has welcomed Environment Agency (EA) plans to help farmers fill irrigation reservoirs over the winter abstraction season.

  • Record yields for sugar beet growers

    6 March 2012

    UK sugar beet growers have once again achieved record yields – the fourth time records have been broken in seven years.

  • Bayer trials reveal yield penalty increases as herbicide application is delayed

    March 2, 2012

    NEW analysis of trials data shows delaying applications of grass-weed herbicide Atlantis WG (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron) can increase yield penalties dramatically, says Bayer CropScience.

  • Clear potential for improving OSR weed control

    March 2, 2012

    NEW herbicide technology for the control of weeds in oilseed rape is now available to growers in the UK and could offer increased flexibility, especially where infestations of broad-leaved weeds charlock and runch are concerned.

  • Clearfield – what the breeder says

    March 2, 2012

    HAVING received news the Clearfield hybrid oilseed rape variety Clifton CL achieved National Listing this week, LSPB’s managing director Theo Labuda says the variety is the first of several the plant breeder is developing.

  • Early contracts available for 2013 on HEAR varieties

    March 2, 2012

    TWO high yielding specialist High Erucic Acid Rape (HEAR) varieties are now widely available for the erucimide market.

  • Pre-em weed control with potato herbicide and desiccant

    March 2, 2012

    NEWLY registered herbicide and desiccation product, Quickdown, approved for use in potatoes, will provide a much-needed additional solution for pre-emergence weed control this spring, says Certis.

  • Decision time on potato plantings as questions remain over water supplies

    1 March 2012

    WITH soil moisture deficits commonplace and reservoir and ground water levels low, potato growers could be facing some difficult decisions in terms of water restrictions impacting their crops this season.

  • UK farmers 'well placed' to grow food for fuel

    29 February 2012

    UK agriculture has an important role to play in biofuel production and farming must be ‘intensified’ to gain the maximum from the land, experts told a biofuels conference.

  • Arable technology plays a vital role on mixed enterprise

    29 February 2012

    For Staffordshire farmer Roger Hopley, the arable side of his business works hand-in-hand with the livestock enterprise.

  • Pulse crops will pay in 2012

    29 February 2012

    IT will pay to plant beans and peas this spring is the message from pulse organisations as growers finalise decisions on spring cropping.

  • The role of weeds in farm ‘food webs’

    28 February 2012

    PLANTS often regarded as common weeds, such as thistles, buttercups and clover, could be critical in safeguarding fragile food webs on UK farms, according to scientists.

  • Rising trend in farmland values goes on

    28 February 2012

    SURGING demand for commercial farmland has driven prices to record levels for the third consecutive six-month period, according to the latest RICS rural land market survey.

  • Aiming for a clean start for your 2012 sugar beet crop

    28 February 2012

    Sugar beet drilling will shortly be underway and with it the need to firm up weed control programmes. Teresa Rush asked the experts at Broom’s Barn for an update.

  • SMN testing is critical part of Suffolk farm’s agronomy

    26 February 2012

    While the debate continues as to the cost effectiveness of soil mineral nitrogen (SMN) testing Dominic Kilburn speaks to a Suffolk milling wheat grower who is sure of its benefits.

  • Search is on for champion milling wheat grower 2012

    26 February 2012

    MILLERS’ organisation nabim, supported by HGCA, is encouraging wheat growers to enter the 2012 Milling Wheat Challenge to find the country’s best milling wheat grower.

  • Laying solid disease control foundations with T0 fungicide is key to reducing risk

    25 February 2012

    ?For many growers T0 is a routine component of a disease control programme in wheat, but for some T1 remains the starting point. As the spring disease control season approaches Teresa Rush asks what are the key considerations at T0, at a roundtable discussion hosted by Bayer CropScience.

  • Spray nozzle choice for fungicide applications

    24 February 2012

    A small droplet air induction nozzle remains the nozzle of choice for fungicide applications from growth stage 24 (GS24) onwards, HGCA-funded work has concluded.

  • Spring spraying: Manage lodging early to prevent OSR yield losses

    24 February 2012

    ?Lush and forward oilseed rape crops are a feature in fields across the country following good autumn establishment and a relatively mild winter, but growers need to plan ahead to avoid considerable yield losses from lodging later this season. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Best malting barley grower sought

    February 24, 2012

    MALTSTERS organisation MAGB has launched it Malting Barley Grower competition for 2012.

  • Bill Clark joins NIAB

    February 24, 2012

    DISEASE control expert Bill Clark is to join NIAB in the role of commercial technical director for NIAB TAG, based at the Cambridge office.

  • Latest nematicide guidelines aim to minimise tuber residues

    February 24, 2012

    NEW stewardship guidelines for nematicide Nemathorin (fosthiazate) use have been issued to help maintain protection of growing crops from all key soil pests, as well as to minimise the risk of residues in tubers at harvest.

  • Tradition runs alongside modern on historical estate

    February 24, 2012

    ?It is not just history which is affiliated with Euston Estate in Suffolk. Farm manager Matthew Hawthorne began as a student and is now responsible for its progression into the future. Clemmie Gleeson reports.

  • Norfolk MP sets out food vision

    23 February 2012

    MID Norfolk MP George Freeman will set out a bold vision of how his county’s agricultural science and innovation can help it play a leading role in the revolution required to feed a growing world population.

  • Crop roots can be revealed in detail

    22 February 2012

    SCIENTISTS can now study the underground world of plants with more accuracy using an approach based on the same X-ray technology used in hospital CT scans and new image analysis software.

  • Record yields for 2011/2012 sugar beet campaign

    21 February 2012

    GINO De Jaegher, the managing director of Britsh Sugar, said this campaign’s yields were set to break records.

  • Staffordshire MEP attacks CAP 'greening'

    21 February 2012

    NEW Liberal Democrat MEP and Staffordshire farmer Phillip Bennion ‘strongly criticised’ the latest CAP ‘greening’ measures in his first meeting at the European Parliament.

  • Drought declared in south-east England

    20 February 2012

    THE south-east of England is officially in drought, Defra has announced today.

  • Farming chiefs begin drought talks

    20 February 2012

    FARMING leaders will meet with Government officials today (Monday, February 20) to discuss how the industry will cope if the UK is hit by another dry year.

  • Spring spraying: Best practice approach to nematicide applications

    18 February 2012

    ?After last season’s nematicide MRL exceedance problems in some crops, this season’s focus is on product stewardship. Syngenta’s Nemathorin stewardship workshops provided growers with advice on practical application techniques. Some of the experts involved offer their tips.

  • Funding focuses on yield and quality gains

    17 February 2012

    DELIVERING bigger yields of better quality fruits and vegetables for the consumer through more sustainable farming practices is the aim of a new research initiative launched to bring academic researchers together with industry.

  • Dutch seed potato exports up

    February 17, 2012

    DUTCH seed potato exports to the end of December 2011 were up 25,000 tonnes on the same period in 2010, according to the Nederlandse Aardappel Organisatie, the Dutch potato merchants’ organisation.

  • Identifying gene networks in plants

    February 17, 2012

    THE VIB Department for Plant Systems Biology at Ghent University, Belgium, and BASF have announced a cooperation agreement in plant biotechnology.

  • Maximise yield to help reduce costs

    16 February 2012

    FOCUS on maximising yield as the number one priority this year to ensure unit costs of production are kept as low as possible, ProCam agronomy manager Nick Myers told growers attending the company’s winter conference in Newmarket.

  • ‘T minus’ an option if yellow rust pressure remains high

    16 February 2012

    GROWERS should consider a fungicide application on their winter wheat ahead of the traditional T0 mid-March timing if yellow rust pressure is high and they are growing susceptible variety Oakley.

  • Drought on horizon say experts

    16 February 2012

    UK agriculture could take a serious hit this summer, as experts warn a severe drought is on the horizon.

  • 'Integrated' arable better than organic

    14 February 2012

    FARMS aiming for high food production using environmentally-friendly practices could be better for the environment than both organic and conventional farms.

  • OSR case study: Philip and Gareth Watkins

    14 February 2012

    FOR Philip and Gareth Watkins of Gillow Farm, Harewood End, Hereford, the problem of forward crops is a very real concern this year.

  • Careful canopy management required in forward OSR crops

    14 February 2012

    Following near perfect conditions for oilseed rape crops to establish during the autumn of 2011, many arable farmers will need to deploy a careful canopy management strategy to ensure crops which have grown too far forward don’t suffer reduced seed yields at harvest.

  • EC cropping proposals bad for Welsh arable farming

    February 10, 2012

    NEWLY elected FUW arable, horticulture and cropping committee chairman Maelgwyn Davies has branded European Commission proposals which would restrict Welsh arable farming as ‘bad for farming, bad for food, and bad for the environment’.

  • Evaluation of broad beans

    February 10, 2012

    GROWERS can now access the first independent evaluation of broad bean varieties in more than a decade, thanks to new HDC-funded research.

  • Seed certification database available online for Scots

    February 10, 2012

    SCOTTISH seed potato producers will soon be able to view seed certification data in real time, thanks to the online roll out of Scotland’s certification scheme.

  • £7m funding boost to fruit and veg sector

    9 February 2012

    A NEW £7m research initiative launched today (Thursday, February 9) aims to bring academic researchers together to deliver bigger yields of better quality fruits and vegetables.

  • Prices up for peas and beans

    9 February 2012

    THE prices of field peas and beans jumped again this week by £2 and £3 per tonne.

  • Huge variation in soil N content

    9 February 2012

    RESULTS from GrowHow N-Min samples analysed so far in 2012 show a huge amount of variability in the amount of nitrogen available to crops from the soil this season.

  • New licence requirements for trickle irrigation

    8 February 2012

    PROPOSALS to amend irrigation regulations put forward by Defra and the Environment Agency (EA) will mean farmers abstracting more than 20cu.m of water per day for trickle irrigation will have to apply for an abstraction licence from the EA - or risk prosecution.

  • Target rusts with mid-March T0 spray

    8 February 2012

    SENSIBLE use of fungicides will be critical this spring if the potential double threat of yellow and brown rust fully materialises.

  • Public rejection of GM affects biotech firms

    7 February 2012

    PUBLIC resistance to genetically modified (GM) crops has ensured the area grown in Europe in 2011 remained at 0.1 per cent of all arable land, figures released today by Friends of the Earth Europe show.

  • Mycotoxin plans could slash UK oat production - NFU

    7 February 2012

    UK OAT production could be reduced by 16 per cent if the European Commission presses ahead with ‘unnecessary’ new EU Mycotoxin restrictions, the NFU has warned.

  • How to select maize varieties to grow under plastic

    6 February 2012

    Growing maize under plastic has been an attractive option for a range of growers but the choice of variety is still hugely important.

  • Dry autumn leaves grass-weed legacy

    3 February 2012

    With some early season spraying treatments already being applied, Dominic Kilburn speaks to advisers from the South West, the East Midlands and in Scotland for their take on weed control in cereals and oilseed rape this spring.

  • Act now to help ensure nematicides stay available

    February 3, 2012

    AHEAD of potato planting this spring, growers are being reminded to optimise nematicide use to avoid yield penalties from potato cyst nematode (PCN) damage, which costs the industry an estimated £50 million each year.

  • Index 2 remains P target for optimum yield

    February 3, 2012

    LATEST findings from new research into critical soil phosphorus (P) levels indicate Olsen P Index 2 remains the target level for optimum yields.

  • Potash and magnesium minimise water stress

    February 3, 2012

    THE effects of drought stress in crops can, to some extent, be mitigated by good potash and magnesium nutrition, research in Germany has shown.

  • Reducing leaching risk with N timings

    February 3, 2012

    SERIOUS loss of nitrogen through leaching is unlikely if N is applied at planting time, according to research by Cambridge University Farm (CUF).

  • Blight strain puts fluazinam resistance under spotlight

    2 February 2012

    There was an update on blight, together with the latest thinking on cultivations, N timing and nematicide use in potatoes at the Potato Council’s winter forum at Sutton Bridge. Dominic Kilburn reports on the ways to maximise yields in the coming season.

  • Dry weather weed control challenge

    2 February 2012

    SEVERAL herbicide active ingredients applied at reduced intervals were required to overcome the weed control challenges in sugar beet, brought about by last spring’s dry and warm weather.

  • Fertiliser demand set to pick up globally

    2 February 2012

    THERE is a general lack of demand for fertiliser in the UK, Europe and globally due to the combined effects of economic problems and tight money supply.

  • Cutting energy costs vital for increasing potato profitability

    2 February 2012

    GROWERS must concentrate on the energy cost of producing a crop of potatoes if they want to increase profitability.

  • Wheat bulb fly egg hatch progressing rapidly in Suffolk

    1 February 2012

    WHEAT bulb fly egg hatch is progressing in East Anglia and particularly rapidly in Suffolk, according to the latest Dow AgroSciences Pestwatch report prepared by ADAS.

  • Crop monitoring highlights rust threat

    1 February 2012

    WHEAT growers across the country are being urged to be alert for early rust attacks in the run up to spring.

  • Null-Lox web site launched

    1 February 2012

    GLEADELL Agriculture has launched a dedicated web site for Null-Lox malting barley, the spring malting barley developed by Carlsberg and Heineken Research to produce fresher-tasting beer for longer, and with better head retention.

  • Scientists reveal effect of pollution on crop yields

    31 January 2012

    RESEARCH by the universities of Leeds and York suggests man-made air pollution from North America causes Europe to lose 1.2 million tonnes of wheat a year.

  • Spring bean opportunity

    31 January 2012

    WITH plantings of winter beans for 2012 drastically reduced, there is a real opportunity for spring planted pulse crops to meet both the UK market for feed quality, and export for human consumption.

  • Resistant myzus persicae aphid threatens virus yellows control

    31 January 2012

    COLD weather and widespread use of neonicotinoid seed treatments combined to limit virus yellows infection in the sugar beet crop in 2011 to the extent that just 0.5 per cent of the crop was affected.

  • Planning to benefit from beet breeding developments

    31 January 2012

    TESTING of sugar beet varieties will be jointly funded through a new partnership between the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) and the British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) from January 2012.

  • Wild beet offers a new disease control path

    31 January 2012

    GENETIC diversity found naturally in wild and cultivated beet is being used to develop durable control of the major diseases of sugar beet in the UK.

  • New rhizo resistance-breaking strain spreads into north Norfolk

    31 January 2012

    ‘Closing the gap’ between potential and actual delivered yield was the theme of the 2012 British Beet Research Organisation’s annual winter conference at the East of England showground. Teresa Rush reports from Peterborough.

  • Monsanto gives up on French GM maize

    28 January 2012

    BIOTECH giant Monsanto has announced it is giving up on plans to sell genetically modified (GM) maize in France, despite winning a key court ruling last year.

  • Achieving a good ridge in potato crops

    January 27, 2012

    CULTIVATING to produce perfect potato ridges was the subject of a presentation by David Wilson of Standen Engineering and Matthew Smallwood, head of potatoes at SAC.

  • Adopting new techniques when growing potatoes

    January 27, 2012

    YORKSHIRE Wolds seed potato producer Andrew Manfield shared with Perth conference delegates some of the particular problems associated with growing potatoes in this part of the country, one particular problem being the lack of soil.

  • HDC highlights benefits of working together

    January 27, 2012

    HORTICULTURE sector levy body HDC has published a document highlighting some of the many projects delivered through Defra’s Horticulture LINK project.

  • Last season’s Scottish blackleg problem ‘a blip’

    January 27, 2012

    Disease threats to seed potatoes were among the topics discussed at the SAC Association of Potato Producers conference at Perth. Erika Hay reports.

  • Practical solutions for powdery scab control

    January 27, 2012

    SCOTTISH potato growers had a difficult year in 2011 for several reasons, but one of the most significant was the cool, wet conditions, which were ideal for powdery scab to spread.

  • Rust threat building in mild conditions

    January 27, 2012

    RUSTS look set to be a problem in this season’s winter wheat crops, growers attending an HGCA agronomy workshop at Newmarket, Suffolk, were advised this week.

  • Self-sufficient system ensures the future of Scottish pig unit

    26 January 2012

    IT was his entrepreneurial spirit which allowed Andrew Rennie to take a step into the unknown and turnaround the fortunes of his business. Erika Hay visits Aberdeenshire to meet the man behind the methane magic.

  • Are multi-site fungicides now essential, not optional?

    26 January 2012

    MULTI-SITE fungicides may not have the same level of activity against key wheat disease septoria tritici as triazole and SDHI actives, but disease experts gathered at a resistance meeting last week took the view that now was the time to assign them equal importance within a fungicide programme.

  • Finding routes to better arable productivity

    26 January 2012

    ARABLE farmers have little influence over the prices of the crops they produce, but there remains much they can do to meet the challenge of finding ways to increase productivity.

  • Scottish soils need extra care ahead of spring plantings

    26 January 2012

    BETTER weather during the last month has allowed growers in central Scotland to make good progress with ploughing of over-wintered stubbles and turn up some reasonable soil.

  • Early potato plantings slow

    25 January 2012

    FOG and rain has interrupted progress with early potato planting, says the Potato Council.

  • NFU horticulture board outlines plans to lift ailing sector 

    25 January 2012

    THE NFU’s horticulture and potatoes board has set out its plans to ensure 2012 is a better year for the sector than the difficult 2011.

  • Spring applications of P and K could prove beneficial to crops

    24 January 2012

    GROWERS are being advised it is not too late to apply phosphorous and potash treatments to crops, despite many missing the more traditional autumn applications.

  • Approval for new clomazone

    January 20, 2012

    APPROVAL for a micro-encapsulated suspension formulation of the herbicide clomazone has been granted, with recommendations for use in potatoes and oilseed rape.

  • Beet herbicide in short supply

    January 20, 2012

    SUPPLIES of key sugar beet herbicides containing metamitron are likely to be tight in 2012, says crop protection company Makhteshim Agan (MAUK).

  • Heed guidelines as wheat bulb fly season approaches

    January 20, 2012

    WITH a key component of the wheat bulb fly control armoury under threat, abiding by new application requirements for imminent chlorpyrifos applications will be a number one priority in the hotspot region of the Cambridgeshire fens.

  • Managing water resources with low rainfall

    January 20, 2012

    THE Potato Council, along with the United Kingdom Irrigation Association, the NFU and other farming organisations, has recently met with Defra and the Environment Agency (EA) to discuss water management if low rainfall continues in the South and East of England.

  • Plan now to overcome possible water restrictions this season

    January 20, 2012

    FARMERS are being urged to hope for the best, but plan for the worst with regard to water availability for 2012.

  • Potato growers sticking to planting planned acreages despite risk

    January 20, 2012

    NORFOLK-based potato adviser Andy Alexander urges growers in the region not to expand their acreage beyond what has already been planned as many storage reservoirs are only at about 50 per cent of capacity.

  • RAT SURVEY: Regular treatment proves its worth in controlling rodents

    January 20, 2012

    Farms undertaking comprehensive rodenticide treatment have experienced noticeably fewer rat problems over the past year than those continuing to tackle infestations on a conventional fire-brigade basis.

  • Water not the only factor in reducing size of potato crops

    January 20, 2012

    ANDREW Williams of root crop specialists Home Farm, Nacton, near Ipswich, reckons the business will be reducing its potato planted acreage this season by about 10 per cent.

  • Window opens for Liberator

    January 20, 2012

    RESIDUAL herbicide Liberator (diflufenican + flufenacet has gained a full label approval permitting its application up to March 31, allowing growers a much wider application window.

  • Bedfordshire farm manager is top BASIS candidate

    19 January 2012

    A Sentry farm manager has emerged as the best candidate of 2011 in the UK’s crop protection qualification, the BASIS Certificate in Crop Protection.

  • Funding secured for NIAB Innovation Farm

    19 January 2012

    PLANT research organisation NIAB has secured EU funding to improve the transfer of plant science from research laboratories through to commercial markets.

  • Cold weather threat to sugar beet crop

    19 January 2012

    SUGAR beet processor British Sugar is warning growers that current sub zero temperatures in many parts of the beet growing area have the potential to damage unprotected clamps and un-harvested crops.

  • Discovery of 'nourishing gene' brings hope for increased yield

    18 January 2012

    SCIENTISTS from the University of Warwick scientists have discovered a ‘nourishing gene’ that controls the transfer of nutrients from plant to seed.

  • New head of farm operations

    18 January 2012

    FRESH produce business Produce World has announced the appointment of Christian Maltby as head of farm operations at Produce World Marshalls.

  • Wheat bulb fly egg hatch under way

    18 January 2012

    WHEAT bulb fly egg hatch has started in Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire, soil sampling carried out for the Dow AgroSciences and ADAS Pestwatch service has revealed.

  • Trade in illegal pesticides worth billions of euros

    18 January 2012

    THE trade in illegal and counterfeit pesticides by ‘highly sophisticated’ criminal networks in Europe has reached such levels it is estimated to be worth billions of euros per year.

  • France upholds GM maize ban despite court ruling

    18 January 2012

    THE French Government is to continue with its ban on a genetically modified (GM) strain of maize, even though the ban was ruled to be unlawful last year.

  • Hybrid 6-row barleys show worth under dry conditions

    18 January 2012

    SIX row hybrid winter feed barley is a good risk management option, growers attending a Frontier winter technical conference were told.

  • BASF moves GM development away from Europe

    17 January 2012

    LACK of acceptance of GM technology in Europe has led plant science business BASF to move its plant biotechnology activities to what it describes as the ‘main markets’ in North and South America.

  • Unexpected spraying window for tackling black-grass

    17 January 2012

    BLACK-GRASS has returned to active growth following a period of exceptionally mild weather conditions over late December and early January in which soil temperatures rose above 10degC in some areas.

  • Weather exerts its influence on grain prices

    13 January 2012

    ?DRY weather in South America, and its effect on the maize crop, continues to drive international grain prices.

  • Farmers Guardian 2012 ‘Focus on Feed Barley’

    13 January 2012

    Farmers Guardian and Syngenta invite farmers to fill in a short questionnaire and enter a prize draw to win one of four £50 M&S vouchers.

  • End in sight for sugar beet harvesting campaign

    January 13, 2012

    WITH the sugar beet harvesting campaign scheduled to conclude in mid to late February, British Sugar is breathing a huge sigh of relief that, so far, the 2011/2012 campaign has been relatively straightforward.

  • Scientists identify microbes’ role in acidic soils

    January 13, 2012

    SCIENTISTS at the University of Aberdeen have shed new light on our understanding of how ammonia-based fertilisers are inactivated by microorganisms in soil, resulting in more than half of fertilisers applied around the world failing to reach the crops for which they were intended.

  • Kendall highlights 'scandalous' fruit and veg import levels

    12 January 2012

    NFU president Peter Kendall has highlighted the ‘scandalous’ quantities of horticultural produce imported into the UK.

  • OSR yield boost from increased boron rate

    12 January 2012

    CROP nutrition management for spring came under the spotlight at the first of Frontier’s series of winter agronomy conferences, held at Cambridge.

  • Be ready for nutrition challenges this spring

    12 January 2012

    OILSEED rape crop canopy size, soil nitrogen levels and factors affecting crops’ water use efficiency are some of the pressing agronomy challenges for 2012, according to Frontier fertiliser technical development manager Mike Slater.

  • Earlies planting gets underway

    11 January 2012

    TOKEN plantings of early potatoes have got underway in Cornwall, says the Potato Council.

  • Potato supply increases on the previous season

    11 January 2012

    ON farm, producer-owned potato stocks, as of the end of November 2011, stood at 3.28 million tonnes, according to AHDB/Potato Council.

  • Conservation Grade (CG) farming explained

    11 January 2012

    What is it?

  • Conservation Grade oats provide dual benefits

    11 January 2012

    Committing 10 per cent of your land to environmental stewardship may appear a field margin too far. But a Suffolk farmer growing winter oats under the Conservation Grade protocol reckons wildlife and crop production have both benefited his farm.

  • Roaring distilling demand creates grain opportunities

    10 January 2012

    WITH the whisky boom looking unstoppable, Scottish farmers have an opportunity to ride the wave, provided their grain is top quality and firmly within technical specifications.

  • National Chip Week to raise public’s potato awareness

    10 January 2012

    ONE of the Potato Council’s biggest annual awareness campaigns of the year kicks off next month in the shape of ‘Chip Week’.

  • Proposed new cadmium limits in barley and wheat

    10 January 2012

    THE European Commission (EC) has been consulting with member states on the introduction of lower maximum levels of cadmium in cereals and other crops.

  • Scientists find cause of nitrate leaching

    6 January 2012

    SCIENTISTS at the University of Aberdeen have come up with an explanation how ammonia in fertilisers is converted to nitrate, which is then washed out of soils before reaching the intended crops.

  • NFUS welcomes renewed commitment from Spelman on CAP

    6 January 2012

    NFU Scotland has welcomed a renewed commitment from Defra Secretary of State Caroline Spelman to show positive leadership on reform of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

  • Case study: Ambassador for the South, Nick Baird

    January 6, 2012

    SOUTHERN-based ambassador Nick Baird played host to ‘Delia Online’ last year to raise awareness for Potato Week (October 1-7).

  • Farm businesses of the future

    January 6, 2012

    OWN and local has to be two of the key words attracting members of the public to buy into farm produce. Danusia Osiowy speaks to three farmers operating different businesses, but all with similar goals.

  • Maltster working with growers to add value to barley

    January 6, 2012

    In the last of our series of reports on HGCA’s ‘meet the processor’ events, Dominic Kilburn reports from the Muntons’ maltings in Suffolk.

  • Time to spread the word on potatoes

    January 6, 2012

    IN 2009, potato growers were recruited as ‘Potato Ambassadors’ to promote British potatoes and forge links between producers and consumers. Such has been the project’s success, recruitment of a second phase of ambassadors begins shortly.

  • Crop management and community part of the strategy at Grove Farm

    29 December 2011

    For more than half a century, Suffolk Show organiser the Suffolk Agricultural Association has run a competition each year to demonstrate best practice and production efficiency among the county’s farming community.

  • GM crops banned in Peru

    28 December 2011

    PERU has banned GM production for 10 years.

  • Problems continue for crop farmers

    28 December 2011

    IT may have been the driest year on record but the complications continue this winter for crop farmers.

  • Cousins’ starring role in new DVD

    December 23, 2011

    RENOWNED Suffolk farming cousins Patrick and Brian Barker and their arable farm are the subject of a new DVD.

  • New smartphone app for arable growers

    December 23, 2011

    HUTCHINSONS said its recently-launched ‘Fieldwise’ app for growers and advisers is the first agronomy app for smartphones in the UK.

  • SDHI eradicant activity better than expected

    December 23, 2011

    NEW SDHI fungicides will offer growers added value over existing triazole technology and will deliver additional yield responses in low disease pressure years.

  • Seedbank management key to achieving additional weed control

    December 23, 2011

    MANAGING the seedbank should be at the heart of all good weed control programmes, said ADAS science and business development manager James Clarke.

  • Text data service helps grower plan deliveries better

    December 23, 2011

    With increasing calls on merchants to improve grain quality feedback to farmers post tipping, one grower reckons a text data provision service he signed up to this year is helping him plan deliveries better, as well as giving him peace of mind. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Industry collaboration vital for sustainable food supply chain

    19 December 2011

    SCIENTISTS farmers, businesses, retailers and policy-makers from across the agri-food sector are backing a co-ordinated industry approach to ensure a sustainable and efficient UK food supply chain.

  • A step forward in cereal disease control?

    December 16, 2011

    TRIALS results on the latest SDHI fungicide indicate there are good grounds for expecting the kind of performance increase from BASF’s Adexar (Xemium + epoxiconazole) last seen following the introduction of strobilurins.

  • Agronomist must manage disease in integrated way

    December 16, 2011

    MAKE use of the information available to manage disease in an integrated way, was the message to agronomists from Dr Simon Oxley, HGCA senior research and knowledge transfer manager.

  • Resistance to insecticides needs watching carefully

    December 16, 2011

    THE latest fungicide performance information, together with an update on insecticide resistance developments were on the agenda at the HGCA Agronomists Conference, held near Daventry, Northamptonshire. Teresa Rush reports.

  • SDHI fungicides stand out in trials

    December 16, 2011

    EACH of the three latest SDHI fungicides added good protectant activity to triazole partners for septoria tritici control in HGCA 2011 fungicide performance trials conducted by ADAS.

  • Stewardship guidelines offer last chance for chlorpyrifos

    December 16, 2011

    NEW guidelines for the application of insecticide chlorpyrifos have been issued by a consortium of approval holders of the chemical in a bid to safeguard future use of products containing the active ingredient in the UK.

  • Care needed to keep within strict CIPC residue limits

    15 December 2011

    GROWERS are being advised not to lose sight of the importance of using sprout suppressant correctly to ensure levels remain within strict residue limits.

  • Crop management techniques to mitigate drought effects

    15 December 2011

    AGRIBUSINESS Frontier Agriculture’s technical team is carrying out work at its Lincolnshire demonstration site to investigate how growers can better manage crops during drought conditions.

  • UK farmer discovers common ground with St Lucian producer

    14 December 2011

    CAN the Fairtrade model help UK farmers secure a better price from retailers? In a special report from St Lucia, Cumbrian farmer Robert Craig discovers the shared similarities between milk and banana producers. Danusia Osiowy reports.

  • MyFarm experiment to include conventional farm methods

    13 December 2011

    A 250 acre conventional farm is set to become part of the National Trust’s MyFarm experiment, which aims to reconnect people with where their food comes from.

  • EU food safety authority criticised over conflict of interest

    12 December 2011

    THE European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) failed to follow procedural rules when it allowed a senior member of staff to move to Syngenta, a company which produces genetically modified crops, according to a report by the European ombudsman.

  • Farmers urged to establish skylark plots

    9 December 2011

    FARMERS have been reminded they have until December 31 to establish skylark plots in winter cereals.  

  • Warm weather causing violet root rot in sugar beet crops

    December 9, 2011

    WARM conditions this autumn have encouraged the development of violet root rot in sugar beet crops.

  • Good storage and fast loading benefit both grower and buyer

    8 December 2011

    IN the second of our reports from the HGCA ‘meet the processor’ events, we find out what one Lincolnshire grower made of his visit to the Gleadell grain export facility at Immingham. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Calls for certified seed focus

    8 December 2011

    AGRICULTURAL Industries Confederation (AIC) seed sector chairman Paul Taylor has called on the seed trade to promote the role of the seed specialist and the benefits of certified seed.

  • SMN of no value in ‘normal’ situations

    8 December 2011

    THE current standard approach to predicting soil nitrogen supply by soil mineral nitrogen (SMN) testing is unlikely to be cost-effective and could be misleading when used in ‘normal’ arable situations, HGCA-funded research has revealed.

  • Spread your risk amid positive UK malting barley crop outlook

    8 December 2011

    WITH malting barley premiums at an historic high and the forecast for 2012 gross margins remaining positive, growers are being urged to spread the risk when it comes to selling their crops, in terms of variety choice and approach to selling.

  • New seed treatment scheme undergoes UK testing

    8 December 2011

    A pilot assurance scheme for the seed treatment industry has been unveiled in the UK. The move comes as the seed industry seeks to preserve essential plant protection products, protect international trade and ensure ongoing investment.

  • HGCA offers £1.6m for soil research

    8 December 2011

    HGCA has launched a £1.6m call for research on soil management - the biggest the levy board has been involved in outside of the Recommended Lists.

  • Mild weather poses potato storage challenge

    8 December 2011

    THE mild weather is proving to be a challenge in ambient potato stores, where premature sprouting is causing some problems, says Potato Council.

  • Virus threat to cereal crops

    8 December 2011

    SOME cereal crops not protected by an insecticidal seed treatment have had to be sprayed for a second time this autumn to combat aphid vectors of barley yellow dwarf virus, says ADAS.

  • Scotland welcomes Voluntary Initiative chairman

    8 December 2011

    NFU Scotland welcomed the new chairman of the Voluntary Initiative (VI), Richard Butler, to Scotland yesterday (Wednesday, December 7), to hear his views on the future direction of the VI.

  • CAP will not allow us to feed the world - Brecon NFU

    6 December 2011

    THE need to lift global food production by at least 70 per cent in the next 40 years might have become widely accepted, but Brecon and Radnor NFU members see the current CAP proposals as not allowing farmers to increase production from land which is capable of producing more.

  • Fogging contractors urged to join assurance scheme

    1 December 2011

    THE Potato Council’s biennual British Potato event took place in Harrogate last week. Teresa Rush reports on the highlights.

  • Anthony Bambridge’s honoured by potato industry

    1 December 2011

    ANTHONY (Tony) Bambridge, co-founder of B and C Farming, has been awarded the 2011 British Potato Industry Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the sector.

  • Nematicide residues linked to dry soils?

    1 December 2011

    LACK of soil moisture may have contributed to this season’s nematicide residue problems, although there are unanswered questions about residues in irrigated crops.

  • Levy rise plan

    1 December 2011

    THE Potato Council is proposing a 3 per cent levy increase for 2012/13. The increase is the third instalment of three rises approved in 2009.

  • PCN and common scab top research priorities

    1 December 2011

    POTATO cyst nematode, water use and common scab are among the top research priorities for potato businesses, according to results from a Potato Council R&D survey conducted earlier this year.

  • Newcomers on the Pulse RL revealed

    1 December 2011

    POTENTIALLY significant improvements in downy mildew resistance, yield advances in some categories and the return of one winter bean variety from Outclassed to Fully Recommended are among the developments seen on the latest Pulse Recommended List.

  • December drought talks after low winter rain levels

    1 December 2011

    SAFEGUARDING water for food production in the Fens will be top of the agenda when the NFU meets senior Environment Agency officials today (Thursday, December 1).

  • Making the most from miscanthus

    1 December 2011

    Developments in agronomy are lifting yields and boosting returns from energy crops, Farmers Guardian reports the latest.

  • Making the most of peas in 2012

    30 November 2011

    Agronomy advice for getting the best from the new season pea crop was given at a Daltons Seeds meeting. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Potato growing costs set to rise by £8/t in 2012

    30 November 2011

    THE cost of growing potatoes is set to rise in 2012, with fuel, fertiliser and storage costs all likely to see significant increases.

  • Abolishing sugar regime will boost UK economy - Paice

    30 November 2011

    FARMING Minister Jim Paice has claimed liberalising the EU’s ‘protectionist’ sugar regime would bring ‘huge benefits for Britain’s economy’.

  • France's ban on GM crops was illegal

    29 November 2011

    FRANCE’S highest court has confirmed the European Court of Justice’s judgment that the 2008 French ban on the cultivation of genetically modified crops (GM) was illegal. 

  • Science holds the key to food security - Kendall

    25 November 2011

    NFU president Peter Kendall has criticised the ‘run-down’ in Government spending on applied agricultural research over the past two decades.

  • Research to identify cause of light leaf spot resistance

    November 25, 2011

    NEW research into crop protection was a key theme on the first day of this year’s CropWorld conference. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Grain storage management advice

    24 November 2011

    A GRAIN storage guide containing new and clearer advice aimed at improving risk-based storage management practices for growers has been launched by the HGCA coinciding with this week’s UK Grain event.

  • New strategy focuses on sustainable productivity

    24 November 2011

    INCREASING wheat yield potential to 20 tonnes per hectare within 20 years is a key theme of the new Rothamsted Research science strategy.

  • Ozone threat to future crop yields

    24 November 2011

    CURRENT levels of ambient ozone concentrations are reducing crop yields across the world and with ozone concentrations expected to increase, further yield losses are expected in the future, according to a report from the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology in the UK.

  • Potato production at its highest level for nine years

    24 November 2011

    TOTAL potato production for the current crop year is up 3.5 per cent on last year, according to a provisional estimate from the Potato Council.

  • Product news: Nozzle wins innovation award

    24 November 2011

    THE Syngenta Vegetable Nozzle has won the 2011 British Carrot Growers Association Innovation Award, presented at the annual UK Onion and Carrot Conference.

  • Product news: Pulse an OSR developments

    24 November 2011

    BEAN varieties with a low vicin content, peas suitable for autumn drilling and herbicide-tolerant oilseed rape are among developments in the LS Plant Breeding breeding programme.

  • NFU warns access to water is vital for food production boost

    24 November 2011

    THE NFU has warned continued access to abstracted water remains vital for boosting food production while minimising the impact to the environment, following publication of its water survey results for 2011.

  • LERAP changes could increase crop protection options

    24 November 2011

    AGRONOMY adviser for NIAB TAG Jim Orson says the 20m buffer zone introduced by CRD has been done at the request of pesticide manufacturers concerned, because of tightening regulations in aquatic ecotoxicology risk assessments, products could fail to gain approval when next up for re-registration (or first time registration).

  • Spray buffer zones extended in LERAP scheme update

    24 November 2011

    AN interim extension to the Local Environmental Risk Assessments for Pesticides (LERAP) scheme announced by the Chemicals Regulation Directorate could see the introduction of aquatic spray buffer zones of up to 20 metres against watercourses.

  • Conventional feed barley closes yield gap on hybrids

    23 November 2011

    IMPROVEMENTS in quality and disease resistance are evident among the 18 new cereal and oilseed rape varieties joining the HGCA Recommended List for 2012/2013. Teresa Rush reports.

  • New bread wheat addition offers greater disease resistance benefits

    23 November 2011

    IMPROVEMENTS in quality and disease resistance are evident among the 18 new cereal and oilseed rape varieties joining the HGCA Recommended List for 2012/2013. Teresa Rush reports.

  • OSR newcomers bring improved resistance to key disease threats

    23 November 2011

    IMPROVEMENTS in quality and disease resistance are evident among the 18 new cereal and oilseed rape varieties joining the HGCA Recommended List for 2012/2013. Teresa Rush reports.

  • LERAP changes introduce 20m spray buffer zone

    23 November 2011

    CHANGES to the Local Environmental Risk Assessments for Pesticides (LERAP) scheme mean that spray buffer zones against watercourses of up to 20m may be required for certain products.

  • Loyalty bonus for organic arable farmers

    23 November 2011

    THE 63 members of the organic, farmer-owned company Organic Arable are to get a loyalty bonus of up to £900 each.

  • FWAG sends out SOS for industry funding

    21 November 2011

    THE Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) is appealing for financial support from the farming industry to enable it to continue as a national body.

  • Jim Paice hails VI's successes 10 years on

    21 November 2011

    AGRICULTURE Minister Jim Paice has praised the Voluntary Initiative (VI) for its achievements over the past ten years.

  • Survey shows importance of water in food production

    18 November 2011

    CONTINUED access to abstracted water remains vital for boosting food production while minimising the impact to the environment, the NFU has said.

  • Rothamsted undergoes restructure

    18 November 2011

    RESEARCH giant Rothamsted has emerged from its restructuring programme after a series of cuts.

  • Landlords urged to support tenant involvement in CFE

    18 November 2011

    THE organisations behind the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) are urging farm landlords to support tenant farmers keen to take part in the campaign.

  • Improving land use efficiency is key to sustainable intensification

    November 18, 2011

    SCIENCE has been important in driving agricultural productivity but will not be able to meet the challenges of feeding a growing world population alone.

  • Meet the processor – George Marriage, the miller's view

    November 18, 2011

    THE milling business is all about quality and service, and while it is important to ensure best quality flour is produced for customers, grower suppliers are key too.

  • Miller’s committed to quality but more delivery feedback is needed

    November 18, 2011

    DOMINIC Kilburn reports from the first HGCA ‘meet the processor’ event, held at Essex-based flour and feed millers W.H. Marriage and Sons.

  • Plan well in advance for precision nutrition

    November 18, 2011

    GREATER precision is essential in crop nutrition to make the most of modern high cost production systems was the message to growers attending a Masstock SMART Farming meeting last week.

  • Product news: Winter stewardship workshops are announced

    November 18, 2011

    A NATIONWIDE winter training initiative for potato growers and operators, to ensure they get the best possible results with nematicide Nemathorin (fosthiazate) and fungicide Amistar (azoxystrobin) applications during potato planting, has been launched by Syngenta.

  • Winners of the best pulses competition are announced

    November 18, 2011

    PEA and bean growers from Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Suffolk took the top awards in this year’s national dried pulse competition.

  • Winter wheat diseases continue on downward trend

    November 18, 2011

    OVERALL disease severity in winter wheat in 2011 was the second lowest for a decade, according to the CropMonitor disease survey.

  • HGCA Recommended Lists for 2012/13 announced

    17 November 2011

    IMPROVEMENTS in quality and disease resistance are evident among the 18 new cereal and oilseed rape varieties joining the HGCA Recommended List for 2012/13.

  • 'Focus on productivity not bio-diversity' - Kendall

    17 November 2011

    THE Government should switch its focus from bio-diversity and concentrate on farm productivity if it wants to take full advantage of British agriculture’s potential as an ‘engine for growth’.

  • Gleadell to buy pulse business

    17 November 2011

    INDEPENDENT grain merchant Gleadell Agriculture is on track to buy Tabmellow, the holding company of Dunns (Long Sutton).

  • Working together to achieve targets in sustainability

    16 November 2011

    GM, water and sustainability were key themes at this year’s CropWorld. Teresa Rush and Dominic Kilburn report

  • Aphid-repellent GM wheat field trials to begin

    16 November 2011

    FOLLOWING the September announcement by Defra that aphid- repellent GM wheat trials at Rothamsted Research are to go ahead, scientists are now moving experiments from the laboratory to the field, with the aim of achieving the first set of results next year.

  • No room for complacency on CIPC levels

    16 November 2011

    THREE years after the formation of a stewardship group and introduction of a CIPC use code of best practice, maximum residue level (MRL) exceedances of sprout suppressant CIPC (chlorpropham) in stored potatoes are rare, but there is no room for complacency.

  • Facing up to the cost of production challenge

    16 November 2011

    FOR any potato grower, knowing their costs of production underpins their ability to take a profit from their crop. Yet there is a feeling within the sector too many growers do not know their true costs. Teresa Rush met up with a leading potato producer to find out what that means in practice.

  • Improving field-scale irrigation efficiency

    16 November 2011

    WITH drier summers predicted as a result of climate change and demand for irrigation increasing, growers of irrigated field vegetable crops are faced with using available water more sparingly.

  • Resistance threat following GM reliance on glyphosate

    16 November 2011

    AT least 10 species of weeds are now resistant to glyphosate in the US, and 10 in the rest of the world, following a reliance on the herbicide for GM crops.

  • Plans to end sugar quotas 'ridiculous', NFU warns

    16 November 2011

    NFU SUGAR board chairman William Martin has labelled the UK Government’s position on CAP reform proposals to end EU sugar quotas by 2015 as ‘ridiculous’.

  • Bumper year for onions

    15 November 2011

    ONION growers are looking forward to a bumper year in 2012.

  • Potato crop produces highest average yield since 2002

    15 November 2011

    TOTAL potato production for the current crop year is up 3.5 per cent on last year, according to a provisional estimate from the Potato Council.

  • Light shed on foraging habits of bumblebees

    15 November 2011

    RESEARCHERS are closer to understanding how the foraging distances of wild bumblebees vary across landscapes.

  • Ozone threat to crop yields

    15 November 2011

    CURRENT levels of ambient ozone concentrations are reducing crop yields across the world and with ozone concentrations expected to increase, further yield losses are expected in the future.

  • Electronic grain passports could improve information trading

    11 November 2011

    THE NFU is looking for guidance on an electronic grain passport system to encourage two-way flow of detailed grain information between grower and merchant, which could ultimately cut down on rejected loads or deductions.

  • Time right for integrated approach to fertiliser advice

    11 November 2011

    FERTILISER security, protection of the environment and the need to feed a growing world population are the key challenges facing the fertiliser sector.

  • Future shape of fungicides?

    11 November 2011

    THE ability to change shape is contributing to the high levels of disease control achieved by SDHI fungicide Xemium, according to its manufacturer BASF.

  • Pesticide legislation delayed as industry ‘demands gold-plating’

    11 November 2011

    THE introduction of new UK pesticide legislation is being delayed while Ministers consider a request by the industry to continue effectively ‘gold-plating’ EU rules.

  • Maize Watch - November 2011

    November 11, 2011

    In the last in the Maize Watch series, our two farmers round-up their experiences of this year’s maize season and harvest.

  • Scottish arable land on the rise

    8 November 2011

    PRIME arable land in Scotland is averaging at just over £12,350/ha (£5,000/acre) with the higher end going for over £19,760/ha (£8,000/acre).

  • A secure fertiliser industry is vital for the growing world

    4 November 2011

    FERTILISER security, environment protection and the need to feed a growing world are the three key challenges facing the fertiliser sector, says AIC Fertiliser Sector Chairman Mike Buchan.

  • FWAG problems could prompt farm advice shake up

    4 November 2011

    FARMING Minister Jim Paice has promised a shake-up of the UK’s farm advisory services, in response to the anticipated demise of the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG).

  • Disease control with ‘green’ benefits

    November 4, 2011

    NEW research conducted by ADAS and BASF is said to show use of fungicide Signum (pyraclostrobin + boscalid) in brassicas for disease control, also had an effect of reducing the risk of nitrate leaching during the winter after harvest and of reducing net GHG emissions per tonne of crop production.

  • Yield threat from unusually big black-grass

    November 4, 2011

    WINTER wheat growers are facing unusually big black-grass plants and populations this autumn, after crops established early and warm temperatures have allowed the weed to germinate rapidly.

  • Focus farm aims to reduce costs and prepare for climate change challenges

    3 November 2011

    FUNDED by the Scottish Government and managed by SAC, the Farming for a Better Climate Initiative welcomed visitors to the launch of its arable focus farm - Robert and Jac Neill’s Upper Nisbet Farm, Jedburgh. Neil Ryder went along.

  • 'Earned recognition' applies to Government as well - Paice

    3 November 2011

    EARNED recognition applies to the Government as well as farmers, Jim Paice has acknowledged.

  • UK chief scientist accuses EU of ignoring food production 

    3 November 2011

    GOVERNMENT chief scientist Professor Sir John Beddington has accused the European of failing to grasp the key messages about the need to increase food production.

  • GM potato awaits go-ahead for Europe

    3 November 2011

    CHEMICALS giant BASF has requested European Union approval for a genetically-modified (GM) potato which can resist a common plant disease.

  • CropWorld 2011: Organic farming is ‘morally indefensible’

    2 November 2011

    PROMOTING organic farming as a solution to the food security problem  is ‘morally impossible’, outspoken consultant Sean Rickard told the CropWorld Global 2011 conference.

  • UK ‘will lead way on sustainable intensification’

    2 November 2011

    FARMING Minister Jim Paice has pledged that the UK will lead the way in promoting the sustainable intensification model of food production.

  • CropWorld  2011: EU politicians urged to show leadership on GM crops

    1 November 2011

    EU POLITICIANS have been urged to provide leadership on GM crops amid claims Europe’s refusal to embrace the technology is damaging farmers in the EU and Africa.

  • CropWorld 2011: Maize shortage driving wheat prices

    1 November 2011

    A SHORTAGE of maize for animal feed is helping to sustain wheat prices at artificially high levels, despite plentiful stocks around the world,  according to AHDB senior analyst Jack Watts.

  • New guide to potato crop nutrition needs

    1 November 2011

    A NEW guide to potato crop nutrition details the latest advice on crop needs, taking into account recent changes to RB209 fertiliser recommendations.

  • CAP reforms unlikely to be in place by 2014 - Paice

    31 October 2011

    FARMING Minister Jim Paice has indicated it is very unlikely that the next Common Agricultural Policy will be in place by 2014 as intended.

  • Rising input costs lead to mixed bag of results for farmers

    31 October 2011

    RISES in input costs have led to mixed fortunes for English farm incomes during 2010/11 according to the Defra Farm Business Income (FBI) report. 

  • New beer shows commitment to Scottish barley farmers

    28 October 2011

    THE launch of Caledonian Best, a new beer brewed exclusively from Scottish barley and produced in partnership with Scottish growers, has been described by NFU Scotland Crops Committee chairman, Andrew Moir as ‘a hugely exciting time’ for food and drink production in Scotland.

  • Early nutrition key to crop potential?

    October 28, 2011

    Combined drilling of seed and fertiliser is by no means a new approach and, in one of its most recent incarnations, is finding favour among oilseed rape growers as till-feeding.

  • Frontier invests £170,000 in new crop centre

    October 28, 2011

    HARPER Adams University College has received a donation of £170,000 from Frontier Agriculture in support of the creation of the Frontier Crops Centre.

  • Post-em grass-weed spraying under way

    October 28, 2011

    POST-emergence herbicide applications targeting black-grass, wild oats, rye-grass and bromes in cereal crops are under way, according to the latest grass-weed emergence monitoring report from Dow AgroSciences.

  • Potato harvest nears its end

    October 28, 2011

    THE arrival of cooler weather has helped in the pull down of temperatures in potato stores, although premature sprouting continues to be reported, says Potato Council.

  • Take care with decisions on autumn fungicides in variable OSR crops

    October 28, 2011

    THE wide variability in oilseed rape development this season means fungicide choice will require careful consideration.

  • Wealth of data on hand to aid variety selection decisions

    October 28, 2011

    KNOW your market. Match varieties to your farm situation and fine-tune variety decisions with HGCA and local data.

  • Wait until mid-November to drill your spring barley

    27 October 2011

    IDEAL weather in recent weeks means many growers are ahead of schedule with autumn workloads to the extent that some, particularly in East Anglia, are considering pressing on with spring barley drilling this week.

  • Putting business decisions ahead of the ‘farming way of life’

    27 October 2011

    Arable farmer and contractor Robert Alexander talks about partnerships, peas and working towards a paperless system at his Norfolk enterprise. Clemmie Gleeson reports.

  • CropWorld Global 2011: 'Feeding the World' debates

    25 October 2011

    IN the run up to CropWorld Global, Farmers Guardian held a series of weekly online text debates entitled ‘Feeding the World.’ 

  • CAP reform may lead to rotation rethink

    October 21, 2011

    ‘GREENING payment proposals put forward under CAP reform plans will affect growers with wheat/oilseed rape rotations and those growing continuous wheat, is the initial reaction from agronomists to the proposals.

  • Ideal sowing conditions for winter beans

    October 21, 2011

    SOWING conditions for winter beans have never been better, according to the PGRO.

  • No shortage of key per-emergence herbicide

    October 21, 2011

    SUPPLIES of black-grass active flufenacet remain available this autumn, manufacturer Bayer CropScience has confirmed following reports of concerns over the availability of some herbicide active ingredients.

  • Pre-em benefit even on dry soils

    October 21, 2011

    DRY conditions should not restrict the use of pre-emergence treatments where the opportunity for them still exists.

  • Project finds grass-weeds are starting to emerge

    October 21, 2011

    A NEW project to monitor grass-weed emergence this autumn has highlighted that, despite recent dry conditions, warm soils and some rainfall has meant grass-weeds are now emerging.

  • Solving common pulse challenges

    October 21, 2011

    PGRO senior technical officer Becky Ward shares some of her findings from her recent pulse crop fact-finding visit to Canada.

  • Few problems this harvest with sugar beet delivery

    20 October 2011

    JUST over one month into the 2011/12 sugar beet harvesting campaign, the first to feature British Sugar’s new whole beet delivery system, and contractors and growers alike appear to be pleased with lifting and factory delivery progress to date.

  • Survey reveals reduced threat from wheat bulb fly

    20 October 2011

    Results from HGCA’s autumn wheat bulb fly survey show infestation levels are lower than the high levels seen in 2010.

  • Harvest figures may not be all they seem, experts warn

    20 October 2011

    EXPERTS have warned Scottish Government figures highlighting encouraging harvest yields may not paint a true picture of the situation many farmers are facing across the country.

  • Green MEP slams CAP reform proposals

    17 October 2011

    A GREEN MEP has criticised the CAP proposals as a ‘missed opportunity for fundamental reform’.

  • Research launched into common ragweed

    17 October 2011

    A NEW study by an international team of scientists including the University of East Anglia (UEA) will assess the future impact of global warming on allergic diseases.

  • Watch again: Food versus fuel debate

    14 October 2011

    MORE research and development, clearer Government policy and the willingness to support GM is needed if the UK is to move forward with its biofuel production.

  • Biotech key to keep wheat competitive

    October 14, 2011

    WHEAT is set to be the long-term poor relation to other crops worldwide if current trends in yields and area are maintained.

  • BYDV risk rises as aphids take flight

    October 14, 2011

    WITH high numbers of aphids in flight, growers are being advised to monitor emerging cereal crops not treated with an insecticide seed treatment.

  • Caution needed before cutting N rates

    October 14, 2011

    RECENT trials data indicates growers should be wary of cutting back on nitrogen applications during a dry spring as they risk missing out on higher yields and better returns from their wheat crops, says fertiliser manufacturer Yara.

  • Good year for peas but beans variable

    October 14, 2011

    UK pea crops have yielded exceptionally well this year, despite the spring drought, and quality has been good too after almost ideal harvest conditions, says the British Edible Pulse Association (BEPA).

  • Grower experience of miscanthus

    October 14, 2011

    RG CARTER Farms at Horsford, near Norwich, planted its first crop of miscanthus earlier this year on two different sites totalling about 26 hectares (65 acres) in all.

  • Maize Watch - October 2011

    October 14, 2011

    ?In the latest in our 2011 Maize Watch series, our two farmers are feeling the effects of the unseasonal weather on the maturity of their maize crops.

  • Miscanthus can provide a stable income

    October 14, 2011

    GROWERS looking to try energy crop miscanthus on their farms could expect returns of up to £1,000 per hectare (£400/acre) if crops are grown on reasonable land and with the necessary agronomic input at the start of their life.

  • New SDHI fungicide approved for use

    October 14, 2011

    THE latest SDHI cereal fungicide destined for the UK market has gained approval for use in time for next spring.

  • Phoma spray threshold reached

    October 14, 2011

    ROTHAMSTED Research’s phoma leaf spot prediction service points to an average year for phoma infection in UK oilseed rape crops.

  • Potato growers urged to take action on bruising

    October 14, 2011

    WITH dry weather exacerbating the risk of potato bruising at harvest (FG October 7), Potato Council is calling on growers to take a proactive stance and make quality assessments at all stages of harvesting, from lifting to store loading.

  • Three key elements in optimising crop yields

    October 14, 2011

    New opportunities appear to be opening up for the energy crop miscanthus. Dominic Kilburn found out more at a meeting in Norfolk.

  • NFU pushes for cap sugar regime extension

    13 October 2011

    THE NFU is pressing for an extension of the EU sugar regime beyond 2016, the cut off date proposed under this week’s CAP reform plans.

  • Join us LIVE today at 1.00pm for our food versus fuel debate

    13 October 2011

    FUEL for transport makes up almost a third of the current world energy consumption.

  • GM presentations raise concerns over human health

    12 October 2011

    ANY relaxation of the existing GM crop restrictions in Wales is going to be a long way off, if at all, given the views of the speakers at a special one-day conference staged by the Welsh branches of the Women’s Food and Farming Union in Aberystwyth.

  • NFU to name and shame retailers as growers suffer

    12 October 2011

    THE NFU is warning that it will ‘name and shame’ retailers its suspects of abusing their power over fruit and vegetable suppliers.

  • Farmer confidence soars as prices rise

    10 October 2011

    BRITISH farmers are making plans to increase production as industry confidence soars on the back of growing demand and higher prices for food, an NFU survey shows.

  • Record EU cereals harvest forecast

    10 October 2011

    THE EU cereals harvest looks set to hit record levels this year, despite difficult weather conditions, according to the latest estimates.

  • Watch again: Food security debate

    7 October 2011

    FG food security debate: Don’t exclude technology, expert warns

  • CFE – do not be a secret supporter

    October 7, 2011

    FARMERS could already be supporting the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) without knowing it because many management practices commonly undertaken on-farm count towards it.

  • Developing fungicide control programmes for longer beet seasons

    October 7, 2011

    EARLIER drilling, a longer growing season and later lifting of sugar beet could mean future fungicide strategies for the crop are going to have to change.

  • GM wheat in the marketplace is still a long way off

    October 7, 2011

    THE GM wheat variety being trialled at Rothamsted will cost up to £10 million to get through the regulatory process, according to one of the scientists working on the trial.

  • Greater risk from BYDV in winter barley and wheat

    October 7, 2011

    EARLY drilled crops and continuing mild weather conditions are set to increase the barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) infection risk in winter barley and winter wheat.

  • New biorefinery centre aims to find new uses for crop waste

    October 7, 2011

    AGRICULTURE and the food chain in the UK is set to play an important role in the production of biofuel from waste plant material following the opening of the Biorefinery Centre at the UK’s Institute of Food Research (IFR), Norwich.

  • New vegetable crop protection developments

    October 7, 2011

    CROP protection developments on show at the Syngenta vegetable agronomy open day at PGRO’s headquarters site near Peterborough included a new foliar insecticide and new fungicides for vegetable crops.

  • Oat waste for energy solution to zero landfill aim

    October 7, 2011

    DEVELOPING novel solutions to waste management has enabled food manufacturing business PepsiCo UK to achieve ‘zero waste to landfill’ status at 11 of its major manufacturing sites, including Walkers in Leicester and Quaker Oats in Cupar.

  • Wheat yield boost from direct drilling in trials

    October 7, 2011

    TRIALS have shown a 26 per cent increase in wheat yield from crops which have been direct drilled, compared to those established with conventional cultivations.

  • Potato crops susceptible to bruising in dry weather

    6 October 2011

    MORE than 60 per cent of the UK potato crop has been harvested so far this autumn in near-perfect lifting conditions. But continued lack of rainfall in many parts of the country is causing concern over bruising.

  • Record oilseed production in 2011 harvest

    6 October 2011

    OILSEED rape production soared to record levels as the 2011 harvest defied early summer expectations, final results from the NFU’s harvest survey have revealed.

  • Farmers urged to act over bracken control agent asulam

    6 October 2011

    RURAL leaders are urging farmers to act sooner rather than later when it comes to bracken control agent asulam.

  • Unite abandons plans for British Sugar strike

    5 October 2011

    THE Unite union has failed to get the necessary support for a planned strike at British Sugar processing plants.

  • CropWorld 2011: Foresight report making the case for food production

    5 October 2011

    THE Foresight report has changed the conversation about food security. The big challenge now, according to one of its authors, is ensuring its findings are put into practice.

  • Join Farmers Guardian's food security debate - October 7

    3 October 2011

    WHAT should the role of farmers be in feeding the world? 

  • 2011 harvest sees record oilseed production

    30 September 2011

    OILSEED rape production soared to record levels as the 2011 harvest defied early summer expectations, final results from the NFU’s harvest survey have revealed.

  • £16m available for sustainable production research

    September 30, 2011

    OILSEED rape and pulse crops are to benefit from a share in research funding totalling nearly £16 million as part of a programme of 29 major new collaborative research projects announced by the Technology Strategy Board.

  • Be vigilant despite lower slug numbers

    September 30, 2011

    SLUG trapping is revealing some interesting differences this season, says Bayer CropScience.

  • Genomics scientist wins RASE award

    September 30, 2011

    PROFESSOR Keith Edwards of the University of Bristol has been awarded the Royal Agricultural Society’s Research Medal in recognition of his work using genomics-based technologies to identify, map, isolate, manipulate and express different genetic variants in wheat quality and performance.

  • Leaf miner threat in sugar beet could increase frost damage

    September 30, 2011

    MANGOLD fly larvae (leaf miner) are causing damage in a number of sugar beet crops, particularly in Suffolk and Norfolk, says the BBRO.

  • No regulations in place for now

    September 30, 2011

    GUY Gagen, chief arable adviser at the NFU, confirms that there is nothing in cross compliance rules or EU legislation, as yet, to restrict over-wintered ploughed land, but it is difficult to know what is coming in the future.

  • Pea establishment system trial favours plough-based methods

    September 30, 2011

    Last season, six different establishment methods in peas were trialled in Cambridgeshire. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Stubble management tweak will help CFE meet voluntary targets

    September 30, 2011

    FARMERS are being urged to tweak their stubble management to help the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) meet targets for Voluntary Measures.

  • Watch again: GM wheat debate

    29 September 2011

    GENETICALLY modified (GM) wheat will be a ‘non-starter’ unless public concerns over the technology are addressed, according to people on both sides of the GM debate.

  • Team approach to profitable, sustainable farming pays off

    29 September 2011

    Demonstrating their commitment to farming in a profitable, but yet sustainable manner was a key factor in the Trumpington Farming Company winning the supreme championship in the East of England Agricultural Society’s Farm Business Awards, according to judges Nick Padwick and Andrew Maddever.

  • GM food at risk from powerful lobbyists, research suggests

    26 September 2011

    LOBBY groups opposed to GM food are threatening public acceptance of the technology in Europe, research suggests.

  • 2011 harvest a ‘mixed bag’

    23 September 2011

    THE 2011 harvest was a ‘mixed bag’ with winners and losers defined by location and crop and soil type, according to industry experts.

  • GB potato planting down

    September 23, 2011

    POTATO plantings this season were just under half of 1 per cent down on 2010, according to the latest Potato Council estimate.

  • Investigations underway into nematicide MRL exceedances

    September 23, 2011

    REPORTS of nematicide maximum residue (MRL) exceedances in a small number of potato crops lifted this season are currently being investigated.

  • Mycotoxin test requirement ends for 2011

    September 23, 2011

    GROWERS will not need to supply mycotoxin test results for the remainder of the 2011 crop marketing year, following agreement between the NFU and cereal industry representatives.

  • Turnip yellows threat to vegetable brassica yields

    September 23, 2011

    BRUSSELS sprout growers could double their yields by growing varieties which are less susceptible to turnip yellows virus (TuYV), new research has revealed.

  • Wet weather increases phoma threat to OSR crops

    September 23, 2011

    UNSETTLED weather across the UK in recent weeks means an early release of phoma spores is likely, possibly becoming a threat to newly established oilseed rape crops.

  • Kendall urges industry to promote GM wheat benefits

    22 September 2011

    NFU president Peter Kendall has urged the farming industry to go out and promote the potentially ‘phenomenal’ benefits of genetically modified (GM) wheat to consumers.

  • Stubble management tweak will help CFE meet targets

    21 September 2011

    FARMERS are being urged to tweak their stubble management to help the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) meet targets for Voluntary Measures.

  • Bracken control agent asulam is banned

    20 September 2011

    FARMING leaders in Scotland will press the Government for an emergency authorisation for bracken control agent Asulam, following a decision in Brussels to uphold a proposed ban on the product.

  • CropWorld Global 2011: Benefiting from an integrated approach to farm management

    20 September 2011

    Integrated farm management is set to be a key topic at CropWorld 2011. For the second of our features ahead of the event, David Jones talked to a Leaf demonstration farmer to find out what IFM means in practice.

  • GM honey must get EU thumbs up

    19 September 2011

    HONEY containing even small traces of pollen from GM plants must now receive prior EU authorisation before it can be sold as food, the European Court of Justice has ruled.

  • Defra approves first UK GM wheat trial

    16 September 2011

    DEFRA has approved the UK’s first GM wheat trial, which will be conducted by the Rothamsted Research institute in 2012 and 2013. 

  • Scottish farmers battle to complete wheat harvest

    16 September 2011

    HEAVY rain and strong winds are hampering the best efforts of Scottish farmers as they battle to complete this year’s wheat harvest.

  • New adjuvant website

    September 16, 2011

    A NEW website, from adjuvant business Interagro (UK), is designed to provide advisors and farmers with the latest news and seasonal information about adjuvant use in general as well as the latest information on the Interagro range of products.

  • Nutritional approach to lower disease levels

    September 16, 2011

    NUTRITIONALLY ‘balanced’ crop plants are better able to withstand the effects of disease to the extent that they may require a reduced level of crop protection inputs.

  • Overcome SC limitations through novel technology

    September 16, 2011

    NOVEL formulation technology behind a new range of crop nutrition products claims to deliver rapid crop uptake, with slow nutrient release.

  • Potato seed treatment approved

    September 16, 2011

    BAYER CropScience’s new liquid formulation of its new potato seed treatment for controlling rhizoctonia, has gained approval.

  • Research into temperature effects on PCN

    September 16, 2011

    RESEARCHERS at Harper Adams University College are investigating whether temperature affects the growth of potato pest potato cyst nematode (PCN).

  • Step up establishment efforts for winter cereals

    September 16, 2011

    Another challenging harvest across much of Scotland means growers need to step up their efforts to ensure rapid and vigorous cereal establishment this autumn.

  • Big sugar beet crop expected as harvest begins

    15 September 2011

    THE sugar beet harvest got under way this week ahead of delivery to the four factories, which all opened yesterday (Wednesday, September 14). Early indications are it will be a large crop this season and sugar yields look promising.

  • 2011 wheat harvest defies expectations

    14 September 2011

    THIS year’s wheat crop recovered from the spring drought conditions to produce yields largely in line with the five-year average, NFU harvest survey results show.

  • British Sugar workers consider industrial action

    14 September 2011

    UNITE members at four British Sugar plants in the east of England will be balloted next week on industrial action, after the workforce rejected a 3.5 per cent pay offer.

  • Potato growers invest in machinery after tough harvest

    14 September 2011

    POTATO equipment manufacturers are in an upbeat mood following one of the best years on record, writes Steven Vale from Potato Europe.

  • Winter wheat yields hold up

    14 September 2011

    WITH more than half the Recommended List (RL) winter wheat trial results now in, it is clear yields have held up well across most of the country, away from shallow soils in the east, says HGCA.

  • Government urged to reduce reliance on food imports

    13 September 2011

    THE Government has been urged to take steps to reduce the UK’s dependence on food imports.

  • East Anglian farm businesses shortlisted

    13 September 2011

    THE finalists have been announced for the inaugural LandSkills East awards which will be held at Jimmy’s Farm in Suffolk next week.

  • European biofuels given reprieve, report suggests

    12 September 2011

    THE European Union’s top climate and energy officials have agreed to delay rules which would penalise individual biofuels for their indirect climate impacts, Reuters news agency is reporting.

  • ADAS warning on fusarium risk

    September 9, 2011

    TESTING home-saved seed for fusarium may be worthwhile this season as unsettled weat-her late in ear development has elevated levels of these pathogens in many crops, says ADAS.

  • Back to basics clamp approach needed for storing sugar beet

    September 9, 2011

    RENEWED interest in storing sugar beet in clamps this harvesting season is expected following the difficulties experienced by growers getting crops out of the ground during the last campaign.

  • British Sugar factory opening dates announced

    September 9, 2011

    THE new sugar beet harvesting campaign will get under way next week with all four of British Sugar’s factories opening on September 14.

  • Growers confident of meeting sugar beet factory requirements

    September 9, 2011

    GROWERS and harvesting contractors attending last week’s British Beet Research Organisation whole beet harvesting demonstration in Norfolk seemed reasonably confident they would be able to meet beet factory requirements.

  • Maize Watch - September 2011

    September 9, 2011

    ?With harvest rapidly approaching, the two Maize Watch farmers are both contemplating their options, from dry matter and chop length, to inoculants and sheeting.

  • New form of resistance to light leaf spot

    September 9, 2011

    A TEAM of UK researchers has found a new form of resistance to the fungal pathogen causing light leaf spot in oilseed rape.

  • Better efficiency key to reducing water use and irrigation costs

    8 September 2011

    WATER management plays a significant role in maximising potato yields and quality, but improvements in irrigation efficiency must be made if growers are to save money and agriculture is to justify its future share of a dwindling resource.

  • CropWorld Global 2011: Adapting farming to meet climate challenge

    8 September 2011

    Dr Alison Bailey from the school of agriculture, policy and development at the University of Reading will examine the water implications of climate change in UK agriculture at CropWorld 2011. She spoke to Olivia Midgley about some of the key ideas she will be discussing.

  • GM crops photographic exhibition launched

    8 September 2011

    A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition, being launched at the British Science Festival in Bradford on September 9, is aiming to demystify the process of genetic modification.

  • Fixed crown tare incentive on sugar beet

    8 September 2011

    FOLLOWING the announcement manual crowning of beet in factory tarehouses will cease, growers are being advised to deliver as much of the whole root as possible to maximise yields this season.

  • UK wheat yields below average

    7 September 2011

    UK wheat yields are averaging just under the UK five-year average at 7.5-7.7 tonnes per hectare with just over three-quarters of the wheat area now harvested, says HGCA.

  • Two enterprises work together to create one optimistic future

    6 September 2011

    THE pig and arable enterprise in West Yorkshire serve to complement each other with Peter Batty being ready for the challenges they bring and believing it is the best way for his business to run. Angela Calvert reports.

  • EU set to abolish sugar quotas?

    6 September 2011

    THE European Union is set to propose the abolition of sugar production quotas and guaranteed minimum prices from 2016, according to a Reuters news agency report.

  • Agrovista and Openfield join forces

    6 September 2011

    CROP protection and agronomy business Agrovista UK and farmer owned grain marketing and arable inputs business Openfield have announced a strategic alliance to serve all parts of the UK market.

  • Weather leads to 'unprecedented' bumper yield of peas

    6 September 2011

    EXTRAORDINARY weather conditions over the course of the year have produced an ‘unprecedented’ bumper yield of peas.

  • More British fruit and veg growers needed

    5 September 2011

    MORE British fruit and vegetable growers are needed to supply food to London’s wholesale markets.

  • New option for control of black-grass

    September 2, 2011

    Product news

  • Project seeks best timing for grass-weed control

    September 2, 2011

    A PROJECT monitoring grass weed emergence patterns is set to continue this year following on from a pilot scheme started in 2010.

  • Residual herbicides will have to work longer this season

    September 2, 2011

    RESIDUAL chemistry applied to crops for black-grass control this season is going to have to work for longer periods if seed dormancy predictions for this autumn are proved correct.

  • Wheat on heavy land site yields 13.4t/ha

    September 2, 2011

    LATEST harvest trials results published by the HGCA indicate 2011 winter wheat yields are currently just under one tonne per hectare below the five-year mean, an improvement onearlier harvested trials figures released in the middle of August.

  • CropWorld Global 2011: Changing our global approach to farming

    1 September 2011

    IN the first of our features to mark the forthcoming CropWorld Global 2011 event, Alistair Driver heard from one of the speakers, Hans Herren, about why he believes the world’s bankrupt food system needs an overhaul.

  • CropWorld Global 2011: Essential information

    1 September 2011

    ALL you need to know about CropWorld Global 2011 - the leading conference and exhibition for the global crop production supply chain.

  • Ten years of Voluntary Initiative

    1 September 2011

    ON the 10th anniversary of the Voluntary Initiative (VI) scheme, Environment Minister Lord Henley visited a Cheshire farm and chemical store to hear of its benefits.

  • Potato Week aims to educate and inspire consumers

    31 August 2011

    THE first ever Potato Week, organised by the Potato Council, is to take place from October 1-7.

  • High black-grass dormancy predicted for growers

    31 August 2011

    GROWERS can expect a protracted black-grass control campaign this autumn, according to the latest research from ADAS, which indicates dormancy levels in black-grass seeds are likely to be high.

  • Scientific breakthrough could improve efficiency of OSR

    30 August 2011

    SCIENTISTS have announced a breakthrough they claim will improve the efficiency of oilseed rape breeding and a host of other important food and oil crops.

  • First results for KaN

    August 26, 2011

    ?NEW urea-based N fertiliser Koch Advanced Nitrogen (KaN) has performed well in its first commercial year on-farm, says Koch.

  • Maize Watch - August 2011

    August 26, 2011

    In the latest of our 2011 Maize Watch series, our two farmers look at options, aphids and disease levels ahead of this season’s harvest.

  • Make time for black-grass control

    August 26, 2011

    RUSHING in to drill winter wheat on fields which were harvested early and cultivated promptly will place added pressure on black-grass control, growers are being advised.

  • New appointment to SAC potato team

    August 26, 2011

    ?MATHEW Smallwood has been appointed as senior potato consultant, SAC has announced. He will be based at SAC’s Perth office and will work closely with Dr Stuart Wale, who continues to work for SAC on a reduced-days basis.

  • New rusts hit Group 3 winter wheat Warrior

    August 26, 2011

    FOLLOWING tests on Group 3 winter wheat variety Warrior made earlier in the summer, it has been confirmed the variety has become susceptible to a new race of yellow rust.

  • Stale seedbed role highlighted

    August 26, 2011

    ?ONE in two growers used a stale seedbed approach last autumn, according to a survey conducted on the BASF agriCentre website in conjunction with ADAS.

  • UK commercial wheat yield record smashed?

    August 26, 2011

    GROUP 3 wheats are rarely viewed as potential record breakers, but a 14.3t/ha crop of Invicta, bred by Limagrain UK and harvested by David Hoyles of Monmouth House Farm, Lutton, Lincolnshire is thought to have set a new yield record for a UK wheat.

  • Water focus at Potato Day

    August 26, 2011

    ?WATER auditing and efficient water use is on the agenda for the East of England Potato Day next week.

  • Large potato crop canopies posing desiccation challenges

    25 August 2011

    DESICCANT application trials to monitor spray deposition in different parts of the potato crop canopy have demonstrated that the angled Syngenta Potato Nozzle gives better all-round coverage of leaves and stems at all heights of the leaf canopy, compared to conventional flat fans or the angled Amistar Nozzle, says Syngenta.

  • Soil type divide in winter wheat yields

    24 August 2011

    ALTHOUGH variability has been the key feature of winter wheat yields this harvest, soil types in the East of the country appear to have more directly influenced results from HGCA trials, rather than the dry weather conditions experienced earlier in the season.

  • Australian growers offer crop advice to SAC

    24 August 2011

    SCOTTISH farmers need to constantly innovate and adapt their processes in order to farm better, Australian arable experts have said.

  • Welsh Government urged to scrap extra water charges

    23 August 2011

    THE Welsh Government is being pressed to overturn regulations which will cost people with private water supplies hundreds of pounds a year.

  • Alternative herbicide in battle against black-grass

    August 19, 2011

    Positive feedback from growers, together with good results in distributor trials has prompted Dow AgroSciences to reposition its pyroxsulam+pendimethalin herbicide, Broadway Sunrise, for the coming season.

  • Animal feed market driving linseed area increase

    August 19, 2011

    .

  • Failure rate increases under new testing system for PCN

    August 19, 2011

    THE efficiency of sampling and testing for potato cyst nematodes has improved following measures introduced a year ago during implementation of the EU PCN Directive in Scotland. However, there has been a big increase in land recorded as being infested with PCN, said SASA head of potato branch Dr John Kerr.

  • Frustration for start of Scotland's harvest

    August 19, 2011

    UNSETTLED weather continues to cause problems for the harvest throughout the UK, and in Scotland in particular.

  • Good ideas come naturally for one enterprising farmer

    August 19, 2011

    There is multi-tasking then there is Andy Fussell. With multiple business enterprises on the go, he is his own marketeer with tangible results, as Danusia Osiowy discovered when she visited Somerset.

  • Groundkeepers cost industry £300,000 a year

    August 19, 2011

    ROGUEING for groundkeepers is costing seed potato growers around £300,000 per annum, according to a Potato Council-funded survey.

  • Growing blackleg threat to seed potatoes

    August 19, 2011

    Two-thirds of crops inspected.

  • Improving consistency of black-grass control in OSR

    August 19, 2011

    A sequence or mixture based on herbicide active ingredients carbetamide and propyzamide, can improve the consistency of black-grass control in oilseed rape it is claimed.

  • New sequence option gives black-grass control boost

    August 19, 2011

    PRE-EMERGENCE options for black-grass control in cereals have been boosted ahead of treatments this autumn with Chemicals Regulation Directorate (CRD) approval for the full-rate use of herbicide Lexus SX (flupyrsulfuron-methyl) in sequence with some other sulfonylurea herbicides such as Atlantis (iodosulfuron + mesosulfuron).

  • Record seed potato exports

    August 19, 2011

    SCOTTISH seed potato exports broke through the 100,000 tonne barrier for the first time ever in 2010/11. Exports have grown by 30 per cent over the last decade and demand continues to outstrip supply.

  • Yields vary as harvest starts amid tough conditions

    August 19, 2011

    THE anticipated ‘very early’ harvest has not come to fruition across England but, according to the NFU’s chief arable adviser Guy Gagen, it is better than initially feared in May.

  • Growers in shock as Producer Organisations face abolition

    16 August 2011

    HALF of all fruit and vegetable Producer Organisations (POs) could lose their status, following a review by the Rural Payments Agency (RPA), the NFU has warned.

  • An innovative solar solution providing energy for grain store

    15 August 2011

    A lucky find abroad means Cambridgeshire farmer James Peck can make the most of solar energy. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Managing a sustainable approach to water use

    12 August 2011

    New European and UK water legislation is being introduced. Teresa Rush visited a potato grower in West Sussex to find out what it means in practice.

  • Popular OSR varieties delivering best yields

    August 12, 2011

    THE latest HGCA harvest results show oilseed rape yields from ‘east-west’ trials continue to remain at 10 per cent (0.5 tonne) above the five-year mean.

  • Resistance data used in fight against onion basal rot

    August 12, 2011

    RESEARCH led by the Warwick Crop Centre at the University of Warwick has developed a unique collection of information about the disease resistance of 96 of the world’s onion varieties.

  • Spray contamination risk for some seed potato growers

    August 12, 2011

    SEED potato growers with crops bordering cereals or oilseed rape should beware the ongoing risk of contamination resulting from spray drift from neighbouring crops, warns the Potato Council.

  • Peas performing well despite dry season

    11 August 2011

    COMBINING peas have done well this harvest considering the very dry season, says the PGRO.

  • Identifying additional markets for Group 4 wheat

    11 August 2011

    DO not think of Group 4 wheats solely as feed. That is the message from independent grain and fertiliser broker Luke Paterson of Essex-based Paterson Ag.

  • Stick to guideline dose of metaldehyde this autumn

    10 August 2011

    Farmers across the country are being urged to adhere to the dosage guidelines recommended by the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG) during the August 1 to December 31 application period.

  • Early wheat yields variable, but quality good

    9 August 2011

    DESPITE mixed weather causing interruptions, about 10 per cent of the winter wheat crop had been harvested in the UK by the start of this week, with predicted wide variability in yields, but quality is looking good.

  • BSPB warns growers not to farm-save hybrid varieties

    8 August 2011

    THE British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) is reminding growers of the legal obligations and agronomic and economic risks of farm-saving seed of F1 hybrid varieties.

  • Preventing beetle spread

    5 August 2011

    EUROPEAN officials have decided to press ahead with emergency measures to prevent the spread of a species of beetle which could deal a devastating blow to the UK’s potato industry.

  • Desiree finds favour in 2011 plantings

    August 5, 2011

    Maris Piper still the dominant variety.

  • Drought impact less than feared as winter barley yields hold

    August 5, 2011

    WITH the first of the HGCA winter barley harvest trials results collected, average yields for the crop appear to be 10 per cent down on the five-year mean.

  • Early OSR results put long-term yields up 5pc

    August 5, 2011

    Excalibur has an exceptionally good year.

  • Extra cost of alternaria blight control

    August 5, 2011

    Additional or different active ingredients may be needed.

  • New brown rust race attacks Stigg

    August 5, 2011

    Other varieties with similar high resistance ratings to the disease under investigation.

  • Take-all threat to second wheat potential

    August 5, 2011

    Pattern of take-all development in second wheats almost identical to 2010.

  • Slow start, but harvest is now well underway

    4 August 2011

    AFTER a slow start to the harvest, due to unsettled weather and slow crop ripening, harvesting of winter barley and winter oilseed rape in the southern and central regions of England is now well underway.

  • Surprising OSR yields after dry spring

    3 August 2011

    BETTER than expected oilseed rape yields are being reported this harvest, while winter barley results are proving to be variable.

  • European harvest prospects improve

    3 August 2011

    THE harvest outlook across Europe looked more positive this week after the rain disruption of recent weeks, says HGCA.

  • New brown rust strain identified

    1 August 2011

    CEREAL disease experts are warning of the emergence of one or more new races of brown rust following an apparent breakdown of some winter wheat varieties with a high rating for resistance to the disease.

  • Selecting the right wheats for the South West

    30 July 2011

    While plant breeders may be some way off producing the perfect wheat for the South West, there’s plenty of new material to choose from for this autumn.

  • Arable farmers urged to complete survey

    29 July 2011

    ARABLE farmers across England and Wales are being urged to complete this year’s NFU harvest survey.

  • Early maturing varieties help ease harvest pressures

    July 29, 2011

    OILSEED rape growers worried about the problems associated with wet summers and late harvests should choose an early maturing variety to reduce harvest pressures.

  • Low risk of DON contamination this harvest

    July 29, 2011

    THE overall risk of contamination of grain by the DON mycotoxin appears to be low this harvest.

  • Scientists identify beetles’ role in reducing weeds

    July 29, 2011

    GROUND beetles can reduce the amount of weed seed in the soil and could potentially be used in place of some herbicide applications, according to researchers funded by the UK Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and the French Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA).

  • Straw removal figures stack up this season

    July 29, 2011

    WHILE strong demand is creating a valuable market for straw, growers are being advised if they do cart straw from their fields, they will need to replace base nutrients if following crop yields are to be maintained.

  • Supply chain approach to reducing malt’s carbon footprint

    July 29, 2011

    A leading malt producer is working with malting barley growers and a university with the aim of boosting its environmental credentials. 

  • Verticillium wilt threat to home-saved seed

    July 29, 2011

    OILSEED rape growers are being advised verticillium wilt-affected crops should not be used for home-saved seed as there is a risk of external contamination of seed.

  • Precision fertiliser for oilseed rape

    28 July 2011

    OILSEED rape growers should consider using a specialist fertiliser at drilling this year, says ProCam UK agronomy manager Nick Myers.

  • Black-grass and brome control

    28 July 2011

    PYROXSULAM based herbicide Broadway Sunrise can give black-grass control at least equal to that of current standard treatment Atlantis (iodosulfuron + mesosulfuron) from an autumn application preceded by a robust pre-emergence treatment, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • Top winter wheat grower announced

    28 July 2011

    THE North West has produced the top winter wheat grower in Northern Ireland in 2011. 

  • Shatter resistant OSR helps cut harvest losses

    28 July 2011

    GENETIC resistance to pod shatter built into the latest hybrid oilseed rape varieties has been shown to cut seed losses where combining has to be delayed for as little as five to six days after crop maturity.

  • Seed shortage concerns are driving early orders

    27 July 2011

    SEED sales are reported to be well ahead of normal as growers respond to concerns over shortages of some varieties following this spring’s drought.

  • Simplified approach to OSR variety choice

    27 July 2011

    THE UK National List for winter oilseed rape contains more than 200 varieties of which the HGCA is currently listing 60.

  • High hopes for organic milling wheat varieties

    26 July 2011

    ORGANIC seeds supplier and variety trials company Organic Seed Producers (OSP) has high expectations for two potential milling winter wheat varieties currently in its trials programme.

  • Higher premiums for malting barley this year

    26 July 2011

    MALTING barley has re-emerged as a crop ‘worth looking at’, with talk of malting premiums of around £50/tonne over feed value for spring crops and £40 for winter crops.

  • Biological approach to improve early vigour

    July 22, 2011

    A new biological seed dressing being developed by soil management specialists Glenside Group is said to increase early plant vigour and helps combat abiotic stress in cereal crops.

  • Cereal quality suffers as rain hits

    July 22, 2011

    RAIN has brought late season relief from drought to many cereal crop across central, southern and eastern England but it is also bringing serious threats to crop quality and combining efficiency as well as the prospect of far higher drying costs, agronomists are warning.

  • Fertiliser/herbicide mix available again

    July 22, 2011

    LIQUID fertiliser and agchem supply businesses Omex Agriculture and Gowan Comerçio have renewed their agreement to tank-mix and apply liquid suspension fertilisers with the grass-weed herbicide Avadex Excel 15G (tri-allate).

  • Formal understanding could help cut red tape

    July 22, 2011

    AGRONOMISTS’ professional standards organisation BASIS and the Environment Agency have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding, formally recognising more than 30 years in which the two organisations have worked together to raise standards in the pesticide supply and advice sector.

  • Keep on top of slug infestations in potato crops

    July 22, 2011

    KEEPING on top of a preventative slug control strategy will be the key to avoiding damaging infestations in potato crops this season, according to Malcolm Smith, Masstock’s technical support manager.

  • Making the right seed treatment choice

    July 22, 2011

    WITH more than 60 per cent of winter wheat varieties now regarded as susceptible to yellow rust, and the threat of septoria ever present, the use of broad spectrum seed treatments should be considered as an integral part of any planned disease control programme.

  • OSR yields hit by poor root structure

    July 22, 2011

    With 45 years in the business of advising on UK farms, Masstock agronomist Philip Marr reckons he has seen some poor oilseed rape crops in his time, but never in the quantity he has witnessed this season.

  • Sclerotinia threat to carrot crops

    July 22, 2011

    SCLEROTIAL germination, which indicates the first fungicide treatments will be required soon as main crop carrots approach full ground cover, has been recorded by BASF and ADAS.

  • Seed treatment key to limiting early infection

    July 22, 2011

    DESPITE low pressure so far this season, aphid numbers are now building and oilseed rape crops could need protection this autumn to prevent subsequent virus infection.

  • Take care with desiccant applications to peas and beans

    July 22, 2011

    GETTING the correct application stage is important when desiccating combining peas and field beans, growers are being advised.

  • Rain helps to boost potato crop yields

    21 July 2011

    POTATO crops are benefiting from the rain but could also do with some more sunshine, says the Potato Council.

  • Rape crop could benefit from new seed dressing

    21 July 2011

    A new growth-promoting seed dressing which provides an array of plant nutrients could help oilseed rape growers achieve improved crop establishment rates, says United Oilseeds.

  • Choose seed treatments carefully in high risk season

    20 July 2011

    Be prepared for significant wheat bulb fly pressure this autumn, wheat growers are being advised.

  • Fusarium threat to second wheats

    20 July 2011

    NIAB TAG pathologists have identified fusarium culmorum as the fungus responsible for causing the striking pinkish red sporulation being found on the lower nodes of some winter wheat crops in the East of England.

  • Winter linseed under way

    20 July 2011

    THE winter linseed harvest is under way, says Premium Crops, which manages the crop in the UK.

  • Farmers urged to back Environmental Stewardship

    19 July 2011

    WITH 15,000 Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) and Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS) - agri-environment agreements due to expire in four years, farmers are being urged to consider Environmental Stewardship.

  • GM field trial sites destroyed

    15 July 2011

    MASKED attackers overpowered guards at two GM trial sites in Saxony-Anhalt, destroyed plants and caused damage worth hundreds of thousands of euros.

  • Research cuts threaten future food sustainability

    15 July 2011

    FARMING chiefs have slammed plans to streamline UK agricultural research giant Rothamsted, fearing the move could be a massive blow to the industry.

  • Beet growers warned to expect powdery mildew

    July 15, 2011

    With pressure from powdery mildew and ramularia, and the rise in incidence of cercospora, Dominic Kilburn assesses the options and strategies available to sugar beet growers this season.

  • Growers should have realistic expectations on prices

    July 15, 2011

    The 2011 National Organic Cereals Event was organised by Organic Farmers & Growers and hosted by Clive Martin, at Whitegates Farm, near March, Cambridgeshire. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Increased risk of blight from warm, wet weather

    July 15, 2011

    CONFIRMED cases of potato blight, combined with repeated rain showers and hot humid weather, has significantly increased infection risks, potato growers are being advised.

  • New SDHI set for 2012 in battle against septoria

    July 15, 2011

    CEREAL growers look set to have the option of a powerful new weapon against septoria and other key diseases next season following the successful progression of carboxamide (SDHI) active ingredient Xemium through the European approvals process.

  • Non-inversion tillage has a role to play in organic sector

    July 15, 2011

    NON-INVERSION tillage will work on organic farms but it must be carried out with the right machinery, and at the right depth if weed control problems are to be overcome successfully, said Mark Measures, an adviser to the organic industry.

  • Redistribution effect protects new growth in potatoes

    July 15, 2011

    TRIALS with blight fungicide Valbon (benthiavalicarb-isopropyl and mancozeb) mixed with adjuvant ZinZan have demonstrated systemic activity providing protection for new growth.

  • Scottish farmers cash in on wheat crop

    July 15, 2011

    WHEAT has been exported from Scotland for the first time after Aberdeenshire farmers saw a surplus at the end of the season.

  • Take care and capture low bean pods

    July 15, 2011

    TAKE care when combining bean crops this harvest – the dry weather has resulted in short crops which have podded close to the ground and pods could easily be lost.

  • British Sugar workers consider strike action

    14 July 2011

    UNITE members at four British sugar plants in the East of England are to be balloted on industrial action after rejecting a 3.5 per cent pay offer.

  • End of anti-potash dumping measures

    13 July 2011

    THE European Commission has intervened to effectively open up new sources of potash for British farmers and growers.

  • Rust confirmed in beet – get ready to spray

    12 July 2011

    SUGAR beet growers are being advised to get ready to apply fungicide treatments to their crops following confirmation of the presence of active brown rust in sugar beet at Broom’s Barn research centre in Suffolk.

  • Scientists unlock mystery of potato genome

    11 July 2011

    SCIENTISTS have sequenced the genome of the potato, paving the way for dramatic improvements in the breeding process.

  • A winning black-grass combination

    July 8, 2011

    VARIABLE rate drilling of winter wheat combined with variable rate herbicide applications at pre-emergence could deliver beneficial black-grass control in fields where high levels of the weed are known to exist.

  • Comeback for tri-allate in grass control?

    July 8, 2011

    BROME trials at NIAB TAG’s National Agronomy Centre, Norfolk, have shown there is no difference in the control of meadow brome weeds when using Atlantis (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron) or Broadway Star (pyroxsulam + florasulam + cloquintocet-mexyl) ALS herbicides.

  • Fixed rate tares offer a big incentive to growers

    July 8, 2011

    FOLLOWING trials work last year, British Sugar has announced from the 2011/12 harvesting campaign, manual crowning of sugar beet in the factory tarehouses will cease and a fixed crown tare of 6.77 per cent of the root will be deducted under its ‘whole beet’ delivery scheme.

  • Growers respond to market conditions

    July 8, 2011

    WHEAT and oilseed rape plantings are up but winter barley plantings are the lowest since 1994, according to HGCA planting and variety surveys.

  • Paper waste could add nutrients and improve water retention

    July 8, 2011

    INCORPORATING a waste paper bi-product on land prior to drilling sugar beet could give soils a cost effective conditioning benefit as well as boost nutritional levels.

  • Sugar beet yields could double in next 20 years

    July 8, 2011

    WHILE the yield potential of sugar beet crops could double by 2030, winter wheat will need a step change in breeding development if the yield potential of the crop is to rise sufficiently to meet the demands of the future.

  • Rainfall has helped crops but parts of the UK need more

    7 July 2011

    THE recent rainfall has provided a lifeline for struggling crops although some areas of the UK are still counting the cost of the prolonged dry spell.

  • Trial to assess effect of buried sugar beet

    6 July 2011

    FOLLOWING the very difficult sugar beet harvesting conditions experienced by growers last season, NIAB TAG is monitoring a field trial to see whether beet left in the ground has a detrimental effect on following crop yields.

  • Guide to help farmers stall bumblebee decline

    4 July 2011

    BEE experts have teamed up with Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) to produce a guide for farmers on how they can help reverse the decline of bumblebees.

  • Drop forecast for EU wheat harvest

    4 July 2011

    THE 2011 EU wheat harvest will be down by 3.5 per cent on last year, according to estimates released by European farm organisation Copa-Cogeca.

  • Growers to receive 2012 beet contracts

    1 July 2011

    British Sugar and the NFU have announced the start of the sugar beet crop round of contracting for 2012 including the new price, and the availability of an extra 500,000 tonnes of industrial beet contract.

  • Assessing beet varieties’ susceptibility to BCN

    July 1, 2011

    A BBRO-funded project is underway at Broom’s Barn this season to assess sugar beet varieties and their susceptibility to beet cyst nematode (BCN).

  • Conservation and intensive growing can fit like a glove

    July 1, 2011

    The Piccaver family, winners of FWAG’s Silver Lapwing Award 2010, farm intentionally to encourage conversation alongside Jepco, their commercial farming business. Angela Calvert meets manager, Phillip Hubbart, to discover their winning methods

  • Mustard as a fumigant ahead of beet

    July 1, 2011

    BY investing in a ‘novel’ mustard crop after cereal harvest and prior to sugar beet drilling in the spring, growers could reduce beet cyst nematode (BCN) levels as well as improve soil biomass and crop yields.

  • Newer formulations perform better in beet

    July 1, 2011

    Sugar beet research work at Broom’s Barn this season is focusing on herbicide performance and varietal susceptibility to beet cyst nematode (BCN). Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Voluntary measures fit well on a fenland farm

    July 1, 2011

    It is 20 years since the Casey family started growing leeks. Back then it was just two and half hectares (six acres), but now it stretches to 65ha (160 acres) and makes up the major part of the farming business.

  • Confidence in arable prompts expansion plans

    30 June 2011

    THE percentage of arable farmers with ambitions to expand is increasing ­ slightly.

  • Agri-environment schemes under threat

    24 June 2011

    DEFRA and the NFU have reinforced the RSPB’s warnings over plans to drastically cut rural development funding post-2013.

  • Cereals 2010: £1m annual research spend for four key projects

    June 24, 2011

    SOIL management, black-grass control, crop nutrition and increasing crop value are the four key areas HGCA has identified as priorities for research funding.

  • Cereals 2011: Agronomy succession training partnership launched

    June 24, 2011

    THE arable-focused graduate training programme launched at Cereals aims to help overcome the growing problem of the shortage of graduates considering agronomy as a career.

  • Cereals 2011: Fine tuning required for Mg and K inputs

    June 24, 2011

    WITH the new RB209 fertiliser recommendations including a whole new soil index in the ‘requiring magnesium fertiliser’ bracket, up to 170,000 hectares of oilseed rape now needs Mg fertiliser to achieve full yield and quality.

  • Cereals 2011: First plantings of herbicide tolerant OSR varieties

    June 24, 2011

    HERBICIDE tolerant oil-seed rape varieties, set for introduction to the UK market this autumn and in 2012, were revealed at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2011: More get the Metaldehyde message

    June 24, 2011

    MORE than 3000 operators have attained the new upgraded PA4S qualification since its introduction, the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG) said at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2011: Network of SMART energy demonstration farms unveiled

    June 24, 2011

    A NATIONAL network of energy demonstration farms unveiled at Cereals aims to provide farmers across the country with reliable, professional information and advice on every aspect of energy crop production and utilisation.

  • Cereals 2011: New herbicide targets grass and broad-leaved weeds

    June 24, 2011

    A new residual herbicide product formulated to deliver grass and broad-leaved weed control in oilseed rape was showcased at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2011: New HGCA biodiversity guide focuses on a practical approach

    June 24, 2011

    A NEW guide from HGCA, launched at Cereals, provides a plethora of practical information designed to help growers decide what methods and measures they can introduce to encourage biodiversity on their farms.

  • Cereals 2011: Project seeks better understanding of OSR pollinators

    June 24, 2011

    Cereals 2011

  • Cereals 2011: Students are up to the Challenge

    June 24, 2011

    THE Newcastle University team of Jonathan Scholey, Robert Baker, Nick Peters and Henry Ward won the Cereals Challenge competition organised by Velcourt and Hutchinsons.

  • Maize Watch - April 2011

    June 24, 2011

    There is still a difference between the two Maize Watch farmers, but both have been able to spray herbicides - in the South West, just in the nick of time.

  • Application submitted for UK GM wheat trial

    23 June 2011

    THE Rothamsted Research institute has submitted an application to carry out the first field scale trial of genetically modified (GM) wheat since the 1990s.

  • G20: Agriculture Ministers meet to discuss food security

    22 June 2011

    G20 AGRICULTURE Ministers are meeting in Paris today to discuss measures to address the problem of high food prices and market volatility.

  • Blackleg strikes sugar beet crops

    June 17, 2011

    BLACKLEG infection has been identified in sugar beet plants sent into the Broom’s Barn plant clinic.

  • Buckwheat could perform a weed suppression role

    June 17, 2011

    BUCKWHEAT could provide a useful weed suppression role in organic farming systems, according to research being carried out by ADAS.

  • Call for black-grass seed samples for prediction service

    June 17, 2011

    ADAS is calling for growers to supply it with black-grass seed samples to feed into its black-grass dormancy prediction service for this autumn.

  • Challenge of delivering future targets on yields

    June 17, 2011

    THREE years after RAGT Seeds’ £3 million bespoke plant breeding centre was opened at Ickleton, near Cambridge, the company’s pan-European wheat breeding programmes were unveiled at a Breeding Technology event recently. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Flowers key to pollen beetle thresholds

    June 17, 2011

    UNDERSTANDING more about the flowering patterns of oilseed rape is helping researchers to re-evaluate spray thresholds for pollen beetle in the crop.

  • Follow-up sprays vital to yellow rust control

    June 17, 2011

    Sprays required every three weeks if weather conditions conducive for rust development.

  • Record number of light leaf spot infections

    June 17, 2011

    Light leaf spot, yellow rust and weed control in organic arable systems were among the demonstrations featured at the ADAS Boxworth open day. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Combined approach speeds development

    16 June 2011

    USING a combined approach of conventional field-based selection, coupled with accelerated genetic techniques, the time taken from ‘first cross’ to a winter wheat variety being assessed in Recommended List trials can now be reduced from 10 to seven years.

  • New veg nozzle offers increased flexibility

    16 June 2011

    A NEW 04 version of the Vegetable Nozzle is available from Syngenta.Designed to optimise application through dense carrot crop leaf canopies and improve results in hearted lettuce and cabbage crops, the new nozzle size will retain the same application properties, but enable operators to reduce water volumes and work at 10-12km/hr to achieve high sprayer outputs.

  • Cereals 2011: Banks supportive in a difficult season

    16 June 2011

    BANKS were promising support for arable farmers in the drought-hit growing season at yesterday’s Cereals event.

  • Cereals 2011: Kendall attacks Ciolos' vision of EU farming

    16 June 2011

    NFU president Peter Kendall has attacked Agriculture Commissioner Dacian Ciolos’ ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’ vision of EU farming.

  • Cereals 2011: Beet prices rise for 2012

    15 June 2011

    THE price for sugar beet is set to rise by £4/tonne in 2012, NFU sugar board chairman William Martin has revealed.

  • Cereals 2011: Fertiliser prices to remain high

    15 June 2011

    FERTILISER prices, principally nitrogen, are on the increase again and predicted to remain firm until year end at least .

  • Cereals 2011: Mzuri returns to strip-seeding

    15 June 2011

    Strip-seeding is being encouraged back to popularity thanks to Worcestershire-based Mzuri, which has designed and engineered the Pro-Til range.

  • Cereals 2011: Manitou pivot steer almost ready

    15 June 2011

    Manitou is getting ever closer to producing its MLA630T pivot steer telehandler, and the French maker used Cereals to show a pre-series version of the 126hp Iveco-powered handler that has been under-going field testing with UK growers.

  • Cereals 2011: SDF launches straw walker combine

    15 June 2011

    SDF used Cereals to show its five-straw walker Deutz-Fahr 6040 combine. The £132,000 harvester is a replacement for the 4065 model, and gets a 6,500-litre grain tank, choice of 4.8m or 5.4m headers and a 220hp Deutz TCD2012 engine.

  • Cereals 2011: Carbon footprint vital in fertiliser plans

    15 June 2011

    AS volatile markets and weather conditions continue to impact, farmers need to have a resilient, yet productive fertiliser programme in place, was the message from Mark Tucker, Yara’s head of agronomy

  • Cereals 2011: Worldmarsh attempts to tackle rural crime

    15 June 2011

    THE buying group, Woldmarsh Producers is working closely with Crimestoppers to reduce rural crime. At the Cereals Event they were jointly surveying farmers about the level and type of crime they were experiencing and raising awareness of Crimestoppers.

  • Cereals 2011: Lone workers offered tracking devices

    15 June 2011

    AS part of Farm Safety Month agricultural purchasing group, Anglia Farmers, is offering members a range of real time tracking devices which enable lone workers to call for help in an emergency and be located by GPS.

  • Cereals 2011: Wheat breeding research taps into global gene pool

    15 June 2011

    RESEARCH projects seeking to identify new wheat genetic material for plant breeders were among the projects demonstrated on the Velcourt stand at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2011: Worthington's ales get Red Tractor mark

    15 June 2011

    WORTHINGTON’S ale has bcome the latest product to be Red Tractor certified.

  • Cereals 2011: Online trading platform takes off

    15 June 2011

    THE age old concept of the corn exchange has taken on a new lease of life on the internet.

  • Cereals 2011: Sizing up the sprayers

    15 June 2011

    The Sprays and Sprayers area provided its usual showcase of the clever, the hi-tech and the simply gargantuan in the crop protection world. But while the 5000 litre, 36m machine used to be a one hit wonder, companies such as John Deere and Chafer Machinery say that high capacity sprayers make up the bulk of their sales. 

  • Cereals 2011: Crop protection key to food security

    15 June 2011

    THE economic importance of the crop protection industry is vital to the UK economy and key to delivering two thirds of what goes into the UK food chain.

  • Cereals 2011: JCB Fastracs to get Agco Sisu Power

    15 June 2011

    JCB has ditched Cummins in favour of Agco Sisu Power as the supplier of engines for its entire Fastrac range, and in doing so has pinned its colours to the SCR emissions flagpole.

  • Cereals 2011: Lowest wheat yields in 30 years as drought hits

    15 June 2011

    THE average English wheat yield in 2011 will be down by 14 per cent to around 6.5 tonnes per hecatre which would make it the lowest yields achieved since the late 1980s.

  • Cereals 2011: New milling wheat contracts for harvest 2012

    15 June 2011

    A leading baker has taken the unusual step of offering contracts for a bread making wheat variety ahead of the decision on its approval for addition to the HGCA Recommended List.

  • Cereals 2011: Plant breeding can deliver on sustainability challenges

    15 June 2011

    PLANT breeding is well-placed to deliver the genetic innovation required to meet the combined global challenges of food security, climate change and environmental protection.

  • Cereals 2011: Crop Improvement Research Club projects

    15 June 2011

    THE first of two tranches of research projects funded by the £7 million Crop Improvement Research Club (CIRC) has been announced this morning (Wednesday, June 15) at Cereals 2011 by the BBSRC.

  • Fresh produce sector attacks Commission e.coli plans

    14 June 2011

    THE fresh produce sector has criticised plans to make the industry pay for a promotional campaign Brussels intends to launch in response to the e.coli crisis.

  • Farmers urged to take on the speculators

    14 June 2011

    FARMERS have been urged to come together and pool their knowledge to ‘outclass’ traders from the big financial institutions in the agricultural commodities markets.

  • Watch again: Wheat prices to remain ‘relatively strong’

    13 June 2011

    WHEAT prices should remain ‘relatively strong’ going into 2012, although they are set to drop below the peaks of the past few months, according to a leading market expert

  • Farmers urged to bale rape straw

    13 June 2011

    ARABLE farmers are being urged to bale all available straw including rape straw, to assist livestock producers who are facing a serious shortage of bedding.

  • Blight risk is low but keep spray intervals consistent

    June 10, 2011

    DESPITE blight pressure in potato crops remaining very low this season, the advice is to keep spray intervals consistent and close, rather than focusing on product choice.

  • Chocolate spot increase after rain

    June 10, 2011

    CHOCOLATE spot is developing in some winter bean crops, says Becky Ward of the Processors’ and Growers’ Research Organisation (PGRO).

  • Genetic advance may reduce septoria threat

    June 10, 2011

    SCIENTISTS have cracked the genetic code of septoria tritici - the most important foliar disease of wheat in the UK - and in doing so have gained an insight into how the disease is able to evade wheat’s natural defences.

  • Getting the metaldehyde message across

    June 10, 2011

    MOST farmers do not know what is the permitted single application rate for applying metaldehyde to their land and more than half are unaware of the maximum recommended dose rates of the slug pellet active ingredient per calendar year.

  • No cause for concern over leaf beetle pest

    June 10, 2011

    CEREAL leaf beetle will not, in most cases, affect yield and treatments applied for other insects will also control this pest, NIAB TAG is advising growers following an increase in sightings of the beetle in cereal crops this season.

  • Parsnip growers strike gold

    June 10, 2011

    STAFFORDSHIRE parsnip growers R.and R.W. Bartlett struck gold at the Heart of England Fine Food Diamond Awards.

  • T3 challenge in variable wheat crops

    June 10, 2011

    T3 fungicide decisions are proving to be exceptionally challenging this year, as a result of variability in crop development and disease risk.

  • Use water now to protect potato yields

    June 10, 2011

    DO not save your water for later - use it now - a leading agronomist is advising potato growers.

  • Fresh produce industry calls for e.coli compensation

    9 June 2011

    THE UK fresh produce industry is demanding compensation for lost sales and revenue as a result of the e.coli crisis.

  • High cereal and meat prices ‘here to stay’

    8 June 2011

    GLOBAL agricultural commodity prices are set to remain ‘high and volatile’ for the rest of this year and into 2012, according to the UN’s Food and Argicultural Organisation (FAO).

  • Experts to debate wheat prices

    7 June 2011

    A PANEL of experts will discuss the complex manoeuvrings of the wheat market on this website on Thursday (June 9).

  • ‘Managed approach’ to cultivations delivers

    June 3, 2011

    The STAR project open event staged at Otley, Suffolk, demonstrated to growers that plough-based cultivation systems generally provide the highest yields in the rotation, but not necessarily the highest margins. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • British Sugar Group renamed

    June 3, 2011

    British Sugar Group has unveiled a new name and visual identity - AB Sugar.

  • DON threat linked to shallow cultivations

    June 3, 2011

    TRIALS work at the STAR project in Suffolk during 2010 demonstrated that, ahead of winter wheat, shallow cultivations are more likely to pass on mycotoxin infection (deoxynivalenol - DON) to the following crop than inversion-based cultivations such as the plough.

  • EU Commission acts to avoid sugar supply problems

    June 3, 2011

    MEMBER states have voted on two measures proposed by the European Commission aimed at ensuring the fluidity of the EU sugar market.

  • High bruchid beetle risk

    June 3, 2011

    BRUCHID beetle are on the move and with rising temperatures and at least two consecutive hot days forecast, coinciding with first pod set in many winter bean crops, the risks of damaging egg-laying activity has increased significantly.

  • Learning how to read the grain market to maximise profit

    June 3, 2011

    INFORMATION, training and advice for farmers on both sides of the volatile grain market are being offered by an established French company, which is now operating in the UK.

  • Trial looks at potential new soil additive

    June 3, 2011

    THE first Scottish Environment Protection Agency-approved biochar trial has been established by SAC in collaboration with the UK Biochar Research Centre (UKBRC) of the University of Edinburgh.

  • Cereals 2011: Video footage

    2 June 2011

    AHEAD of this year’s Cereal’s event, Farmers Guardian arable editor Teresa Rush spoke to some of those involved.

  • Lochhead visits storm damaged soft fruit farms

    2 June 2011

    RICHARD Lochhead visited farmers in Scotland in order to see the damage done by last week’s storms.

  • Retailers move to reassure consumers over cucumbers

    2 June 2011

    UK RETAILERS and growers have moved to ease possible consumer concerns over the safety of salad products, in the wake of an E. coli scare that has rocked Europe.

  • Vining pea harvest is set to begin early

    2 June 2011

    THIS season’s vining pea crop harvest could be one of the earliest ever due to dry weather conditions experienced in the east of the UK this spring, according to the PGRO (Processors and Growers Research Organisation).

  • Cereals 2011: A helping hand with renewables

    2 June 2011

    FROM generating power for use on farm to biomass cropping opportunities, help will be on hand in the renewables area.

  • Cereals 2011: Arable challenges and opportunities in changing times

    2 June 2011

    WITH Cereals 2011 just a couple of weeks away, Teresa Rush met up on a Lincolnshire arable farm with principal sponsor HSBC’s head of agriculture for a round table discussion on some of the key issues facing the arable sector.

  • Cereals 2011: Bayer focus on black-grass control

    2 June 2011

    NEWLY-launched Xpro fungicide technology for barley and wheat will be the primary focus on the Bayer CropScience stand.

  • Cereals 2011: Better drilling by design

    2 June 2011

    JANE Carley takes an-in depth look at Sulky’s extensively revised drill designs within the new Xeos range.

  • Cereals 2011: Boosting drill capacity could deliver black-grass control benefits

    2 June 2011

    A bigger drill could prove to be as important a weapon against black-grass as a herbicide during the next few years.

  • Cereals 2011: Developments in crop nutrition

    2 June 2011

    FIRST time Cereals exhibitor Ilex EnviroSciences is a direct-to-farm supplier of specialised crop nutrition inputs.

  • Cereals 2011: Discover more about precision slug pelleting

    2 June 2011

    As the cloud over metaldehyde continues to linger, growers and operators attending this year’s Cereals event will have the chance to find out how increasing application accuracy improves slug control and will help maintain metaldehyde use.

  • Cereals 2011: Getting there

    2 June 2011

    ALL you need to know about getting to this year’s event.

  • Cereals 2011: Holistic approach of this year’s host farm

    2 June 2011

    FIND out all about Cereals 2011 in our preview including all the information you need about this year’s event and what you can expect to see and do while you are there.

  • Cereals 2011: Identify your production costs

    2 June 2011

    Property and business consultants Brown and Co will be challenging combinable crops growers visiting Cereals to identify their true cost of production.

  • Cereals 2011: Latest crop varieties on show

    2 June 2011

    HUNDREDS of cereals, oilseed and root crop varieties will be on show at this year’s Cereals Event, including the latest additions to the various Recommended Lists.

  • Cereals 2011: Machinery on show at the event

    2 June 2011

    FIND out about the new machinery making its debut at Cereals 2011.

  • Cereals 2011: OFC promises top-level debates

    2 June 2011

    THE Oxford Farming Conference has teamed up with Cereals organiser Haymarket for a series of panel debates at Cereals following the success of the inaugural summer conference last year. Four sessions running over both days will see a total of 20 panellists debate the effects of CAP reform and volatility and the application of new technology on farm.

  • Cereals 2011: Protecting wheat ears from wet summers

    2 June 2011

    With Cereals often coinciding with the timing for applying wheat ear fungicides, for Yorkshire farm manager Iain McCartney a run of wet summers has provided an added driver for rounding off the season with such a treatment.

  • Cereals 2011: Science at the heart of the event

    2 June 2011

    CROP plots will once again take centre stage at Cereals, offering visitors a real-life picture of the latest crop management innovations and the science behind them.

  • Cereals 2011: Trailed sprayer adds flexibility to help with varied workload

    2 June 2011

    TRAILED sprayer capacities continue to increase, making them a viable alternative to self-propelled machines. Jane Carley meets a Cambridgeshire contractor who is using such a machine to offer a high output service.

  • FG26/46 at Cereals 2011

    2 June 2011

    FG26/46 will be featuring at the Cereals event, with a special briefing session. We’re inviting all FG26/46 members and their friends to join us on the first morning of the Cereals event for coffee and a bacon roll on our stand (H928) at 9.30am.

  • Warning over performance of second wheat

    1 June 2011

    SECOND wheat performance could suffer even more than last year, growers are being warned following analysis of this season’s initial NIAB take-all root assessments at HGCA Recommended List trial sites across the country.

  • Bruchid beetle warning

    31 May 2011

    BRUCHID beetle are on the move and, with rising temperatures bringing at least two consecutive hot days forecast this week also coinciding with first pod set in many winter bean crops, the risks of damaging egg laying activity has increased significantly.

  • Commission tables measure to ensure fluidity of EU sugar market

    27 May 2011

    MEMBER states have voted on two measures aimed at ensuring the fluidity of the EU sugar market.

  • Scottish Government must support growers

    27 May 2011

    THE Scottish Government has been urged to support soft fruit growers whose operations were damaged the severe storms earlier this week.

  • Bruchid threat as winter beans set first pods

    May 27, 2011

    BRUCHID beetle are present in spring and winter bean crops, and as winter beans start to set first pods they will be susceptible to egg-laying activity, says Becky Ward of PGRO.

  • Confusion remains over glucosinolate level rules

    May 27, 2011

    MISUNDERSTANDING of new European rules on glucosinolate levels could mean growers may miss out on the opportunity to farm-save their oilseed rape seed, say mobile seed processors.

  • Drought forces growers to negotiate buy-backs

    May 27, 2011

    FEARS over drought-affected crop yields are forcing some growers to negotiate a partial buy-back of their contracts.

  • Group 1 newcomer finds favour with UK millers

    May 27, 2011

    TOP yielding milling wheat Gallant is now in its second full commercial season and has become the preferred variety of the UK’s largest miller, Rank Hovis.

  • Irrigation will pay off as drought hits yield

    May 27, 2011

    YIELD losses in wheat as a result of this spring’s drought are likely to be around 20 per cent on light land in East Anglia, according to Rothamsted Research’s Sirius wheat simulation model.

  • Light leaf spot continues to exert pressure south

    May 27, 2011

    ?IDEAL conditions for disease development, enhanced by shorter rotation intervals, has meant light leaf spot pressure has this season been higher than for some time, with symptoms evident in oilseed rape crops some way south of the disease’s usual northern UK environment, say disease experts.

  • Maize Watch - May 2011

    May 27, 2011

    A huge difference has developed between the two Maize Watch farmers - due to wet and warm conditions in northern England and dry, cold and windy ones in the South West.

  • Orange and yellow wheat blossom midge present in wheat crops

    May 27, 2011

    ORANGE wheat blossom midge activity has been recorded across England, according to the Pestwatch service.

  • Pointers for Profit - How to profit from efficient fertiliser use

    May 27, 2011

    Continuing our series of sponsored articles brought to you in association with industry partners, we take a look at why growers need to get the most from their inputs for the least cost, now restrictions on how much fertiliser can be spread are commonplace and prices are high.

  • Time to rethink attitudes to Group 2s?

    May 27, 2011

    ?A new approach to growing nabim Group 2 winter wheat varieties is needed in order to better exploit the agronomic and marketing benefits they offer.

  • Wheat yields revised amid drought fears

    26 May 2011

    WHEAT yields could be down by 12 per cent on average across the country as a result of the prolonged dry spell, according to current NFU estimates.

  • Yield losses predicted in the East as drought hits

    25 May 2011

    SOME winter wheat and other crops in the eastern region could suffer anything from a 25-40 per cent loss in yield this harvest on account of the severe drought currently affecting the region.

  • Genetic key to germination found

    24 May 2011

    SCIENTISTS have discovered the genetic ‘wiring’ which helps a seed to decide on the perfect time to germinate.

  • Breeder puts final pure line variety in RL trials

    May 20, 2011

    Breeding and agronomy were the focus at a hybrid OSR development day hosted by Monsanto at Cambourne, Cambridgeshire.

  • Dithane NT gains new label recommendations

    May 20, 2011

    Product News

  • Drought causes some to revise T2 fungicide

    May 20, 2011

    ?WITH precious little rain since February 28 in some regions, crops are starting to suffer and original plans for T2 fungicide sprays are being revised.

  • Label extensions for late blight

    May 20, 2011

    Product news

  • OWBM risk as wheat crops come into ear early

    May 20, 2011

    ?WARM soils and recent heavy rainfall across western and central England have already created the right conditions for orange wheat blossom midge (OWBM) activity.

  • Push for yield as oil demand rises

    May 20, 2011

    Few options for increased plantings in Contental Europe.

  • Seed rates key to exploiting crop’s potential

    May 20, 2011

    Assessing hybrids by characteristics.

  • Frost damage in vining peas

    18 May 2011

    SOME crops of peas, and vining peas in particular, are showing signs of frost damage following low overnight temperatures, says the PGRO.

  • Weather experts forecast hot and dry summer

    18 May 2011

    WEATHER experts have warned farmers and growers they could be facing a hot and dry summer like the country saw in 1976.

  • Hybrid wheat returns to the UK

    17 May 2011

    HYBRID wheat is once again in the ground in the UK, almost a decade after the seed industry’s last foray into the technology.

  • Don’t be complacent about slug control

    May 13, 2011

    POTATO growers are being advised by Scottish Agronomy to apply methiocarb slug pellet treatments at critical control points in potatoes to protect marketable yield from slug damage.

  • High seed weevil threat to OSR crops

    May 13, 2011

    SEED weevils are attacking oilseed crops across the country, NIAB TAG has warned.

  • More ‘tattie roguers’ needed

    May 13, 2011

    THERE is a shortage of qualified ‘tattie roguers’ in Scotland, says SAC, which is offering a course on potato disease and variety recognition later this summer.

  • New Scottish Arable Monitor Farm

    May 13, 2011

    THE launch meeting of a new Arable Monitor Farm for Aberdeenshire takes place next week.

  • Rynchosporium now key barley disease

    May 13, 2011

    A national survey of more than 200 growers suggests a number of important barley diseases are worsening in severity or becoming more difficult to manage.

  • Security and sustainability top of Potato Day agenda

    May 13, 2011

    FOOD security and the sustainability of the potato industry are top of the agenda at this year’s West Midlands Potato Day.

  • Breeders' thoughts on winter wheat, barley and oilseed rape

    12 May 2011

    Winter wheat

  • Reasonable resistance in OSR to leaf spot is now coming through

    12 May 2011

    THERE are six oilseed rape candidates for the East/West region of which three are conventional types, two are hybrids and one a semi-dwarf variety.

  • Big crop of winter wheats are up for recommendation

    12 May 2011

    NO fewer than 12 winter wheat varieties could be up for promotion to the HGCA’s Recommended List this autumn including three potential bread-making varieties, four potential biscuit makers, three soft feeds and two hard feeds.

  • Free wheat virus sample testing

    12 May 2011

    PHD researcher Laura Flint is hoping farmers and growers can help her with a project looking at the impact of wheat viruses on yield.

  • Be bee aware

    12 May 2011

    THE British Beekeepers Association is asking farmers and sprayer operators to contact their local BBKA liaison officer if they are spraying crops close to bee hives, preferably 48 hours ahead of spraying but at least by the evening before.Visit www.britishbee.org.uk for liason officers contact details.

  • Online portal is advantage to sugar beet growers

    12 May 2011

    BRITISH Sugar is encouraging more growers to use its online sugar beet portal to manage their contracts with the company, including seed orders.

  • Adapting agronomy to climatic variability

    12 May 2011

    THREE wet harvests in a row, two of the coldest winters in recent memory, and now another very dry spring. The past few seasons have certainly highlighted just how variable our climate can be.

  • New beet varieties offer high yields

    12 May 2011

    SIX new varieties have been added to the BBRO/NIAB Recommended List of sugar beet varieties 2012, all featuring rhizomania resistance and providing significant options for high sugar yields and low bolting scores.

  • Crop pest activity rising as warm weather continues

    May 6, 2011

    THE recent warm weather appears to be stimulating all sorts of pest activity, which could put crop yields under pressure, say experts.

  • Survey finds no dickeya in Scottish potatoes

    May 6, 2011

    THERE were no positive findings of potato disease dickeya during post-harvest sampling of the Scottish 2010/11 potato crop, SASA has announced.

  • Yorkshire farmers take a ‘b-road’ approach to boosting bee numbers

    5 May 2011

    WITH honeybees estimated to contribute around £200m to the UK’s agricultural economy each year, a new project to plant wildflower corridors to stem their declining population could prove a wise investment. Richard Middleton reports.

  • Warning over aphid epidemic

    5 May 2011

    Aphids flying up to a month early.

  • SDHI greening boost a real benefit in drought seasons

    5 May 2011

    THE latest generation of cereal fungicides can help to limit drought stress in cereal crops from applications made at the key spring fungicide timings.

  • Beet industry steps up to population challenge

    4 May 2011

    THE UK sugar beet industry is stepping up to the challenge of feeding a growing population as efficiently as possible, a new report suggests.

  • Grain prices drive food inflation increase

    4 May 2011

    FOOD  inflation increased again in April, having fallen back in March as the cost of world commodities such as sugar and wheat rose even more quickly than anticipated.

  • British Beet Research Organisation welcomes new head

    4 May 2011

    THE British Beet Research Organisation has welcomed a new chief.

  • Maize Watch - April 2011

    April 29, 2011

    With the Maize Farmers planting on April 14 in North Yorkshire and April 19 in Devon, the focus is now on getting the crop off to the best possible start.

  • Variety choice is the main weapon against clubroot

    April 29, 2011

    WITH incidences of clubroot occurring this season in areas hitherto visibly free of the disease, varietal choice, combined with liming of acidic soils, remain the key counter measures against the threat it poses to oilseed rape performance, according to agronomists and researchers.

  • Oilseed growers receive profit share

    28 April 2011

    UNITED Oilseeds members will share a total payout of £320,000 in the company’s fifth consecutive annual profit share payment.

  • Agronomists must now have continuous training

    28 April 2011

    ALL agronomists, whether independent or working for a commercial company, need to be FACTS (Fertiliser advisers’ certification and training scheme) qualified.

  • Upheaval in the global wheat market

    28 April 2011

    FORGET the Black Sea region as a major wheat exporter in 2011/12 is the view of Rabobank.

  • Two genes better than one in the quest for rhizo resistance

    28 April 2011

    NEW sugar beet varieties under consideration for addition to the BBRO sugar beet variety list for 2012 sowing offer the potential for a higher level of rhizomania resistance as a more aggressive disease strain is spreading across English beet growing areas.

  • Farmer's passion for the potato leads him to ambassador status

    28 April 2011

    FOLLOWING their appointments last year, Angela Calvert catches up with one of the Potato Council ambassadors at Moss End Farm, Ormskirk, to find out how he has been getting on.

  • Take care with forward crops in dry weather

    28 April 2011

    FARMERS should take care with their forward crop commitments as the spring remains very dry through to the second half of April, the NFU has urged.

  • British Sugar drawn into ethanol plant dispute

    28 April 2011

    BRITISH Sugar has become drawn into an increasingly bitter labour dispute over the construction of a £200m bioethanol plant, near Hull.

  • Annual aphid monitoring

    April 22, 2011

    THE annual aphid monitoring service that provides alerts for potato growers will go live in May, says the Potato Council, which funds the network of 100 yellow water traps.

  • Diquat best option for preventing re-growth in potato dumps

    April 22, 2011

    Initial results from trials carried out by the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) suggest contact herbicide diquat could be the best option for preventing potato plant re-growth in outgrade piles and limiting the spread of blight.

  • Leatherjacket risk is medium for most

    April 22, 2011

    THE latest leatherjacket survey indicates a medium to low risk in Scotland and low risk in England, with the exception of Yorkshire, where mean leatherjacket numbers increased by 126 per cent compared with 2009.

  • Maintain spray intervals, even in low blight seasons

    April 22, 2011

    LAST year may have been the lowest in terms of reported blight incidences since the Potato Council’s ‘Fight against Blight’ campaign began in 2003, but the advice to growers ahead of this season is to maintain sensible spray intervals, whatever the pressure.

  • No second best approach for second wheats

    21 April 2011

    What are the prospects for second wheats in 2011? Is it a season to push them hard? FG arable editor Teresa Rush put the questions to a group of farmers and agronomists at a round table discussion hosted by Bayer CropScience.

  • Yellow rust disease levels are increasing

    21 April 2011

    THE yellow rust threat has significantly increased with disease now starting to show in more moderately susceptible varieties, growers are being advised.

  • Building an anti-resistance strategy into fungicides

    21 April 2011

    CEREAL growers are being urged to build anti-resistance measures into their fungicide strategies to protect new chemistry.

  • A community approach to management decisions

    21 April 2011

    BORDERS farmer Alistair Hodge knows being in a partnership that owns and manages Scotland’s newest Monitor Farm will open up his business to high levels of scrutiny many would shy away from.

  • British farmers' optimism grows

    21 April 2011

    UK FARMERS are among the most optimistic in Europe about their business situation, according to a new survey.

  • Weed could be harvested for essential fatty acids

    20 April 2011

    FARMERS could soon start harvesting a common weed which, for many years, has been killed the moment it appeared in fields.

  • GM potatoes could boost environment

    20 April 2011

    THE potato starch manufacturer AVEBE and chemical company BASF have confirmed they will jointly develop genetically enhanced amylopectin starch potatoes. .

  • Working safely with machinery

    20 April 2011

    FARMERS Guardian is working with a number of industry organisations to help promote farm safety. This latest guide highlights the key risks to you, employees and visitors from farm machinery and provides practical safety advice. Copies of the guide will also be available from NFU stands at agricultural shows throughout the summer.

  • Dry weather hits urea uptake

    19 April 2011

    RECENT samples from a Lincolnshire Yara nitrogen source trial in winter wheat show that urea plots have 9 per cent less nitrogen in the leaf compared with ammonium nitrate, reflecting the impact of the extremely dry spring this year, says the company’s head of Agronomy, Mark Tucker.

  • Nitrogen strategy 'must balance food and environment'

    19 April 2011

    A STRATEGY to improve the efficiency of nitrogen use in farming must balance the importance of producing food with the need to protect the environment, a major conference has concluded.

  • Farmers demand action as potash prices double

    18 April 2011

    POTASH has more than doubled in price in the past three years prompting farmers to call on the EU to abandon its potash anti-dumping rules.  

  • Belief in their British potato leads friends to corking crisps

    April 15, 2011

    Friends Ross Taylor and Rod Garnham have taken their version of the British spud and elevated its status to new heights. Clemmie Gleeson meets the partners whose best ideas have arrived over a beer.

  • Dealing with the risk of common scab

    April 15, 2011

    UPDATED information to help growers get to grips with common scab in potatoes is available from the Potato Council.

  • Early start key to potato weed control

    April 15, 2011

    CHANGES in herbicide availability have made weed control in potatoes much more challenging but key weed threats can be dealt with with careful product selection.

  • High sclerotinia pressure likely as fields return to OSR

    April 15, 2011

    SCLEROTIA germination is under way and sclerotinia could pose a threat to oilseed rape crops this season in spite of the current dry weather, growers are being advised.

  • Keep fungicide spray intervals tight this season

    April 15, 2011

    KEEP the T0 to T1 spray interval tight in winter wheat crops to ensure septoria and rusts do not become established and the top three leaves are kept clean.

  • New role at BASIS

    April 15, 2011

    STEPHEN Jacob has been appointed to the new role of business development manager for, BASIS. He joins the organisation from Sentry where he had been a business consultant for the past three years.

  • Variable OSR crops pose management challenge

    April 15, 2011

    WINTER oilseed rape survival and development is highly variable on many farms this season despite the most favourable autumn for establishment in three or four years.

  • Wheat for a changed climate

    April 15, 2011

    A RESEARCH project led by ADAS is exploring whether there are British or French wheat lines that could help breed varieties which flower in May rather than June, so there will be more time for grain-filling, before the hot, dry days of high summer.

  • Focus will be on maximising yields at Cereals 2011

    14 April 2011

    PROSPECTS are bright for arable businesses prepared to chase output. But maximising crop yields will remain the key to unlocking better profits, whatever the market is doing.

  • Displaying support for countryside campaign

    14 April 2011

    ARABLE farmer Chris Ascroft, from Cambridgeshire, is one of the first in the county to use new signs to explain how farmers are protecting the countryside and wildlife through the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE).

  • Dry spring conditions mean mixed results for farmers

    14 April 2011

    LACK of rainfall has meant good and bad news for farmers, with some crops benefiting from drier conditions, while others are beginning to struggle, experts have said.

  • Approval for brassicas

    14 April 2011

    PROTHIOCONAZOLE fungicide Rudis has gained approval for use on cauliflower and broccoli/calabrese. Its label now covers all the main outdoor brassica crops.

  • Wind blow and frost has damaged some beet crops

    14 April 2011

    SUGAR beet crops generally are establishing well although wind blow, in some cases in combination with frost, has resulted in plant losses in some crops, says the BBRO.

  • Crop Monitor 2011 is now live

    13 April 2011

    LIVE monitoring of wheat on 15 untreated varieties has started for this season at locations across the country under the Crop Monitor project.

  • Shortage of Group 3 wheats sparks contracts

    12 April 2011

    BUY-back contracts from several grain traders are highlighting a shortage of Group 3 wheats which, not many years ago, made up some 50 per cent of the UK crop.

  • Weevil threat to pea and bean crops

    12 April 2011

    PEA and bean weevil damage is apparent in a number of spring beans and some winter bean crops and control treatments may be required, pest experts are advising.

  • Improving N use efficiency in OSR

    April 8, 2011

    A starting point of 220kgN/ha, trace element supplementation and a foliar N application towards the end of flowering will be key elements of a crop nutrition plan for oilseed rape this season.

  • Label recommendation re-instated

    April 8, 2011

    THE label recommendation for use of protectant and systemic fungicide Signum (boscalid+ pyraclostrobin) in lettuce has been re-instated. Growers of outdoor and indoor lettuces can include the fungicide in their disease programme from April 1, 2011, onwards.

  • Marketing arrangements for wild oat herbicide

    April 8, 2011

    WILD oat herbicide Warrant (fenoxaprop-p-ethyl) is be handled by Interfarm UK on behalf of Bayer CropScience.

  • New website launched by Bayer

    April 8, 2011

    FEEDBACK from farmers and advisers has influenced and driven development of the new Bayer CropScience website, says the company.

  • Syngenta crop protection and seeds website merge

    April 8, 2011

    AGRIBUSINESS Syngenta is merging its crop protection and seeds websites to bring product information and business support tools together in one place at www.syngenta-crop.co.ukFeatures of the new website include a weather service, product guide, meetings and events calendar, blogs, crop centre and agronomy tools.

  • Pesticides disposal scheme funding ends

    7 April 2011

    LARGE numbers of farmers hoping to dispose of unapproved pesticides under a Government-backed scheme look set to be disappointed after funding was withdrawn.

  • Keep herbicides out of water

    6 April 2011

    THE Voluntary Initiative is reminding farmers and sprayer operators of the need to ensure herbicides do not reach watercourses and to refer to the latest advice available from the H2OK campaign.

  • Overcoming soil management challenges on NIAB’s trials farm

    6 April 2011

    COMMERCIALLY cropping on a farm also conducting trials presents a unique set of problems for farm manager Mark Leaman to overcome.

  • Inspect crops before deciding on N strategy

    6 April 2011

    GROWERS and agronomists are being advised to consider how much nitrogen might be contained in autumn-sown crops at the start of spring growth before finalising N decisions this season.

  • Pesticides contributing to decline in bee numbers

    5 April 2011

    PESTICIDES are not solely to blame for the decline in British bee numbers but are a contributing factor, an expert has said.

  • A genetic approach to management of take-all

    April 1, 2011

    WHEAT growers could control take-all by selecting varieties which reduce the build up of the disease in soil when they are grown as a first wheat.

  • Chocolate spot threat

    April 1, 2011

    FURTHER reports have been received of chocolate spot symptoms in winter bean crops, says PGRO.

  • Dry soils would benefit from rain

    April 1, 2011

    DRY soil conditions are starting to cause concern in several sectors. Rainfall levels during March have been very low, with some areas receiving only 3mm during the month.

  • Flea beetle threat to UK potato crops

    April 1, 2011

    A PEST found on ware potato crops from Spain and Portugal could cost the UK potato industry up to £40 million if it is allowed to become established in this country, says the NFU.

  • Fungicide trials for winter barley produce high yields

    April 1, 2011

    WINTER barley growers using the new-generation barley fungicide Bontima (isopyrazam + cyprodinil) launched last season could get the best from it using application techniques which also improve spraying efficiency.

  • Lack of N holding back yields?

    April 1, 2011

    REDUCED rates of nitrogen may be holding back oilseed rape yields, according to a NIAB TAG survey.

  • Level approach to managing outdoor pigs within the rotation

    April 1, 2011

    THE Land Plane will restore uneven land to state more suitable for cultivation.Dominic Kilburn went to meet its developer, Robert Self.

  • Maize Watch - April 2011

    April 1, 2011

    As spring kicks into full swing and temperatures rise, the two Maize Watch farmers give an update on field cultivations.

  • Clipping foliage to manage sclerotinia

    31 March 2011

    A NOVEL technique of clipping carrot foliage along the edges of rows could provide an additional route to reducing damaging sclerotinia infection, according to independent crop consultant, Howard Hinds.

  • Pollen beetle threat to OSR greater this season

    31 March 2011

    POLLEN beetle migration into oilseed rape crops has increased following the recent warm weather, agronomists are reporting.

  • Photosynthesis project aims to boost food production

    28 March 2011

    SCIENTISTS have been awarded over £6 million to improve the process of photosynthesis in a bid to boost food and energy production.

  • Beetle could devastate potato crops

    28 March 2011

    THE NFU is calling for statutory measures to prevent a beetle that has the potential to ‘devastate’ potato crops from entering the UK.

  • Acreage of hybrid rapeseed increases

    March 25, 2011

    AN annual survey of 400 oilseed rape growers indicates an increased area of hybrid rape winter oilseed rape being grown this season.

  • Breeders urge caution over beet frost damage results

    March 25, 2011

    SUGAR beet breeders have expressed reservations over the value of the Broom’s Barn results, describing them as ‘interesting but not conclusive’.

  • Cornerways Nursery third phase opens

    March 25, 2011

    THE third phase of British Sugar’s Cornerways Nursery horticultural business has opened at Wissington in Norfolk.

  • Herbicide efficacy concerns allayed

    March 25, 2011

    CONCERNS over the effectiveness of Atlantis WG herbicide treatments applied before December’s cold weather, have been allayed, says Bayer CropScience.

  • High yield should continue to drive beet variety decisions

    March 25, 2011

    THERE may be genetic route to improved sugar beet frost tolerance but recommendations cannot be made as to the ability of individual varieties to withstand frost at the present time.

  • New maize seed treatment

    March 25, 2011

    MAIZE seed treatment Mesurol has gained CRD approval for application to forage maize, grain maize and sweet corn seed in the UK.

  • Pollen beetles taking flight

    March 25, 2011

    THE first pollen beetles have been caught on sticky traps in the south east, says ADAS.

  • Research finds horticultural cropping is good for birds

    March 25, 2011

    HORTICULTURE can support healthier populations of key farmland bird species, according to the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE).

  • Sclerotinia warning service goes live

    March 25, 2011

    THE web-based sclerotinia monitoring service jointly run by ADAS and BASF has gone live for the 2011 season.

  • Tackling brome infestations

    March 25, 2011

    AS the spring season for grass-weed control in winter wheat gets underway, Dow AgroSciences advises growers to give top priority to tackling brome infestations.

  • Yellow rust spreads west

    March 25, 2011

    YELLOW rust is now attacking winter wheat crops in both the east and west of the country, says Syngenta.

  • Achieving this season’s cereals profit potential

    24 March 2011

    WHILE much has been said about the potential for increased profits provided by higher wheat prices, is sufficient attention being paid to the risk of failing to fully realise that profit potential?

  • Improved placement provides more fertiliser to potato crops

    24 March 2011

    MAKING the most of fertiliser on potatoes through better accuracy in applications is generating interest among growers, reports Jane Carley.

  • Integrate cultural and chemical control options

    24 March 2011

    Growers in situations with difficult-to-control black-grass must learn from last autumn’s relative successes following increased use of cultural control methods.

  • Precision approach to OSR establishment

    24 March 2011

    OILSEED rape establishment trials last season gave one company giving crop production advice an insight into the opportunities available to growers to move away from traditional plough-based establishment techniques.

  • Switch nozzles for optimum coverage and less spray drift

    24 March 2011

    CROP protection business Syngenta has new advice for growers using its Defy and Amistar nozzles in wheat this season, following trials to assess the best fit for the two nozzles for spring spray timings.

  • Step-by step approach to organic conversion

    23 March 2011

    ASK Nigel Carey how many organic farmers there are in Norfolk and he starts to count the fingers on one hand, while reeling off their names. While there are not more than a handful of organic producers like him in the county, he makes the point that his ilk are few and far between in a region that has been at the forefront of delivering high input, high output food production since the Second World War.

  • Cost management critical for potato growers

    March 18, 2011

    SALEABLE yield and price are the key determinants of potato crop output.

  • Differentiate between these crop invaders

    March 18, 2011

    THERE are reports of plant invasion by wheat bulb fly larvae and also yellow cereal fly or opomyza larvae, says ADAS, and while the two larvae are similar to the naked eye, it is important to differentiate between them due to their potential crop impacts. 

  • Research into nitrous oxide emissions

    March 18, 2011

    A large LINK-funded consortium has been launched to address the scientific and practical challenges of minimising nitrous oxide emissions from UK arable cropping.

  • Same yellow rust approach despite high infection rate

    March 18, 2011

    YELLOW rust disease pressure is high this season, but growers need not change their approach to managing the disease, says Bayer CropScience.

  • Water abstractors should apply early for an extension

    March 18, 2011

    FOLLOWING many growers’ to apply for an extension to their abstraction licence as a result of the difficult harvesting conditions in the dry autumn of 2009, the Environment Agency is encouraging growers to consider applying early for a permanent extension to their licences.

  • Analysis shows N is lower on heavier soils this spring

    17 March 2011

    THE total amount of nitrogen crops can expect to get from the soil in 2011 is similar to 2010, which was itself a lower than average year, says GrowHow.

  • Japan and Middle East crises hit wheat price

    17 March 2011

    WHEAT prices plummeted this week as the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan and ongoing political uncertainty in the Middle East caused panic among investors.

  • Beet drills are making good progress

    17 March 2011

    WITH 25-30 per cent of sugar beet drilling expected to be completed by the end of this week, the signs are the crop is going into good seedbeds, although more rainfall soon would be beneficial.

  • Wheat drops on commodities panic

    16 March 2011

    NEARBY wheat futures were down to £167.35 on the London market today (Wednesday, March 16), as investors, for the second time this month, became nervous on the back of global events.

  • Horticulture can boost bird numbers

    16 March 2011

    THE Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) is encouraging growers of horticultural crops to do their bit for the environment.

  • Bean crops hit by cold weather

    16 March 2011

    SOME winter bean crops are showing signs of stress due to the cold weather conditions in the winter months, says PGRO.

  • Scientists develop heart-healthy crops

    14 March 2011

    SCIENTISTS at Aberystwyth University are developing new varieties of a traditional crop which could help lessen the danger of heart disease.

  • A word from KWS UK

    March 11, 2011

    LAST year was productive for many maize growers, offering heavy bulk yields but, more crucially, above average quality.

  • Annual meadow-grass posing problems in late-drilled crops

    March 11, 2011

    THE most common grass weed, annual meadow-grass, affects all arable areas, particularly in the north, where it is the dominant species.

  • Greater attention to detail to earn milling wheat premium

    March 11, 2011

    Achieving consistent quality, disease control and maximising returns were the key themes of the HGCA/nabim milling wheat conference. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Innovation on-farm to realise yield potential

    March 11, 2011

    THE current upward trend in wheat prices means milling wheat growers have an opportunity for profitable crops. However, relying on prices remaining high and not investing in innovation to drive yields up is unsustainable.

  • Maize Watch - March 2011

    March 11, 2011

    Welcome to our second series of Maize Watch, which has two new farmers, from Devon and East Yorkshire.

  • New blight fungicide offers rain fastness

    March 11, 2011

    A NEW class of blight fungicide chemistry available this season will be an important tool in resistance management, according to its manufacturer BASF.

  • New T2 wheat option reaches the market

    10 March 2011

    NEW generation SDHI fungicide Seguris will be available for use in wheat this season, providing growers with an extra weapon against the key diseases, as well as extending options for resistance management.

  • Difficult market for South West daffodil growers

    10 March 2011

    GOOD growing conditions and an over supply have caused one of the toughest markets ever for Cornwall and Devon’s daffodil growers, as Richard Middleton discovers.

  • Spelman upbeat on supermarket ombudsman

    9 March 2011

    DEFRA Secretary Caroline Spelman indicated that the Government could yet push ahead with a Bill introducing a supermarket ombudsman in the next 12 months.

  • Intensive farming can be the greenest - Foresight scientist

    9 March 2011

    INTENSIVE farming can be the most environmentally-friendly, a leading contributor to the influential Foresight report told an NFU West Midlands arable event.

  • Bracken control herbicide could be phased out

    9 March 2011

    NFU Cymru leaders have been briefing the four Welsh MEPs on the problems that could arise in the uplands if the herbicide Asulox is phased out.

  • GM opposition threatens food security

    9 March 2011

    PUBLIC opposition to GM technology is jeopardising farmers’ ability to respond to the food security challenge according to NFU combinable crops chairman Ian Backhouse.

  • R&D gets £4.5m boost

    7 March 2011

    MORE than £4.5 million is to be jointly invested by the Technology Strategy Board and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council in 11 innovative research and development projects using genomics-based technologies.

  • A ‘flexible strategy’ for beet weed control

    March 4, 2011

    NEW sugar beet herbicide Betanal maxxPro will be the new foundation of the ‘flexible strategy’ for weed control in sugar beet, according to Broom’s Barn’s Mike May.

  • Act now to control light leaf spot

    March 4, 2011

    COMPLETION of light leaf spot control programmes should be a priority, oilseed rape growers are being advised.

  • Black-grass growth strong

    March 4, 2011

    BLACK-GRASS is active and showing visible growth, despite low soil temperatures, growers are being advised.

  • Changes to variety blight resistance scores

    March 4, 2011

    CHANGES in potato variety ratings for late blight resistance were announced at the Potato Council’s winter forum at Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research in Lincolnshire. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Compaction poses water problems

    March 4, 2011

    THE problems soil compaction posed to potato crops were highlighted at the Potato Council winter forum.

  • Free guides for seeds

    March 4, 2011

    PLANT breeder and seed producer Limagrain UK has published a series of free technical and marketing guides covering 10 of its latest spring-sown malting barley, oilseed rape, bean, pea and linseed varieties.

  • Fungicide is re-registered

    March 4, 2011

    MANCOZEB fungicide Quell Flo has been successfully re-registered for use in the UK and will continue to be available as a multi-site protectant fungicide for use in winter wheat, spring wheat and in potatoes, says Interfarm UK.

  • Malting growers give positive feedback

    March 4, 2011

    A SURVEY of Null-Lox malting barley growers in 2010 has revealed positive feedback from all the growers involved, as well as a good reaction from maltsters and brewers, says Gleadell Agriculture.

  • New glucosinolate levels no cause for concern

    March 4, 2011

    TIGHTER European crusher restrictions on oilseed rape glucosinolate levels will have no practical effect on UK oilseed rape variety choice or agronomy.

  • Optimised PGR formula

    March 4, 2011

    CEREAL plant growth regulator options are increased this season with the introduction of a new formulation of trinexapac-ethyl.

  • Parternship to develop potato genotypes

    March 4, 2011

    Agrico UK joins forces with Glasgow Caledonian University in a two-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership.

  • PGR warning on shorter wheats

    March 4, 2011

    TAKE care not to overdo plant growth regulators on shorter wheat varieties in a dry year, growers are being advised.

  • Potato storage costs related to marketable yield

    March 4, 2011

    STORAGE costs in many cases reflect the single, most significant cost element within a potato enterprise.

  • Reliable analysis of organic manures

    March 4, 2011

    NEAR Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS) can provide rapid, reliable analysis of organic manures.

  • Resistance ratings underestimate blight control

    March 4, 2011

    THERE are large differences in foliar blight resistance between many potato varieties and these differences can be exploited in integrated blight control programmes, a leading blight expert told the Potato Council winter forum.

  • Scientists remain on blight alert

    March 4, 2011

    THE number of blight outbreaks associated with the 13_A2 blight strain may have gone down in 2010, compared with the previous season, but the number of ‘miscellaneous’ outbreaks increased, Dr Alison Lees of SCRI told the Potato Council winter forum.

  • Seed choice key to protection against dickeya solani

    March 4, 2011

    POTATO growers should avoid seed coming in from Europe or GB-grown European seed and insist on suppliers providing a certificate of seed health.

  • Septoria tritici still key disease in winter wheat

    March 4, 2011

    SEPTORIA tritici has been ‘off the radar’ for the past two seasons, but it remains the key disease threat to winter wheat.

  • Use an alternatives to pyrethoids on OSR

    March 4, 2011

    GROWERS are being advised not to spray their oilseed rape crops with pyrethroid-based insecticides for the control of pollen beetle this spring, despite warnings that a high infestation is expected.

  • Variety effect on take-all

    March 4, 2011

    TAKE-all inoculum levels in the soil when a first wheat is being harvested correlate with the severity of the disease in the following crop, but differences in varietal resistance and traits could provide valuable information for growers in the future.

  • Yellow rust threat to winter wheat crops

    March 4, 2011

    GROWERS are being alerted to the presence of yellow rust symptoms appearing in winter wheat crops, although levels are not severe, say agronomists.

  • Low fungicide spend keeps UK wheat yields flat

    3 March 2011

    FARMERS not spending enough on fungicides could be one of the key reasons why UK farm wheat yield levels have been flat for 10 years.

  • Poor weather delays potato planting

    2 March 2011

    THE unsettled weather is hampering progress with potato planting, says the Potato Council.

  • Grain markets bounce back

    2 March 2011

    GRAIN futures have bounced back with May 2011wheat quotations on the London market back above £200 by mid-week.

  • New N fertiliser available this spring

    2 March 2011

    A TREATED urea product which claims to reduce volatilisation and put the cheaper nitrogen source on a par with ammonium nitrate in terms of N availability is to be made available to farmers this spring, following its introduction by a new Wilts-based business.

  • British Sugar suffers £20m loss

    1 March 2011

    BRITISH Sugar has suffered losses of around £20 million, according to a trading statement from parent company Associated British Foods.

  • New Parliamentary group will promote green farming

    28 February 2011

    MPS and peers of all parties have come together to promote environmentally friendly farming as the solution to the global food security problem.

  • Longer Recommended List reflects market

    28 February 2011

    THE newly-published SAC Recommended List of cereal varieties reflects changes in both market and grower needs, according to Dr Steve Hoad of SAC Crop and Soil Systems.

  • Adaptable, bespoke sprayer is a Team player

    February 25, 2011

    A bespoke sprayer has enabled Cambridgeshire farmers Goose and Didwell to increase outputs and boost efficiency, reports Jane Carley.

  • Alternatives key to avoiding high fertiliser price

    February 25, 2011

    WITH fertiliser prices double those of five years ago and increasing, advice from Adas and Defra for the coming season is to make best use of all other sources of nutrients, especially those in soil and manure.

  • Biogas maize is a match for sugar beet in Norfolk

    February 25, 2011

    NORFOLK arable farmer, Mark Means reckons maize grown for biogas can match the margins secured for beet on his Grade 1 silts, and ease rotational issues.

  • Black-grass control options in beet

    February 25, 2011

    Avadex (tri-allate) granules incorporated prior to drilling sugar beet are an option for black-grass control in beet, says Pam Chambers of Broom’s Barn.

  • HGCA announces new monitor farms

    February 25, 2011

    HGCA has revealed two new arable monitor farms for the Borders and Aberdeenshire.

  • IZM approved for wheat

    February 25, 2011

    Syngenta Crop Protection UK has announced the UK approval for Seguris - its new, next generation fungicide based on IZM (isopyrazam) for use in winter wheat, as well as in winter and spring barley, rye and triticale.

  • Low levels of turnip yellows virus in OSR predicted

    February 25, 2011

    GROWERS can look forward to lower levels of turnip yellows virus (TuYV) in their oilseed rape crops this season if recent aphid trapping results are used as a guide.

  • Making the most of water resources

    February 25, 2011

    In the Lone Star state, demand for water will soon exceed supply, posing a serious threat to agricultural production, as Norfolk agronomist Andrew Watson discovered during a recent visit to the area.

  • New formulation covers greater weed spectrum

    February 25, 2011

    New sugar herbicide Betanal maxxPro from Bayer CropScience contains the same active substances as predecessor Betanal Expert - desmedipham, phenmedipham and ethofumesate - but in a newly optimised ratio.

  • Phoma set to threaten yields in 2011

    February 25, 2011

    WITH phoma leaf spot levels increasing considerably in oilseed rape crops since mid-January and up to 100 per cent of plants affected in some crops in southern, eastern and central England, it seems likely the 2010/11 season will be a high phoma year and yield losses could be heavy in crops in which the disease is not controlled.

  • Potato black-grass battle tougher than ever

    February 25, 2011

    THERE are plenty of heavier land potato growing areas, where there may be a run of winter cropping rotations and problems with black-grass, says AgroChemex adviser Dr John Keer.

  • Savings in fertiliser outweigh spreader cost

    February 25, 2011

    SOIL sampling and variable rate P and K applications resulted in cost savings for a north Yorkshire grower that have outweighed the purchase price of his spreader.

  • Rizolex given extended approval

    24 February 2011

    APPROVAL for seed potato fungicide treatment Rizolex has been extended, enabling use at potato planting to continue, says Interfarm.

  • Mocap supplies running short

    24 February 2011

    FOLLOWING the recent announcement of Certis’ appointment as primary distribution partner for soil insecticide, Mocap (ethoprophos), potato growers are advised the company is making every attempt to secure product volumes for this season.

  • Growers urged to check abstraction rules

    24 February 2011

    THE latest advice from the Cross Compliance Programme concerns GAEC 18 and the need for abstraction licences.

  • Keeping one step ahead of black-grass in rotation

    24 February 2011

    Black-grass is an increasing problem, traditionally associated with autumn-sown crops, but growers are urged to find solutions for control throughout the rotation. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Total GM plantings reach 1 billion hectares

    23 February 2011

    MORE than a billion hectares of genetically modified crops have been planted globally in the 15 years since they were commercialised.

  • Import duties suspended to ease prices

    21 February 2011

    IMPORT duties on certain cereals imported into the EU will be suspended until the end of June 2011 to help take some of the heat out of feed prices.

  • Wheat breeding given £7m boost

    21 February 2011

    LEADING UK plant breeding scientists have been awarded a £7 million grant to develop a breeding programme to increase the diversity of traits in wheat.

  • Adas work shows the value of two PGR sprays

    February 18, 2011

    A TWO-SPRAY plant growth regulator strategy was effective in reducing both stem and root lodging in both winter wheat and winter barley compared to the common approach of a single treatment at GS30/31 in ADAS trials.

  • Aiming for self-sufficiency in vegetable industry

    February 18, 2011

    UK vegetable growers will have to make do with less input from Government and do more for themselves as a result of the budget cuts, Defra’s head of crops hub, Jeremy Cowper told the ADAS Syngenta UK Vegetable Industry Conference.

  • Approved for outdoor crops

    February 18, 2011

    INSECTICIDE Majestik (maltodextrin) has been granted approval for use in field vegetables and other outdoor crops against spider mites.

  • Burnett is new fungicide resistance group leader

    February 18, 2011

    SAC plant pathologist Fiona Burnett is the new chair of FRAG-UK, the Fungicide Resistance Action Group.

  • Getting the most from the land with break crops

    February 18, 2011

    WINTER wheat may be considered a break crop between potatoes for Shropshire grower Neil Furniss, but he’s still determined to get the maximum yield from it on the farm’s light land. With yields of 11 tonnes per hectare in some seasons, it is a policy that is paying off.

  • Hidden benefit of pulses

    February 18, 2011

    WITH the spring pulse acreage under pressure from high cereal and oilseed rape prices, it is worth remembering the underlying benefits of growing pulses, and also keeping an eye on the higher-yielding varieties now coming through.

  • Invader improves late blight control

    February 18, 2011

    POTATO blight fungicide Invader can now be applied at a higher dose rate for improved control of late blight and bringing in additional activity on alternaria, says BASF.

  • Liquid fertiliser facility

    February 18, 2011

    OMEX Agriculture has purchased a new 50,000 tonne storage facility at Ipswich docks for the storage and distribution of its liquid fertiliser.

  • Yellow rust threat in susceptible varieties

    February 18, 2011

    YELLOW rust control should not be overlooked, even though the disease risks are likely to be broadly similar to those of last season, when the disease failed to materialise - despite the predictions of most.

  • Cutting out waste to get more from potato crops

    17 February 2011

    WHILE Scotland’s potato growers will face a real challenge raising yields sufficiently quickly to feed a growing world population, they can make a significant contribution by cutting out waste.

  • The co-operative turning a commodity into a regional brand

    17 February 2011

    PEAS are often seen as a commodity, but a group of Yorkshire producers hopes a new brand will open up new markets. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Scientists find way to boost potato yields

    17 February 2011

    SCIENTISTS at East Malling Research believe they have found a way to significantly reduce the amount of water used to grow potatoes commercially using water scheduling and drip ‘fertigation’.

  • Project to preserve crop protection options

    17 February 2011

    THE Sceptre Project is seeking to secure the necessary pesticides and production techniques for the vegetable industry in the future, the ADAS Syngenta Vegetable Conference was told.

  • NFU11: Unharvested beet is not waste

    16 February 2011

    SUGAR beet crops left unharvested in the ground will not be classified as waste and so will not require an exemption for disposal under farm waste regulations, the NFU has confirmed.

  • IZM approved for use in wheat

    15 February 2011

    Syngenta Crop Protection UK has gained UK approval for its new, next generation fungicide based on IZM (isopyrazam) for use in winter wheat, as well as in winter and spring barley, rye and triticale.

  • Arable farmers urged to demonstrate environmental work

    14 February 2011

    ARABLE farmers are being urged to demonstrate the voluntary steps they have taken under the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) to help stave off the threat of regulation.

  • Newark beet factory announces closing date

    11 February 2011

    THE Newark sugar beet factory will close for beet intake on Friday February 18 British Sugar announced today (Friday February 11).

  • Bitter blow as GM feed vote is delayed

    11 February 2011

    THE ongoing delay in introducing ‘sensible’ tolerance levels for the detection of non-EU approved GM varieties in animal feed imports has been described as  ‘a blow against scientific evidence and common sense’.

  • Allscott growers switch their break crop

    February 11, 2011

    SUGAR beet growers in the West Midlands and Yorkshire have successfully switched their beet acreage to oilseed rape and winter cereals following the closure of British Sugar’s Allscott factory at the end of the 2006 harvest.

  • Application advice is the latest addition to stewardship package

    February 11, 2011

    AS part of an ongoing programme of stewardship for Atlantis, Bayer CropScience is recommending this season the grass-weed herbicide be applied through 110deg flat fan nozzles, in no less than 100 litres/ha water volume, at sprayer forward speeds not exceeding 12kph.

  • Clock still ticking on pesticide disposal scheme

    February 11, 2011

    FARMERS and growers are being urged to make the most of the pesticide disposal scheme set up by Project SOE (Security in the Operational Environment).

  • Exceptional beet measures a step in right direction

    February 11, 2011

    THE recent co-announcement of ‘exceptional measures’ by British Sugar and the NFU to help compensate sugar beet growers in light of the difficulties experienced during the 2010/11 harvesting campaign has been branded as a “good move in the right direction” by a leading consultant.

  • Metamitron shortage could raise herbicide prices

    February 11, 2011

    THE price of some herbicides used in sugar beet looks set to rise for the coming season as a result of a shortfall in supply.

  • New directive affects ware land and home-saved seed

    February 11, 2011

    POTATO growers are being reminded the new PCN Directive covers all potatoes for replanting and not just certified seed.

  • New products news round-up

    February 11, 2011

    We take a look at some of the new products available to the arable sector.

  • Green future for Fenmarc

    10 February 2011

    FRESH produce supply business Fenmarc Produce says it is well on the way to running all its factories on green energy produced from anaerobic digestion (AD).

  • Barley is best bet after abandoned beet, says ADAS

    10 February 2011

    SPRING barley is the obvious crop with which to follow sugar beet crops deemed not fit for processing, according to ADAS soil management expert, Selwyn Richardson.

  • Variance in beet variety susceptibility to frost?

    10 February 2011

    A CHANCE observation of apparent differences in susceptibility to frost damage between sugar beet varieties may help to inform variety selection going forward.

  • Paice threatens industry with compulsory set-aside

    9 February 2011

    FARMING Minister Jim Paice has threatened to introduce compulsory set-aside in England unless more arable farmers get involved with the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE).

  • Beet herbicide price hike threat

    8 February 2011

    THE price of a number of sugar beet herbicides looks set to rise for the coming season as a result of a shortfall in supply, growers are being advised.

  • Aggressive rhizomania strain found in Norfolk

    7 February 2011

    THE presence of the highly aggressive AYPR rhizomania strain has been confirmed for the first time in crops of sugar beet in Norfolk this season.

  • Good autumn gives growers head start in weed control

    February 4, 2011

    For the first time in three years, autumn conditions provided growers with ample opportunity to apply comprehensive winter wheat and oilseed rape herbicide programmes before the weather window closed in late November. This should mean that, for once, growers will have a much-needed head start against both grass weeds and broad-leaved weeds, as the first spray applications of 2011 get under way.

  • IZM shows significant disease control

    February 4, 2011

    TRIALS examining the effects of combining new SDHI fungicide isopyrazam (IZM) with epoxiconazole in wheat have shown significant disease control and yield gains over straight epoxiconazole, says Syngenta.

  • Mixed picture for black-grass

    February 4, 2011

    DO not be misled by drilling date when making decisions about spring grass- weed control. Inspections of nationwide trials sites have revealed black-grass at a wide spread of growth stages, says Bayer CropScience.

  • N advice applies to dwarf varieties too

    February 4, 2011

    NITROGEN rates and timings for standard oilseed rape varieties will be relevant for semi-dwarf OSR varieties, according to research funded by HGCA in conjunction with GrowHow.

  • New spray nozzle shifts container deposits in seconds

    February 4, 2011

    Humberside cereals and oilseed rape grower John Porter has more than a passing interest in a new pesticides container rinsing nozzle launched at Lamma 2011.

  • Pig and poultry feeds offer new market opportunities

    February 4, 2011

    Market prospects and the latest technical developments were up for discussion at the HGCA/PGRO Oilseeds and Pulses Conference at Peterborough. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Wheat and OSR battle for acres planted

    February 4, 2011

    OILSEED rape is in danger of losing its break crop tag as high crop prices put pressure on rotations, according to one analyst.

  • Look to Safe Haven scheme to protect the supply chain

    3 February 2011

    WITH the maincrop potato planting season approaching, the Potato Council is warning that increasing threats from new pests and diseases pose a threat to the sustainability of the potato supply chain.

  • All beet growers feeling the pinch

    3 February 2011

    FOLLOWING the NFU and British Sugar’s announcement of a programme of ‘exceptional measures’ in a bid to restore some confidence in the sugar beet crop, Farmers Guardian spoke to growers and hauliers to discover their experiences this season.

  • Wheat futures rise amid market volatility

    3 February 2011

    MAY UK feed wheat futures rose 2.4 per cent last week to close at £205.50/tonne on Friday, and by the middle of this week, both May and July figures were above £206/t.

  • NFU and British Sugar announce ‘exceptional measures’

    1 February 2011

    AGAINST a backdrop of increasing grower anger and frustration, British Sugar and the NFU have issued a statement of ‘exceptional measures’ to maximise remaining processable beet through the factories.

  • US model could help manage fertiliser costs

    31 January 2011

    A US fertiliser manufacturer could hold the key to farmers here managing their input costs, according to the NFU’s chief arable advisor Guy Gagen.

  • English potato producers’ association to be launched by SAC

    January 28, 2011

    THE Scottish Agricultural College’s Association of Potato Producers – England will be launched at an inaugural conference in York next month.

  • Impact of GM wheat on insects researched

    January 28, 2011

    AN Anglo-Swiss research project has found that the impact of disease-resistant genetically modified wheat plants on insects is no different to that of conventional wheat.

  • New chairman for the AICC

    January 28, 2011

    INDEPENDENT agronomist Mike Warner is the new chairman of the Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC) from January of this year.

  • Plough in or spray off condemned beet

    January 28, 2011

    WITH some sugar beet crops now being declared unfit for harvest, the BBRO has issued advice for growers on dealing with condemned crops.

  • Regular inspection of the remaining beet crops will be required

    January 28, 2011

    THE British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) has issued advice to growers on dealing with deteriorating crops yet to be harvested.

  • Sow-thistle threat to OSR crops

    January 28, 2011

    SEVERAL species of difficult and competitive broad-leaved weeds are present in oilseed rape crops and, as soon as the weather warms up, they will be ready and waiting to romp away and cause yield and harvesting problems.

  • Beet growers' showdown talks with British Sugar

    27 January 2011

    BEET growers have met with British Sugar chiefs in Newark today (Thursday, January 27).

  • Green benefit to using designer mustard seeds

    27 January 2011

    DESIGNER mustard seed varieties could limit and suppress soil pests and even some herbicide resistant grass weeds when used as a green manure in a normal crop rotation.

  • Cultivations key for black-grass control

    27 January 2011

    ARABLE farmers will need to look to cultivations to maintain reasonable levels of black-grass control in the future.

  • Lower cost fertiliser alternative and liming agent

    27 January 2011

    A THREE-IN-ONE fertiliser treatment aims to provide farmers with an affordable alternative to costly, manufactured alternatives.

  • NIAB Board appointments

    27 January 2011

    RICHARD McDonald, the former director general of the NFU and Andrew Kuyk, the Food and Drink Federation’s Director of Sustainability and Competitiveness, have been appointed as members of the NIAB Board.

  • MP suggests pesticides contributing to demise of bees

    26 January 2011

    AN OPPOSITION MP has called on the Government to do more to stem the decline of bee numbers in the UK.

  • NFU Council: Wheat prices continue to soar

    26 January 2011

    WHEAT prices continue to soar, with July wheat futures topping £200/tonne and November feed wheat futures trading at around £170/t, combinable crops chairman Ian Backhouse said.

  • British Sugar has let suppliers down - NFU

    25 January 2011

    THE NFU has called on British Sugar to improve its communications with growers over the current sugar beet crisis.

  • British Sugar abandons weather-hit crop

    24 January 2011

    GROWERS supplying the Newark sugar beet factory have been told that any crop left in the ground now will not be fit for processing.

  • Record levels of GM in 2010/11 Brazil crop

    21 January 2011

    BRAZIL has planted record levels of genetically modified (GM) crops for the 2010/11 harvest, new figures show.

  • Averaging out could hit UK arable farmers

    January 21, 2011

    Agricultural research challenges and the latest round of CAP reform were on the agenda at the Association of Independent Crop Consultants conference in Birmingham this week. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Collaboration needed on R&D

    January 21, 2011

    AHDB chief scientist Prof Ian Crute called on commercial and independent organsiations to work together to develop a sustainable intensification framework. “This means we need to be producing as efficiently as possible from the smallest area of land,” he said.

  • Help discover extent of unmet abstraction demand

    January 21, 2011

    THE United Kingdom Irrigation Association (UKIA) is urging farmers and growers who irrigate their crops to take the opportunity to influence future abstraction strategies by participating in an Environment Agency survey to investigate the extent and impact of unmet demand for water abstraction.

  • High incidence as wheat bulb fly hatch under way

    January 21, 2011

    WHEAT bulb fly egg hatch has got off to an early start this season. And with one of the highest incidence of eggs being recorded in the wheat bulb fly autumn survey, vulnerable crops will need careful monitoring and action may need to be taken to protect those crops at highest risk, growers are being advised.

  • New Group 4 variety attracts attention

    January 21, 2011

    CASTING an eye over recently recommended winter wheat varieties, Cambridge Arable Technologies (CAT) variety specialist, Richard Fenwick said it would be hard to ignore the yield potential of new hard Group 4 feed wheat KWS Santiago but there was, however, little else on the new List to catch the eye.

  • New SDHI fungicide formulation to show strength at T2

    January 21, 2011

    NEW generation SDHI fungicide bixafen will be available this season in combination with triazole prothioconazole for use in wheat and barley.

  • No difference between urea and AN?

    January 21, 2011

    CAMBRIDGE Arable Technologies staged its annual winter farmer conference at Haverhill, Suffolk. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Protect soils amid tough harvesting conditions

    January 21, 2011

    WITH as much as 25 per cent of the sugar beet crop still to be lifted during the weather-affected 2010/11 harvesting campaign, growers are being advised to do all they can to protect their soils in the difficult conditions being experienced.

  • R&D spend to shift to developing world

    January 21, 2011

    RESEARCH and development spend on crop protection issues affecting European markets will come under pressure as the potential for growth in agrochemicals market shifts to Asia and Latin America.

  • Take control of farming's destiny

    January 21, 2011

    NFU president Peter Kendall underlined the need for the industry to work together to ensure UK agriculture is in control of its own destiny, particularly in light of CAP negotiations and the importance of the success of Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE).

  • The biggest influence in OSR establishment is the weather

    January 21, 2011

    THE dry autumn in 2009 combined with low insect activity meant new oilseed rape seed treatment technology made little difference to crop establishment at that time of year compared with older chemistry.

  • Triazole formulation set to replace Opus

    January 21, 2011

    A new formulation of triazole fungicide epoxiconazole, expected to replace the standard Opus over time, will be available this spring.

  • Wet start to early potato planting

    January 21, 2011

    PLANTING of early potatoes is under way in Cornwall, although rain is likely to have halted further progress this week, says the Potato Council.

  • Wide spectrum weed control

    January 21, 2011

    A new broad-leaved weed herbicide available this spring will control the widest ever spectrum of weeds in cereal crops, claims its manufacturer.

  • A place for spring OSR in the rotation this season?

    20 January 2011

    GROWERS considering their late drilling options following a protracted sugar beet lifting campaign could look to spring oilseed rape as a means of taking advantage of the high prices currently being seen for the crop.

  • New crop protection options for 2011

    19 January 2011

    THE first half of January 2011 has seen a number of significant product launches in the agrochemical sector, giving growers new fungicide and herbicide options for the coming season.

  • Fresh setback for beet as factories struggle

    18 January 2011

    THIS season’s beleaguered sugar beet campaign has suffered a further blow after the weekend’s unseasonably mild weather caused previously frozen beet crops to break down, leading to processing problems at British Sugar’s factories.

  • Limiting drought damage and yield loss

    January 14, 2011

    RESEARCHERS at Harper Adams University College are hoping to help protect wheat crops from drought damage by using special compounds that reduce water loss.

  • New maize hybrids offer improved performance

    January 14, 2011

    A NEW generation of maize hybrids claimed to help plants use water more efficiently and produce higher yields in drought-stressed environments will be available to farmers in the United States this season.

  • New maize hybrids offer improved performance

    January 14, 2011

    A NEW generation of maize hybrids claimed to help plants use water more efficiently and produce higher yields in drought-stressed environments will be available to farmers in the United States this season.

  • New wheat variety uptake trends are revealed

    January 14, 2011

    ALMOST one-third of arable farmers planted a new wheat variety this season, according to a survey conducted by the National Farm Research Unit (NFRU).

  • One in three farmers planting new wheat varieties

    January 14, 2011

    ALMOST one-third of arable farmers planted a new wheat variety this season, according to a survey conducted by the National Farm Research Unit (NFRU).

  • Time to consider a two variety approach

    January 14, 2011

    OILSEED rape growers should start thinking about moving to a twin variety strategy for their autumn rotation to minimise the risk of yield losses due to unpredictable weather and to spread the harvest workload.

  • Cold damage is unlikely to be an issue

    13 January 2011

    DESPITE one of the coldest starts to a winter for many years, crop damage is likely to be minimal, say agronomists.

  • Potato crops spared serious frost damage

    11 January 2011

    STORED potatoes appear to have escaped frost damage in most regions, says the Potato Council.

  • Crop research given £20m boost

    11 January 2011

    A TWENTY million pound fund has been offered to the world’s top plant scientists to improve food security and increase sustainable crop yields in the developing world within the next 5-10 years.

  • Hear what the experts predict for 2011

    10 January 2011

    If you missed any of our live Farming Prospects events, don’t worry as all proceedings can now be viewed here. Listen in to what the experts  predict for the arable, beef and sheep, and dairy sectors for the year ahead.

  • Researchers look to prevent drought damage

    10 January 2011

    RESEARCHERS at Harper Adams University College are hoping to help protect wheat crops from drought damage by using special compounds that reduce water loss.

  • High dose rates a must for new SDHI fungicides

    January 7, 2011

    THE spotlight was on new fungicide chemistry at a Hutchinsons-organised technical conference for growers, held at the East of England Showground in Peterborough. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Integrated approach to grass-weed control

    January 7, 2011

    WITH little sign of new herbicides coming along and non-chemical weed control moving further up the agenda, distributor and advisory company Hutchinsons has set up a five year rotational investigation to develop integrated strategies for controlling grass-weeds.

  • Lessons learned from strobilurin burn-out

    January 7, 2011

    THE introduction of a new chemical class in wheat fungicides, should IZM be granted approval for use in wheat this spring, is particularly timely, claims Syngenta, given that, once more, a large proportion of the UK wheat area is planted to disease-susceptible varieties, particularly where yellow rust is concerned.

  • More now known about IZM action

    January 7, 2011

    PROFESSIONAL cereal growers are becoming more interested in knowing exactly how the chemistry in new fungicides works to achieve the results it does.

  • New packaging offers environmental benefits

    January 7, 2011

    NEW packaging for non-liquid herbicides from Dow AgroSciences will be much better for the environment and easier for farmers to use, the company says.

  • AIC and NFU urge farmers to honour contracts

    6 January 2011

    WITH volatility rife in the current marketing year for arable crops, buyers and sellers are being urged to honour contracts.

  • British Sugar advises on dealing with frozen beet

    4 January 2011

    SUGAR beet processor British Sugar has issued guidance to growers on dealing with frost-affected crops.

  • Oxford rebels attack 'pro-GM' conference

    4 January 2011

    OXFORD Farming Conference rebels have attacked the flagship agricultural event for adopting a pro-GM stance.

  • Industry leaders look ahead to 2011

    30 December 2010

    NFU board chairmen Mansel Raymond (dairy), Alistair Mackintosh (livestock) and Ian Backhouse (arable) talk to FG about the past year and their hopes for the industry in 2011.

  • Championing the benefits of ELS over the alternative – compulsory set-aside

    December 30, 2010

    A year into the Campaign for the Farmed Environment Angela Calvert talks to two farmers about their involvement, renewing their ELS agreements and the benefits they found first time around.

  • Honey bee's deadly enemy will self-destruct

    23 December 2010

    SCIENTISTS may be able to halt global honey bee losses by forcing the deadly varroa mite - lethal in the freezing weather - to self-destruct.

  • Shallots enjoy a five-year high

    December 23, 2010

    Shallots have seen a massive rise in popularity over the last five years with UK retail sales now at £8.6 million - up 46 per cent during that time.This year looks like being an even better year for UK growers. They are predicted to do better than their European counterparts as spring weather conditions were poor in France and Holland, and so their production is down by over 20 per cent.

  • New requirements may limit OSR saved seed

    21 December 2010

    OILSEED rape growers who wish to farm save seed are being advised only certain varieties will be suitable for farm saving next year. This follows changes to rapeseed delivery specifications.

  • NFU issues warning on plans to phase out peat

    20 December 2010

    THE NFU has warned that UK growers must not be put at a competitive disadvantage by Government plans to phase out the use of peat in horticulture.

  • Specifications can be met… with careful management

    17 December 2010

    WITH only two nabim Group 1 varieties remaining on the HGCA Recommended List, agronomists were told that good management of milling wheats was a priority if higher protein crops were to be grown.

  • Combine chemical and non-chemical approaches for optimum weed control

    17 December 2010

    GROWERS will have to use more non-chemical weed control methods because fewer pesticides will be available due to future regulation, said Stephen Moss, research scientist at Rothamsted Research.

  • Sulphur deficiency limiting nitrogen utilisation in wheat and OSR?

    17 December 2010

    SULPHUR deficiency in cereals and oilseed rape could be holding back yield potential in UK crops.

  • New fungicides could provide yield boost over best currently available

    17 December 2010

    NEW SDHI fungicide chemistry is performing better than expected and, as an addition to current fungicide programmes, will offer growers a broader spectrum of disease control and potential yield boost.

  • No need to change pesticide rules – Defra

    15 December 2010

    THERE is no compelling evidence to justify further regulations and voluntary controls to improve the safety of pesticide use in Britain, the Government has concluded.

  • Oilseed Rape reaches £400/t record high

    14 December 2010

    OLD crop oilseed rape prices have reached record highs, smashing through the £400/t barrier for the first time.

  • Bid to kick-start OSR varieties

    December 10, 2010

    ?The way Recommended List trials for oilseed rape are compiled is set to change, in an attempt to bring new varieties to the attention of growers quicker than under the previous system.

  • CFE – make every acre count

    December 10, 2010

    ?There is still time to complete the Campaign for the Farmed Environment’s online record. The deadline for completing records has now been extended until January 14, 2011, says CFE.

  • Gas gun's variable patterns options

    December 10, 2010

    ?The variable shot patterns of the Vari-Scary gas gun allow the frequency of firing within time slots to be altered, says Techneat. This can concentrate deterrent on periods of intense pigeon activity, but reduce or even switch off firing when the risk is low.

  • Group 1 spring wheat – first in a decade

    December 10, 2010

    ?Two new spring wheat varieties have made it on to the Recommended List, including the first Group 1 since Paragon in 1999.

  • Newcomer has Cordiale characteristics

    December 10, 2010

    HGCA has announced new additions to its variety Recommended Lists for 2011-12. DOMINIC KILBURN reports.

  • Quality makes up for average 2010 pea yields

    December 10, 2010

    ?Winners of the British Edible Pulse Association annual pulse competition were presented with their prizes for the highest performing pulse crops from the 2010 harvest at the BEPA annual dinner.

  • Scientists claiming a breakthrough

    December 10, 2010

    ?Scientists at an environmental biotechnology company claim to have developed a biological product that could potentially be used to reduce the amount of nitrogen and other fertilisers used by arable farmers.

  • Scottish seed potato sector faces challenges

    December 10, 2010

    ?Some of the challenges faced by Scottish seed potato growers and exporters were discussed during a visit by Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, Richard Lochhead, to Perth-based seed potato business Caithness Potatoes.

  • 'Worrying' metaldehyde levels in water

    December 10, 2010

    ?The widespread discovery of higher than permitted levels of metaldehyde in water this autumn has been described as ‘extremely worrying’ by a Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG) consultant, following the high-profile campaign to try to reduce the impact of the key slug control active ingredient this winter.

  • EU bee strategy will boost farmers  

    9 December 2010

    BEES and other pollinators contribute more than £400 million to the agricultural economy every year yet they are dying at an alarming rate, an MEP has warned.

  • Pesticides save UK £70bn in food costs

    6 December 2010

    Crop protection saves UK consumers £70 billion in annual food costs, concludes a new report released today (Monday, December 6).

  • China underpins a buoyant oilseeds market

    3 December 2010

    CHINESE demand for soyabeans is underpinning a strong global market for oilseeds.

  • Spring feed barley list newcomer offers high treated and untreated yield

    3 December 2010

    THREE new winter barley varieties have been added to the Recommended List including Florentine (Senova), Escadre (KWS) and Element (Syngenta). All are feed varieties.

  • New restored hybrids bring good LLS scores

    3 December 2010

    EIGHT new varieties make up the additions to the 2011/2012 HGCA Recommended List for winter oilseed rape, including four restored hybrids, two semi-dwarf restored hybrids and two open pollinated (conventional) varieties.

  • ‘Aggressive’ rhizo strain a wake-up call

    December 3, 2010

    ?An aggressive strain of rhizomania in sugar beet crops in Suffolk is causing concern but as DOMINIC KILBURN discovers, potential solutions to the problem may soon be available.

  • A growing opportunity for soya

    December 3, 2010

    WITH world demand continuing to rise and annual UK imports at more than three million tonnes, soya beans could be an option for those looking for a high value spring-sown crop with a guaranteed market, writes Angela Calvert.

  • AYPR outbreaks remain within small area

    December 3, 2010

    The movement of machinery, light sandy coastal soils that warm up very quickly in the spring and soil carried between fields by machinery, could be some of the key reasons why the aggressive rhizomania strain, ‘AYPR’ is spreading to different fields in the Suffolk coastal area.

  • Free advice on fertiliser equipment

    December 3, 2010

    A LEADING crop consultant has gone online to share tips on how farmers can get the most out of their fertiliser equipment.

  • Growers urged to protect beet in big freeze

    December 3, 2010

    Sugar beet growers are being advised to keep a close watch on their local weather forecast and be prepared to act to protect beet should temperatures fall to -3degC or colder.

  • Is linseed set for spring plantings?

    December 3, 2010

    HIGH commodity prices this autumn mean land availability for spring crops could be at a premium in 2011, as growers seek to maximise their winter wheat and oilseed rape plantings this season. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Project launched to investigate soil health

    December 3, 2010

    FRESH produce company Produce World is working with Cranfield University to undertake a three-year sustainability project on soil health.

  • Soil samples may provide insight to AYPR advances

    December 3, 2010

    A new programme of research work will hopefully get under way at Broom’s Barn next year to try and build a more complete picture of rhizomania in the UK.

  • Spotting symptoms in the field

    December 3, 2010

    Half the battle for beet growers is identifying whether or not rhizomania is in their crops, concedes Broom’s Barn head of crop protection Dr Mark Stevens.

  • Tandem rhizo-resistant beet to be ‘prescription only’

    December 3, 2010

    Trials work involving new sugar beet variety Magistral, which carries tandem (Holly (Rz1) and beta maritima (RzM2)) resistance to overcome both standard and more aggressive strains of rhizomania, will be ongoing next year but it is unclear as to when it will be commercially available.

  • Wider rotational benefits of spring barley

    December 3, 2010

    As well as improved market prospects for spring malting barley, experiences of its wider benefits in the rotation are also making it look a better option than winter feed barley on one Wiltshire farm.

  • Wheat prices hit two-year high

    2 December 2010

    THE London futures exchange is seeing the highest wheat prices since March 2008. Today (Thursday, December 2) alone, wheat gained £4.05/tonne over Wednesday to close at 183.25/tonne. UK futures for May were up by more than £4/t to £189/t. 

  • Adding a splash of colour to make sprouts more sexy

    2 December 2010

    With the announcement of his new sweet-tasting purple sprouts, Cambridgeshire farmer, John Lankfer, has created a new buzz around one of the vegetables many love to hate.

  • ELS stacks up despite high grain prices

    1 December 2010

    IF the Campaign for the Farmed Environment is to succeed, more still needs to be done. That was a key message for farmers attending an East Midlands regional event held at Newark Showground, reports Angela Calvert.

  • Soil Association wants human waste to be spread on farmland

    29 November 2010

    THE Soil Association is calling for a change in the law to allow human sewage to be spread on farmland.

  • German court upholds GM ban

    29 November 2010

    THE restrictive provisions for the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops in Germany have been upheld by the country’s Federal Constitutional Court.

  • Soil protection costs farmers in SPS inspections

    29 November 2010

    ONE in every 14 farmers inspected this year had not completed the current version of the Soil Protection Review and most will now lose 5 per cent of their support payments.

  • Abstraction licence renewals to be time limited

    November 26, 2010

    AS water abstraction licences come up for renewal, growers can expect all replacement licences to be ‘time-limited’ as the Environment Agency looks to maintain sustainable use of water in agriculture.

  • Limagrain UK rebrands its portfolio as LG

    November 26, 2010

    SEEDS business Limagrain UK has rebranded its portfolio as ‘LG’ (Limagrain Genetics).

  • Monitor farm search is on

    November 26, 2010

    GROWERS in the Scottish Borders with an appetite for innovation and who are willing to explore ways of boosting performance and share their findings with their peers, are being invited to apply to become a host farm in the HGCA-funded Arable Monitor Farm project.

  • Monitoring is key to manage threat from rot in potato stores

    November 26, 2010

    WITH potato harvest almost complete, the focus for growers has switched to storage, according to the Potato Council.

  • New control option will help manage resistance threat

    November 26, 2010

    One third of pollen beetles now resistant

  • New initiative to boost wheat yields

    November 26, 2010

    AN R&D-led wheat improvement initiative has been launched by Masstock SMART Farming this winter to help British growers boost their wheat yields by at least 2 per cent per year over the coming two decades, through carefully focused agronomic progress.

  • New spring bean varieties lead way to yield progress

    November 26, 2010

    NEW spring bean varieties added to the Pulse Recommended Lists in the last couple of years bring a long-awaited step change advance in yield, according to pulse levy body PGRO.

  • Open autumn puts pressure on UK pulse planting areas

    November 26, 2010

    THE UK pulse crop area for harvest 2011 is likely to be down on 2010 as a result of favourable planting conditions this autumn for cereals and oilseed rape and firm prices for both crops.

  • Potential is there for rapid advances in plant breeding

    November 26, 2010

    THE development of genome mapping is helping to make plant breeding programmes wider in their scope and more precise by increasing breeders’ understanding of cereal genetics, according to plant breeding and seeds business Limagrain UK.

  • Water legislation is an opportunity, not a threat

    November 26, 2010

    WATER and food are moving up the political agenda, but growers must avoid complacency, become more focused on their business needs and use legislation as an opportunity, rather than seeing it as a threat.

  • Water regulations will hit Anglian farmers harder

    November 26, 2010

    A RAFT of water legislation is set to confront growers in the near future, and those in the Anglian region are likely to feel the effects more so than in other parts of the country.

  • Wheat and rape area to rise

    22 November 2010

    THE UK wheat area for next year could increase by 3 per cent to 1.984 million hectares (4.9m acres).

  • AHDB proposes hike in levy rates

    19 November 2010

    THE Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) is recommending levy increases ranging from 3 to 18 per cent across the cereals and oilseeds, potato and beef and lamb sectors.

  • ‘Don’t panic’ at ‘yellowing’ – ask questions

    November 19, 2010

    ?Growers concerned about ‘yellowing’ in sugar beet are being urged not to panic and lift affected crops, but find out what the cause is and whether it will have an implication on harvest date and yields.

  • ‘False sense of security’ in good pre-em performance

    November 19, 2010

    ?GOOD results from this season’s pre-emergence herbicide applications should not dissuade growers from going ahead with autumn applications of Atlantis.

  • Aim to meet biofuel crop demand with better yields

    November 19, 2010

    More than 100 delegates attended the HGCA Biofuel Conference at Aldwark Manor, York, supported by Farmers Guardian. A further 100 joined the proceedings online as Farmers Guardian streamed video live from the event. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Bioethanol crop could rise to 2.5-3m tonnes by 2013

    November 19, 2010

    WHEAT usage for bioethanol in the UK could be as high as 2.5-3 million tonnes by 2013, delegates were told by Charlotte Smyth, cereals and oilseeds analyst for AHDB Market Intelligence.

  • Dickeya prevention policies working for moment

    November 19, 2010

    New Potato Council-funded research assessing the threat to UK seed crops from the new and aggressive blackleg pathogen dickeya solani, suggests current prevention policies are working – at least for now.

  • EU plans to build a sustainable future with energy policy

    November 19, 2010

    GIVING an update of UK and EU biofuels policy, Paul Thompson, head of policy for the Renewable Energy Association, said the EU aims, by 2020, to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 20 per cent, increase renewable energy use to 20 per cent and improve energy efficiency by 20 per cent.

  • Farmers urged to complete online stewardship record

    November 19, 2010

    FARMERS are being urged to document their commitment to protecting the environment by filling in the Campaign for the Farmed Environment’s (CFE) online recording tool.

  • Restricted OSR yields down to lack of sulphur?

    November 19, 2010

    ?Sulphur deficiencies are creeping back in to oilseed rape crops, according to Openfield.

  • Watch the HGCA biofuels conference

    November 19, 2010

    CATCH all the action from the HGCA Biofuels Conference from the comfort of your PC, keeping you up-to-date with all the latest developments in the biofuels sector.

  • Defra lifts freeze on HLS start dates

    17 November 2010

    FARMERS who have applied to join the HLS scheme this year will be given a start date after Defra lifted the temporary suspension on the scheme this week.

  • Exclusive: Natural England draws up plans to charge for services

    November 12, 2010

    NATURAL England is drawing up plans to introduce new charges for the services it provides in response to far-reaching budget cuts imposed on it by Defra

  • Watch the HGCA biofuels conference LIVE

    11 November 2010

    IN a unique partnership with the HGCA, Farmers Guardian is giving you the opportunity to watch today’s (Thursday, November 11) HGCA Biofuels Conference live from your PC.

  • Lawyers question EU's GM plans

    10 November 2010

    PLANS to allow EU countries to unilaterally ban the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) crops in their own territory have been thrown into disarray by Europe’s legal experts.

  • Inadequate cooling is the main issue in grain stores

    10 November 2010

    TOO many farmers are failing to properly cool their grain, focusing instead on driving down moistures.

  • HGCA trials showed bixafen mix gave yield boost over triazoles

    10 November 2010

    NEW generation SDHI fungicide Aviator235Xpro was one of the most effective products at controlling septoria tritici in fungicide performance trials, according to results just released by HGCA.

  • UK bioethanol production set to rise

    10 November 2010

    WHEAT use for UK bioethanol production is expected to increase in 2010/11 relative to 2009/10, according to the latest Defra supply and demand estimates for cereals.

  • CropWorld 2010

    8 November 2010

    FIND out what happened at CropWorld 2010 - the leading conference and exhibition for the global crop production supply chain - including all the latest news and video interviews from the event.

  • Spelman refutes ‘environmental vandalism’ claims

    5 November 2010

    DEFRA Secretary Caroline Spelman has insisted that England’s flagship agri-environment schemes will be maintained and expanded, as she was accused of ‘environmental vandalism’ in the House of Commons.

  • Online comparison tool launched for arable businesses

    5 November 2010

    A NEW online cost comparison website for arable farmers can help identify where they should be concentrating efforts to strengthen their businesses.

  • CropWorld 2010: Industry urged to fight back against environmentalists

    5 November 2010

    THE plant science industry has been urged to fight back in the public relations battle with campaigning groups that has often seen it come off second best.

  • Advice on keeping watercourses pesticides free

    November 5, 2010

    ?While the farming industry has made good progress in keeping pesticides out of water, there remains room for improvement, says the Voluntary Initiative’s Water sub-group H2OK? in its latest newsletter.

  • Biobed investment pays off at research farm

    November 5, 2010

    A BIOBED installation at Bayer CropScience’s Great Chishill research and development farm is proving to be a cost effective investment, says the company.

  • Check for alternaria in ‘yellow’ beet crops

    November 5, 2010

    THE cause of yellowing of foliage in some sugar beet crops this autumn appears to be variety related but is not fully understood, says the BBRO.

  • Conditions are ideal for BYDV in barley and wheat this year

    November 5, 2010

    WINTER barley and winter wheat growers are being warned of a high risk year for barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), linked to the warm conditions this summer, early drilled crops and mild early autumn weather.

  • CropWorld 2010: FG interviews Dr Namanga Ngongi

    November 5, 2010

    WATCH our interview with Dr Namanga Ngongi, president of the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa.

  • CropWorld 2010: FG interviews Katherine Smith

    November 5, 2010

    Watch our interview with Katherine R Smith from the US Economic Research Service.

  • CropWorld 2010: FG interviews Mark Berrisford-Smith of HSBC

    November 5, 2010

    Watch our interview with senior economist with HSBC bank, Mark Berrisford-Smith.

  • CropWorld 2010: FG interviews Rik Miller

    November 5, 2010

    WATCH our interview with Rik Miller, regional director of Du Pont Plant Protection

  • Great conditions for weed control

    November 5, 2010

    ?TAKE advantage of the best start to weed control for years and press on with autumn herbicide programmes.

  • Make time to complete Soil Protection Reviews

    November 5, 2010

    LEAVE enough time to complete cross compliance Soil Protection Reviews (SPR) before the end of the year, Masstock Farm Consultancy is advising growers.

  • New varieties provide OSR growers with ample choices

    November 5, 2010

    ?Oilseed rape plantings have increased by between 5 and 7 per cent this autumn on the back of positive margins and the crop has strengthened its position as a key break crop going forward.

  • Notts event focuses on CFE ideas

    November 5, 2010

    ?Practical steps to support farm wildlife, protect resources and avoid mandatory set-aside from 2012, will be the focus of a Nottinghamshire Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) meeting being held in Newark on November 18.

  • Slug activity boosted by recent rains

    November 5, 2010

    RECENT rain has encouraged slug activity but growers and advisors should take joint responsibility to make sure slug pellets are used only when they are really needed.

  • Trophy honour after ‘outstanding’ research

    November 5, 2010

    ?Dr John Bradshaw, honorary fellow of the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI), has been awarded the 2010 British Potato Industry Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to potato research and knowledge transfer.

  • CropWorld 2010: Earlier spray may be needed for FEB control

    4 November 2010

    FUNGICIDE sprays for control of fusarium ear blight may need to be applied earlier than is currently the case in order to obtain good disease control and limit production of mycotoxins.

  • CropWorld 2010: New insecticide shows potential against resistant aphids

    4 November 2010

    A new insecticide active ingredient presented at CropWorld could one day provide a much-needed addition to the agrochemical toolkit available for control of myzus persicae aphids.

  • CropWorld 2010: New fungicide chemistry offers benefits

    4 November 2010

    NEW fungicide chemistry coming on to the market will offer significant benefits in terms of disease control, yield benefits and resistance management. But whether or not growers exploit these benefits will depend on the price of new fungicides in the market.

  • CropWorld 2010: 2012 target for new SDHI fungicide

    4 November 2010

    CEREAL crops are likely to be the first to benefit from new SDHI fungicide chemistry that agrochemical manufacturer BASF is hoping to introduce to the market in 2012.

  • Scientists discover new route for GM contamination

    4 November 2010

    SCIENTISTS at the University of Bristol claim to have discovered a previously unknown route by which GM genes may escape into the natural environment.

  • Home Office urged to back down on hemp rules

    4 November 2010

    THE NFU is urging the Home Office to ‘back down’ on the introduction of licence fees, linked to UK drugs legislation, for hemp growers

  • Co-operative Farms renew ELS for five more years

    3 November 2010

    The Co-operative Farms has signed up to the ELS scheme with Natural England for a further five years and increased the amount of land in the environmental agreement on farms it manages to over 6,500 hectares (16,000 acres).

  • CropWorld 2010: Paice unveils £13m farm emissions project

    3 November 2010

    FARMING Minister Jim Paice has announced funding of £12.6 million to improve understanding about how UK agriculture contributes to climate change.

  • EU opens tender for cereal stocks

    3 November 2010

    INTERVENTION grain is to be released back into the market. But NFU Scotland is urging the Commission to ‘proceed with care and control’ if what should be welcome news for livestock producers, is to not to adversely impact on cereal growers.

  • CFE birthday prompts calls for more environmental action

    3 November 2010

    FARMING Minister Jim Paice has called on farmers to show more proof they can look after the countryside as the first anniversary of the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) looms.

  • CropWorld 2010: Large roots could save the planet

    2 November 2010

    THE key to saving the planet lies in the size of a crop’s roots, according to a novel theory put forward by the head of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

  • CropWorld 2010: Science ‘unscathed’ by spending cuts

    2 November 2010

    AGRICULTURAL science appears to have emerged relatively unscathed from the Government’s drastic spending cuts, according to a leading figure from the UK farm science sector.

  • Crop World 2010: Support growing for GMs in Europe

    1 November 2010

    MORE than 50 per cent of Europeans are in favour of biotechnology, according to the latest survey of EU opinions.

  • Major research to cut pesticide use

    29 October 2010

    SCIENTISTS at the Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI) are involved in a major European project to reduce pesticide residues on crops and the types of agro-chemicals available to farmers.

  • ‘Stack’ non-chemical methods to boost black-grass control

    October 29, 2010

    The focus was on weed management at a joint HGCA/Rothamsted Research Association workshop. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Controlling weeds in OSR

    October 29, 2010

    The focus was on weed management at a joint HGCA/Rothamsted Research Association workshop. Teresa Rush reports.

  • High numbers of wheat bulb fly eggs this autumn

    October 29, 2010

    WHEAT bulb fly infestations are at their highest level for six years, according to results from HGCA’s autumn wheat bulb fly survey.

  • Industry must work together to cut water pollution

    October 29, 2010

    FARMERS and advisers are being asked to play their part in keeping the herbicide propyzamide (Kerb) out of water this autumn.

  • Machine vision approach captures grass-weed images

    October 29, 2010

    A project led by the University of Reading has developed a machine vision approach to automated identification and mapping of black-grass in the field.

  • Micronutrients enhance OSR

    October 29, 2010

    THE main benefit of using micronutrients in winter oilseed rape looks to come from enhancing the growth and yield of the crop by increasing rooting and improving photosynthesis.

  • National disease survey results highlight a low disease season

    October 29, 2010

    FOLIAR disease levels in 2009/10 season winter wheat crops were the lowest ever recorded, according to national disease survey results published by CropMonitor.

  • New brassica herbicide in demo trials

    October 29, 2010

    A NEW herbicide active ingredient for brassica crops is being demonstrated this season at the Rijk-Zwaan site in Lincolnshire.

  • Potato campaign targets younger consumers

    October 29, 2010

    FOOD and farming Minister Jim Paice joined the Potato Council on a Somerset farm recently to mark the start of a new campaign by the Council and its European partners to stop the decline in potato consumption.

  • Resistance to herbicide continues to spread

    October 29, 2010

    RESISTANCE to the grass-weed herbicide Atlantis (mesosulfuron+iodosulfuron) continues to spread, with Dorset and Warwickshire added by the end of 2009 to the list of counties with fields affected by resistant black-grass populations, Richard Hull of Rothamsted Research told the workshop.

  • Simple toolkit to highlight biodiversity

    October 29, 2010

    FARMERS and land managers taking part in the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) are being encouraged to enter a draw to receive a Linking Environment and Farming (LEAF) Green Box.

  • Temperature matters when planning herbicide applications

    October 29, 2010

    PRIORITISE applications of Atlantis (mesosulfuron + iodo-sulfuron) to winter wheat for the time being rather than worrying about getting Kerb (propyzamide) on to oilseed rape.

  • UK on target to meet biofuels obligation

    October 29, 2010

    THE amount of renewable fuel for transport being sourced from British growers has increased to 10 per cent of total biofuel volumes used in the UK - up from 5 per cent last year. Of this, 6 per cent comes from wheat, 3 per cent from sugar beet and 1 per cent from oilseed rape.

  • Vision for a new kind of wheat

    October 29, 2010

    LOW nitrogen input varieties with high energy grains are set to be the key requirements for a new kind of ‘green’ wheat for the future, bred specifically for the increasing bioethanol, distilling and animal feed markets.

  • CFE remains strong in face of Government cuts

    28 October 2010

    CAMPAIGN for the Farmed Environment (CFE) organisers say the scheme will continue, despite public spending cuts.

  • Natural England to shed 400 jobs

    28 October 2010

    NATURAL England will shed 400 staff by May next year, and that figure could rise to 800 within four years, cost-saving details have revealed this week.

  • GM debate must be science-led, says MEP

    28 October 2010

    AN MEP has urged the European Parliament to dismiss ‘dogmatic politics’ in favour of science when formulating policy for genetically modified (GM) technology.

  • Co-op commits to ELS scheme

    27 October 2010

    BRITAIN’S  biggest farmer, The Co-operative Farms, has signed up to the Entry Level Stewardship scheme with Natural England for a further five years and increased the amount of land in the environmental agreement on farms it manages to more than 6,500 hectares (16,061 acres).

  • Sainsbury’s pledges £40m to develop supply chain

    27 October 2010

    AROUND 1,000 farmer-suppliers closely involved with Sainsbury’s dedicated development groups heard chief executive Justin King promise further massive financial support for farming last week.

  • Flawed grain marketing could cost up to £200,000

    27 October 2010

    GETTING the grain marketing strategy all wrong in one year could now cost a 404-hectare (1,000-acre) farm with two-thirds down to cereals, about £210,000.

  • OSR hybrids increase their market share

    27 October 2010

    BOTH the level of national oilseed rape plantings and the proportion of the crop in hybrid varieties have reached modern day records this autumn, according to certified and farm-saved seed planting estimates compiled by Masstock SMART Farming.

  • Tesco war with Hovis over wheat price

    26 October 2010

    DESPITE a spike in the price of wheat Tesco has refused a request from Hovis to pay more for a loaf of its bread.

  • Romanian children found working in farmer’s field

    25 October 2010

    SEVEN Romanian children between the ages of nine and fifteen have been found working on a farm in Worcestershire.

  • New genes offer hope in UK’s fight against Rhizomania

    25 October 2010

    Rhizomania, fungicides and plant counts were explored at an Elsom Seeds open day, held near Spalding, Lincolnshire. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Don’t misuse neonicotinoids

    October 22, 2010

    OILSEED rape growers wanting to control aphids migrating into crops this autumn are being made aware of the risk of misuse of the neonicotinoid insecticide Biscaya (thiacloprid).

  • Early infection raises TuYV levels

    October 22, 2010

    THE analysis of turnip yellows virus levels in HGCA Recommended List winter oilseed rape varieties in trials in Suffolk has revealed that some varieties appear to be affected by the virus to a greater extent than others.

  • High hopes for KWS variety

    October 22, 2010

    ?PLANT breeding company KWS hopes to have a new sugar beet variety added to the recommended list in 2011 that will show increased tolerance to high infestations of rhizomania, in addition to having tolerance to the newer, and more aggressive, strains of the virus.

  • Improving yields to break 100t/ha barrier

    October 22, 2010

    ?UK sugar beet could average 100 tonnes per hectare in the future, but inputs must be tailored to meet the crop’s full potential.

  • Resistance-breaking rhizomania strain outbreaks continue to spread

    October 22, 2010

    THE resistance-breaking strain of rhizomania, first identified in rhizomania-resistant sugar beet varieties following an outbreak in a single field 2007, is continuing to spread.

  • Sugar beet or wheat - the tough question facing growers

    October 22, 2010

    BRITISH Sugar has offered sugar beet growers the chance to grow 20 per cent more beet next season, but with wheat and oilseed rape prices riding high, is it worth it? Dominic Kilburn put that question to a grower and a business consultant.

  • Trials find two-spray approach is essential for late-lifted crops

    October 22, 2010

    ?SUGAR beet fungicides must be used as a protectant throughout the season if disease is to be kept out of the crop and healthy foliage maintained into winter.

  • EU ministers oppose GM rule change

    20 October 2010

    A PLAN by the European Commission to allow member states to unilaterally restrict or authorise the cultivation of genetically modified crops in their own territory has been vehemently opposed by EU heavyweights France, Germany and Italy.

  • PepsiCo to cut potato impact by 50 per cent

    20 October 2010

    PEPSICO has confirmed plans to halve carbon emissions and water usage across its core crops within five years.

  • More action on dickeya by Scottish Government

    15 October 2010

    THE Scottish Government has outlined further measures it is taking to prevent the spread of the highly aggressive potato bacterial pathogen dickeya solani.

  • CropWorld 2010 Preview: Time for rethink on plant breeders’ rights?

    October 15, 2010

    Intellectual property rights are vital if agriculture is to find solutions to the challenges ahead. However, they must be strengthened and the reward to the innovator must be improved.

  • Millers relax mycotoxin testing requirements

    October 15, 2010

    TESTING for mycotoxins in 2010 harvest grain has been eased by millers trade organisation nabim following very low levels being found in this year’s crop.

  • Norfolk farmers find collaborative approach to future water security

    October 15, 2010

    Three farms in West Norfolk have come together to create Heronhill Water - a partnership which will make it possible to irrigate 2,023 hectares (5,000 acres) allowing them to tap into the potato market for the first time. Clemmie Gleeson reports.

  • Unapproved pesticides not worth the risk

    October 15, 2010

    THE Voluntary Initiative is reminding farmers to check they are only using approved herbicides this autumn. Enforcement agencies are on the alert for illegal use of unapproved products, says VI manager Patrick Goldsworthy.

  • Wet weather causing potato store problems

    October 15, 2010

    RAIN has hampered harvesting progress for potato growers in many regions, with the focus being on moving crops from the field even if they were not destined for long-term storage, by using temporary facilities and boxes, says the Potato Council.

  • RSPB blasted for ‘outdated prejudice’ against pesticides

    14 October 2010

    AN RSPB proposal to tax pesticides and other farm inputs to raise money to protect the environment has been rubbished by the crop protection industry.

  • Sugar beet growers receive contract boost 

    13 October 2010

    SUGAR beet growers will be permitted to grow 20 per cent on top of their British Sugar contracts next year, following unexpectedly low yields this year.

  • Corn estimates drag wheat prices higher

    12 October 2010

    WHEAT prices have followed corn (maize) prices upwards again after Friday’s downward revision of corn supply estimates by the US Department of Agriculture.

  • Wheat prices offer profit opportunity

    8 October 2010

    THE message to farmers is loud and clear: A decent profit is attainable from the current wheat prices and growers should sell forward what they can.

  • Cereals down, OSR up in NFU harvest survey

    October 8, 2010

    It has been a harvest of mixed fortunes for combinable crops growers, according to the NFU’s annual harvest survey.

  • Controlling disease and weeds

    October 8, 2010

    INTEREST in the agronomic aspects of growing maize are set to intensify as demand for the crop as a key source of renewable energy increases.

  • Dearth of opportunities set to hold back plantings

    October 8, 2010

    WINTER barley plantings are expected to remain static or decline this autumn in the absence of any significant contract opportunities.

  • Don’t delay CIPC timings

    October 8, 2010

    IT is not too early for CIPC sprout suppressant treatments, the Potato Council is advising potato growers.

  • Drills are halted as wet weather sets in

    October 8, 2010

    Drilling has been a stop-start affair over the last week as the wet weather has taken its toll.

  • Environmental benefits of mono-cropped maize for AD

    October 8, 2010

    THE MAIZE-FED anaerobic digester (AD) plant at Burton Joyce, Nottingham will produce up to 15GWh of electricity each year – the equivalent of supplying power to 4,000 residential properties, according to owners, Severn Trent Water.

  • Harvest 2010 produces enough good quality wheat

    October 8, 2010

    Harvest 2010 has produced enough quality wheat across all grades to meet the demands of the domestic market, with more than 90 per cent of group 1 and 2 samples exceeding the 200 hagberg falling number threshold

  • Much to learn about growing maize for AD

    October 8, 2010

    THE key issue is getting the growing of the maize right, says Ron Gabain, who manages the Duke of Sutherland’s 1,800 hectare (4,300 acre) Stetchworth Estate near Newmarket, Suffolk.

  • New marketing for potato seed fungicide

    October 8, 2010

    Crop protection business Certis has taken over the marketing of the potato fungicide Fungazil 100SL.

  • Nutrition challenge for maize grown in an arable rotation

    October 8, 2010

    A ‘Maize for Biogas’ day, organised by the Maize Growers Association, gave growers the opportunity to view a recently commissioned maize-fed anaerobic digester plant, as well as get the latest agronomy advice on growing the crop. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Regional shifts as bioethanol demand takes effect

    October 8, 2010

    Farmer-owned arable marketing and inputs business, Openfield, shared its thoughts on markets, plantings and varieties at its review and outlook meeting. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Southern growers return to barley

    October 8, 2010

    Growers in the South have returned to barley after a season of disappointing second wheat performances.

  • When selecting varieties make harvest date a priority

    October 8, 2010

    ARABLE farmers looking to grow maize for the first time should consider the harvesting date as a priority when making varietal selection.

  • Calls for early SFP to ease harvest woes

    6 October 2010

    RICHARD Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, has been urged to consider making an early payment of the Single Farm Payment to those north eastern farmers facing extreme harvesting difficulties.

  • Pea growing returns to East Anglia

    5 October 2010

    EAST Anglian peas will be back on sale next summer after a brief gap caused by the cancellation Birds Eye’s contract with growers in the area.

  • EU releases grain stocks to calm prices

    1 October 2010

    THE European Commission will release 3 million tonnes of intervention stocks onto the market to help calm rising food and feed costs across the continent.

  • Less than 20 per cent of Brits celebrate harvest festival

    1 October 2010

    FEWER than 20 per cent of people in the UK still celebrate at a Harvest Festival, and of those who do, more than half mark the occasion by taking dried or tinned food gifts to school or church, a survey has revealed.

  • CropMonitor’s mycotoxin analysis shows ‘low’ toxins

    October 1, 2010

    ?Mycotoxin analysis of the first 60 grain samples received from the CropMonitor wheat disease survey indicate toxin levels in 2010 are very low.

  • Greengrain project variety set for early C1 launch

    October 1, 2010

    ?A new winter wheat variety showing promise for bioethanol production, as well as for the drinks distilling market and animal feed, is being launched for C1 seed production this autumn.

  • Monitoring reveals record second wheat yield gap

    October 1, 2010

    ?The gap between first and second wheat yields reached a high this harvest in spite of noticeably lower take-all levels.

  • Project's enhanced biodiversity development aim

    October 1, 2010

    The Leicestershire-based Allerton Project seeks to enhance biodiversity in commercial farming. ANGELA CALVERT reports.

  • Reason found for GM potato co-mingling

    October 1, 2010

    CHEMICAL company BASF says it has identified how unapproved GM starch potato plants came to be ‘co-mingled’ with plants of an approved variety in northern Sweden.

  • Staying ahead of slugs following return of rain

    October 1, 2010

    ?Slugs will pose a real risk to establishing winter crops following a return of wet weather.

  • Beet harvest gets underway

    30 September 2010

    THE sugar beet harvesting campaign is underway with two factories opening over the past fortnight and reports of very good harvesting conditions.

  • Government told to create more space for nature

    30 September 2010

    ENGLAND’S collection of wildlife sites are too small, too isolated and their loss is leading to a severe decline in biodiversity, the author of an independent Government review has concluded.

  • FG interviews Peter Kendall

    29 September 2010

    WATCH our interview with NFU president Peter Kendall as he discusses the challenges facing the crop production supply chain at the BCPC Congress 2009 (now CropWorld).

  • FG interviews Tom Hind

    29 September 2010

    WATCH our interview with NFU head of economic and international affairs Tom Hind at the 2009 BCPC Congress (now CropWorld)

  • FG interviews Andrew Watson

    29 September 2010

    WATCH our interview with Andrew Watson from the BCPC Congress 2009 (now CropWorld)

  • FG interviews Keith Norman

    29 September 2010

    WATCH our interview with Keith Norman from BCPC Congress 2009 (now CropWorld)

  • FG interviews Peter Gregory

    29 September 2010

    WATCH the video from BCPC Congress (now CropWorld) as we spoke to Peter Gregory.

  • Spotlight on latest fungicide developments at CropWorld 2010

    29 September 2010

    NEW fungicide chemistry offers the potential for improvements in disease control, and higher yields. But it will also have a crucial role to play in protecting existing fungicide active ingredients against the development of resistance, says a leading agronomist.

  • Crop World 2010

    29 September 2010

    FIND out more about Crop World 2010 - the leading conference and exhibition for the global crop production supply chain. The event will bring together key industry figures and companies from accross the supply chain and will tackle some of the key challenges facing the sector today. Find out more about the event, the speakers and how you can be part of it.

  • Scottish growers need a weather window as harvest delays mount

    29 September 2010

    BROKEN weather since the end of July has meant up to 85 per cent of wheat in Aberdeenshire and further north is yet to be cut this harvest.

  • Russian wheat ban will not spark food crisis, says US

    28 September 2010

    THERE are enough global food stocks to prevent a return to the 2008 food crisis, Barack Obama’s agriculture secretary has reassured world leaders.  

  • Consider alternative herbicides to keep control schedule on track

    September 24, 2010

    EASTERN counties-based Prime Agriculture agronomist Marion Self says most of the Suffolk-based growers she advises will have received their autumn herbicide orders through the region’s two main farmer buying groups - AtlasFram and Anglia Farmers - so product choice should not be unduly affected.

  • Early indications show better cereal quality

    September 24, 2010

    PROVISIONAL results from HGCA’s annual Cereals Quality Survey (CQS) indicate improved quality for the 2010 Great Britain harvest in comparison to a three-season average.

  • Greater risk of phoma expected

    September 24, 2010

    Any oilseed rape growers who have experienced a high number of rainfall days on their farm since the start of August could be in a situation where their crops are at imminent risk from phoma infection.

  • Herbicide shortage could hit black-grass control plans

    September 24, 2010

    AUTUMN herbicide plans could be thrown into disarray after supplies to the UK of a mainstay pre-em herbicide were cut back just as the spraying season begins.

  • Herbicides shift to pre-em spraying

    September 24, 2010

    If there is to be a change of emphasis in reducing the current reliance on a late autumn, or spring-applied treatments of Atlantis (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron), while still maintaining appropriate levels of grass-weed control, then growers must focus on getting their pre-emergence, or early post-emergence applications spot on this season, advisers are warning.

  • Light leaf spot set to head further south

    September 24, 2010

    ROTHAMSTED Research is hoping to produce its first light leaf spot and phoma leaf spot risk forecasts by the end of September.

  • New beet cyst nematode testing service

    September 24, 2010

    A NEW soil sampling and testing service is aimed at beet growers who suspect beet cyst nematodes are restricting their crop yields.

  • Silthiofam trial results

    September 24, 2010

    SEED treatment silthiofam can boost the tillering and early plant biomass production of wheat, while reducing take-all root infections, according to NIAB fully-replicated trials conducted on all 34 varieties on the 2009/2010 Recommended List. All were inoculated with take-all at sowing, with half treated with Latitude (silthiofam) at the recommended rate.

  • Kendall ‘excited’ by GM

    22 September 2010

    NFU president Peter Kendall has said he is ‘excited’ by GM crops but could not advocate growing them today because of ongoing consumer resistance.

  • Brewer accused of putting suppliers under pressure

    22 September 2010

    THE company behind a number of leading beer brands has been accused of putting its suppliers under pressure after it extended its payment terms to more than three months.

  • EU battle over GM potato continues

    21 September 2010

    LUXEMBOURG has joined Hungary and Austria in their legal challenge over the authorisation of BASF’s genetically modified (GM) potato Amflora.

  • Ministers pull the plug on FSA’s ‘GM Dialogue’

    17 September 2010

    MINISTERS have called a  halt to the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) ‘GM Dialogue’ project.

  • A new guide to biomass boilers

    September 17, 2010

    A NEW Energy Crop Boiler Guide from the National Non-Food Crops Centre offers those considering using energy crops to produce heat the chance to compare and identify suitable boilers.

  • Care required as bunt incidence rises

    September 17, 2010

    FARM-SAVED wheat seed should be checked for bunt contamination as results from national seed testing suggest there could be cause for concern, says NIAB.

  • Eight varieties forward for recommendation

    September 17, 2010

    ALL nine PGRO Recommended List (RL) pea trials have been harvested with good yields averaging just below five tonnes per hectare, says PGRO.

  • High levels of shedding pose increased volunteer threat

    September 17, 2010

    COMPETITION from volunteer cereals could pose a higher than normal threat to establishing oilseed rape this season, as a result of the protracted and difficult harvest, says Syngenta.

  • Intelligent irrigation system tested in UK

    September 17, 2010

    TECHNOLOGICAL advances in wireless networking, environmental sensors and soil water movement models have been harnessed in the development of an ‘intelligent’ irrigation system.

  • Research aims for more crop per drop

    16 September 2010

    THE concept of precision farming is being extended to irrigation in a new Defra-funded research project which got underway this spring.

  • EU asked to release cereals stocks as feed prices rise

    16 September 2010

    WITH feed prices up by around £25 a tonne in the past month the Farmers Union of Wales wants the EU to release cereals supplies from its intervention stocks.

  • Government cuts could hit pesticide safety

    16 September 2010

    THE crop protection industry has urged the Government not to scrap two key committees responsible for providing independent advice on pesticide safety.

  • Grain prices push higher as yields decline

    16 September 2010

    GRAIN prices rose again this week on the back of official reports of lower yields in England and France, raising fears over food prices.

  • Scientists discover cold weather crop gene

    16 September 2010

    BRITISH scientists have discovered a crop gene which could help develop plants more suited to cooler environments and help tackle global food shortages.

  • Winter wheat yield falls in final results

    16 September 2010

    IT has been a season of variable performance in Recommended List winter wheat trials this autumn, with large variations in yield, better than expected quality and some clear trends in rotational position and soil type influences.

  • Crop protection industry must continue to focus on stewardship

    14 September 2010

    THE crop protection industry cannot afford to take its eye off the ball in maintaining public confidence in the safe and sustainable use of pesticides and must continue to drive higher standards of stewardship across the sector.

  • Rust disease threat to beet

    13 September 2010

    RUST is the main disease concern in sugar beet crops currently, says the BBRO.

  • Challenger proves alternative to Maris Piper

    September 10, 2010

    NEW potato variety Challenger could offer growers a high yielding alternative to Maris Piper, said Richard Baker of breeding company HZPC.

  • Cooking is greatest part of potatoes’ carbon footprint

    September 10, 2010

    BIG changes, especially in buildings, are key to bringing about reductions in the carbon footprint of the potato sector, according to a leading scientist.

  • Crop status ahead of defoliation is critical to bruising levels

    September 10, 2010

    Bruising and desiccation were key items on the agenda at the Potato Council’s East of England Potato Day, hosted by Frederick Hiam, near Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk. DominicKilburn reports.

  • Desiccation treatments compared

    September 10, 2010

    FOLLOWING revocation of sulphuric acid as a potato desiccant earlier this year, a trial plot at the event aimed to demonstrate the merits of other forms of desiccation, including flail and spray and chemical sequences.

  • Getting the big picture on water quality

    September 10, 2010

    The Water Framework Directive will affect farmers nationally and across all sectors. We look at what stage we are currently at and what comes next in the drive to improve water standards.

  • Pesticides give best return on CO2 levels

    September 10, 2010

    CROP protection products give the greatest return and scope to reduce carbon use in potato production. Cold storage accounts for the greater part and any reduction will require changes in storage practice and customer behaviour.

  • RL wheat yields just 5pc down on mean

    September 10, 2010

    WHEAT yields from Recommended List trials are only 5 per cent down on the five-year mean, according to the HGCA, with four to five winter wheat trials left to combine.

  • Seed treatment options set to grow

    September 10, 2010

    INTRODUCED as a likely successor to potato fungicide seed treatment Monceren (pencycuron), new active penflufen from Bayer CropScience, could be available to growers in 2012.

  • 'Toolbox' approach to potato storage

    September 10, 2010

    POTATO growers and store managers should take a ‘toolbox’ approach to tackling potato storage, according to Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research head, Adrian Cunnington.

  • Voluntary CIPC checklist for potato stores introduced

    September 10, 2010

    ?Climate change, sustainability and what they might mean in the context of potato storage were the focus of the SBCSR Storage Day. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Scottish seed potatoes free of dickeya infection

    7 September 2010

    SCOTTISH seed potatoes remain free from dickeya infection, a survey for the presence of the highly damaging potato disease has shown.

  • BASF applies for approval of second GM starch potato

    7 September 2010

    CHEMICAL business BASF has applied for approval of its second genetically modified starch potato. The European Commission approved the company’s first GM potato - the Amflora potato - for commercial production of industrial starch in May this year.

  • British Sugar announces campaign start dates

    6 September 2010

    BRITISH Sugar has announced the factory start dates for the 2010/11 sugar beet processing campaign.

  • Pea trials harvested with 'good yields'

    6 September 2010

    ALL nine PGRO Recommended List (RL) pea trials have been harvested with good yields averaging just less than five tonnes per hectare, says PGRO.

  • Great year for beer as hops flourish

    6 September 2010

    MASTER brewers at Shepherd Neame are hoping for more sunshine and showers to ensure a high-quality hop harvest for 2010.

  • Extension of Russian wheat export ban sparks food crisis fears

    3 September 2010

    VLADAMIR Putin has sparked fresh fears of a return to the 2008 global food crisis by announcing that Russia is to maintain its ban on wheat exports for another year.

  • Storms continue to disrupt harvest across the country

    3 September 2010

    SHOWERS and storms have continued to disrupt harvest up and down the country, although there were hopes that a return to more settled weather conditions this week would allow cutting to resume in earnest.

  • Single-pass waste incorporaton

    September 3, 2010

    VEGETABLE growers have used straw to insulate crops for years, yet incorporating waste post-harvest often poses a challenge. A Nottinghamshire-based contracting firm has developed a machine which incorporates straw and levels the field in a single pass, says Simon Henley.

  • Yields down as weather-delayed wheat results confirmed

    September 3, 2010

    THE first of the HGCA’s Recommended List harvest trials results for winter wheat show that, overall, yields are down 15 per cent compared with last year.

  • More cash for 'surplus' sugar beet

    1 September 2010

    SUGAR beet growers are to get a better price for non-quota beet thanks to improved markets.

  • New carboxamide fungicides available next spring

    1 September 2010

    NEW carboxamide fungicide technology will be widely available for the spring 2011 spraying season, Bayer CropScience has announced.

  • Improving the public’s perception of modern farming

    31 August 2010

    Cold Harbour Farm, at Bishop Burton, East Yorkshire, was one of the first LEAF (Linking Farming and the Environment) demonstration farms, opening its gates to the public in 1993 soon after the organisation was founded.

  • Frontier compensate farmers over oilseed rape crop failure

    27 August 2010

    FRONTIER Agriculture has compensated farmers who suffered crop failure after buying the oilseed rape variety Ritz in 2009.

  • Major scientific breakthrough will increase wheat yields

    27 August 2010

    A TEAM of British researchers has cracked one of the toughest genetic codes of any plant with the first mapping of a wheat genome – a genome five times larger than its human equivalent.

  • Black-grass emergence will be medium

    August 27, 2010

    An HGCA-funded project shows dormancy in black-grass seed this autumn is medium.

  • Black-grass is not just a problem in the east

    August 27, 2010

    Black-grass is not just a problem in eastern counties as one Warwickshire farm busniess explains.

  • Controlling black-grass effectively begins with a pre-em treatment

    August 27, 2010

    Approaches to black-grass control have shown some interesting results, says independent agronomist Mike Warner.

  • Dawn Porter takes on potato challenge

    August 27, 2010

    Celebrity TV presenter and journalist Dawn Porter is following a ‘time-saving, healthy eating plan’ from the Potato Council

  • Industry campaign alerts growers to counterfeit threat

    August 27, 2010

    With the trade in counterfeit pesticides on the increase across Europe, several UK industry organisations have joined force to alert farmers to the risks associated with fake agrochemical products.

  • Innovative ‘whisky’ biofuel could power cars

    August 27, 2010

    Topping up at the petrol pump is about to take an intriguing twist thanks to a new super biofuel made from whisky by-products.

  • Later lifted beet set to benefit from T2 sprays

    August 27, 2010

    Sugar beet crops to be lifted from late November onwards should benefit from a second (T2) fungicide spray applied in the first half of September.

  • Leaving stubble over the winter helps birds survive

    August 27, 2010

    With harvest under way farmers are being urged to give a helping hand to birds by leaving stubble over the winter.

  • Mixed harvest results as rain delays continue

    August 27, 2010

    ?Poor weather this harvest has combined with difficult conditions earlier in the season to create the ‘perfect storm’ for the 2010 wheat crop.

  • Mixed harvest results as rain delays continue

    August 27, 2010

    ?Poor weather this harvest has combined with difficult conditions earlier in the season to create the ‘perfect storm’ for the 2010 wheat crop.

  • New winter wheat well suited to late drilling

    August 27, 2010

    A new winter wheat variety launched to growers for this autumn could be a strong contender for later drilling, says its breeder.

  • Season of no progress for OSR

    August 27, 2010

    The gross output progress of winter oilseed rape varieties in HGCA Recommended List East and West region trials has ground to a halt this season after a number of seasons of increases.

  • Sprouting reported as wet weather continues

    August 27, 2010

    The first cases of pre-harvest sprouting in winter wheat have been reported, according to independent agronomy advice business NIAB TAG.

  • Three candidate winter barleys for recommendation

    August 27, 2010

    Of the eight candidate winter barley varieties in HGCA Recommended List trials this season, five will not be re-sown for trial this autumn following the final 2010 harvest results for the crop announced this week.

  • Fruit and veg task force calls for planning reforms

    26 August 2010

    THE importance of domestic food production should be stated in national planning policy to make it easier to get permission for the likes of polytunnels, a task force has recommended.

  • Delays to flagship Welsh environment scheme

    24 August 2010

    THE Welsh Assembly Government’s pioneering Glastir land management scheme - all set to replace five existing support funding packages - has hit a hitch with a decision to defer the window for farmers to sign up.

  • 'Perfect storm' delays 2010 harvest

    24 August 2010

    POOR weather this harvest has combined with difficult conditions earlier in the season to create the ‘perfect storm’ for the 2010 wheat crop.

  • ‘Don’t cut the life from our countryside’, RSPB urges Ministers

    23 August 2010

    THE RSPB is stepping up its campaign to persuade Ministers to spare England’s agri-environment schemes from budget cuts.

  • Arable Focus: Gentle touch aims to cut out damage

    August 20, 2010

    Harvester manufacturers continue their battle to find ways of reducing crop damage, as Geoff Ashcroft finds out from one Norfolk producer.

  • Balance costs and risks to keep potatoes disease-free

    August 20, 2010

    Potatoes in Practice (PiP) provides growers with the opportunity to view the latest industry and Government-funded potato crop trials and research. Teresa Rush reports from this year’s event at the Scottish Crop Research Institute’s Balruddery Farm, Invergowrie, Dundee.

  • Concern over FLN feeding damage effects

    August 20, 2010

    THE impact of free-living nematode feeding damage is an increasing cause for concern, according to SAC’s Dr Andy Evans. FLN have traditionally been associated with the transmission of tobacco rattle virus and spraing in potato crops.

  • Don’t be fooled – rust threat will carry forward

    August 20, 2010

    The extended dry spell may have stopped aggressive yellow rust in its tracks, but only for the time being, warns Broom’s Barn director, Bill Clark.

  • Fair start to pulse harvest but spring beans concern

    August 20, 2010

    First indications from the UK pulse crop harvest suggest peas are yielding normally and that winter beans too will be satisfactory – despite the drought.

  • Hybrids cannot be overlooked

    August 20, 2010

    WINTER feed barley growers looking for higher yields should not be put off trying hybrids because of agronomic concerns.

  • Label extension gives more control in OSR

    August 20, 2010

    AN extension to the label for Cruiser OSR seed treatment to include early season aphid control will provide oilseed rape growers with an additional tool for control of turnip yellow virus in the coming season.

  • Looking at ways to get even

    August 20, 2010

    This year more than ever variability has hampered efforts to get consistent wheat yield and quality. But Northants grower Stephen Evans finds drilling variable seed rates is helping him get an even crop.

  • Metaldehyde: Autumn focus has to include cutting rates

    August 20, 2010

    Farmers have the opportunity to make some “quick wins” this autumn in the battle to ensure slug control active metaldehyde continues to play a crucial role in their pest control armoury in future years.

  • Seminars on sustainability at SBCSR

    August 20, 2010

    NEW research stores at Sutton Bridge Crop Storage Research (SBCSR) will be officially opened on September 2 by the Government’s spokesman for Energy and Climate Change, Lord Taylor of Holbeach and Potato Council chairman, Allan Stevenson.

  • Study of seed tuber fungicide applications

    August 20, 2010

    TRIALS being conducted by SAC will provide information on best practice for the application of fungicide seed tuber treatments.

  • Take time to tackle the weed beet threat

    August 20, 2010

    SUGAR beet growers are being urged to make tackling weed beet a priority in order to prevent the development of serious infestations.

  • Trial investigates growth in pit and bacterial rots

    August 20, 2010

    THE reasons behind the increased occurrence in the last three years of pit rot and bacterial rot in seed tubers is the subject of a joint SAC/Potato Council trial, which was demonstrated at PiP.

  • Varied plus points for pulses: a Canadian working perspective

    August 20, 2010

    Some years ago, Canadian John Bennett packed in a career as a teacher to become an arable farmer – a pulse grower with a passion, writes PAUL GANDER.

  • Winter barleys yield no surprises

    August 20, 2010

    WITH all the HGCA Recommended List winter barley trial results now in, the final picture is one of a yield slightly above the long-term mean and there are no big surprises, in terms of either variety or site results.

  • Blow to US sugar industry as GM beet is banned

    19 August 2010

    THE US sugar industry was rocked this week when a federal Judge banned the growth of genetically modified (GM) sugar beet which provides half of all US sugar.

  • Major new disease threat to potatoes

    19 August 2010

    POTATO growers have been warned against importing seed from the Netherlands where a deadly new disease is decimating crops.

  • Defra tells farmers to ‘go further’ on environment

    18 August 2010

    FARMERS must do more to protect the environment and stave off Government regulation, Jim Paice, Farm Minister, warned this week.

  • British biofuels better than unsustainable imports

    18 August 2010

    MOST biofuels used by motorists in the UK are imported and meet no environmental standards, it has been revealed.

  • Ease GM rules or face food crisis, CLA warns

    18 August 2010

    A warning that the UK is unlikely to be unable to feed itself within a generation unless there is a major rethink on the use of genetically modified crops came at yesterday’s opening day of the Pembrokeshire County Show.

  • Scottish farms 'efficient, but could improve' says new report

    17 August 2010

    SCOTTISH farming performs well when compared with the rest of the UK and the EU, but there is still scope for some improvement, especially in the cereal sector, research carried out by SAC has revealed.

  • 15 per cent of UK wheat harvest in despite rain

    13 August 2010

    FARMERS have dodged the rain showers to reap 15 per cent of the UK wheat harvest, and despite significant drying requirements in the north, the yield has been of good quality.

  • Uncertainty as wheat futures soar

    13 August 2010

    WHEAT futures have continued to surge ahead, leaving a host of mixed reaction and uncertainty.

  • ‘Considerably reduced’ maincrop may limit supply

    August 13, 2010

    ?WITH irregular weather patterns across Europe raising questions over the yield and quality of this season’s potato crop and the EU 5 total ware potato area remaining uncertain, some experts think supplies during August may become limited, says the Potato Council in its latest Euro-Potato report.

  • Beating the odds to farm in a challenging landscape

    August 13, 2010

    ?Farming on the North East coast at Goswick, opposite Holy Island, is no easy task. Wendy Short meets James Frater to talk weather, war and why the farm’s sand dunes offer a point of difference to their livestock management.

  • Ear disease risk after rain

    August 13, 2010

    ?Sooty moulds are likely to develop in mature cereal crops if the current showery conditions continue, says ADAS.

  • Early season rust control treatment

    August 13, 2010

    ?Trials conducted at a site at Stoughton in Leicestershire, for the fourth consecutive year, have demonstrated the contribution to early season rust control offered by fluquinconazole+prochloraz seed treatment Jockey, says Agrovista.

  • Fertiliser processed from plasterboard

    August 13, 2010

    Gypsum from recycled plasterboard and other redundant building materials is to be processed as a calcium and sulphur fertiliser for farmers in a joint venture between Perth-based CSC Crop Protection and Musselburgh-based Hamilton Recycling.

  • Metaldehyde: tiny reduction can make difference

    August 13, 2010

    ?The NFU is calling on farmers and advisers to adhere to newly- introduced application rate guidelines for metaldehyde-based slug pellets, or risk losing metaldehyde products altogether.

  • New leaflet outlines CAIP campaign

    August 13, 2010

    THE Campaign against Accidental or Illegal Poisoning (CAIP) is alerting countryside users to look out for illegally poisoned wildlife and is also providing advice on legally-used traps.

  • OSR yields slightly down in East and West trials

    August 13, 2010

    ?Oilseed rape varieties in East and West region HGCA Recommended List trials have produced variable yields so far this harvest, with the season mean yield to date coming in slightly down on the long-term average.

  • Symptoms of disease in beet crops

    August 13, 2010

    Symptoms of rust and powdery mildew can now be found in sugar beet crops and disease is being reported in crops from all factory areas, says the British Beet Research Organisation.

  • Yield rewards of pod shatter tolerant OSR

    August 13, 2010

    Oilseed rape with genetic tolerance to pod shatter has delivered a significant yield advantages over varieties not exhibiting the characteristic in trials conducted over two different seasons, says rapeseed breeder, Dekalb

  • GM crop ‘escapes into the wild’ in US

    10 August 2010

    US researchers have found new evidence to suggest genes from genetically modified crops are escaping into the wild to create new ‘super’ weeds.

  • Arable new products round-up

    August 6, 2010

    ?SOLA for signum

  • Biogas from beet shows promise

    August 6, 2010

    The World Association of Beet and Cane Growers held its 10th triennial world sugar conference - hosted by NFU Sugar - in Cambridge last week. Presentations included markets, technical developments and sustainability.

  • CFE calculator launched

    August 6, 2010

    The Campaign for the Farmed Environment has launched a new electronic tool which enables advisers and agronomists to calculate how adoption of CFE measures compares in economic terms with the regulatory alternative.

  • Changes to PA training for slug pellet and nematicide operators

    August 6, 2010

    ?OPERATORS applying slug pellets and granular nematicides will now be required to complete two separate training modules following changes to the PA granular application qualification.

  • Defra completes winter wheat assessments

    August 6, 2010

    All 300 samples from the Defra winter wheat survey have now been assessed for diseases.

  • East of England potato day

    August 6, 2010

    ?POTATO growers will have the opportunity to put their questions to specialists at the East of England Potato Day to be held on September 1, at Frederick Hiam, Hill Farm, Tuddenham, Bury St Edmunds.

  • Fight to solve challenges of sclerotinia

    August 6, 2010

    ?A new research project involving the Potato Council and several industry partners is looking at the impact of the fungal disease sclerotinia and options for chemical control and rotational management.

  • First winter barley results reveal variable performances

    August 6, 2010

    INITIAL results from HGCA Recommended List winter barley trials indicate a slight overall increase in yield compared with last season. However variety performance has been mixed, with a number of varieties producing yields below their long-term average.

  • Increased aphid threat this season

    August 6, 2010

    ?LATEST aphid trap results suggest aphids could pose a serious risk to autumn sowings.

  • Supply and demand imbalance for beet feedstock

    August 6, 2010

    ?THERE is still a gap between supply and demand of biofuels feedstock that is both sustainably verified and economically competitive, Patrick Lynch, biofuel sustainability manager for Greenergy told the conference.

  • Ups and downs of early maincrop tubers

    August 6, 2010

    ?Early indications from the potato harvest are that maincrop tuber numbers are higher than last year, by up to 75 per cent in some cases.

  • Russian export ban drives wheat futures higher

    5 August 2010

    WHEAT futures prices in Europe and North America have again surged upwards as Russia banned grain exports from the middle of this month until the year-end.

  • Spelman praises 'ground breaking' sugar deal

    2 August 2010

    DEFRA Secretary Caroline Spelman has praised the new inter-professional agreement (IPA) between the NFU and British Sugar.

  • GM feed gets EU green light

    30 July 2010

    EUROPEAN feed companies have been given the green light to import six genetically modified (GM) maize varieties to market to Europe’s livestock farmers.

  • Barley and OSR harvest under way

    July 30, 2010

    ?ABOUT 10 per cent of the UK winter barley crop had been harvested by the beginning of this week. Most is in the south east and eastern regions, where up to 40 per cent of the area has been completed.

  • Doubts cereal market rallies will continue

    July 30, 2010

    ?WITH doubts over harvest yield and quality, cereals prices have seen significant increases over the past week.

  • Focus on safety this harvest

    July 30, 2010

    AS harvest gets under way, the Health and Safety Executive is urging farmers to focus on thorough machinery maintenance and safe operation.

  • Fusarium mycotoxin levels expected to be low

    July 30, 2010

    ?FUSARIUM mycotoxin levels are likely to be low this harvest, according to scientists monitoring wheat disease levels.

  • IPM key to slug control

    July 30, 2010

    ?WITH slug control active ingredients under the spotlight, more monitoring and an integrated pest management (IPM) approach is needed.

  • Keep an eye on black aphid populations

    July 30, 2010

    ?INCREASING numbers of black aphids in sugar beet crops are unlikely to cause problems unless crops are stressed, says BBRO.

  • Key crop research priorities identified

    July 30, 2010

    ARABLE farmers are looking for particular research and development support in improving cultivation and establishment techniques, optimising crop nutrition and maximising second wheat performance, a grower study conducted by Masstock SMART Farming this summer has revealed.

  • Malting barley may extend life of beers

    July 30, 2010

    A new type of malting barley, developed jointly by international brewers, is being grown in the UK on exclusive buy-back contracts.

  • New active in blight fight

    July 30, 2010

    ?TWO new blight fungicides now available in the UK are based on an active ingredient from a totally new class of chemistry.

  • Running livestock in tandem with arable enterprise

    July 30, 2010

    This year’s British Grassland Society annual summer meeting was held in East Scotland. Katie Lomas reports from two of the host farms where delegates were invited for a tour.

  • Specialist support helps organic farmer grow acreage

    July 30, 2010

    Organic dairy farmer, Richard Cooper knew that for his business to be sustainable in the long-term, he needed more land. But finding it was proving to be extremely difficult.

  • Tried and tested varieties first on list

    July 30, 2010

    With harvest underway, thoughts are starting to turn towards the new season and, in particular, variety choice. Dominic Kilburn asked four AICC agronomists from around the country for their views.

  • Varieties focus: Brewery pushes for larger Maris Otter crop

    July 30, 2010

    Merchant works to grow acreage of long-forgotten brewers’ favourite, Maris Otter.

  • Varieties Focus: Keep harvest pressure in mind when selecting OSR varieties

    July 30, 2010

    WHEN it comes to selecting oilseed rape varieties for next season, think ahead to ensure you don’t select varieties which are likely to create harvest bottlenecks.

  • Varieties Focus: Varieties will need ‘get up and go’ this autumn

    July 30, 2010

    WITH less winter barley in the ground to provide an early entry, Scottish oilseed rape growers need varieties with the ‘get up and go’ to follow later harvested wheats, says Scottish Agronomy.

  • CLA Game Fair: GM crops ‘inevitable’ in Britain

    26 July 2010

    THE adoption of GM crops is the UK is ‘inevitable’, an expert panel concluded at last week’s CLA Game Fair.

  • Split reaction to wages board decision

    23 July 2010

    THE decision to abolish the Agricultural Wages Board (AWB) has been described as a ‘relief’ for farmers but a ‘disaster’ for farm workers.

  • Aim high with malting barley

    July 23, 2010

    WITH a UK market for organic malting barley of around 4,000 tonnes per annum, growers should be aiming for that plus a bit more, malting barley expert and grain merchant Robin Appel told farmers at the National Organic Cereals Event.

  • Changing tack to achieve better establishment

    July 23, 2010

    ?A switch to a new cultivation method, combined with a new seed treatment, has helped improve rape crop establishment on predominantly heavy-land in Northamptonshire.

  • Disease resistance and straw length are key

    July 23, 2010

    DISEASE resistance and straw length were among the most important attributes of varieties grown under organic systems, Roger Wyartt of Organic Seed Producers told visitors to the event.

  • Helping to protect the nation’s bees

    July 23, 2010

    ?SAFE use of treated seed is covered in the Crop Protection Association’s ‘Bee-Safe Bee-Careful’ guide, published this spring.

  • Investigate all options to cut mycotoxin risk

    July 23, 2010

    ?With compulsory pre-movement mycotoxin testing of wheats set to continue - for this harvest at least - a leading grain and seed merchant suggests growers should revisit their seed treatment options for the 2011 crop.

  • Options for building soil fertility

    July 23, 2010

    THERE are a number of options for building fertility in an organic arable system, growers attending the National Organic Cereals event heard.

  • OSR seed treatment boosts early growth

    July 23, 2010

    ?Faster establishment and reduced phoma levels were among the benefits noted from oilseed rape seed treatment Cruiser OSR (fludioxinil+metalaxyl+ thiomethoxam) in ADAS trials.

  • Pest management role of seed treatments

    July 23, 2010

    ?SEED treatments have a role to play in integrated crop management for the control of a range of crop pests and diseases, according to Bayer CropScience.

  • Poor control of pests will compromise establishment

    July 23, 2010

    SUGAR beet growers looking to get the best out of their crops must ensure establishment is not compromised by poor pest control.

  • Seed treatment choice will set the 2011 beet crops potential

    July 23, 2010

    SEED treatment choice for 2011 sugar beet crops will determine the duration of crops’ exposure to virus yellows risk, which will in turn impact on yield and profit potential.

  • Supplies are falling short of demand

    July 23, 2010

    MATCHING up supply and demand of organic straights feedstuffs and forage was a key theme at the National Organic Cereals Event held at the Fullerton Farms Partnership, Cottonworth, Andover, Hampshire. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Take-all levels building despite the dry spring

    July 23, 2010

    TAKE-ALL levels in second wheats have built-up to surprising levels despite the driest first six months of the year since 1929, this season’s NIAB root assessments at HGCA Recommended List trial sites across the country have revealed.

  • Test seed to avoid ‘forgotten’ diseases

    July 23, 2010

    The so-called ‘forgotten’ seed-borne diseases are safe and well and lurking in a field near you, waiting for an opportunity to infect a crop.

  • The host farm for the organic cereals event

    July 23, 2010

    FULLERTON Farms Partnership’s James Liddell describes the business as an organic arable farm with a conventional vineyard, having previously been a conventional dairy farm.

  • Growing demand for rape straw

    July 23, 2010

    ?OILSEED rape growers should consider baling rape straw this year as livestock producers seek supplies of forage to make up for poor silage yields.

  • Legal limit set for metaldehyde application rate

    July 23, 2010

    ?SLUG pellet active ingredient metaldehyde is for the first time subject to a legal maximum application rate.

  • Variable start to UK winter barley harvest

    July 23, 2010

    ALTHOUGH it is early days in terms of the winter barley harvest, yields have so far been very variable, says Frontier’s barley trader for East Anglia, Andy Donald.

  • Audit process shows firm’s sustainability

    July 16, 2010

    PHILLIP Hubbert, production director at J.E. Piccaver & Co, Gedney Marsh, near Holbeach in Lincolnshire said the business is involved in the CFE to help deliver the further environmental benefits the campaign brings.

  • Bruchid beetles thriving in hot weather

    July 16, 2010

    HIGH temperatures recorded in recent weeks could mean an increase in bruchid beetle numbers this season, so spray timings will be as important as ever, advised PGRO senior technical officer, Becky Ward.

  • Combining pea trials focus on K levels

    July 16, 2010

    Dominic Kilburn reports from the trial plots at the recent PGRO Pulse Trials Open Day at Thornhaugh, near Peterborough.

  • Compounders look closer to home for protein sources

    July 16, 2010

    GLOBAL soybean consumption is expected to continue to rise in the next decade, with a worldwide requirement of an extra 70-80 million tonnes mainly due to changing diets driving protein demand for animal feed in China. However, opportunities for pulse growers will exist closer to home, said PGRO chief executive, Salvador Potter.

  • Government cuts won’t stretch to levy funding

    July 16, 2010

    POTATO growers gathered together for an update on the latest legislative, technical and environmental issues facing their sector at the East Midlands Potato Day held near Spalding in Lincolnshire. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Growers urged to join campaign

    July 16, 2010

    The Campaign for the Farmed Environment has launched a leaflet aimed at encouraging growers in horticulture and potatoes to engage with the campaign. DOMINIC KILBURN attended its launch at J.E. Piccaver & Co’s Gedney Marsh farm, Holbeach, Lincolnshire.

  • Potential for damage between potato harvester and trailer often understated

    July 16, 2010

    WITH the dry conditions alerting growers to the potential for crop bruising this season, consultant Simon Alexander’s advice on bruise management generated considerable discussion at the East Midlands Potato Day.

  • Regulation alone will not keep disease at bay

    July 16, 2010

    THERE is a huge range of pests and diseases threatening the potato industry and growers have a responsibility to understand the risks these pose.

  • Straw prices rocket over fears of shortage

    July 16, 2010

    STRAW prices are going through the roof - in some cases double last year’s - as everything currently points to low winter stocks of fodder and straw.

  • British farmers could get green light to grow GM

    15 July 2010

    THE European Commission has, this week, announced proposals to give EU countries more freedom and flexibility over the cultivation of GM crops.

  • Breeding focus switches to hybrids

    July 9, 2010

    HYBRID oilseed rape varieties are set to dominate in Europe if developments in breeding technology and facilities are anything to go by. Dominic Kilburn travelled to the Baltic coast to visit one of the market’s biggest players.

  • GM not an option for OSR

    July 9, 2010

    BIOTECHNOLOGY will play a major part in oilseed rape plant breeding over the next 20 years, but not in a genetically-modified (GM) form.

  • Key changes to the control of PCN announced

    July 9, 2010

    FERA and the Scottish Government have issued new information for growers on potato cyst nematode to coincide with the implementation of a new EU Directive affecting control of the pest, which came into effect on July 1, 2010.

  • Losing key pesticides could hit UK hard

    July 9, 2010

    THE loss of key fungicide active ingredients as a result of EU pesticide legislation would require a switch to lower yielding, but more highly disease-resistant winter wheat varieties in the UK.

  • New chemistry may make fungicide choices tougher

    July 9, 2010

    THE arrival of new carboxamide fungicide chemistry for use on wheat will provide growers and agronomists with a dilemma in terms of fungicide choice, Broom’s Barn director Bill Clark said at the research centre’s open day.

  • New scheme calculates grain’s carbon emissions

    July 9, 2010

    FARMWAY, in conjunction with energy consultants, FiveBarGate, has recently launched ‘Farming Footprints’ a service using the farmer’s own input data to calculate carbon emissions per tonne of grain, for each consignment of grain or even each individual field.

  • New winter pea variety in field scale trials in the north

    July 9, 2010

    A WINTER pea variety containing new breeding material which affects crop growth according to day length, could be available for UK growers to drill in the near future.

  • Trials of wheat's suitability for production of ethanol

    July 9, 2010

    THE expanding biofuels industry in the north east, with Ensus already in production and others following closely behind, offers farmers the opportunity to supply and also get some value out of carbon trading.

  • TuYV concentrated in OSR roots – research

    July 9, 2010

    Broom’s Barn’s research remit now extends beyond sugar beet into oilseed and cereal crops, as visitors to the Suffolk-based research centre open day found out. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Varieties up for 2011 OSR HGCA lists

    July 9, 2010

    CAMBRIDGE-based company LS Plant Breeding has five winter oilseed rape varieties up for Recommendation this autumn, of which three could take 25 per cent of the UK seed market in 2011.

  • Weather alters beet disease development

    July 9, 2010

    THE dry weather is having an impact on sugar beet disease development this season.

  • Wheat planting up 10 per cent

    July 9, 2010

    THE 2010 HGCA Planting Survey shows the Great Britain wheat area at 1.992 million hectares (4.8m acres), up 10 per cent on the final 2009 area from the Defra June Survey.

  • GM food labelling rejected by MEPs

    8 July 2010

    MEPs have rejected a proposal calling for compulsory labelling of food products that derive from animals raised on genetically-modified crops.

  • Environment Agency slammed over pollution policy

    8 July 2010

    THE Environment Agency could be unfairly targeting farmers as it seeks to address the problem of diffuse pollution, a report by the Government’s spending watchdog has concluded.

  • Dry season will take toll on yields

    8 July 2010

    WINTER wheat crops have probably ‘lost’ two tonnes per hectare (0.8t/acre) of yield this season as a result of the dry conditions, Broom’s Barn’s Dr Eric Ober told growers attending the open day.

  • Warm weather increases pressure on pulses

    8 July 2010

    WARM temperatures are contributing to pest problems in pulse crops, according to the latest PGRO crop bulletin.

  • Fertiliser supply surplus 'good news' for buyers

    7 July 2010

    A POTENTIAL supply surplus for nitrogen and potassium fertilisers could be good news for buyers.

  • Dry weather slows the progress of septoria

    6 July 2010

    THE latest disease results from Crop Monitor indicate low disease pressure in wheat crops in most regions.

  • Why have wheat yields plateaued?

    6 July 2010

    NOTTINGHAM University PhD student Laura Flint hopes wheat growers will assist her research by providing samples of plants with potential virus symptoms.

  • Defra ordered to review agri-environment schemes

    5 July 2010

    DEFRA is being forced to make changes to the way farmers are paid for delivering agri-environment schemes after the European Commission warned the Department could face steep fines for non-compliance.

  • Arable product news in brief

    July 2, 2010

    THIS week’s look at new product news.

  • Check crop canopy for blight signs

    July 2, 2010

    ?Potato blight development has followed last year’s pattern so far this season, with few Smith periods and only one confirmed incident.

  • Climate change and root crops

    July 2, 2010

    POTATOES are among a range of crops likely to be affected by more severe disease outbreaks as a result of climate change, a major new technical review has concluded.

  • Fungicides will return economic yield benefits

    July 2, 2010

    WITH 32 ground frosts recorded at Broom’s Barn in Suffolk during February and March, the powdery mildew forecast for 2010 is for 30 per cent of the sugar beet crop to become infected by the end of August.

  • Strob + triazole most popular beet control

    July 2, 2010

    British Sugar crop survey data from 2009 shows just over 64 per cent of the beet crop received one fungicide application last season.

  • Treat blight and alternaria separately

    July 2, 2010

    POTATO growers must control blight as a priority using the best possible fungicides, and treat alternaria as a separate issue with a specific approved fungicide.

  • Pesticide levels 'safe' claims report

    30 June 2010

    THE residue of pesticides left on everyday foods such as fruit and vegetables is said to pose little or no risk to public health, an investigation has revealed.

  • Potato Council seeks award nominations

    30 June 2010

    Potato Council is seeking nominations for this year’s British Potato Industry Award.

  • Forming a cohesive unit from differing specialities

    30 June 2010

    COUSINS Kit and Tim Papworth of Norfolk based contractor LF Papworth Ltd explain why new technology and farming co-operatives such as Anglia Farmers are helping to improve their management system.

  • New formula fixes £23.60/tonne for beet growers

    29 June 2010

    A final fixed price for sugar beet of £23.60 per tonne has been announced by British Sugar for the 2011/12 season.

  • Applying slug pellets? How to get it right

    June 25, 2010

    AS part of the MSG’s ‘Get Pelletwise! campaign, Metaldehyde Stewardship Group (MSG) consultant Bill Basford provides essential ‘best practice’ advice on slug pellet application. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Attention to detail essential in meeting beet yield targets

    June 25, 2010

    SUGAR beet yield averages on the up and two consecutive record breaking years begs the question as to how high they can go. Dominic Kilburn seeks advice on raising yields further and, apparently, ‘the sky’s the limit’.

  • Control timings critical for potatoes

    June 25, 2010

    NEW metaldehyde guidelines for 2010 will not impinge on potato growers deploying the Draza forte (methiocarb) backbone approach, says Bayer CropScience.

  • Growers still have a full range of options

    June 25, 2010

    SLUG pellet manufacturer Chiltern Farm Chemicals says its Metamax and Wet Process slug pellets, which are Chemicals Regulation Directorate (CRD) approved for use with only 1.5 per cent metaldehyde, continue to provide growers with a full range of application options.

  • Impressions of JD’s 5430i self-propelled sprayer

    June 25, 2010

    JAMES LANE finds out what prompted Alan Cook’s sprayer purchase decision and just how the kit is shaping up.

  • Is triticale a serious rival to feed wheat?

    June 25, 2010

    TRITICALE is capable of delivering higher yields than second wheats, with fewer inputs, and could be an economically viable option in areas supplying bioethanol plants, crop scientist are suggesting.

  • Potato ambassadors start their work

    June 25, 2010

    Meet the new team of farmers who will promote the humble potato the public.

  • Ticking the correct boxes in Wiltshire

    June 25, 2010

    ?Trailed sprayers are getting larger and more sophisticated, but it is still possible to specify ‘bells and whistles’ which meet your needs precisely, JANE CARLEY reports.

  • Farmers hit out at ‘back door’ GM ban

    23 June 2010

    NFU Cymru has reacted with ‘dismay’ to plans by Welsh Assembly Rural Affairs Minister, Elin Jones, to press ahead with a GM co-existence regime which will include a public register of farmers engaged in the growing of GM crops.

  • Bees fitted with 'barcodes' to investigate decline

    22 June 2010

    THOUSANDS of bees will be fitted with tiny ‘barcode’ devices and scanned as they fly in and out of their hives as experts investigate the affect of pesticides on their health.

  • John Deere hits major combine milestone

    21 June 2010

    The 500,000th self-propelled combine - a 9780 STS model - has rolled off John Deere’s Harvester Works (JDHW) production line in East Moline, Illinois, USA.

  • Walkers crisps pioneer water efficient potatoes  

    21 June 2010

    THE makers of Britain’s favourite lunchtime snack, Walkers crisps, are pioneering water efficient technology to make their potato production process more environmentally friendly.

  • Fears over rise of resistant septoria

    21 June 2010

    CONCERNS over the development of resistance to triazole fungicides in septoria populations have surfaced again after more resistant strains of the disease were discovered during NIAB TAG monitoring.

  • Herefordshire polytunnel legal battle to continue

    18 June 2010

    HEREFORDSHIRE County Council has won the right to continue a legal battle that could have profound implications for the future use of polytunnels in Britain.

  • Conservationists attack ‘proposed’ agri-environment cuts

    18 June 2010

    A COALITION of conservation and countryside groups have attacked what they claim are Government plans to cut funding for agri-environment schemes.

  • GM debate rages as FSA blast 'anti-science culture'

    18 June 2010

    THE row over genetically modified food took a dramatic turn this week when the Government’s food safety watchdog said there was an ‘anti-science’ culture in the media and public life.

  • Amazone reaches 100,000 unit combi milestone

    June 18, 2010

    Since Amazone launched its first till and drill combination in 1967, it has sold 100,000 units.

  • Aphmon traps out early as network goes live

    June 18, 2010

    The Potato Council’s network of 100 yellow water traps (Aphmon) has gone live for the 2010 season.

  • Cereals earns its place in agriculture’s calendar

    June 18, 2010

    LAST week’s Cereals 2010 event attracted 25,300 visitors, organiser Haymarket has announced.

  • Cutting-edge plant breeding technologies demonstrated

    June 18, 2010

    LIMAGRAIN UK demonstrated cutting-edge plant breeding technologies, which included molecular markers and double haploid production.

  • Don’t overlook fusarium threat

    June 18, 2010

    DISEASE monitoring at the stem base and from leaf layers at all five CropMonitor winter wheat monitoring sites nationwide is showing the lowest levels of microdochium species ear blight pathogens - the non-toxin producers - since 2006.

  • Focus on managing mycotoxin risk

    June 18, 2010

    A NEW campaign has been launched, which aims to focus growers’ attention on timely completion of HGCA fusarium mycotoxin risk assessments.

  • Gene study into resistance to WOBM

    June 18, 2010

    ROTHAMSTED Research and the John Innes Centre plan to study the mechanisms conferring resistance to wheat orange blossom midge in winter wheat varieties.

  • HGCA Oakley plots – timely warning

    June 18, 2010

    While this season has been one of generally low disease pressure, yellow rust had put in an appearance on untreated plots of Oakley winter wheat in the

  • High profile given to winter wheat varieties

    June 18, 2010

    RAGT profiled winter wheat varieties Warrior, Hereward and Battalion, as well as new soft wheat candidate variety Tuxedo.

  • Hybrid OSR variety Primus offers good yield and output

    June 18, 2010

    HYBRID oilseed rape variety Primus will be considered for recommendation this autumn and offers good yield and output figures.

  • Insight into IZM fungicide in wheat

    June 18, 2010

    Though there was no ‘silver bullet’ crop protection product launches at this year’s event, there was news of a broad-spectrum herbicide, plus new information on imminent SDHI fungicides.

  • Monitor OWBM closely at critical stage

    June 18, 2010

    This week is likely to be critical for crops at the susceptible stage for female orange wheat blossom midges laying eggs. Any wheat crops at the susceptible growth stage (GS 53-59, ears emerged) should be monitored closely.

  • New broad spectrum herbicide launch

    June 18, 2010

    A new autumn herbicide launched at Cereals targets the widest-ever range of grass and broad-leaved weeds in winter wheat, claims its manufacturer.

  • New winter wheats in the pipeline

    June 18, 2010

    NEW winter wheats from the KWS pipeline on show at Cereals included KWS Santiago and KWS Podium – the only milling wheat candidate for the 2011/12 HGCA Recommended List.

  • OSR varieties show early promise

    June 18, 2010

    OILSEED rape varieties DK ExPower and DK Sequoia have shown promise in official testing to date, says Monsanto.

  • Pre-emergence treatments key to black-grass control

    June 18, 2010

    The poor levels of black-grass control achieved in many situations this season were a key talking point at Cereals.

  • Quality and high yields in winter malting varieties

    June 18, 2010

    AMONG new varieties launched at Cereals were two winter malting barleys from Syngenta Seeds.

  • Senova focusses on new Link project

    June 18, 2010

    A NEW oat Link project was the focus of Senova’s Just Oats stand.

  • TuYV in rape can cost 30pc yield

    June 18, 2010

    Most farmers don’t recognise the symptoms of turnip yellows virus (TuYV) in their oilseed rape but the message to growers is that it can cost up to 30 per cent in yield, said Bayer’s seed treatment campaign manager, Adrian Cottey.

  • 'Very aggressive' yellow rust strains

    June 18, 2010

    New aggressive strains of yellow rust found in Denmark and Sweden, could spread to the UK.

  • Henson to lead Q&A at organic cereals event

    June 11, 2010

    BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson is to chair a question and answer session at the National Organic Cereals Event, organisers have announced.

  • High levels of TuYV in oilseed rape crops

    June 11, 2010

    Initial results from this year’s survey of oilseed rape crops indicate winter crops could again be at high risk of turnip yellows virus (TuYV) infection.

  • Cereals 2010: Spelman says future is in farmers' hands

    10 June 2010

    DEFRA Secretary Caroline Spelman has urged farmers to adopt more voluntary measures to protect the environment.

  • Cereals 2010: Traffic chaos is a Cereals tradition

    10 June 2010

    THE Cereals park-and-ride scheme which was supposed to ease traffic problems to the event in Royston, Cambridgeshire, has been criticised by farmers.

  • Policy shake-up will open door to GM 

    10 June 2010

    THE European Union is considering a drastic shake-up of its policy on genetically modified crops which could pave the way to their wide-spread cultivation in Europe.

  • Helping bees to boost your business’ prospects

    9 June 2010

    The work of the bee is often underestimated and overlooked, but apiculture experts warn that if farmers don’t take care of them, they could end up being stung. Clemmie Gleeson reports.

  • Cereals 2010: Concerto wins IBD approval

    9 June 2010

    DUAL purpose spring malting barley Concerto has received full approval from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, plant breeder Nickerson revealed at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2010: Ramularia guide launched

    9 June 2010

    BARLEY disease ramularia is the subject of a new 62-page guide launched by SAC and BASF at the Cereals event.

  • Cereals 2010: UK must tap huge wheat potential

    9 June 2010

    AN inability to transfer first class scientific research into commercial production is holding back UK arable farmers, a leading crop expert has warned.

  • Cereals 2010: 'Crop protection crunch' will hit yields

    9 June 2010

    POLICY makers need to wake up to the fact that a continued loss of crop protection products under EU legislation will threaten the supply of quality food in the future.

  • Cereals 2010: Carling joins Red Tractor scheme

    9 June 2010

    ALL Carling lager is now Red Tractor certified, the beer giant announced at Cereals today.

  • Cereals 2010: Warburtons offers wheat contract extension

    9 June 2010

    WHEAT growers on contract with the UK’s biggest baker Warburtons, are being offered a five-year extension to current terms.

  • Cereals 2010: Defra announces red tape review

    9 June 2010

    FORMER NFU director general Richard MacDonald is to chair a Defra task force to look at ways of reducing red tape on UK farms.

  • Cereals 2010: Farmers urged to take part in CAP debate

    9 June 2010

    ARABLE farmers can play a leading role in driving the next reform of the CAP after 2013, the NFU said today.

  • Cereals 2010: Direct payments are critical to survival

    9 June 2010

    FARMERS should be in no doubt that the Single Farm Payment (SFP) is critical in ensuring farm profitability for the future.

  • Cereals 2010: Plant breeders call for new approach to R&D funding

    9 June 2010

    NEW sources of investment and improved collaboration between public and private sector research is needed if crop yields are to meet food security goals into the future, the British Society of Plant Breeders warned ahead of Cereals 2010.

  • Cereals 2010: New OSR varieties from Dekalb

    9 June 2010

    THE latest oilseed rape varieties to be launched under Dekalb’s next generation hybrid breeding programme offer UK growers advances in both the mainstream and low biomass sectors, says the business.

  • Cereals 2010: Agri-environment schemes bypassing working farmers

    9 June 2010

    WORKING farmers are being bypassed by agri-environment schemes and are failing to reap the benefits, warned the Tenant Farmers Association.

  • Cereals 2010: Bayer offers virtual tours

    9 June 2010

    VISITORS to the Bayer CropScience stand at Cereals are being offered the opportunity to see five separate UK trial sites in one visit.

  • Cereals 2010: Bird numbers boosted on host farm

    9 June 2010

    THE Cereals 2010 site at Chrishall Grange in Cambridgeshire is home to several species of threatened birds, a new survey has revealed.

  • Cereals 2010: New biscuit wheat from RAGT

    9 June 2010

    PLANT breeder RAGT Seeds is launching its second high yielding biscuit wheat at this year’s Cereals.

  • Cereals 2010: New nutrient management software on show

    9 June 2010

    NEW software products on display at Cereals are designed to help with nutrient management planning and applications.

  • Cereals 2010: Syngenta unveils new IZM fungicide

    9 June 2010

    VISITORS to the Syngenta Crop Protection stand at Cereals will have a first hand insight into the performance of the next generation carboxamide fungicide IZM (isopyrazam) in wheat.

  • Cereals 2010: Weed management guide launched

    9 June 2010

    A new weed management guide launched at Cereals aims to bring together recent research in a practical guide for farmers and advisors.

  • GM potatoes planted in Norfolk

    8 June 2010

    A CROP of genetically modified (GM) potatoes was planted in Norfolk this morning (Tuesday, June 8) as work began at the Sainsbury Laboratory to investigate blight resistance.

  • GM lobby defends national debate

    8 June 2010

    A ROW has erupted after anti-GM campaigners called on the Government to scrap plans for a national GM debate which they said would be ‘biased’ and a waste of time and public money.

  • Blight warning for Yorkshire potato growers

    8 June 2010

    POTATO growers in Yorkshire face an unprecedented forecast of five continuous days of full smith period blight risk infection this week.

  • Sprayer testing scheme beats Government target

    7 June 2010

    THE National Sprayer Testing Scheme (NSTS) continues to build on its previous success with a record year of take up, the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA) reported today.

  • Agrochemical innovation with established chemistry

    June 4, 2010

    POST-patent agrochemical supplier Rotam is aiming to demonstrate the potential for innovation with existing chemistry with a range of active ingredients currently in development trials.

  • Boost wheat yields through better variety selection

    June 4, 2010

    SPENDING a little more time matching individual wheat varieties to field and drilling and rotational positions could boost yields by up to 10 per cent, according to one leading variety consultant.

  • Consistency key in bread-making varieties

    June 4, 2010

    WINTER wheat Gallant could take as much as 50 per cent of Group 1 seed sales this autumn in just its second season on the market, believes breeder Syngenta Seeds. The firm is staking its claim on the back of the variety earning a 20 per cent 2009/10 share.

  • Don’t skimp on T3 – despite the dry weather

    June 4, 2010

    While disease pressure - and wheat prices - remain low, a T3/GS59 fungicide could be just as valuable to wheat growers looking to maximise yields, even of feed types, as it is to producers of quality milling wheats aiming primarily to limit fusarium/mycotoxin risks.

  • Dry soils affecting nutrient take-up

    June 4, 2010

    NUTRIENT deficiencies showing up in spring crops as a result of dry soil conditions should be addressed as soon as possible with a foliar nutrient application.

  • Managing aphid control sustainably

    June 4, 2010

    A SUSTAINABLE Arable-Link project is aiming to maintain the range of chemicals available for aphid control, safeguarding the contribution of highly effective neonicotinoids and other novel aphicides to UK aphid pest management.

  • Peach-potato aphid risk expected to be low

    June 4, 2010

    SEED potato crops could face relatively low virus risk from aphids this year, experts are advising. Forecasts are for potato aphids appearing late, and in low numbers.

  • The best in growing malting barley

    June 4, 2010

    HIGHLIGHTING the very best in growing, storing and marketing malting barley is the aim of a new competition launched this spring by the Maltsters’ Association of Great Britain (MAGB).

  • Tortrix moth in pea and spring bean crops

    June 4, 2010

    TORTRIX moth has been reported in some crops of peas and spring beans, says PGRO.

  • Yield boost with strobilurin fungicide

    June 4, 2010

    STROBILURIN fungicide azoxystrobin used as a triazole partner at T3 can boost specific weights by 1.23kg/hl, results from Syngenta trials have demonstrated.

  • FSA under pressure to abandon GM debate

    3 June 2010

    THE Food Standards Agency (FSA) is coming under pressure to abandon its plans for a national GM debate, following the resignation of another member of the project’s steering group.

  • Arable farmers warned to act on environment campaign

    3 June 2010

    ARABLE farmers in England have been urged to turn ‘good intentions into action’ in response to concerns over the limited impact so far of the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE).

  • Action needed now against carrot virus

    May 28, 2010

    Agronomists are hoping a new SOLA for use in carrots will tackle the rise in virus problems seen in the last three years.

  • Arable margins gap widens

    May 28, 2010

    THE difference in margins between the best and worst performing arable farms is growing, according to the Laurence Gould Partnership.

  • Blight warnings available again this year

    May 28, 2010

    THE BlightCAST disease forecasting system is up and running again for the 2010 season.

  • Crowning glory into an under supplied market

    May 28, 2010

    THE UK asparagus season is now in full swing and the huge surge in demand is offering growers the opportunity move into a market that is currently screaming for supplies. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Farmers warned over rise in fake pesticides

    May 28, 2010

    BRITISH farmers are being duped into buying fake pesticides as the counterfeit industry booms across the world, a fraud expert has warned.

  • Grain drying venture targets export market

    May 28, 2010

    FIVE Hampshire cereal growers are working with Frontier Agriculture to form a grain drying business to help them access higher value markets in North Africa and the Middle East.

  • Latest rhizobacteria strains look promising in UK trials

    May 28, 2010

    TRIALS in the UK evaluating the performance of root and yield enhancing bacteria (rhizobacteria) on winter wheat have shown yield improvements of more than 0.7 tonnes per hectare when added to a standard 150kg N/ha fertiliser application.

  • Looking forward to Cereals 2010

    May 28, 2010

    READ our full preview of Cereals 2010, dues to take place at Chrishall Grange Farm, Cambridgeshire. Find out what you can expect to see at the event from new machinery on show to all the latest demonstrations as well as all the details on how to get there.

  • Low risk of sugar beet bolting this season

    May 28, 2010

    THE bolting risk to sugar beet this season is low, says the British Beet Research Organisation.

  • New sugar deal removes risk to farmers

    May 28, 2010

    THE new four-year Inter-Professional Agreement (IPA) created by British Sugar and the NFU is being hailed as progressive, and one that could be the envy of other sectors of the industry.

  • Opportunities still there in arable, says new HSBC chief

    May 28, 2010

    JUST a few weeks into his new role as head of agriculture with HSBC, Allan Wilkinson is already immersing himself in the challenges - and opportunities - facing the arable sector.

  • Science focus to making variety choices

    May 28, 2010

    Applied science will be a key focus at the Cereals crop plots this year. Thirty companies will be presenting more than 90 sown crop plots at Robert Law’s farm near Royston, Cambridgeshire, on June 9 and 10.

  • Seeking new sources of septoria resistance

    May 28, 2010

    ?LOOKING outside the usual variety groups for sources of resistance to septoria tritici is starting to pay dividends in one wheat breeding programme.

  • Too early to write off disease threat

    May 28, 2010

    GROWERS are being advised to evaluate disease risks as the T2 timing approaches.

  • Yield boost and nitrogen savings possible

    May 28, 2010

    ?SMALL plot replicated trials with root and yield enhancing bacteria rhizobacteria have delivered yield increases of up to 8 per cent in winter wheat in Masstock trials.

  • Defra gives go-ahead to Sainsbury lab's GM potato trial

    21 May 2010

    DEFRA has given the green light to the Sainsbury Laboratory to conduct a research trial this year of GM potatoes. 

  • Inflatable temporary storage solutions

    May 21, 2010

    Lindstrand Technologies has developed a range of inflatable buildings.

  • No-till conserves soils and water

    May 21, 2010

    ISSUES with high levels of soil loss from water erosion have led to the widespread adoption of no-till in Brazil, where the technique now accounts for around 55 per cent of cropping.

  • OWBM monitoring advised as ear emergence approaches

    May 21, 2010

    USE of pheromone traps is advised to provide advanced warning of orange wheat blossom midge risk as wheat crops approach ear emergence.

  • Resolve compaction issues before adopting zero tillage

    May 21, 2010

    THE farmer-led No-Till Alliance hosted its second open day recently in Kent. Martin Rickatson reports.

  • Rotations key to beet cyst nematode control

    May 21, 2010

    BEET cyst nematode (BCN) tolerant varieties have been on the EU market since 2006, with improvements in sugar content and yield under uninfected conditions the main focus of development.

  • Switching from livestock to arable operation

    May 21, 2010

    Later this year, Yorkshire farmer Stephen Tuer will switch the focus of the family farming business from livestock to arable, while at the same time joining the Entry Level Scheme for the first time. ANGELA CALVERT reports.

  • Staffordshire farmer unveils £3m anaerobic digestor

    20 May 2010

    A STAFFORDSHIRE farmer has unveiled a new anaerobic digestion (AD) plant which will use both farm and domestic waste to generate enough energy to power 1,300 local homes.

  • EU pesticide rules threaten African exports

    17 May 2010

    NEW laws to restrict the use of pesticides in Europe could impact heavily on developing world exports, a leading British expert has warned.

  • CPA launches new guide to bee safety

    May 14, 2010

    Protecting the health and welfare of bees given their importance as pollinators, is central to a new guide from the Crop Protection Association (CPA).

  • DK-Cabernet: ‘setting pods not as they should be’

    May 14, 2010

    High yielding oilseed rape newcomer, DK-Cabernet, is showing signs of poor pod set, according to a leading agronomist.

  • Exploiting the golden ‘oil fields’ of North Wales

    May 14, 2010

    THE first rapeseed oil grown, pressed and bottled in Wales could provide a potential extra income for arable farmers in North Wales.

  • Field drains threat prompts new guidelines

    May 14, 2010

    The Metaldehyde Stewardship Group has new guidelines for the use of slug pellet active metaldehyde. DOMINIC KILBURN reports on a crucial year for growers if they are to prevent withdrawal of a key component in pest control.

  • More research and development needed on pesticide policy

    May 14, 2010

    THE British Crop Production Council has published its response to Defra’s consultation on the implementation of EU pesticides legislation.

  • Scotland introduces strict new measures to counter dickeya

    May 14, 2010

    Strict new measures in Scotland to keep seed potatoes free of the aggressive blackleg pathogen dickeya solani are now up and running, says the Potato Council.

  • Slug pellets and rainfall have vital link to pollution

    May 14, 2010

    A WATER catchment study to assess different methods of metaldehyde contamination of surface water has shown 95 per cent of losses occurred within one month of slug pellet application in the event of heavy rainfall.

  • Technology field day to focus on innovation

    May 14, 2010

    LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) is aiming to help farmers catch up with the latest research and technology at a technical field day held at Syngenta’s Jealott’s Hill Farm in Berkshire.

  • Telephone update on early potato crops

    May 14, 2010

    The Potato Council’s early crop regional telephone message lines are being replaced by one Early Crop Information line this season.

  • Tried and tested path to regain control of black-grass

    May 14, 2010

    Black-grass is without doubt the UK’s number one grass weed problem. But with herbicide resistance increasing and no new products in the offing, ANDY COLLINGS asks if it is time to return to more cultural controls?

  • Win a Kuhn Megant drill for autumn 2010 sowing

    14 May 2010

    CEREALS 2010 COMPETITION: Your chance to win a Kuhn Megant 480 tine coulter pneumatic drill with Quantron S electronic control for this autumn’s sowing starts here.

  • French learn from English farmers

    11 May 2010

    A DELEGATION of French cereal growers has visited East Anglia to learn about British farming and to discuss the forthcoming reform of the CAP.

  • EU directive demands qualification update ‘every three years’

    May 7, 2010

    The European Union’s Sustainable Use Directive will oblige all advisers and agronomists to renew their qualifications regularly.

  • Microgranular N and P shows promise in oilseed rape

    May 7, 2010

    TARGETED applications of microgranular fertiliser, placed with seed when sowing oilseed rape, are showing excellent results in the first UK farm trials with the product.

  • New look and feel for CropMonitor

    May 7, 2010

    GROWERS and agronomists using the CropMonitor information service will have access to a new-look website this season.

  • Timely action to beat sclerotinia infection

    May 7, 2010

    The onset of sclerotia germination at sites in the west indicates crops are starting to come under sclerotinia infection pressure.

  • UK grown Pulses as a food ingredient

    May 7, 2010

    Food processors and manufacturers need convincing of their benefits of pulses as a food ingredient.

  • Farmers turn their back on energy crops

    30 April 2010

    FARMERS growing crops for biomass are threatening to turn their back on renewable energy production after more than a decade of poor prices.

  • Applying N at flowering boosts yields

    April 30, 2010

    OILSEED rape growers could increase returns from the crop by applying the correct amount and type of nitrogen at flowering.

  • BCPC opposes ban proposal

    April 30, 2010

    The BCPC has written to the Government opposing a proposed ban on neonicotinicide seed treatments.

  • Beet drilling now complete

    April 30, 2010

    ?SUGAR beet drilling is now complete in most areas, says the British Beet Research Organisation.

  • Canadian flax alliance to improve opportunities

    April 30, 2010

    ?CANADIAN linseed growers are set to benefit from a plant-breeding programme designed to help them consolidate their position as the world’s leading producers of the crop.

  • Developing environmental and health benefits of oats

    April 30, 2010

    THE Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences at Aberystwyth University is leading a major new study to develop improved varieties of oats which will provide significant economic and environmental benefits for growers, millers, and the dairy, beef and poultry industries.

  • Dig now to examine soil

    April 30, 2010

    ?CONSIDER digging holes now to examine soil structure, rather than leaving it until after harvest.

  • Dry weather helps progress potato plantings

    April 30, 2010

    POTATO growers have made better progress with planting over the last week, although conditions still remain variable with land slow to dry out under the surface in some regions.

  • More room to manoeuvre on weed control

    April 30, 2010

    New cross-compliance rules give UK growers welcome extra flexibility in controlling weeds on non-cropped land this season.

  • N return boost from strobilurin use

    April 30, 2010

    Including azoxystrobin in a winter wheat disease control programme can deliver more yield.

  • PGR and fungicide inputs have positive effect on standing power

    April 30, 2010

    WINTER wheat varieties can gain the equivalent of 3-4 standing power points through the use of fungicide and PGR inputs, trials conducted by BASF and ADAS have demonstrated.

  • Scientists discover mystery behind phytate production

    April 30, 2010

    ?A team of scientists from the UK and Spain have identified the final piece in the jigsaw of how phytate is produced in plants.

  • Sclerotinia found in winter beans

    April 30, 2010

    SCLEROTINIA infection has been found in some crops of winter beans, says the PGRO.

  • Welsh Assembly sets out horticulture plans

    April 30, 2010

    THE Welsh Assembly Government has launched a strategic action plan setting out a vision of a sustainable future for the horticulture industry in Wales – and offering some farmers opportunities to diversify.

  • Wheat futures market rallies

    April 30, 2010

    THE increasing strength of sterling has yet to have a negative impact on the UK feed wheat market. In fact, there was some strengthening last week and Gleadell Agriculture managing director David Sheppard said £100/tonne ex-farm became available for July – or even earlier in some regions.

  • Yellow rust levels on the rise

    April 30, 2010

    WITH yellow rust infections in winter wheat crops on the increase, growers are being urged to treat susceptible varieties without delay where they haven’t already been protected.

  • Fandango set for May comeback

    23 April 2010

    LEADING barley fungicide Fandango will be back on the market as of May 1, 2010 Bayer CropScience has confirmed.

  • How Lincolnshire farmers will tackle CFE

    April 23, 2010

    As in each of the English counties to be targeted by the Campaign for the Farmed Environment, the first and immediate challenge is to ensure all farmers whose ?Entry Level Stewardship (ELS agreement is coming to an end, renews and then to encourage more farmers to join, writes GRAHAM HARDING, Lincolnshire CFE Liaison Group chairman.

  • Keep on top of pulse pests and diseases

    April 23, 2010

    Producing high quality pulse crops will provide the best returns, says PGRO technical director Dr Anthony Biddle. Here he offers some timely advice on controlling the main pests and diseases.

  • Mind the gap – risk of going too early with T1 application

    April 23, 2010

    ?Growers who have not managed to apply a T0 this spring should not be tempted to go with a T1 spray earlier, and risk disease getting a hold between T1 and T2 applications.

  • New oil dispersion boscalid’s ‘enhanced uptake and activity’

    April 23, 2010

    ?A new oil dispersion (OD) formulation of boscalid will offer enhanced uptake and activity over existing formulations, according to manufacturer BASF.

  • Arable Focus: How trickle could boost irrigation efficiency

    21 April 2010

    A drive to use water responsibly makes trickle irrigation a hot topic for potato and vegetable growers, reports Jane Carley.

  • Fungicides help halt the grain drain

    21 April 2010

    A leading farm consultant is urging farmers to step up fungicide strategies despite low grain prices.

  • Lincolnshire CFE chairman’s hands-on involvement

    21 April 2010

    Graham Harding is general manager of the privately owned Blankney Estate, south of Lincoln.

  • New blight fungicide Initium in test launch

    21 April 2010

    Agchem manufacturer BASF hopes to be able to test launch its new blight fungicide active ingredient Initium later this season.

  • Outgrade options research starts later this year

    21 April 2010

    ?The Potato Council is hoping to start research work later this year with the aim of increasing growers’ options for the control of blight in outgrade piles – still a major source of blight inoculum in the UK.

  • Potato Council recruits Blight Scouts

    21 April 2010

    The Potato Council is calling for more Blight Scouts to sign up for this season, ahead of the onset of its Fight Against Blight campaign 2010.

  • Only minor changes to foliar fungicide comparison table

    21 April 2010

    DOMINIC KILBURN examines the latest updates and developments in the ongoing fight against crippling blight.

  • New winter wheat candidates for the 2011/12 RL

    21 April 2010

    ELEVEN new winter wheat varieties are vying for a place on the HGCA Recommended List for 2011/12.

  • Treat early to reduce losses

    21 April 2010

    TREATING wheat crops for cleavers earlier rather than later could reduce losses by anything up to £200/ha, according to Dow AgroSciences.

  • 90 per cent of ELS farmers set to renew

    21 April 2010

    THE Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE) is proving to be the best possible catalyst for spurring farmers on to achieve key farmland environmental targets, says Natural England.

  • Warning over early T1 applications

    21 April 2010

    GROWERS who haven’t managed to apply a T0 this spring shouldn’t be tempted to go with a T1 spray earlier, and risk disease getting a hold between T1 and T2 applications.

  • BASF to develop new OD formulations

    21 April 2010

    A new oil dispersion formulation of boscalid will offer enhanced uptake and activity over existing formulations, according to manufacturer BASF.

  • GM technology raises weed worries

    21 April 2010

    A NEW report from the National Research Council in the United States says farmers who grow genetically engineered crops are realising substantial economic and environmental benefits, but warns the technology could add to weed problems.

  • NZ farmer beats crop world record

    19 April 2010

    A crop of Einstein winter wheat has achieved a new world wheat record for New Zealand farmer Mike Solari.

  • Agchem packs improve efficiency

    April 16, 2010

    NEW developments in agrochemical packaging technology will bring environmental and efficiency benefits, according to manufacturers.

  • Correct boom height helps eliminate spray drift

    April 16, 2010

    BOOM height is the most influential factor in limiting drift during spraying, new research work has confirmed.

  • High hopes for new active to sit alongside boscalid

    April 16, 2010

    FURTHER developments in SDHI fungicide chemistry are on the horizon in the form of a new active ingredient from BASF.

  • Managing risk to achieve better eyespot control

    April 16, 2010

    The eyespot threat and approaches to control of the disease were the focus of a round table discussion hosted recently by Bayer CropScience. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Mineral N at lower levels than normal

    April 16, 2010

    SOME measured Soil Mineral N (SMN) results from early spring samplings on arable land are indicating levels in 2010 may be slightly lower than average.

  • New firm promises to help growers ‘profit from nutrition’

    April 16, 2010

    A NEW business in the crop nutrition sector is promising to help growers ‘profit from nutrition’.

  • Only use insecticides in OSR if necessary

    April 16, 2010

    OSR growers are being advised to only apply insecticide if it is absolutely necessary.

  • Premium paid for Warrior on buy-back

    April 16, 2010

    A BUY-BACK contract for the newly-recommended Group 3 soft wheat, Warrior has been announced by Ipswich-based Nidera UK.

  • Weevil and thrip threat to slowly emerging pulses

    April 16, 2010

    SPRING pea and bean crops slow to emerge from cold soils will need extra protection from weevil and thrip damage to avoid any further check in growth, says Syngenta.

  • Five-a-day message falls on deaf ears

    14 April 2010

    VEGETABLE consumption in the UK has plummeted despite the five-a-day message given to consumers, the latest figures show.

  • Arable farmers urged to keep straw

    12 April 2010

    ARABLE farmers in Scotland have been asked to keep more straw from this coming season’s cereal crops in order to help their livestock colleagues.

  • Vegetables growers urged to be aware of changes to label recommendations

    9 April 2010

    AGCHEM manufacturer BASF is informing distributors and vegetable growers of imminent changes to label recommendations for BASF Dimethoate 40 and Dimethoate 40 products.

  • Brown rot outbreak contained

    April 9, 2010

    An outbreak of the quarantine disease brown rot has been confirmed in a stock of harvested ware potatoes in south-west England. However, the outbreak has been contained, says the Potato Council.

  • CFE regional launches complete

    April 9, 2010

    The Campaign for the Farmed Environment has been launched at regional level across the 22 targeted arable counties in England, with the final launch events taking place during the week before Easter.

  • Early drilled beet's 'very good' emergence

    April 9, 2010

    SUGAR beet drilled during the first half of March are now starting to emerge with reports of very good, even emergence, says the BBRO.

  • End to confusion over Triazoxide seed treatments

    April 9, 2010

    Seed treatments containing triazoxide may still be used this season and next growers and agronomists are being advised.

  • Extension to herbicide’s supply period

    April 9, 2010

    The supply period for mesosulfuron+iodosulfuron herbicides Atlantis WG, Hatra and Horus has been extended beyond the March 31 cut-off date.

  • More European approvals further enhance spray nozzle’s credentials

    April 9, 2010

    A spray nozzle that produces big enough droplets to minimise drift but is suitable for a wide range of crop protection treatments is earning a growing number of official approvals across Europe.

  • Oilseed rape ‘timing’ alert

    April 9, 2010

    Warmer weather has stimulated oilseed rape crops to start growing rapidly and Galera (clopyrlid+picloram) applications will now need timing carefully following this year’s challenging conditions, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • Potato crops growth caution, says expert

    April 9, 2010

    RAPIDLY emerging potato crops may be at risk of a growth check from pre-emergence herbicide options requiring a prolonged application to first emergence interval.

  • Scottish spring cereals at high risk

    April 9, 2010

    LEATHERJACKET populations in Scotland are exceptionally high this spring and the risk to spring sown cereal crops and grassland is very real, growers are being advised.

  • Syngenta creates international link with public/private partnership

    April 9, 2010

    Global crop science business Syngenta has announced it has entered into a public-private partnership with the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), based in Mexico, to focus on technology development and advancement in wheat.

  • Fungicide has range of applications

    8 April 2010

    Agchem business Rotam has announced the release of a new tebuconazole fungicide for control of a range of diseases in cereal, brassica and vegetable crops.

  • New director for Potato Council

    8 April 2010

    DR Rob Clayton has been appointed Director of the Potato Council, a division of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), following a two month spell acting as the Council’s interim director.

  • Defra approves GM potato trial

    8 April 2010

    THE Government has approved a second application from British scientists to plant GM potatoes in a field trial at the University of Leeds.

  • Be aware of beet herbicide restrictions this season

    April 2, 2010

    Sugar beet growers and agronomists are advised to read herbicide product labels carefully this season following restrictions imposed on the use of some active ingredients as a condition of Annex 1 inclusion.

  • Disease control need not mean financial disaster

    April 2, 2010

    With the need to maximise the chance of achieving specification and counter price volatility, disease control especially needs to be spot on this season, but without breaking the bank, Syngenta technical manager, Iain Hamilton told a Milling Wheat Seminar.

  • Gallant growers must be 'on the ball'

    April 2, 2010

    Growers of new milling wheat variety Gallant need to be ‘on the ball’ Syngenta Seeds’ cereal specialist Sam Smith told the Syngenta Milling Wheat Seminar.

  • Good milling wheat agronomy solution

    April 2, 2010

    ?Price volatility in the feed and milling wheat markets could be with us for a while, making finely-tuned agronomy crucial for margins. But there is a desire by millers to buy British wheat.

  • Improved green leaf retention adds to quality and yield

    April 2, 2010

    Combining IZM in a liquid co-formulation with cyprodinil, which itself is proven against rhynchosporium, net blotch, eyespot and mildew, provides excellent green leaf retention to maximise quality and yield, according to Syngenta t?echnical manager David Ranner.

  • IZM hits fungicide market in time for T1 barley usage

    April 2, 2010

    Long-awaited fungicide molecule isopyrazam has been launched on to the market in co-formulation with cyprodinil in time for delayed T1 barley applications.

  • Spray nozzle pressure key to consistent yield

    April 2, 2010

    USING spray nozzles at the correct pressure delivered a consistent yield benefit in Agrovista disease control trials in wheat last season.

  • Five new sugar beet varieties for 2011

    1 April 2010

    Five new varieties have been added to the BBRO/NIAB Recommended List of Sugar Beet Varieties for 2011.

  • Flat fan nozzles deliver greater OSR yield benefits

    1 April 2010

    BIGGER yield responses in oilseed rape crops are achievable by applying fungicides with flat fan nozzles, when compared to air inclusion alternatives. However, when an adjuvant is included in the tank, air inclusion nozzles at least match yield responses produced by flat fan nozzles.

  • Monitor sclerotinia risk to optimise spray timings

    30 March 2010

    THE web-based sclerotinia monitoring tool, operated by BASF and ADAS, has gone live for the 2010 season in what is predicted to be a potentially high-risk year.

  • Largest export grain ship sets sail from the Humber

    March 26, 2010

    The largest grain ship ever loaded on the Humber, the MV Komatsushima Star, has taken on 50,000 tonnes of UK feed wheat bound for the Far East.

  • Facing the reality of wheat production

    March 26, 2010

    Reality needs to become a far more important component of wheat variety planning than it has been in recent years.

  • Harvest replaces Basta herbicide

    March 26, 2010

    CONTACT herbicide Basta has been replaced by Harvest, a dual-purpose contact herbicide and desiccation product.

  • New maize cob ripeness index being developed

    March 26, 2010

    A new maize cob ripeness index is under development, due to concerns about the way information on different varieties is currently presented.

  • New weed control recipes needed for potato crops

    March 26, 2010

    RESULTS from a two-year Potato Council-funded project assessing dwindling herbicide options in potato crops are expected to conclude that continued use of a reduced rate of linuron is justified, as long as selective tank mix partners are included.

  • Beet transport scheme launched to improve efficiency

    24 March 2010

    SUGAR BEET growers who supply either the Wissington factory in west Norfolk or the Newark factory in Nottinghamshire are being invited to join in a pilot scheme to assess whether efficiencies in beet transport can be made during the 2010/2011 harvesting campaign.

  • Don’t forget your Crop Protection Management Plan

    24 March 2010

    THE NFU is reminding farmers and growers that they have until the end of March to complete their Crop Protection Management Plan (CPMP) – one of the key elements of The Voluntary Initiative.

  • Return to pea crop turns out to be most profitable

    24 March 2010

    Cambridgeshire-based arable farmer Edward Davison, had an interesting 2009 season. A return to growing peas after a 12-year break produced higher than expected yields of over four tonnes per hectare and combined with the contract premium, the crop turned out to be one of the farm’s most profitable.

  • Check your pesticide store to avoid prosecution

    March 19, 2010

    THE Campaign against Accidental or Illegal Poisoning (CAIP) is urging all pesticide users to undertake regular stock checks of stores to avoid prosecution and loss of Single Farm Payments.

  • Co-operative to expand grower partnerships

    March 19, 2010

    BRITAIN’S biggest farmer, the Co-operative Farms, is seeking new partnerships with other growers to supply vegetables for the increased number of retail stores the Co-operative Group now has, following its acquisition of Somerfield last year.

  • New project aims to grow the perfect pea

    March 19, 2010

    SCIENTISTS, pea breeders and the food industry are working together to discover how taste and tenderness can be determined by biochemistry and genetics in a bid to hone the perfect pea.

  • NFU and British Sugar to unveil efficiency study findings

    March 19, 2010

    .

  • Research hails health benefits of Yorkshire asparagus

    March 19, 2010

    ASPARAGUS grown in Yorkshire tastes better and has more antioxidants compared to imported varieties, according to research conducted by the Regional Food Group for Yorkshire and Humber.

  • Spring beans a better option than pulses

    March 19, 2010

    While interest in growing spring pulses might be high, the market outlook is not so encouraging.

  • UK potato planting makes good progress

    18 March 2010

    THE arrival of warmer, drier weather has allowed potato growers to make good progress with planting, particularly in the Midlands and western regions, says the Potato Council. In Pembrokeshire, planting increased last week in excellent land conditions.

  • Identifying the barley variety is now much easier

    16 March 2010

    A new interactive web-based identifiaction programme should make it faster and easier to ensure a barley load is the correct variety.

  • Have confidence in the lab results

    16 March 2010

    Soil analysis results for phosphorus, potassium, pH and magnesium can be used with renewed confidence after evidence laboratory practices are fit for purpose and closely aligned, says the Agricultural Industries Confederation.

  • Online wheat canopy assessment

    16 March 2010

    A new on-line canopy assessment tool is designed to help growers and advisors assess lodging risk in wheat crops.

  • Money back guarantee

    16 March 2010

    A guarantee from Syngenta for fungicide treatments in oilseed rape promises growers will make a profit on Amistar applications, or get their money back.

  • Reduction in spray tank carry-over

    16 March 2010

    A new soluble granule formulation of metsulfuron-methyl offers easier cleaning of the spray tank post-application, as well as improved product efficacy, according to its supplier.

  • New fungicide and herbicide approvals

    16 March 2010

    A round-up of recently granted approvals.

  • Glastir scheme will not be delayed

    16 March 2010

    DESPITE cross-industry concerns over its viability, the Welsh Assembly’s all-embracing Glastir land management scheme is to go ahead as planned from 2012.

  • New research club to tackle crop genetics

    15 March 2010

    A group of British scientists has been handed £6 million to develop crop genetics to sustainably increase yields.

  • WRAP to focus on promoting compost

    12 March 2010

    COMPOST’S merits as a soil conditioner and nutrient source are to be given wider promotion by the government’s WRAP (Waste Resources Action Programme) as the organisation seeks to encourage more farmers to consider the product in soil management.

  • Enjoying the fruits of their labour in the Welsh Hills

    March 12, 2010

    Cattle and sheep have long been the mainstay of Britain’s upland farming areas – but soft fruit? Barry Alston takes a look at a novel diversification venture high up in the Radnorshire hills.

  • Farmers could pay levy on saved seed

    11 March 2010

    FARMERS could be forced to pay royalties on farm saved seed under new EU proposals, the Soil Association has warned.

  • Slow start to potatoes after harsh winter

    11 March 2010

    The wet and cold weather has put a brake on potato plantings up and down the country.

  • Compost use continues to grow

    11 March 2010

    AGRICULTURE currently uses 1.25m tonnes of compost per year - an amount which has doubled since 2005, according to Dr David Tompkins, agricultural programme delivery manager for Waste Resources Action Programme (WRAP).

  • Milling supply situation boosted by Group 1 and 2 wheats

    11 March 2010

    A look at the overall crop may not give the right impression about milling wheat availability, the HGCA/nabim Milling Wheat, Conference was told.

  • CFE must attract more agronomists

    10 March 2010

    MORE than half the number of agronomists and advisers targeted by the Campaign for the Farmed Environment have attended training and awareness days to date.  But there’s more to be done say the campaign partners.

  • Levy increase for potato growers

    10 March 2010

    POTATO growers will face a levy increase from April 1 after Ministers signed off the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s (AHDB) rates for 2010/11.

  • Breeders confident genetics can help progress bread wheat

    10 March 2010

    Plant breeding and milling wheat markets were among topics discussed at the HGCA/nabim milling wheat conference. Chris Lyddon reports.

  • Careful use of nitrogen 'ups winter wheat yield'

    10 March 2010

    Taking care over nitrogen use, including mapping yield very carefully, has helped Cotswold farmer James Price to raise his average winter wheat yield to 8.5 tonnes a hectare – up from seven previously.

  • Herbicides finding their way into water

    10 March 2010

    RELATIVELY high peak levels of grassland herbicide sprays are being found in UK waters during the summer, something previously thought to be only a problem in winter months.

  • Red wheat is the route for spring cereal profits, says Hovis

    9 March 2010

    RED wheat is under the spotlight in a series of farmer meetings around the country to promote the crop and celebrate the conversion of all British-baked, Hovis-branded products to 100 per cent British wheat.

  • Maize crop will have major impact on UK wheat prices

    9 March 2010

    The maize crop will have a major impact on UK wheat prices this season, according to a leading economist.

  • In-furrow treatment targets early aphid activity

    9 March 2010

    NEW approval for in-furrow application of thiomethoxam insecticide Actara at planting could give seed potato growers over five weeks post-emergence aphid control, says Syngenta.

  • T0 fungicide key in yellow rust battle

    9 March 2010

    YELLOW rust may not be visible on susceptible wheat varieties but a T0 fungicide remains a key spray this season experts are advising.

  • New tank mix to combat yellow rust

    9 March 2010

    A new fungicide tank mix option is aimed at providing winter wheat growers with a cost-effective way to boost fungicide activity and target this year’s heightened yellow rust threat.

  • Time for action against wheat bulb fly

    9 March 2010

    WHEAT bulb fly egg hatch is now fully underway in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk, with some plant invasion taking place. Egg-hatch has also been detected in East Yorkshire.

  • Farmers must be stronger on grain marketing

    8 March 2010

    ARABLE farmers should do their homework and take a stronger stance on grain marketing, Andrew Dewing told delegates to the Norfolk Farming Conference in Norwich.

  • Annual meadow-grass treatment a priority

    March 5, 2010

    Well-established populations of annual meadow-grass will need priority treatment this spring. Following the withdrawal of IPU, the mainstay of grass-weed control for many years, growers and advisers alike are trying to find new solutions for the control of annual meadow-grass.

  • Global influences on fertiliser market forces

    March 5, 2010

    China and the Ukraine have biggest impact on fertiliser prices.

  • Grain volumes up at Wessex

    March 5, 2010

    Operating profit more than £150,000 and ahead of five year average.

  • Join stewardship schemes to keep voluntary approach

    March 5, 2010

    Farmer buying group AtlasFram’s arable conference focused on environmental stewardship, fertiliser supply and global food production challenges. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • OSR growers must improve precision

    March 5, 2010

    O?ilseed rape growers must be more precise in their nitrogen fertilisation this spring to avoid compromising returns.

  • Window for sugar beet drilling opens

    March 5, 2010

    Drilling for the 2010 sugar beet crop will get underway next week if drier weatehr is forecast, believes British Sugar.

  • Winter barley needs N now

    March 5, 2010

    Late February/early March is the best time to apply the first top dressing of Nitram to winter barley, provided ground conditions are suitable.

  • FG launches new CropWorld arable event

    4 March 2010

    AN international crop production conference will bring the world’s leading arable experts to London this year.

  • Farmers can save £260 on pesticide disposals

    4 March 2010

    FARMERS can save more than £260 by making an application for Groundwater Authorisation for the disposal of pesticide washings before April 1, The Voluntary Initiative has advised.

  • World demand boosts fertiliser prices

    4 March 2010

    INPUT prices have increased by 2 per cent in the past six months after a short period of deflation - mostly due to the increasing cost of fertiliser caused by rising world demand.

  • Bioethanol plant major boost to UK farmers

    3 March 2010

    THE first tanker of sustainably produced bioethanol was dispatched from Europe’s largest wheat bio-refinery on Teeside this week.

  • Aphid pressure could hit OSR yields

    2 March 2010

    APHID pressure in key areas last autumn looks set to suppress yields this season in some oilseed rape crops. Pre-Christmas tests for turnip yellows virus (TuYV) confirm levels were very high in a number of crops.

  • Yellow rust returns despite cold snap

    2 March 2010

    SYMPTOMS of yellow rust infection are reported to be re-emerging in wheat crops following the cold spell.

  • Cibus granted patent for glyphosate-tolerant plants

    2 March 2010

    CROP trait development business Cibus Global has been granted a patent from the European Patent Office for use of its Rapid Trait Development System in the production of non-transgenic, glyphosate-tolerant plants destined for the European market.

  • EU approves first GM crop in 12 years

    2 March 2010

    THE European Commission has authorised a genetically modified crop for cultivation in the EU for the first time in 12 years.

  • Growers tend to over-water at the start of the season

    26 February 2010

    Understanding, recognising and responding was the mantra at a Potato Council-organised Soils and Water Forum, held in Huntingdon last week. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Arable Focus: Campaign for the Farmed Environment needs YOU

    February 26, 2010

    ?It is a cold and grey February afternoon at Westhorpe Lodge Farm in Suffolk. I’m being shown around by David Barker, his son Patrick and nephew Brian. It’s the sort of day when the damp seems to seep into my bones and springtime feels like it’s a long way off.

  • Arable focus: Fears of English light leaf spot epidemic

    February 26, 2010

    Focus on disease in OSR in many regions.

  • Arable Focus: How you can contact LLG co-ordinators

    February 26, 2010

    Find out who your Local Liaison Group (LLG) co-ordinators for the Campaign for the Farmed Environment – which will be formally launched in Suffolk in March – click the link for the full list.

  • Arable Focus: James Daw, Woodhouse Farm, Rugeley, Staffordshire

    February 26, 2010

    ?A new growing system for potatoes and vegetables is designed to increase output per hectare by using wider beds. But is it refined enough for the UK market? JANE CARLEY asked Staffordshire farmer James Daw for his views.

  • Arable Focus: Mark Green, Ditton Farm, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire

    February 26, 2010

    ?A new growing system for potatoes and vegetables is designed to increase output per hectare by using wider beds. But is it refined enough for the UK market? JANE CARLEY asked Herefordshire farmer Mark Green for his views.

  • Arable Focus: Maxi-Bed can widen horizons

    February 26, 2010

    ?A new growing system for potatoes and vegetables is designed to increase output per hectare by using wider beds. But is it refined enough for the UK market? JANE CARLEY took a look and also asked users their views.

  • Arable Focus: Personality counts when it comes to growing a successful arable unit

    February 26, 2010

    How many arable producers would use personality tests to boost their businesses? Australian cereal grower David Brownhill did - as well as making lots of other changes. Emma Penny reports.

  • Arable focus: Plant population key focus for new beet drilling season

    February 26, 2010

    Trials show ideal plant populations for UK sugar beet crops.

  • Arable Focus: What is the Campaign for the Farmed Environment?

    February 26, 2010

    Answering your queries on the Campaign for the Farmed Environment which will be formally launched in Suffolk in March.

  • Avadex OSR spray granted SOLA licence

    February 26, 2010

    A new Specific Off-Label Approval (SOLA) licence has been awarded which will permit use of a pre-emergence application of Avadex Excel 15G (tri-allate) on crops of winter and spring-sown oilseed rape to provide improved protection against black-grass and broad-leaved weeds.

  • Boosting profile of Fens growers and environmental management

    February 26, 2010

    CAMBRIDGESHIRE Campaign for the Farmed Environment chairman Michael Sly explains how collaboration with other farmers has benefited the environment and his business.

  • Farmers need to change approach on pesticides

    February 26, 2010

    A PESTICIDES and water protection workshop for agronomists, staged in Suffolk, updated attendees on the latest pesticide monitoring results, while reviewing research on how pesticides get into water. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Minimum cultivation will lead to nutrient stratification

    February 26, 2010

    Cultivation technique changes could affect the measurements of key nutrients, including potash and phosphate, and influence the way sampling is carried out in the future.

  • Not meeting WFD targets will put key pesticides at risk

    February 26, 2010

    A pesticides and water protection workshop for agronomists, staged in Suffolk, updated attendees on the latest pesticide monitoring results, while reviewing research on how pesticides get into water.

  • Soils should be moist to keep disease at bay

    February 26, 2010

    WHILE there is a need for potato growers to look at water efficiencies during the scab control period, it is essential to keep the disease at bay with moist soils.

  • Timing crucial in preventing run off of pesticides

    February 26, 2010

    WHILE only a relatively small number of approved pesticides are detected in surface water - less than 20 out of approximately 250 registered – the overriding factor in their appearance is the time delay between application and rainfall and associated drain flow.

  • Feed cost warning as EU cereal production falls

    24 February 2010

    CEREALS production in Europe will fall – pushing up feed costs to livestock producers – unless market management measures are improved and new tool developed, says Copa-Cogeca.

  • Global GM plantings rise

    24 February 2010

    PLANTINGS of GM crops rose by seven per cent last year, as farmers around the world continued to turn to technology to boost crop yields.

  • Police warning over counterfeit pesticides

    23 February 2010

    POLICE have issued a warning to farmers to be on the alert for counterfeit pesticides after it was revealed potentially dangerous fakes were being imported into Europe.

  • Moving towards solvent-free products

    19 February 2010

    NEW solvent-free formulations of existing crop protection products could bring improved operator and environmental safety, without compromising performance, according to manufacturer Dow AgroSciences.

  • Agronomists’ to take memorial bike ride

    February 19, 2010

    SIX agronomists are planning to complete a 320-mile charity cycle ride in memory of a colleague who died in October 2009.

  • Bayer revises fungicide formulations

    February 19, 2010

    THE formulations of two Bayer prothioconazole fungicides have been revised for use in cereals.

  • Beet growers must think beyond variety

    February 19, 2010

    SUGAR beet varieties are now so good across the board that it will be other factors which have a greater impact on yield, according to a sugar beet variety expert.

  • Dow hits out at Bayer's Atlantis advice

    February 19, 2010

    DOW AgroSciences has expressed disappointment at Bayer CropScience’s decision to recommend use of its herbicide Atlantis as a stand-alone product this season.

  • Farmers still using banned pesticide

    February 19, 2010

    GROWERS have simply got to try harder when it comes to pesticide use and protection of the environment, said Dr David Ellerton, who said despite IPU being a banned product, it was clear it was still being used by farmers on their crops last autumn.

  • Growers must keep pace as beet yields to average 70t/ha

    February 19, 2010

    THE 2009/10 sugar beet crop will be the highest yielding on record and is poised to break the 70 tonnes per hectare (28t/acre) yield barrier for the first time, British Sugar has announced.

  • Large OSR canopies will need spring PGR treatment

    February 19, 2010

    LARGE oilseed rape crop canopies will almost certainly require PGR treatment this spring.

  • New fungicides have crucial role in protecting triazoles

    February 19, 2010

    TRIAZOLES will form the backbone of wheat fungicide treatments, but must be protected and used appropriately to reduce the risk of resistance. At the same time, newer chemistry could be crucial in protecting them.

  • New SAC potato agronomist

    February 19, 2010

    SAC has strengthened its team providing specialist advice for UK potato growers. Australian agronomist Andrew Powell will be working from SAC’s new office in York, where he will support John Sarup.

  • New strain fears after rhizomania outbreaks

    February 19, 2010

    THE new strain of rhizomania identified following an outbreak of the disease in resistant sugar beet varieties in 2007 has spread from Suffolk to Essex.

  • Significant cost savings at Joint Venture Farming Group

    February 19, 2010

    LATEST cost figures from bench-marking initiative, the Joint Venture Farming Group, show a mixed performance in 2009.

  • Sugar beet variety switch as Fiorenza replaced

    February 19, 2010

    SUGAR beet growers are to have access to only one beet cyst nematode-tolerant variety through the industry seed account for the 2010 season.

  • Switch to urea-based N has no detrimental effect

    February 19, 2010

    GROWERS who switched from ammonium nitrate to urea-based nitrogen fertiliser because of soaring prices last season, did so at no detriment to their crops.

  • Threat of virus yellows re-emerging

    February 19, 2010

    THE recent cold weather will have done a good job of killing off aphids, so virus yellows is not expected to be a problem in this year’s sugar beet crop, Broom’s Barn’s Dr Mark Stevens told the BBRO winter meeting at Lincoln.

  • Defra considers GM potato trial

    17 February 2010

    THE Government is considering an application from British scientists to plant GM potatoes in a field trial in Norwich.

  • Buffer zones could cost farmers £46.2 million a year

    17 February 2010

    THE Defra consultation on how to implement new EU rules on pesticides has caused an almighty stir within the farming industry.

  • UK arable prospects 2010

    17 February 2010

    AS part of our Farming Prospects seminars, Lawrence Matthews, Sussex arable farmer, explains his prospects for 2010 and the major challenges facing his farm business.

  • Benn praises bakers' commitment to British farmers

    16 February 2010

    DEFRA Secretary Hilary Benn has praised companies like Hovis for making it easier for the British public to support local farmers.

  • Environment must be intergral part of farming

    16 February 2010

    Environmental schemes should be an integral part of what they do, said Natural England chairman, Poul Christensen.

  • Fertiliser giants to merge

    15 February 2010

    TWO of the worlds leading fertiliser manufacturers, Yara International and Terra Industries, are to merge after Yarra took over its rival in a deal worth around £2.6 billion.

  • Farmers urged to build on CFE's bright start

    15 February 2010

    ARABLE farmers in England have been urged to build on the ‘encouraging start’ to the Campaign for the Farmed Environment (CFE).

  • Historic agreement on sugar price

    13 February 2010

    THE annual squabbling match between British Sugar and the NFU over sugar beet prices could be a thing of the past.

  • Cumbrian farmers urged to back CFE

    February 12, 2010

    Arable farmers in Cumbria will be asked to help with the Campaign for the Farmed Environment at a meeting being held today (Feb 12) in Penrith.

  • Experts advise on triazole use in 2010

    February 12, 2010

    FOUR of the UK’s leading experts on fungicide resistance management are advising the use of fungicide mixtures and higher doses this season for the control of septoria tritici.

  • Fermentable sugar stores could boost biofuels industry

    February 12, 2010

    SCIENTISTS have found a way to increase fermentable sugar stores in plants which could lead to more economic and sustainable methods of biofuel production, says the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).

  • Jack Wright Memorial Trust scholarship applications open

    February 12, 2010

    THE trustees of the Jack Wright Memorial Trust are inviting applications for the Trust’s 2010 travel awards.

  • Lower grain prices should not lead to fungicide cuts

    February 12, 2010

    GRAIN prices may have taken a tumble but that should not prompt a reduction in fungicide use as a cost-cutting measure, growers are being advised.

  • New insecticide Movento targets hidden pests

    February 12, 2010

    A new insecticide available this season provides control of sucking pests in brassica and lettuce crops.

  • New pesticides 2010 guide published

    February 12, 2010

    The UK Pesticide Guide 2010 includes three new actives: Bacillus subtilis, cinidon ethyl and spirotetramat, as well as several novel mixtures of existing actives, says publisher BCPC.

  • Trials reveal astounding differences in OSR yields

    February 12, 2010

    Hybrid and conventional oilseed rape varieties showed surprising differences in yield responses to spring sulphur applications in Frontier Agriculture trials last season.

  • Interfarm crop protection arrangement

    11 February 2010

    Under a new arrangement, Interfarm UK will be marketing five more crop protection products including the potato herbicide Sencorex (metribuzin) and cereal herbicide Sekator (amidosulfuron + iodosulfuron), on behalf of agrochemical manufacturer, Bayer CropScience.Herbicide Attribut (propoxycarbazone-sodium) will also be included in the arrangement as well as two cereal fungicides Veto F (tebuconazole + triadimenol) and Thyme (tebuconazole + spiroxamine).

  • Agronomists join forces to launch new consultancy

    11 February 2010

    Eight former TAG Consulting agronomists have set up a new consultancy serving the East Midlands and North East regions.

  • Seed testing laboratory launched

    11 February 2010

    A new and independent licensed seed testing laboratory, the first to be officially commissioned in more than five years, has opened in Suffolk.

  • Cereals park-and-ride 'will not cause traffic chaos'

    11 February 2010

    FEARS a proposed free park-and-ride scheme at the Cereals event at the new site at Royston, Cambridgeshire, in June, could create traffic problems, have been allayed by the organisers.

  • Biofuel breakthrough as scientists sequence grass genome

    11 February 2010

    SCIENTISTS in the US have completed sequencing the genome of a wild grass which they claim will shed light on the genetics behind hardier varieties of wheat and improved varieties of biofuel crops.

  • Big freeze delays wheat bulb fly hatch

    10 February 2010

    WHEAT bulb fly egg hatch is still in its early stages in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk.

  • Garner variety set for spring launch

    10 February 2010

    A NEW high-yielding feed spring barley is being launched this spring.

  • Aminopyralid spray recalled

    10 February 2010

    WHILE aminopyralid has regained authorisation for use on grassland, any old stocks remaining on farm cannot be used as product labels do not reflect newly-approved usage instructions. Instead, they should be returned to Dow AgroSciences.

  • Bird's Eye plant closure blamed on economies of scale

    10 February 2010

    Bird’s Eye had to close down its East Anglian pea growing operation due to economies of scale, which has led to the concentration of all future pea processing at the company’s Hull-based factory, a spokesperson has confirmed.

  • United Oilseeds £10/t above the market

    10 February 2010

    AN average forward price of £10 per tonne above the current market price has been achieved so far by United Oilseeds for the 2010 harvest.

  • RPA gives February guarantee for map returns

    10 February 2010

    THE Rural Payments Agency (RPA) has sought to ease fears that delays with the Rural Land Registry (RLR) mapping process will affect 2010 Single Payment claims.

  • Finding alternatives after Birds Eye blow

    9 February 2010

    Following last week’s shock announcement that Birds Eye has called a halt to the production of vining peas in East Anglia, Suffolk-based Dominic Kilburn provides an update from the region.

  • Seed availability key issue for East Anglian pea growers

    9 February 2010

    TAG agronomist Neil Watson said some Norfolk and Suffolk growers would be affected more than others following the loss of the pea vining crop, depending on acreage outstanding and their own individual situation.

  • Sugar beet could lead GM revolution

    9 February 2010

    SUGAR beet could be the crop to open the way for GM in Europe, according to a leading beet industry adviser.

  • Consultation launched on controversial pesticide rules

    9 February 2010

    A CONSULTATION on how best to implement controversial EU rules on pesticides that could cost farmers between £13 million and £176 million, has been launched by Defra today (Tuesday, February 9).

  • Early potato planting conditions 'far from ideal'

    9 February 2010

    EARLY potato planting has resumed in Cornwall, although conditions are far from ideal, says the Potato Council.

  • British Sugar switches beet variety

    8 February 2010

    SUGAR beet growers are to have access to only one beet cyst nematode-tolerant variety through the industry seed account for the 2010 season.

  • 500,000 tonnes of out-of-quota sugar signed off for export

    5 February 2010

    The European Commission has submitted a draft regulation which will allow the export of an additional 500,000 tonnes of out-of-quota sugar in the 2009-10 marketing year (to July 31, 2010).

  • Spring spraying special

    February 5, 2010

    With the spring spraying season approaching, it is time to assess the performance of autumn sprays and draw up plans for disease control programmes. We asked a leading agronomist for his thoughts on the key issues.

  • Technology and crop protection key to meeting global food demand

    February 5, 2010

    A two per cent increase in food production will have to be delivered by farmers every year up to 2030, with a doubling of current global production by 2050 - the stark reality facing agriculture if much of the world’s population is to avoid hunger in the latter part of this century.

  • Costly soil directive must be buried – Ashworth

    4 February 2010

    ATTEMPTS to resurrect controversial EU proposals to regulate the way farmers look after their soil must be buried, Richard Ashworth MEP has warned.

  • NFU urges Birds Eye to reconsider East Anglia pea decision

    4 February 2010

    THE NFU has called on Birds Eye to reconsider its decision to stop sourcing peas from East Anglia.

  • Council on the hunt for 'Potato Ambassadors'

    3 February 2010

    THE Potato Council is on the look-out for growers passionate about their crop to become ‘Potato Ambassadors’ to take part in marketing activities and help boost potatoes, particularly among younger consumers.

  • British Sugar expects another record breaking campaign

    January 29, 2010

    WITH the end of the 2009-2010 sugar beet lifting campaign in sight, British Sugar is hoping for a final yield figure to eclipse last season’s record-breaking crop.

  • New crop protection training launched

    January 29, 2010

    Increasing demand from farmers and farm managers for instruction in crop protection and agronomy has led to the development of a new training course.

  • New OSR and pulse marketing agreement

    January 29, 2010

    OILSEED rape and pulse varieties from LS Plant Breeding will be brought to the market by John Ebbage Seeds under a new marketing agreement announced by the two companies.

  • PGRO to offer pulses protection courses

    January 29, 2010

    PGRO is offering specialist one-day courses in crop protection for combining and vining peas and field beans.

  • Potato planting now delayed by rain

    January 29, 2010

    AFTER the snow, it is now rain that is holding up planting of early potatoes.

  • Short window of opportunity for weed control in winter OSR

    January 29, 2010

    The window for control of difficult broad-leaved weeds in winter oilseed rape this spring is likely to be short, growers are being advised.

  • Wheat bulb fly sampling gets into full swing

    January 29, 2010

    IMPROVED weather conditions have allowed this season’s wheat bulb fly sampling campaign to begin in earnest. It looks currently as if the cold conditions have slowed down egg development and delayed egg-hatch.

  • Leading millers drop mycotoxin test requirement

    28 January 2010

    CEREAL growers have been warned they will only have themselves to blame if the nation’s leading millers demand a return to compulsory mycotoxin testing for milling wheat.

  • Stewardship applications re-open

    26 January 2010

    NATURAL England has confirmed Entry Level Stewardship (ELS) applications have reopened following their suspension in December last year.

  • BASF team up with breeders to develop new sugar variety

    25 January 2010

    PLANT science business BASF and plant breeders KWS have announced they are to work together on biotechnology projects to develop high yielding sugar beet varieties for the global market.

  • Farmers may have to foot SPR bill

    22 January 2010

    AGRONOMISTS are warning they may have to charge farmer clients extra for advising on, and helping to complete, the newly revised Soil Protection Review (SPR) because of the extra work involved.

  • Anti-GM lobby anger at new Rothamstead director

    22 January 2010

    THE appointment of a leading biotech scientist as head of the UK’s biggest agricultural research body has angered the anti-GM movement.

  • Three-week optimum for fungicide spray intervals

    21 January 2010

    T0 fungicides will be a vital component of winter wheat fungicide programmes this season where yellow rust infection is a risk.

  • Yellow rust continues to pose a threat

    21 January 2010

    Yellow rust continues to pose a threat to winter wheat crops in spite of the prolonged spell of cold weather.

  • Be prepared to act fast to stay on top of yellow rust

    21 January 2010

    The exceptionally low temperatures across the country in recent weeks will definitely not have eliminated yellow rust.

  • PGRO’s latest guide to pulses

    21 January 2010

    THE latest edition of the PGRO Pulse Agronomy Guide covers all aspects of pulse production, from variety choice, through to harvest, drying and storage.

  • Rodent problems persist on UK farms

    21 January 2010

    LARGE numbers of farms across the country continue to suffer serious rat and mouse problems, despite more frequent rodenticide use and generally improved baiting practice.

  • Drought stress problem mistaken for tan spot

    21 January 2010

    A leading crop protection expert has questioned official disease figures indicating tan spot was the third most prevalent disease in winter wheat last season.

  • Wheat crop up 198,000 tonnes

    21 January 2010

    FINAL 2009 Defra crop production estimates have raised UK wheat output to 14.379 million tonnes, an increase of 0.198m tonnes on the provisional estimate.

  • Winter hardiness gives food for thought on OSR

    21 January 2010

    AS oilseed rape emerges from the grip of ice and snow, growers should think more about varieties’ winter hardiness, believes a Scottish agronomy adviser.

  • Compost boost to crops

    21 January 2010

    USING compost on arable land can boost phosphate and potash levels considerably while continued application could lead to crop yield benefits. That was according to Richard Fenwick of crop advisory company Cambridge Arable Technologies (CAT), speaking at the organisation’s annual winter conference, held near Cambridge.

  • ‘Learn lessons from US on biofuels’

    21 January 2010

    UK FARMERS may have to learn the lessons from the United States when it comes to biofuels, Michael Archer, senior analyst at HGCA, told the CAT conference.

  • Orson’s new board role

    21 January 2010

    BCPC, the charity promoting the science and practice of crop production, has appointed Jim Orson to its executive board. Mr Orson (pictured) is currently research and technical director for The Arable Group.

  • ‘Energy farming’ set for expansion

    21 January 2010

    GREEN energy production is set for further significant expansion on UK farms.

  • Beware spraying in cold and wet weather

    21 January 2010

    THINK carefully before applying any winter spray treatments to crops after the cold snap and wet weather, the Voluntary Initiative (VI) is advising.

  • Tough year ahead for arable farmers, experts warn

    21 January 2010

    ARABLE farmers face a tough year ahead, with many likely to struggle to break even without the benefit of Single Payments, leading farm consultants, Andersons, have warned.

  • Parsnips are harvested from under 2ft of snow

    19 January 2010

    STAFFORDSHIRE parsnip growers R&RW Bartlett found themselves stars of television and radio as BBC reporters braved the freezing conditions to find out how vegetables are harvested from under 2ft of snow and in temperatures of –10degsC.

  • Better genetics 'key to crop productivity'

    January 15, 2010

    THE British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) has welcomed the findings of new farmer research which singles out plant breeding as the most important scientific development for future agricultural production.

  • CFE launches guidance books

    January 15, 2010

    THREE new booklets available from the Campaign for the Farmed Environment offer advice on the best Environmental Stewardship (ES) options and campaign measures to achieve specific environmental benefits.

  • First shipment of granular nitrogen arrives in the UK

    January 15, 2010

    Eastern Counties-based Law Fertilisers has taken delivery of 2,500 tonnes of granular nitrogen into Sutton Bridge, Lincolnshire.

  • Increased tan spot threat to winter wheat

    January 15, 2010

    THE incidence of tan spot last season appears to have caught agronomists by surprise.

  • Irrigators face potential SFP reduction

    January 15, 2010

    .

  • Monsanto on the verge of a biotech explosion

    January 15, 2010

    BIOTECHNOLOGY firm Monsanto has announced details of a record number of projects to be advanced in its research and development pipeline.

  • New fertiliser coating to prevent phosphorus lock in

    January 15, 2010

    A NEW fertiliser coating, which is said to render phosphate more available in the soil is available through Openfield this season.

  • Oilseed growing guide launched

    January 15, 2010

    The latest edition of ‘Growing Oilseeds’ is now available from United Oilseeds.

  • Rule changes for potato seed treatment

    January 15, 2010

    SEED potato fungicide RhiNo DS must now be applied using an automated applicator as a result of a regulatory label change, which has removed the option for manual application of the product.

  • Weather woes continue for beet and potato growers

    12 January 2010

    THE prolonged cold weather continues to cause problems for root crop growers.

  • British researchers develop GM potato

    12 January 2010

    A TRIAL to develop genetically modified potatoes that would save British growers more than £40 million a year has been successful, initial results have revealed.  

  • Georgina Downs to take pesticide case to Europe

    12 January 2010

    ANTI-PESTICIDE campaigner Georgina Downs has pledged to fight the Government’s ‘inadequate’ policy on crop spraying in Europe after she failed to win her case in the domestic courts.

  • Karl Bahn is BASIS’s new technical manager

    January 8, 2010

    BASIS has appointed Karl Bahn as its technical manager.

  • Label support for Actellic 50EC to be withdrawn

    January 8, 2010

    OPTIONS for pre-harvest insecticide treatment of grain stores have been reduced. Syngenta has decided to withdraw label support for applications of insecticide and fumigant Actellic 50EC (pirimiphos-methyl) to store structures.

  • Planting of earlies under way despite temperature

    January 8, 2010

    TOKEN planting of earlies was reported in Cornwall just before Christmas, and one or two growers have continued with further small areas since last weekend, says the Potato Council.

  • Using the financial system to help protect business from market forces

    January 8, 2010

    Keeping production systems simple and a flexible approach to financial management are helping one Kent family cope with crop price volatility.

  • Vegetable producer turns waste into energy

    January 8, 2010

    Invests in anaerobic digestion.

  • Warning over new guidelines for N requirements

    January 8, 2010

    OPTIMAL nitrogen doses in terms of margin and yield in winter wheat are unchanged for 2010. With falls from price highs in 2008, the break-even ratio will be less influential, says The Arable Group.

  • Beddington GM comments provoke anger

    7 January 2010

    THE anti-GM lobby has criticised the Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser for suggesting biotechnology has a key role to play in meeting the food security challenge.

  • OFC '10: UK research 'not good enough'

    7 January 2010

    EXPERTS from across the food chain have valued agricultural research in the UK at a lowly five out of ten, delegates were shocked to learn at the Oxford Farming Conference this week.

  • Heavy snow could affect crop deliveries

    6 January 2010

    SNOW and icy conditions have so far had limited effect on the movement of grain and other commodities off farm, but there are concerns continuing bad weather could start to disrupt deliveries in the coming weeks.

  • Farmers 'must give up nitrogen fertiliser'

    6 January 2010

    FARMERS must give up nitrogen fertilisers to ensure a sustainable future for agriculture, the country’s leading organic lobby has warned. 

  • Farmers demand answers on NVZ designation errors

    29 December 2009

    DEFRA and the Environment Agency have been asked to explain how ‘fundamental errors’ caused swathes of farmland to be wrongly designated as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZ) for seven years.

  • Breeding crops for the next decade

    28 December 2009

    PLANT breeder Bill Angus talks to Teresa Rush about his hopes for the next decade in terms of wheat breeding and how breeders will meet the challenges.

  • Innovation key to crop protection challenge

    December 25, 2009

    THE UK crop protection industry faces many challenges in the near future if it is to successfully deliver its contribution to food production targets in a sustainable way. But, as Dominic Kilburn discovers, demands on the industry will also deliver opportunities.

  • Greenvale project cuts costs and water use

    17 December 2009

    Potato supply business Greenvale says its novel new vegetable-cleaning system, Project Cascade, has surpassed original water use and running cost targets.

  • Spring barley Propino is set to follow Quench and Tipple lead

    17 December 2009

    FOLLOWING in the footsteps of stable-mate varieties Tipple and Quench, Syngenta Seeds’ latest spring malting barley to achieve HGCA Recommended List status, Propino, looks set to become another ‘pan-European’ variety.

  • Fandango delay means more Proline available

    17 December 2009

    AGCHEM manufacturer Bayer CropScience has announced it is making additional volumes of the fungicide Proline (prothioconazole) available for the barley market in anticipation of Fandango (prothioconazole + fluoxastrobin) not being available early in the season.

  • ‘Worrying and dangerous’ threat of yellow rust strain

    17 December 2009

    MORE than half the winter wheat acreage in the ground during 2010 will be susceptible to yellow rust.

  • Best pulses of the year announced

    17 December 2009

    Winners of the BEPA (British Edible Pulse Association) annual pulse competition were presented with their prizes for the highest performing pulse crops from the 2009 harvest at the BEPA annual dinner.

  • New technical notes from SAC

    17 December 2009

    SAC has added four new technical notes to its catalogue of short, practical field guides to key issues facing producers.

  • Winter frosts crucial to predicted rust epidemic

    17 December 2009

    Over-winter frosts will determine the earliness of the rust epidemic expected in 2010

  • Research begins into weed maps

    17 December 2009

    PRODUCING weed maps in arable crops to provide a decision support tool for farmers and agronomists is the ultimate aim of an HGCA and CRD-supported research project based at the University of Reading.

  • Cover crops could boost farm wildlife

    17 December 2009

    JUST two hectares (five acres) of sown cover crops on uncropped land could make a difference to farm wildlife, said Jim Orson, technical director of The Arable Group.

  • 'Unprecedented interest' in manure

    17 December 2009

    Unprecedented interest in the past 18 months.

  • Sharp fall in use of P and K

    15 December 2009

    THE latest figures from fertiliser trade organisation the International Fertilizer Industry Association indicates farmers in several countries have been postponing applications of phosphorus and potassium in response to the current volatility in grain and input prices.

  • Calls for intervention as cereal prices plummet

    11 December 2009

    EUROPEAN farming leaders have called on the European Commission to take drastic action to halt the decline in cereal prices following a 54 per cent drop in prices over the past year.

  • No real high flyers but there are newcomers across most groups

    December 11, 2009

    The latest additions to the HGCA Recommended Lists make up a fairly steady bunch, although what really matters is how they perform commercially. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Focus on wheelings to cut surface run-off and diffuse pollution risk

    9 December 2009

    WHEELINGS are the focus of new research into reducing surface run-off and diffuse pollution from combinable crops, of which around 80 per cent could be linked to compacted tramlines.

  • HGCA announce 2010/11 Recommended Lists

    4 December 2009

    THIS season’s crop of newcomers to the HGCA Recommended Lists for 2010/11, published today (Friday December 4), bring no big advances in yield.

  • Achieving efficiencies with new technology

    December 4, 2009

    Potato equipment, like combinable crops machinery, develops and increases in size at great speed, while improving production efficiency by using modern technology. James Lane takes a look at the latest kit on show at British Potato 2009, held in Harrogate last week.

  • Chambers brings knowledge to beet industry

    December 4, 2009

    PAM Chambers has been confirmed as Broom’s Barn’s new knowledge transfer manager, succeeding Mike May, who retired earlier this year.

  • Council is seeking ambassadors

    December 4, 2009

    ?The Potato Council is looking to recruit a team of nine ‘Potato Ambassadors’ from around the country to get involved in marketing activities and help reinforce campaign messages.

  • First woman wins Barrie Orme award

    December 4, 2009

    AGRONOMIST Kylie Borchardt, from West Sussex-based salad producer Langmead Farms, made a little bit of history on November 20 when she became the first female candidate to win the Barrie Orme Award.

  • Health status is big selling point

    December 4, 2009

    ?The high health status of British potato seed is a huge selling point, growers attending British Potato 2009 were told and the Safe Haven Certification Scheme is at the heart of this high health status.

  • Higgins honoured with potato industry award

    December 4, 2009

    ?Michael (Mike) Higgins, founder and chairman of The Higgins Group has been awarded the 2009 British Potato Industry Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the potato industry, particularly in the processing sector.

  • Improved skin, size and quality claimed

    December 4, 2009

    ?Application and incorporation of Amistar (azoxystrobin) into potato beds prior to planting could deliver improved skin finish and more consistent tuber size and quality, says Syngenta.

  • Levy increase aim is to underpin core activities

    December 4, 2009

    ?Potato growers and buyers have been asked to invest in spending on core levy-funded activities. In its corporate plan, released by the AHDB last week, the Potato Council says key R&D, knowledge transfer and marketing activities will need to be stepped up to address the needs of the industry.

  • New blight fungicide presented

    December 4, 2009

    ?NEW blight fungicide active ingredient Initium was presented to growers for the first time at British Potato 2009.

  • No time for complacency over dickeya threat

    December 4, 2009

    ?There was advice at British Potato 2009 on how to cope with the increasing threat to GB potato production from dickeya solani.

  • Pulse plantings update

    December 4, 2009

    PULSE plantings in 2009 returned to levels seen at the beginning of the decade after several years of decline.

  • Report unearths the facts behind foodservice sector

    December 4, 2009

    ?THE findings of new Potato Council-funded research into the foodservice market were unveiled at British Potato 2009.

  • Time for new approach to managing PCN

    December 4, 2009

    ?The potato industry gathered in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, last week for British Potato 2009. In spite of wet and windy weather during the two-day event, plus a challenging season, attendance was up by 10 per cent, with more than 5,500 attending. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Trials flag up damage FLN causes to crops

    December 4, 2009

    ?Potato yields and fry colour could be improved with targeted control of free living nematodes (FLN) and soil-borne diseases, according to Syngenta.

  • Vision wins Variety Cup

    December 4, 2009

    THE National Institute of Agricultural Botany has awarded its Variety Cup to the Syngenta Seeds for onion variety, Vision.

  • Watch weather and soils to stop pesticides leaching

    December 4, 2009

    Voluntary Initiative warning as soils across the UK reach moisture capacity.

  • Barley by-products in fuel research

    3 December 2009

    US researchers working on developing winter barley as an ethanol feedstock believe by-products generated in the process could be used to manufacture biomass-derived fuels and co-products.

  • CFE East Midlands set to launch

    3 December 2009

    NFU and CLA will launch the Campaign for the Farmed Environment in the East Midlands next Wednesday.

  • New varieties join PGRO list for 2010

    2 December 2009

    A new winter bean, two spring beans and four pea varieties join the PGRO 2010 Pulse Recommended List.

  • Broader range of chemistry required for autumn weed control challenges

    November 27, 2009

    The withdrawal of trifluralin and IPU, combined with an exceptionally dry autumn, has provided a challenging combination for growers this season in terms of weed control options and herbicide performance.

  • OSR yields: Advanced plants needs TLC

    November 27, 2009

    Despite exceptionally dry autumn conditions, many winter rape crops across the Midlands and south of England look too far advanced for this time of year and have grown too quickly.

  • TAG maintains ASSET student investment

    November 27, 2009

    FOUR more students from the country’s leading agricultural universities have benefited from a unique scheme designed to support and encourage arable farming’s next generation.

  • Spring crops face weed battle after warm Autumn

    26 November 2009

    SPRING crops sown in 2010 could face difficult-to-control weed populations unless interim treatments are considered.

  • Rank Hovis drops test for milling wheat mycotoxins

    26 November 2009

    RANK Hovis is the first miller in the UK to drop the requirement for milling wheats to be tested for DON mycotoxin levels this season as a result of the low level of incidences discovered since harvest.

  • Record attendance at water protection workshops

    26 November 2009

    RECORD numbers of agronomists have attended water protection workshops this autumn.

  • Fears over wheat bulb fly risk

    26 November 2009

    SPRING cereal growers are being advised to protect seed against the threat of wheat bulb fly following high autumn egg counts.

  • Farmers urged to observe buffer zones in OSR and bean crops

    26 November 2009

    AS post-emergence herbicides are applied to oilseed rape, the Voluntary Initiative (VI) is reminding growers to observe voluntary five metre no-spray zones between crops and any watercourse.

  • Weather delays end of potato harvest

    26 November 2009

    THE potato harvest is still not fully completed, with storms and flooding preventing lifting in many regions last week, says the Potato Council.

  • Hovis to source all wheat from British farmers

    25 November 2009

    BRITAIN’S most famous baker, Hovis, is shifting to a 100 per cent British policy for wheat sourcing.

  • Rudis fungicide gets brussels sprouts approval

    24 November 2009

    FIELD vegetable fungicide Rudis (prothioconazole) has gained approval for brussels sprouts use.

  • How WAGs are hoping to combat water shortages

    23 November 2009

    Are you concerned about future water security and impact of climate change? Dominic Kilburn hears from water abstractor groups whose farmer-members hope to secure enough water volumes to irrigate crops, despite ever-increasing demands on water supply.

  • Cereal Watch - November

    20 November 2009

    Not great– but nowhere near as bad as last year. That pretty much sums up the feelings of both our Eastern and Western Cereal Watch farmers at this stage in the season.

  • BCPC 2009: New formulations may turn resistance clock back

    November 20, 2009

    NEW formulation technology could enhance existing crop protection products’ efficacy and possibly turn the resistance development clock back.

  • BCPC 2009: Policy makers have little understanding of the issues

    November 20, 2009

    EUROPEAN pesticide regulators have got to ‘get real’ and stop pretending non-chemical weed control measures can replace herbicides, according to a leading UK grass-weed expert.

  • BCPC 2009: Scientists need to talk to farmers

    November 20, 2009

    THERE were calls at the BCPC Congress for scientists to carefully consider the reason for their research and the way they communicate their findings to farmers and advisers.

  • Expert group is needed to advance soil science

    November 20, 2009

    SOIL management is high on the agenda at present and Alan Stennett brings the key messages from a Farmers Club/RASE/Lincolnshire Agricultural Society conference.

  • Going self-propelled benefits three-row harvesting

    November 20, 2009

    Three-row potato harvesters can offer increased outputs of 50 per cent and give 10 per cent more productive land by reducing wheelings. Jane Carley visits a fenland grower who is reaping the rewards.

  • Mouldboard ploughing still common

    November 20, 2009

    DESPITE the potential economic and environmental benefits of conservation and other forms of reduced tillage, mouldboard ploughing is still the most common tillage practice in the temperate regions of north west Europe, an RRA workshop in the West Midlands heard.

  • Research looking for new ways to make land pay

    November 20, 2009

    Research at Rothamsted is seeking to identify ways of making land more productive and profitable.

  • Sainsbury's launches crop sustainability plan

    20 November 2009

    SAINSBURY’S has launched a new initiative to improve the sustainability of its crop supply chain.

  • Slug pelleting training courses open

    November 20, 2009

    SLUG pelleting operators are being urged to sign up for new training courses taking place across the country.

  • Soil carbon could combat climate change

    November 20, 2009

    ADDING organic carbon to the soil in the form of biochar is being put forward as one means of countering the effects of climate change.

  • Soil texture and energy usage are interlinked

    November 20, 2009

    Simple actions can help reduce soil erosion, cut water contamination and improve soil structure, according to a leading adviser.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about control of charlock in oilseed rape

    November 20, 2009

    THE mild start to this autumn has encouraged growth of charlock in many oilseed rape crops, says TAG’s Richard Overthrow.

  • Sugar beet is sweet investment

    19 November 2009

    A RAPID uptake of sugar beet contracts and a buoyant market for leased tonnage among growers has proved beet to be a sweet investment for 2010/11.

  • Warwick accused of 'scientific vandalism'

    19 November 2009

    THE University of Warwick was accused of ‘scientific vandalism’ after it unveiled proposals to close down the 192-hectare Wellesbourne site of Warwick HRI, formerly Horticulture Research International.

  • Campaign for Farmed Environment training sessions begin

    18 November 2009

    THE first training sessions for agronomists and farm advisers are being rolled out to kick-start the Campaign for the Farmed Environment.

  • Scientists unveil GM crops alternative

    18 November 2009

    NOVEL crops developed using a new technique of genetic modification could be available in Europe within the next few years and, according to the technique’s developers, they should not be classified as GMOs.

  • Harvest survey results show improved quality

    17 November 2009

    THE quality of this autumn’s cereal harvest was better than last year’s, HGCA’s final Cereal Quality Survey results have confirmed.

  • New malting barley offers significant advances

    17 November 2009

    The development of new spring varieties offering significant advances in both yield and quality offer hope to the malting barley market.

  • BP2009: Harrogate November 25/26 – Seminar programme

    November 13, 2009

    TECHNICAL seminars running on the Potato Council stand will address key industry issues.

  • Farmers must address pesticide concerns regardless of Georgina Downs case

    13 November 2009

    FARMERS will have to address public concerns over crop spraying whatever the outcome of the Georgina Downs legal case, NFU president Peter Kendall has told a conference.

  • Fewer flowers and disease are main threat to bees

    13 November 2009

    FEWER flowers in the countryside and bee disease were cited as the major factors contributing to the decline of the UK bee population, at the BCPC Congress, held in Glasgow.

  • Food security challenge ‘cannot be met without GM’

    13 November 2009

    WORLD leaders will have ‘no chance’ of dealing with the long-term food security problem if they ignore science, including GM technology, a spokesman for the biotech industry has warned.

  • Kendall spells out need for investment in productive agriculture

    13 November 2009

    NFU president Peter Kendall has warned that Governments across the globe must not be dissuaded from investing in productive agriculture as they seek solutions to the problem of food security.

  • Key event for potato growers

    November 13, 2009

    The potato industry is focusing on the Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate, on November 25 and 26. Here’s what’s on.

  • 'Level playing field’ required for crop protection risk assessment

    13 November 2009

    THE risks associated with non-chemical pest, disease and weed control measures prioritised under new European plant protection legislation are often unknown, unmeasured and unmitigated, Paul Leonard of BASF told the BCPC Congress.

  • New formulations may turn resistance clock back

    13 November 2009

    NEW formulation technology could enhance existing crop protection products’ efficacy and possibly turn the resistance development clock back.

  • New pesticides regulation means uncertainty for crop protection products

    13 November 2009

    THE revision of Directive 91/414 is set to bring uncertainty to the market for crop protection products and quite possibly create gaps in the weed, pest and disease control armoury available to farmers.

  • News round-up from the event

    13 November 2009

    CATCH up on all the news from the 2009 BCPC Congress (now called CropWorld), held at the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre in Glasgow.

  • Policy makers have little understanding of the issues

    October 1, 2010

    EUROPEAN pesticide regulators have got to ‘get real’ and stop pretending non-chemical weed control measures can replace herbicides, according to a leading UK grass-weed expert.

  • Scientists need to talk to farmers

    13 November 2009

    THERE were calls at the BCPC Congress for scientists to carefully consider the reason for their research and the way they communicate their findings to farmers and advisers.

  • US wheat growers target 20 per cent yield increase

    13 November 2009

    US wheat growers have set themselves a target of a 20 per cent increase in average national wheat yields by 2018 in a bid to boost the sector and help meeting growing demand for food.

  • FG interviews Dr David Aston

    12 November 2009

    WATCH our interview with Dr David Aston from BCPC Congress 2009 (now CropWorld).

  • BCPC 2009: Food security challenge ‘cannot be met without GM’

    11 November 2009

    WORLD leaders will have ‘no chance’ of dealing with the long-term food security problem if they ignore science, including GM technology, a spokesman for the biotech industry has warned.

  • News round-up from this year's BCPC Congress

    11 November 2009

    FARMERS Guardian has a round-up of news including video interviews with key figures in the global crop production industry from this year’s BCPC Congress, Glasgow.

  • BCPC 2009: Fewer flowers and disease are main threat to bees

    10 November 2009

    FEWER flowers in the countryside and bee disease were cited as the major factors contributing to the decline of the UK bee population, at the BCPC Congress, held in Glasgow.

  • BCPC 2009: Farmers must address pesticide concerns regardless of Georgina Downs case

    10 November 2009

    FARMERS will have to address public concerns over crop spraying whatever the outcome of the Georgina Downs legal case, NFU president Peter Kendall has told a conference.

  • UK grain sector could face dramatic changes

    10 November 2009

    THE dynamics for the UK wheat market are set to change as we produce a lower exportable surplus in the north, and a larger surplus south of The Wash.

  • BCPC 2009: 'Level playing field’ required for crop protection risk assessment

    10 November 2009

    THE risks associated with non-chemical pest, disease and weed control measures prioritised under new European plant protection legislation are often unknown, unmeasured and unmitigated, Paul Leonard of BASF told the BCPC Congress.

  • BCPC 2009: US wheat growers target 20 per cent yield increase

    10 November 2009

    US wheat growers have set themselves a target of a 20 per cent increase in average national wheat yields by 2018 in a bid to boost the sector and help meeting growing demand for food.

  • BCPC 2009: New pesticides regulation means uncertainty for crop protection products

    10 November 2009

    THE revision of Directive 91/414 is set to bring uncertainty to the market for crop protection products and quite possibly create gaps in the weed, pest and disease control armoury available to farmers.

  • BCPC 2009: Kendall spells out need for investment in productive agriculture

    9 November 2009

    NFU president Peter Kendall has warned that Governments across the globe must not be dissuaded from investing in productive agriculture as they seek solutions to the problem of food security.

  • BCPC 2009: Crop production congress opens today

    9 November 2009

    THE BCPC Congress opens today in Glasgow, bringing together key figures in the global crop production industry.

  • Analysing soil info is a valuable asset but comes at a price

    November 6, 2009

    NEW research being funded by HGCA is examining how soil information can be treated as a crop production input.

  • Boron is an essential part of OSR nutrition

    November 6, 2009

    WITH more than 80 per cent of oilseed rape foliar samples tested found to be deficient in boron, growers should be looking to introduce the nutrient to their crop nutrition programmes, says Yara.

  • Buy-back deal for milling wheat candidate

    November 6, 2009

    AGRICULTURAL merchants Gleadell have secured a milling buy-back contract for a significant tonnage of the new winter wheat variety KWS Sterling.

  • CTF upsurge aims to combat in-field variability

    November 6, 2009

    AN upsurge in the uptake of Controlled Traffic Farming (CTF) will see the area farmed using the technique increase by around 5,000 hectares (12,350 acres) in each of the UK, Denmark and Sweden this year.

  • Europe ‘must switch to GM for precision’

    November 6, 2009

    THE HGCA’s R&D conference 2009 aimed to explore how the many aspects of precision farming can be used to get the best out of cropped land. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Exploring the aspects of advanced farming

    November 6, 2009

    HGCA has released dates for its 2009 level 2 ‘Be Precise’ workshops.

  • Help fight rising rodent problem by filling in pest control survey

    November 6, 2009

    THE annual Farm Rodent Control study – run by rodenticide manufacturer BASF Pest Control Solutions, in association with Farmers Guardian – is being extended this year to track the problems caused by mice as well as rats.

  • Milling buy-back contract after ‘positive’ wheat tests

    November 6, 2009

    MERCHANT Gleadell has secured a milling buy-back contract for a ‘significant’ tonnage of the new winter wheat variety KWS Sterling.

  • Monitoring reveals a reduced sensitivity to fungicide

    November 6, 2009

    WHEAT mildew isolates with reduced sensitivity to the fungicide metrafenone have been identified during routine disease monitoring conducted by agchem manufacturer BASF.

  • Out-grade potatoes to power Branston

    November 6, 2009

    POTATO supply and distribution business Branston is to use potato out-grades to fuel a new anaerobic digestion plant.

  • Potential in mapping and sensing on wheat

    November 6, 2009

    MAPPING and sensing have significant potential to bring about improvements in wheat production while at the same time delivering environmental or practical benefits.

  • Precision is of little benefit on half of farms, says leading scientist

    November 6, 2009

    WHILE precision farming technologies currently available for measuring and managing within-field variation, offer opportunities for improving crop management and farm profitability, they are not suitable for use on all farms, ADAS soil scientist Peter Dampney told the conference.

  • TAG warns don’t hold off with Atlantis applications

    November 6, 2009

    BIG in-field variations in wheat growth stages are raising questions about timing of grass-weed herbicide Atlantis but autumn applications should still take priority, says The Arable Group.

  • Trials underline importance of moisture to establishment

    November 6, 2009

    The importance of moisture conservation when establishing oilseed rape during a dry autumn has been confirmed by trials in East Anglia.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about autumn disease in winter cereals

    November 6, 2009

    SOME of the more forward cereal crops are showing signs of powdery mildew.

  • Concerns for this year's wheat mycotoxin levels reduced

    3 November 2009

    THIS harvest’s wheat is significantly less likely to be above EC maximum permitted mycotoxin levels than wheat grown in the harvest years 2007 and 2008, the Food Standards Agency has said in a letter to industry stakeholders.

  • £750,000 investment will secure grain store and dryer

    October 30, 2009

    FARMER-owned North East Grains Storage has secured nearly £750,000-worth of funding to invest in a new 20,000-tonne grain store and 60-tonne per hour dryer.

  • Achieving a balance between farming and a wildlife haven

    October 30, 2009

    BORDERED by sea and river, with bustling Kings Lynn in between, the location of Gavin Lane’s Norfolk farm is unique. Farming below sea level and on the urban fringe brings challenges and opportunities, as Clemmie Gleeson finds out.

  • Baby veg retain consumer appeal

    October 30, 2009

    SALES in baby vegetables may have taken a temporary dip in the current recession, but there are still opportunities for growers, believes regional sales manager Chris Bettinson.

  • Better application accuracy with air

    October 30, 2009

    NEW granular fertiliser and nematicide applicators from Horstine for use in the potato crop have been designed with application accuracy in mind.

  • Extending sprouting broccoli season

    October 30, 2009

    THE quest for an increasing season of sprouting broccoli is making progress since the introduction of Santee.

  • Mixture strategy best for weed control in brassicas

    October 30, 2009

    USING a combination of herbicides is key to optimum weed control in brassica crops, a UAP trial in cabbage and Brussels sprouts has confirmed.

  • New parsnip variety produces weight down the root

    October 30, 2009

    Showcasing trial work and new varieties was the aim of the open day at Elsoms Seeds’ trials site at Spalding, Lincolnshire. Clemmie Gleeson reports.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about post-emergence weed control in oilseed rape

    October 30, 2009

    THE dry autumn compromised performance of many pre-emergence herbicides in rape.

  • ‘Supercarb’ teases young to fall in love with spuds

    29 October 2009

    THE Potato Council is launching a ‘Love Potatoes’ campaign with the aim of regaining market share from rival carbohydrates such as rice and pasta.

  • Guide highlights best practice pest control

    29 October 2009

    A BEST practice guide to legal and effective control of pests has been published by CAIP, the campaign against accidental or illegal poisoning.

  • Mainstream winter wheat varieties put to test

    29 October 2009

    ONE of the largest early drilling trials ever to be staged in the UK is underway at a trials site in Yorkshire where 16 mainstream winter wheat varieties have been drilled early this season to be taken through to yield.

  • ‘Attention to detail’ key to early drilling of winter wheat

    29 October 2009

    EARLY drilling of winter wheat is a high risk strategy but one in which growers are showing more of an interest.

  • Farming industry must deliver on its promises

    29 October 2009

    ARABLE farmers in England have been told they hold their future in their own hands in terms of how they are regulated, ahead of next week’s launch of the Campaign for the Farmed Environment.

  • A growing opportunity for energy crop maize

    October 23, 2009

    Norfolk farmer and contractor Oliver Arnold is working with Surrey-based Cosigas to build a one megawatt biogas plant.

  • Consider persistence when selecting beet seed treatment

    October 23, 2009

    FULL sugar beet contract packs recently sent out by British Sugar include three options for insecticidal seed treatments on 2010 seed orders.

  • Divided views as millers are accused of 'letting down wheat supply chain'

    October 23, 2009

    THE NFU has this week accused millers of ‘letting down the whole wheat supply chain’ as a result of their intention to continue with both risk assessment within farm assurance and on-farm and random at-mill mycotoxin testing in 2009-10.

  • Profits up at United Oilseeds

    October 23, 2009

    UNITED Oilseeds has reported a bumper year, with pre-tax profit of £1.03 million and a 44 per cent increase in farm members for the financial year to 30 June 2009.

  • Think big to make savings on slug pellets

    October 23, 2009

    A BULK bag for slug pellets has been launched by agricultural merchant CropCo, saving time and effort when using fertiliser spreaders to apply pellets.

  • Tough action against IPU law breakers

    October 23, 2009

    FARMERS or agronomists who still have products in farm stores containing the herbicide isoproturon (IPU) should arrange for prompt and proper disposal and not be tempted to use or recommend it under any circumstances, warns the Voluntary Initiative.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about aphid and BYDV control in cereals

    October 23, 2009

    APHID numbers are reported to be above average in most areas.

  • Wheat bulb fly survey reveals high egg count

    October 23, 2009

    RESULTS from HGCA’s annual autumn wheat bulb fly survey have revealed the presence of high egg numbers.

  • Wheat yields anxiety

    22 October 2009

    WORLD wheat yields have not and are not increasing sufficiently to meet the projected demand for food in 2030.

  • British Sugar's contract service available online

    21 October 2009

    BRITISH Sugar’s online beet contract has attracted almost half the number of target growers within two weeks of its launch.

  • Farmers urged to complete Crop Protection Management Plans

    20 October 2009

    FARMERS are being urged to show their support for the use of voluntary measures to tackle crop protection challenges facing the industry by completing one of the newly revised Crop Protection Management Plans.

  • Millers ‘letting supply chain down’ with mycotoxin approach

    20 October 2009

    THE NFU has accused millers of ‘letting down the whole wheat supply chain’ in adopting a ‘belt and braces’ approach to mycotoxin risk.

  • Advice on control of septoria tritici in 2010 remains unchanged

    October 16, 2009

    ADVICE for control of septoria tritici remains unchanged for 2010 despite ongoing concerns over potential loss of activity of azole fungicides and recent reports about the emergence of new, more resistant strains of the disease.

  • Balance PGR activity with need for control

    October 16, 2009

    OILSEED rape crops in the West are likely to be showing the first signs of phoma in the next few days and growers are advised to be alert to the disease particularly with such a variation in crop size this season.

  • Beet cyst nematode on the move

    October 16, 2009

    SUGAR beet pest beet cyst nematode is extending its range north and west, from traditional fenland hotspots, testing has revealed.

  • Cereal Watch - October

    October 16, 2009

    THE autumn drought made achieving good seedbed conditions hard work, but both Cereal Watch growers have gone ahead with planned pre-emergence herbicide applications.

  • Little change in phoma predictions but LLS risk higher

    October 16, 2009

    THE first signs of phoma infections are appearing in oilseed rape crops slightly later than usual this autumn across the country as a whole.

  • Mapping a path to improved margins

    October 16, 2009

    YIELD maps are sometimes derided as nothing more than pretty pictures or a simple snap-shot of a single harvest.

  • Off label approval for flumioxazin

    October 16, 2009

    THE residual and contact-acting herbicide, flumioxazin, available as Guillotine, has a new off label approval for use in winter oats.

  • Scottish malting barley gets boost

    October 16, 2009

    CONSUMER goods business Diageo has reaffirmed its commitment to using Scottish malting barley, according to NFU Scotland leaders.

  • Virus threat to oilseed rape crops

    October 16, 2009

    OILSEED rape growers are being advised to expect higher levels of turnip yellows virus (TuYV) in untreated crops.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about disease control in oilseed rape?

    October 16, 2009

    THE prolonged dry spell checked development of phoma but recent rainfall may have kick-started the life cycle.

  • Defra backs fund for new crop protection products

    15 October 2009

    DEFRA has backed plans for a £13 million research and development fund to develop new crop protection products following confirmation of the EU’s ban on a range of vital pesticides.

  • Potato quality concerns as east/west divide opens up

    13 October 2009

    AN east/west divide on quality issues is opening up as the potato harvest progresses, according to experts at Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit (SBEU).

  • Bioenergy event is ‘huge success’

    12 October 2009

    FARMERS journeyed from all four corners of the UK to Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, to find out how they could develop their business using green energy last week.

  • Don’t get complacent on slug control threat

    October 9, 2009

    BE extra vigilant and be ready to act against the threat posed by slugs this autumn when the current dry spell ends, growers are being advised.

  • Grain trade challenged to back CFE

    October 9, 2009

    This year’s HGCA Grain Market Outlook conference, the first following completion of the reorganisation of levy boards to form the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), took the theme ‘Meeting Future Challenges’. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Opinion: Focus on sustainable crop production

    October 9, 2009

    Dr Tina Barsby talks about addressing the issue of sustainability.

  • OSR trials to help get a grasp of crop potential

    October 9, 2009

    AGRONOMY and crop protection business Agrovista is setting up six oilseed rape trials sites across the UK with the aim of gaining a better understanding of OSR crop potential.

  • Seed treatments will remain effective following establishment delays

    October 9, 2009

    WITH rain finally arriving in the East of England this week in what has been one of the driest autumns in memory, Dominic Kilburn seeks advice on how the drought conditions may have affected cereal seed treatment performance as crops wait to get established.

  • Using the right header can improve efficiency throughout harvest

    October 9, 2009

    IF you can’t get the crop into the combine, the threshing system cannot work efficiently, however big it may be. Andy Collings takes a look at two alternative headers working under tough conditions in the UK this season.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about meadow grass control in cereals

    October 9, 2009

    The loss of IPU has made meadow grass control more expensive, and for some crops has severely limited the product choice.

  • Wheat market price gradient?

    October 9, 2009

    NEW demand for wheat as bioethanol plants come on stream could result in a price gradient developing in the UK wheat market, according to a leading analyst.

  • Grain trade challenged to back Campaign for the Farmed Environment

    7 October 2009

    AGRONOMISTS and farm advisers will play a key role in delivering the Campaign for the Farmed Environment, NFU head of economics and international affairs, Tom Hind, told the HGCA Grain Market Outlook Conference yesterday (Tuesday, October 6).

  • Landmark merger set to put Scottish science on the map

    7 October 2009

    TWO of Scotland’s leading science institutes are to join forces to form a new research centre for food, land use and climate change.

  • British Sugar confirms 2010/11 beet price

    6 October 2009

    BRITISH Sugar and the NFU have agreed a price for 2010/11 beet contracts, but negotiations are set to continue in an attempt to thrash out a more sustainable, long-term deal.

  • Oakley out of trials but remains on HGCA RL

    5 October 2009

    WINTER wheat variety Oakley has been removed from HGCA Recommended List trials following the revision of its yellow rust rating earlier this year.

  • NIAB and TAG join forces to create new crop research centre

    2 October 2009

    THE National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) and The Arable Group (TAG) have joined forces to create a national, independent crop research and information centre.

  • A tough year ahead for malting barley

    2 October 2009

    Finding a market for malting barley and gaining a significant premium will be tough in 2009/2010, according to Openfield head of barley Nick Coe.

  • Exclusive deal for Masstock

    2 October 2009

    RECOMMENDED List candidate wheat KWS Quartz is to be marketed exclusively by Masstock Arable.

  • Health drink could provide a ready market for organic Fen beetroots

    2 October 2009

    Organic beetroot grown in the Cambridgeshire Fens could be destined for the supermarket shelves in the form of a locally-manufactured organic health drink.

  • Mixed feelings about the French decision to offer a pulses subsidy

    2 October 2009

    French pulse growers look set to receive a financial boost in the form of a new national subsidy available to them over the next three years.

  • Oakley dominates plantings despite poor rust rating

    2 October 2009

    This autumn’s wheat planting figures look set to make unhappy reading for grain exporters, with Group 4 feed wheats accounting for nearly two-thirds of seed sales and Group 3s down to just nine per cent.

  • PGRO levy to rise by 8p/tonne

    2 October 2009

    The PGRO levy for combining peas and beans is to increase in 2010.

  • Potential to improve the demand and agronomy of non-food crops

    2 October 2009

    THE new InCrops Project based at Easton College in Norfolk aims to promote production of alternative and non-food crops. Clemmie Gleeson went to find out more.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about timing for pre-emergence grass weed herbicides

    2 October 2009

    Pre-emergence grass weed control is increasingly important as post-emergence products weaken.

  • Potato growers can apply for a derogation to extend irrigation season

    30 September 2009

    POTATO growers in the east of the country whose seasonal irrigation licences may have expired this week, but who still need to irrigate prior to harvest to assist lifting crops in the very dry conditions, can apply to the Environment Agency for a specific derogation.

  • Little optimism on grain prices

    30 September 2009

    THE world market remains awash with wheat and the UK grain sector could be looking to sell around two million tonnes onto that market.

  • 2009 UK wheat production down as plantings and yields drop

    25 September 2009

    UK WHEAT production fell below the average of the past five years this harvest, according to NFU estimates.

  • EU ministers adopt ‘scandalous’ pesticide rules

    25 September 2009

    NEW rules to limit the use of pesticides will harm Europe’s ability to increase agricultural production at a time when it is needed the most, farmers have warned.

  • Arable Focus: Black-grass dormancy levels high

    25 September 2009

    This autumn’s dry conditions have overtaken any consideration of black-grass dormancy levels in black-grass control planning, agronomists are advising.

  • Arable Focus: Cropping decision is easier with time

    25 September 2009

    WITH the 2009/10 sugar beet harvesting campaign already underway, cropping decisions for land following beet will be on the agenda in the very near future.

  • Arable Focus: Dual approach to sprayers pays off

    25 September 2009

    A Lincolnshire farmer is running a self-propelled and trailed sprayer on the same farm.

  • Arable Focus: On the road to a one tractor operation

    25 September 2009

    A ‘baby’ Challenger tractor is proving its worth for Warwickshire farmer Sam Burton with its versatility and light tread. Jane Carley reports.

  • Arable Focus: Protecting profits with a windrower

    25 September 2009

    Windrowing potatoes is not for everyone but for one Borders-based contractor, it is an essential part of harvesting.

  • Arable Focus: Rolling contract for a high specification

    25 September 2009

    Fast food giant McDonald’s demand for potato products from home-grown, quality assured potatoes is opening up market opportunities for UK growers.

  • European Bioenergy Expo and Conference

    25 September 2009

    THE European Bioenergy Expo and Conference takes place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, (October 8-10), and will showcase the best technology, the latest thinking and the hottest debates surrounding bioenergy.

  • Later harvested wheats reduce average

    25 September 2009

    HGCA winter wheat Recommended List trials for 2009 are complete, all the results have been analysed and yield overall has come in at just under the five-year average.

  • One stop shop for farmers

    25 September 2009

    Farmers interested in the potential of anaerobic digestion can now benefit from a new time-saving ‘one-stop-shop’ that brings together specialist information about AD in one place.

  • Weather is a factor in slug pellet application

    25 September 2009

    Keeping a watch on the weatehr forecast before applying slug pellets has never more important say’s Masstock agronomist Jon Tarr.

  • D-day for pesticides as new EU regulation is put to the vote

    24 September 2009

    THE Government is set to vote against controversial proposals in the EU which could see a vast number of pesticides banned, leaving farmers facing reduced crop yields.

  • Tillage 2009 preview

    23 September 2009

    THE second part of Tillage 2009 takes place today, Thursday, October 1, at Spylaw, near Kelso.

  • New partnership to promote responsible pesticide use

    22 September 2009

    RESPONSIBLE pesticide use and water protection are to be promoted to farmers in England via a new strategic partnership formed between the Voluntary Initiative and the England Catchment Sensitive Farming Delivery Initiative.

  • Wheat production down for 2009 as weather takes its toll

    18 September 2009

    THE latest results of the NFU’s harvest survey show wheat production is down on the five year average.

  • Anti-sprouting innovation at Potato Europe

    18 September 2009

    THE Restrain ethylene storage system has won the Potato Europe Innovation Award for 2009.

  • Applying autumn Boron can assist OSR establishment

    18 September 2009

    GROWERS returning oilseed rape to the rotation this year are being reminded of the crop’s appetite for a crucial trace element.

  • Cereal Watch - September

    18 September 2009

    WHILE they don’t differ hugely in terms of latitude, the contrast in harvest fortunes between our two Cereal Watch farms illustrates clearly the North West/South East divide in UK weather fortunes this summer.

  • Dry down your beans

    18 September 2009

    Bean crops in store must be dried down to 14 per cent moisture content for long-term storage, says the Processors and Growers Research Association.

  • Millionth tonne of wheat

    18 September 2009

    GRAIN marketing business Frontier Agriculture has delivered its millionth tonne of wheat into the Cargill starches and sweeteners plant in Manchester’s Trafford Park.

  • Opportunity to create a stale seedbed

    18 September 2009

    Extended periods of dry weather in East Anglia this year have opened up weed control opportunities.

  • Potato lifting conditions vary widely across UK

    18 September 2009

    POTATO harvesting conditions are extremely variable across the country, with conditions too dry in the eastern counties and too wet in Scotland.

  • Stacking and sequencing most effective

    18 September 2009

    RETHINKING herbicide strategies may be needed if effective and economic control of certain grass-weeds is to be maintained following recent pesticide legislation changes, according to new research from HGCA.

  • Turnip saw fly activity discovered in OSR crops

    18 September 2009

    OILSEED rape growers are being advised to stay alert for turnip saw fly larvae activity following discovery of the pest on crops in the south of England.

  • Volunteers needed for crop spraying scheme

    15 September 2009

    VOLUNTEERS are being sought to take part in a nationwide trial of the ‘Neighbour Reassurance’ scheme for prior notification of crop spraying.

  • Father of the Green Revolution Norman Borlaug dies

    15 September 2009

    THE father of the Green Revolution, Norman Borlaug, has died aged 95.

  • Benn’s food policy advisers target fruit and veg

    15 September 2009

    ENVIRONMENT Secretary Hilary Benn’s team of food policy advisers have told him to encourage the production and consumption of more home-grown fruit and vegetables.

  • ‘Highly resistant’ septoria strain found in field samples

    11 September 2009

    SEPTORIA tritici monitoring conducted by The Arable Group (TAG) has indicated the presence of a strain of the disease described as ‘highly resistant’ to triazole fungicides.

  • Adjust cropping based on margins, if possible

    11 September 2009

    SCOTTISH arable farmers are being urged to take a close look at costs and margins before they commit to planting this autumn.

  • Make your own fuel and feed – it’s easy

    11 September 2009

    Rapidly diminishing oil reserves, the rising price of transport fuel and the drive for environmentally-friendly technology mean one thing - vehicles need green fuel.

  • Minimising spray drift to get best from herbicides

    11 September 2009

    APPLICATION timeliness and performance of pre-emergence herbicides can be improved with a new purpose-designed nozzle, say its developers.

  • Modern wheat meets traditional miller’s needs

    11 September 2009

    Modern commercial milling wheat varieties are playing a part in preserving a centuries-old tradition of producing high-quality, stone-ground wholemeal flour at one of the country’s last-remaining watermill.

  • Now is the time to correct soil problems

    11 September 2009

    THE post-harvest period is an ideal time to correct any soil problems from the past year, the Cross Compliance Advice Programme is advising farmers.

  • Pesticide evidence does not support ban to protect bees - NFU

    11 September 2009

    THE NFU is calling for an independent assessment of the impact of neonicotinoids after a Buglife report implicated these insecticides in the decline of honey bees.

  • RL candidates show promise as yellow rust takes centre stage

    11 September 2009

    Encouraging performance from established varieties.

  • Rust resistance key in variety choice as disease ratings fall

    11 September 2009

    YELLOW rust resistance ratings have been revised for several winter wheat varieties following this season’s disease outbreak.

  • UK backs GM approvals overhaul

    10 September 2009

    THE UK Government gave its backing to calls to speed up the approval process for GM crops within the EU amid fears the current system could decimate livestock production.

  • Farmers begin salvage operation after heavy flooding

    9 September 2009

    FARMERS in Scotland are facing a major salvage operation after storms battered parts of the country last week, leaving fields flooded and crops sodden.

  • Consider buying in quality grain to fulfil contracts - NFU

    8 September 2009

    THE NFU is advising farmers whose own harvest has not come up to scratch to consider buying in quality grain from other farmers to fulfil their contracts.

  • Partnership approach to Water Framework Directive

    4 September 2009

    THE Environment Agency and key sponsors of the industry-led Voluntary Initiative (VI) have agreed a partnership approach to implementing the pesticide components of the Water Framework Directive.

  • Demand for potential premium earners

    4 September 2009

    Winter wheat varieties with premium-earning potential are in demand this autumn as growers largely focus on five main varieties and rein back on a push into Group 4 feed varieties, according to latest seed sales figures from Openfield.

  • Northern beans fare better than the south

    4 September 2009

    First impressions of this year’s bean crop is quality has been split across the country, the northern growing region faring better than the south.

  • Safeguarding the future of rare arable plants on-farm

    4 September 2009

    ARABLE farmers in North Yorkshire have helped save a number of rare arable plants from extinction. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Target fertilisers in OSR

    4 September 2009

    Carefully targeted autumn fertiliser can help safeguard the success of oilseed rape crops, according to fertiliser manufacturer Yara.

  • Yellow rust resistance ratings revised

    3 September 2009

    YELLOW rust resistance ratings have been revised for several winter wheat varieties following this season’s disease outbreak.

  • Sugar beet price negotiations remain in deadlock

    2 September 2009

    SUGAR beet price negotiations remain in deadlock after growers this week backed NFU Sugar to press for a higher price for the 2010 crop than that on offer from British Sugar.

  • Natural England announces £4m flood project  

    2 September 2009

    NATURAL England will spend £4 million to flood large swathes of England, including some productive arable land, in a bid to restore lost wetlands and prevent urban flooding.

  • Key Issues : Weed control after IPU with BASF

    28 August 2009

    In the latest of the Key Issues sponsored series, BASF’s Sarah Mountford-Smith says, the withdrawal of IPU - together with trifluralin - certainly restricts growers’ flexibility in terms of post-emergence herbicides.

  • Soil Association calls on Benn to uphold herbicide ban

    28 August 2009

    THE Soil Association (SA) has written to Defra Secretary Hilary Benn calling on him to maintain the ban on the herbicide aminopyralid, which was withdrawn from the market last year.

  • Attention to detail is key to grass weed control success

    August 28th 2009

    How are you tackling grass-weeds this autumn? Farmers Guardian talked to three growers around the country, who are having some success with their grass-weed control programmes, to find out what their approach will be.

  • Cutting the cost of cultivations

    August 28th 2009

    The switch from plough and power harrow drill system to a winged cultivator and tine drill has sent establishment costs crashing through the floor for one Dorset grower. Geoff Ashcroft reports

  • Follow drill for successful sowing

    August 28th 2009

    Even drilling depth and seed placement along the row is the essential foundation for successful crop establishment. ?Here we look at some examples of the different approaches being taken by some manufacturers who will be exhibiting at the Tillage Events.

  • Pre-em mix is critical after a difficult year with black-grass

    August 28th 2009

    Do not blame failings on the part of Atlantis or Pacifica sprays applied this season for the high grass weed burdens found in some cereal crops, says Chris Bean.

  • First wheats’ strong show in RL trials

    27 August 2009

    WINTER wheat Recommended List trials yields are mirroring the commercial harvest with first wheats performing well and second wheats doing not so well.

  • Calls for solidarity ahead of sugar price meeting

    24 August 2009

    THE NFU has called on sugar growers to show solidarity ahead of its price meeting next month after recent talks with British Sugar collapsed.

  • Arable Focus: Optimistic signs for harvest

    August 21st 2009

    A SMALLER, better quality cereal crop with increased domestic demand and the chance to compete in more international markets, could mean a good year for UK grain growers, if the first, tentative,optimistic noises from traders and analysts are to be believed.

  • Careful agronomy key to rust control

    August 21st 2009

    A NEW race of yellow rust appearing earlier on this season has dominated the winter wheat crop ‘disease headlines’, but advisers in the field suggest that, while growers must tailor their agronomy to keep the disease at bay for next season, it is definitely not a panic situation.

  • Climate change expected to shift disease threat

    August 21st 2009

    WITH climate change expected to shift disease threats to potatoes growing in Scotland and elsewhere, research at the Scottish Crop Research Institute is examining a number of key pests and diseases. The aim is to identify some of the potential problems and solutions.

  • Fertiliser prices remain steady

    August 21st 2009

    FERTILISER prices remain dramatically below the bank-breaking levels of 12 months ago.

  • Green Dragon turns up the heat

    August 21st 2009

    A trail-blazing co-operative is providing a range of green food, fuel and energy. Dominic Kilburn finds out how.

  • Harvest is going well, but trade remains quiet

    August 21st 2009

    HARVEST is progressing well, but buying and selling activity remains limited, with a reasonable amount of forward cover already taken.

  • Looking for some stimulus in the global grain market

    August 21st 2009

    RELATIVELY low prices on the cereals market are not drawing out many vendors.

  • R&D response to pesticide legislation

    August 21st 2009

    LONG-term funding plans for research to maintain and improve control of a range of potato crop weeds, pests and diseases are in place in response to the recent review of EU pesticide legislation and the implementation of the Water Framework Directive.

  • Seven candidate varieties progress as OSR results come in

    August 21st 2009

    WITH harvesting of Recommended List winter oilseed rape trials all but complete, the East and West region results table could be described as the 2010/11 Recommended List, without the recommendations, says RL manager Jim McVittie.

  • Slug pelleting takes top priority, but weather window holds key

    August 21st 2009

    Dodging showers and prioritising field operations have been part and parcel of harvest and establishment over the past few years which makes for quick decision-making but also some compromises.

  • Time for a hard look at drying and storage

    August 21st 2009

    Last year’s difficult harvest will have focused the minds of many arable farmers in the UK whose on-farm grain drying and storage facilities struggled to cope with a big and wet crop.

  • USDA predicting the second largest corn harvest in history

    August 21st 2009

    The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) predicts the second largest corn crop in US history, falling just short of 13 billion bushels.

  • Winning battle with heavy land means getting everything right

    August 21st 2009

    We meet a Northamptonshire farmer who believes he has found the right cultivator to match his soil type.

  • Key Issues : Pre-em herbicides with Bayer CropScience

    20 August 2009

    In the latest of the Key Issues sponsored series, Bayer CropScience’s Gary Jobling says efforts to ensure pre-emergence herbicides are correctly applied at the right timing will be well rewarded.

  • Warmer weather eases harvest worries

    20 August 2009

    FARMERS attempting to bring in this year’s harvest were given a reprieve as warm weather over the past few days dried out waterlogged fields, giving growers the opportunity to get the combines rolling.

  • Sugar negotiations in disarray

    19 August 2009

    SUGAR beet price negotiations for 2010 are in disarray after the NFU said talks with British Sugar had collapsed.

  • Average to good for 2009 pea harvest

    18 August 2009

    IT has been a catchy time for harvesting combining peas this year but, overall, yields and quality are average to good, according to Dr Anthony Biddle, PGRO technical director.

  • Prizes up for grabs in NFU harvest survey

    18 August 2009

    THE NFU is urging arable farmers across England and Wales to complete its annual harvest survey and get the chance to win one of three bird-scaring devices.

  • Syngenta launch free weather service

    18 August 2009

    A premium five-day weather service from Syngenta is available free to all farmers.

  • Potato Council confirms field event

    18 August 2009

    POTATO Council’s East Anglian Potato Event takes place on Thursday September 3 at Hall Farm, Colby, near Norwich. 

  • Consumer attitude to GM softens

    18 August 2009

    LAST week Hilary Benn, environment secretary, said ‘all the evidence’ suggested GM food was safe to eat.

  • EU stance on GM could decimate UK livestock production

    17 August 2009

    EUROPE’S stance on GM crops could lead to a 300 per cent spike in feed costs and decimate Britain’s pig and poultry sectors, a Defra report has warned.

  • EFSA proposes new pesticide risk assessment

    17 August 2009

    THE European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has launched a public consultation on guidance on the assessment of risks associated with pesticides to workers, bystanders and, for the first time, residents.

  • Defra ready to lift restrictions on waterlogged soils

    14 August 2009

    DEFRA is ready to lift cross-compliance rules restricting the use of machinery on waterlogged soil after recent downpours have left many farmers struggling to bring in the harvest.

  • Anger as Scotch whisky firm imports Swedish malt

    14 August 2009

    NFU Scotland has expressed its anger after it revealed drinks manufacturer Diageo had imported 3,000 tonnes of Swedish malt.

  • Early RL list trials results show OSR yields rise

    August 14th 2009

    EARLY results from this season’s Recommended List winter oilseed rape trials series indicate yields are well up on last year.

  • Sprouting should not be a huge problem this season

    August 14th 2009

    REPORTS of winter wheat crops breaking dormancy are of some concern, but with good progress being made on combining this week, it is unlikely that sprouting will be a serious problem this season, say agronomists.

  • Take-all trials reveal second wheat woes

    August 14th 2009

    FINAL NIAB root assessments at all five HGCA second wheat Recommended List trial sites across the country confirm national take-all infections are particularly high for the third successive year, putting 2009 second cereal plantings at particular risk.

  • Winter OSR: Learn lessons from previous seasons

    August 14th 2009

    TWO consecutive seasons which clearly demonstrated the effects of seedbed conditions on the viability of winter oilseed rape, should focus growers’ minds on taking the utmost care with establishment this year.

  • World first robotic crop protection formulation facility

    August 14th 2009

    THE world’s first robotic crop protection formulation facility has been opened by HRH The Princess Royal during a visit to a UK research centre.

  • Take opportunity to really sort your soils

    13 August 2009

    SUB-SOILING should be a key task this autumn after two years in which it has been virtually impossible to complete effectively, growers are being advised.

  • Sprouting unlikely to be a big problem

    13 August 2009

    REPORTS of winter wheat crops breaking dormancy are of some concern, but with good progress being made on combining this week, it is unlikely that sprouting will be a serious problem this season, say agronomists.

  • Planning ahead to meet food security and climate demands

    13 August 2009

    A DETERMINATION to plan ahead and embrace the issue of climate change will provide UK agriculture with new opportunities and benefits, according to one Lincolnshire farmer.

  • GM could help tackle food security says Benn

    13 August 2009

    HILARY Benn, Environment Secretary, has backed GM food as safe to eat, reminding the public that most beef eaten in Britain is GM fed.

  • NFU members back a voluntary spraying move

    13 August 2009

    AN NFU survey has revealed strong support for a voluntary code of practice to reassure neighbours when they spray their crops.

  • Rain hampers harvest as progress is slow

    7 August 2009

    HARVEST has been slow across the country this week as rains have continued to hamper growers’ progress.

  • Erwinia hits seed potatoes

    August 7th 2009

    RESULTS of recent seed potato crop inspections published by Dutch seed inspection organisation NAK shows downgrades and rejections have been higher than in 2008. In 68 per cent of cases, erwinia was responsible. 

  • Keep track of disease with weekly alerts

    August 7th 2009

    GROWERS in the core brassica growing areas of Lincolnshire and The Wash can receive weekly updates of disease risks and pest attacks by registering for the free Brassica Alert service at www.syngenta-crop.co.uk.

  • Look out for rhizomania

    August 7th 2009

    Rhizomania is rapidly developing in a number of fields.

  • Mycotoxin risk assessments important

    August 7th 2009

    ARABLE farmers should ensure mycotoxin risk assessments are correct ahead of the wheat harvest.

  • Pre-em tank mixing can help control black-grass – and costs

    August 7th 2009

    Cost-effective black-grass control from tank-mixing pre-em herbicides.

  • Research to gauge rotting risk

    August 7th 2009

    A project aims to find a simple, quick early test to gauge rotting risk.

  • Second wheats need special care this season

    August 7th 2009

    GOOD variety choice and first class agronomy will be especially important this autumn if growers are to get their second wheats back on track after the challenges of the current season.

  • Warning on metaldehyde dose rates

    August 7th 2009

    Plan metaldehyde slug pellet does rates to ensure levels are not exceeded.

  • Yields are holding up despite the conditions

    August 7th 2009

    MUCH like harvest on-farm, the wet weather is disrupting HGCA Recommended Lists trials harvesting too.

  • Benchmarking model for potato growers available online

    6 August 2009

    A benchmarking model developed for potato growers is now available online for the first time.

  • Warm wet weather encourages rhizomania in sugar beet

    5 August 2009

    THE warm wet weather has encouraged rapid development of rhizomania in sugar beet crops and symptoms are visible in a number of fields, says the BBRO.

  • Seed potato crop rejections higher than 2008

    5 August 2009

    RESULTS of recent seed potato crop inspections published by Dutch seed inspection organisation NAK show downgrades and rejections have been higher than in 2008.

  • Beans unable to develop due to last year's wet weather

    5 August 2009

    SHORT, blackened roots and premature ripening being seen in some winter beans crops is likely to be the result of last autumn’s less than ideal soil conditions, says the PGRO.

  • Wheat price down as world production soars

    5 August 2009

    A COMBINATION of good wheat crops around the world, record reserves of grain carried over from last year and an expected bumper US crop have put downward pressure on the price of wheat.

  • Fresh calls to revive Britain's apple industry

    3 August 2009

    THERE have been fresh calls to revive the British apple industry after a study revealed New Zealand apples exported to Britain generated their own weight in carbon emissions.

  • Seed Varieties: Tight wheat market is full of potential

    31 July 2009

    With harvest underway, now is the time for fine-tuning variety decisions for the coming season.

  • Seed Varieties: Early start needs careful handling

    31 July 2009

    After last autumn’s difficulties growers are expected to plan for an early start to their 2009 drilling campaign. However early drilling has its pitfalls as well as pluses.

  • Seed Varieties: Look beyond traditional traits for improving OSR productivity

    July 31st 2009

    Vigour, manageability and harvestability are key varietal characteristics to be prioritised alongside gross output to improve the consistency and value of UK oilseed rape production, believes one leading breeder.

  • Seed Varieties: Oilseed rape area to make a comeback

    July 31st 2009

    THE winter oilseed rape area will bounce back this autumn following a mixed year in 2008/09.

  • Smooth operator both in the field and on the road

    July 31st 2009

    VALTRA’S new Versu models bring a powershift gearbox to market that edges ever closer to the user-friendliness of a CVT.

  • Topic sheet from HGCA

    July 31st 2009

    INFORMATION on minimising the risk of water contamination when using oilseed rape herbicides is available in a new topic sheet published by HGCA.

  • Water protection advice

    July 31st 2009

    A NEW booklet containing advice on keeping crop protection products out of water has been published by the Voluntary Initiative.

  • Follow best practice advice on pesticides

    30 July 2009

    ACT now to protect water and avoid restrictions on the availability of key pesticides used in oilseed rape, growers and agronomists are being advised.

  • Farmers urged to take mycotoxins risk assessments seriously

    30 July 2009

    ARABLE farmers are being urged to ensure they get their mycotoxin risk assessments right, ahead of this year’s wheat harvest.

  • Beware annual metaldehyde limits

    30 July 2009

    POTATO growers planning to follow potato crops with winter wheat are being urged to plan ahead to ensure recommended maximum metaldehyde slug pellet dose rates are not exceeded.

  • Arable farmers urged to sow flower rich margins to boost wildlife

    29 July 2009

    THE RSPB is calling on farmers to create flower rich margins around arable fields in response to new research showing they provide greater wildlife benefits than grass-only margins.

  • Fertiliser industry lays out plan to tackle climate change

    29 July 2009

    THE fertiliser industry has come up with a detailed plan to meet burgeoning global food demand while limiting the impact fertilisers have on climate change.

  • GM potato trial back on track  

    28 July 2009

    A TRIAL to develop genetically modified potatoes has re-commenced in defiance against activists who vandalised the crop this time last year.

  • Harvest: Wet weather hampers progress

    24 July 2009

    INDIFFERENT weather has interrupted the start of this season’s harvest but, where winter malting barley is concerned, first indications are showing good yields and low nitrogen levels.

  • €1m pledge for pollinator habitats

    24 July 2009

    AGCHEM manufacturer Syngenta is to fund a five-year programme to provide essential habitat and food sources for pollinating insects across Europe.

  • ‘Grain cannot be satisfactorily sampled from bin’

    24 July 2009

    NEW grain sampling guidelines for 2009 are intended to enable growers to test for grain quality and mycotoxins.

  • Methiocarb slug control gets full label recommendation

    24 July 2009

    NEW methiocarb slug pellets have full label recommendations for use in potatoes, cereals and oilseed rape, plus other vegetable and horticultural crops.

  • New Products round-up: Monitoring stored grain wirelessly

    24 July 2009

    A NEW wireless system for monitoring stored grain allows information on changes in condition to be transmitted to a laptop and logged for reference.

  • Show your artistic side in bale sculpture competition

    24 July 2009

    BREAKFAST cereal manufacturer Weetabix has joined forces with the National Farmers’ Union (NFU) to offer farmers the chance to win up to £5,000 by creating wheat bale sculptures on their farms.

  • Metaldehyde 1.5pc pellet application

    24 July 2009

    NEW 1.5 per cent metaldehyde formulation slug pellets can be used up to six times on potatoes and still allow for three applications in the autumn on a following crop, says manufacturer Chiltern Farm Chemicals.

  • Fertiliser answer booklets

    24 July 2009

    GrowHow UK has published two booklets and an area on its website to answer some questions about fertilisers.

  • OSR cyst nematode study

    24 July 2009

    THE prevalence of cyst nematodes in UK oilseed rape fields is being surveyed by a PhD study at Harper Adams University College.

  • Web-based training for Fazor

    24 July 2009

    POTATO advisors and growers can use an updated web-based training module for maleic hydrazide growth regulator Fazor.

  • Research into aflatoxin B1

    24 July 2009

    THE European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is to fund a €250,000 (£215,000) research project to study the potential increase in the mycotoxin aflatoxin B1 in cereals in the EU as a result of climate change.

  • Mycotoxin levels low?

    24 July 2009

    MYCOTOXIN levels on wheat are likely to be low this season, although as highlighted last year, final toxin levels and profiles will depend on rainfall between now and harvest.

  • High N worries for this season’s winter barley

    July 24th 2009

    HIGH nitrogen levels in winter malting barley crops could be a factor this harvest following a cold winter and spring.

  • POST note welcomed

    July 24th 2009

    THE Crop Protection Association has welcomed a new Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST) document dealing with the issues of crop protection and the potentially damaging impact for UK agriculture and horticulture of the new EU Regulation on pesticide authorisations.

  • Seed treatments: Recent seed treatment options bring flexibility

    July 24th 2009

    Seed treatment choice in combinable crops continues to expand, giving greater flexibility in agronomy and workload decisions

  • Seed Treatments: Second wheat – study reveals take-all threats

    July 24th 2009

    More and more growers are using a specialist take-all seed treatment as routine on an increasing proportion of their second wheat acreage, reveals the second consecutive annual second wheat management study.

  • Seed Treatments: Site and crop threats drive seed treatment choice

    July 24th 2009

    A seed treatment for oilseed rape is a big, up-front investment in a crop that, if establishment conditions are poor, may not survive or may not even be drilled.

  • Tillage 2009: Attention to detail is key to productivity

    July 24th 2009

    Once again the Northern Tillage event is to be held in the Scottish Borders. The sandy loam soils on Redpath Farms at Mid Softlaw near Kelso will be where the metal is put to the test as Mervyn Bailey finds out

  • Tillage 2009: The farm always has the right tools for the job

    July 24th 2009

    THE first Tillage Event moves to Down Ampney in Gloucestershire. Mervyn Bailey talked to farm manager James Taylor about some of the site’s challenges.

  • UK biogas test for giant maize types

    July 24th 2009

    A RANGE of purpose-bred energy maize varieties is being trialled at a number of sites across the UK.

  • Using green manure and min-till to boost soil fertility

    July 24th 2009

    An integrated system of cultural, biological and chemical methods has improved soil productivity at Stretton Court Farm, near Hereford

  • Industry urged to use buffer strips to reduce pesticide loss

    20 July 2009

    FARMERS should include grass buffer strips in their plans for oilseed rape fields beside water courses, advises The Voluntary Initiative (VI).

  • Technical notes on disease threat to Scottish crops

    20 July 2009

    TWO new technical notes from SAC deal with pests and disease threats to two Scottish crops, following the withdrawal of some chemical control measures.

  • Innovation as pea and bean crops see resurgence

    17 July 2009

    WITH interest in UK pea and bean crops seeing revival, it is reassuring plant breeders and crop protection manufacturers continue to invest in the sector.

  • Understanding the consumer is key

    17 July 2009

    ‘Adapt or die’ was the message to organic farmers at the National Organic Cereals conference in Suffolk last week. Clemmie Gleeson reports.

  • Shortage of home-grown organic crops

    17 July 2009

    THE home-grown supply of some organic crops is falling short of demand and this shortage is set to remain, particularly in the organic livestock sector where demand for UK grown feed is outstripping supply, according to Ian Price, manager of Triodos Bank’s farming, food and trade team.

  • Opportunities for organic growers

    17 July 2009

    DESPITE a drop in sales of some products, converting to organic cereal production still offers opportunities for growers, says Suffolk farmer John Pawsey.

  • Pesticide residues found in organic food

    13 July 2009

    MOST of the samples tested during monitoring of pesticide residues in food in the 27 EU Member States and EFTA states Norway and Iceland complied with legal maximum residue levels (MRLs), according to the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) first annual report on pesticide residues in food.

  • Hot weather accelerates Myzus threat in OSR

    10 July 2009

    Dominic Kilburn reports from the Broom's Barn Research Centre Open Day held in Suffolk.

  • APC puts focus firmly on supply chain efficiency

    10 July 2009

    EAST ANGLIAN grain co-operative Camgrain has opened its 90,000 tonne grain storage and processing facility in time for this season’s wheat crop harvest.

  • Global risk of yellow rust high

    10 July 2009

    YELLOW rust is the biggest threat to yield loss in wheat crops around the world, said Broom’s Barn director Bill Clark.

  • Research could lead to drought tolerance index

    10 July 2009

    RESEARCH at Broom’s Barn into drought tolerance and water efficiency in winter wheat could lead to a ‘drought tolerance index’ for varieties to aid growers in cropping decisions.

  • Camgrain to expand new facilities

    10 July 2009

    FURTHER expansion plans were announced by Camgrain on the day the farmer-owned grain storage co-operative opened its brand new facility near Cambridge.

  • Don't cut weed beet too early

    10 July 2009

    WEED beet should not be cut too early this season, growers are advised. Mike May of Broom’s Barn said there was a great temptation to cut weed beet early in July to “make the fields look tidy” but, in reality, the middle of the cereal harvest is usually the best time.

  • Benn gives green light to voluntary set-aside replacement policy

    9 July 2009

    HILARY Benn has given the green light to a voluntary industry-led approach to retaining the environmental benefits of set-aside in England, sparing arable farmers potentially burdensome new legislation.

  • Politicians delaying a blight-resistant potato

    9 July 2009

    FIELD trials of Europe’s first transgenic, blight-resistant potato have proved successful, but growers in the UK will have to wait many years before a suitable variety is commercially available.

  • Farmers could face new spraying requirements, despite Downs defeat

    7 July 2009

    HILARY Benn is considering new measures to protect the public from crop spraying despite Defra’s Court of Appeal victory over pesticides campaigner Georgina Downs.

  • Georgina Downs loses High Court pesticides appeal

    7 July 2009

    PESTICIDES campaigner Georgina Downs has lost her long-running legal battle with Defra over its policy governing crop spraying.

  • Look beyond this year malting barley growers told

    2 July 2009

    WHILE the outlook for malting barley through the remainder of this year is ‘difficult’, things are set to change in 2010.

  • Project educates children about potatoes

    1 July 2009

    POTATO growers and primary school children across the country joined forces last week to mark the start of harvesting for the Potato Council organised educational project ‘Grow Your Own Potatoes’.

  • Welsh Assembly announces proposals for strict GM controls

    30 June 2009

    PROPOSED measures to protect farmers of traditional and conventional crops in Wales from the possible economic disadvantages of accidental contamination from GM crops have been announced by the Welsh Assembly.

  • EU relaxes rules on wonky fruit and veg

    30 June 2009

    OUT of shape fruit and vegetables will now be sold across Europe as new EU marketing regulations come into operation tomorrow, (Wednesday, July 1).

  • New spring malting barley gains full approval

    30 June 2009

    A NEW spring malting barley Belgravia, bred by Nickerson, has received full approval from the Institute of Brewing & Distilling (IBD), while Concerto, another of the company’s spring malting varieties, has been granted provisional approval.

  • New chemistry needed as triazoles under pressure

    26 June 2009

    WITH triazoles under threat from resistance and pesticide legislation new chemistry is needed urgently for septoria control.

  • Potential for good control of a range of pea crop pests

    26 June 2009

    A NEW insecticidal seed treatment being developed for the pea crop has given good control of a range of seedling pests in PGRO trials.

  • Fusarium risk in wheat currently moderate to high

    26 June 2009

    THE fusarium risk in wheat is currently moderate to high, depending on location and recent rainfall, mycotoxins expert Dr Simon Edwards of Harper Adams told growers at the TAG open day.

  • Second applications of clopyralid to be complete by end of June

    24 June 2009

    GROWERS who have opted to control volunteer potato in sugar beet with clopyralid (Dow Shield) must complete second applications by the end of June, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • Potato growers advised to put aphid control strategies into practice early

    24 June 2009

    POTATO Council is advising growers to put their aphid control strategies into practice early this year, beginning with roguing to help keep a tight rein on virus health.

  • Research into bruchid beetle control underway

    24 June 2009

    TRIALS are underway at PGRO to assess the role of pest trapping in bruchid beetle control.

  • Assessing weed control programmes

    22 June 2009

    NOW is the time to walk crops and assess the success or otherwise of herbicide programmes used this season, particularly for grass weed control.

  • Cereals 2009: New liquid N applicators give OSR a kick-start

    19 June 2009

    THREE manufacturers were showing systems which allow farmers to apply liquid fertiliser when establishing oilseed rape - read our report and watch video footage as we talk to Opico's James Woolway.

  • Cereals 2009: NFU’s voluntary notification push

    19 June 2009

    As the NFU continues to push for a voluntary solution to prior notification, growers at Cereals voiced their concerns.

  • Cereals 2009: Yellow rust strain hits varieties as it bridges resistance groups

    19 June 2009

    YELLOW rust was a main talking point at Cereals as the arable sector weighed up the implications of NIAB’s verification of the presence of a new race of the disease on UK wheat.

  • Cereals 2009: Fungicide offers 1t/ha yield benefit

    19 June 2009

    A NEW fungicide could provide growers with a one tonne per hectare yield benefit in wheat crops, claimed Bayer CropScience, which aims to launch the product next year.

  • Cereasl 2009: Record attendance

    19 June 2009

    OVER 26,500 visitors attended Cereals 2009 at Vine Farm, near Royston, last week, making it the biggest Cereals ever.

  • Cereals 2009: EU pesticides law unease

    19 June 2009

    THE recent review of EU pesticide legislation has been a mess and highlights how much more needs to be done in terms of the scrutiny and scientific evaluation of proposed legislation, Crop Protection Association chief executive Dominic Dyer said at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Long-lasting protection

    19 June 2009

    NEW fungicide chemistry exhibited at Cereals offers the potential for long-lasting, protectant activity against foliar disease in wheat and barley next season – if it is approved by the Chemcials Safety Directorate.

  • Cereals 2009: New strain of rhizomania virus being ‘very closely’ monitored

    19 June 2009

    ALL rhizomania resistant sugar beet varieties on the Recommended List are only partially resistant to rhizomania, so there should be no great surprise when some of these varieties are affected by the virus.

  • Cereals 2009: Sugar beet Recommended List faces a rhizomania resistant future

    19 June 2009

    IN TWO to three years time, all the varieties on the BBRO/NIAB Recommended List of sugar beet will be rhizomania resistant, said NIAB’s Simon Kerr, speaking from the demonstration plots at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Focusing on appliance of science

    19 June 2009

    Government and food industry leaders were given a practical demonstration of the importance of science to agriculture during an NFU ‘Why Science Matters’ trail at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Farm test kit to cut contamination

    19 June 2009

    AGRICULTURAL Supply Services now offers a farm test kit for growers to help reduce the risk of contaminated wheat downgrading the premium of quality wheats in grain stores.

  • Cereals 2009: Slug pellet aims to give watercourses extra protection

    19 June 2009

    NEW slug pellet packaging launched at Cereals will help prevent spillages and stop metaldehyde slug pellets entering watercourses, says manufacturer Certis.

  • Cereals 2009: OSR variety bred for UK market is launched by Bizzon

    19 June 2009

    RAGT Seeds launched its first oilseed rape variety bred specifically for the UK market.

  • Cereals 2009: Sugar beet contract negotiations: Response is eagerly awaited

    19 June 2009

    Sugar beet growers hoping for news of progress on beet contract nego- tiations at Cereals found only disappointment.

  • Cereals 2009: Potato disease control heightens

    19 June 2009

    IN LIGHT of EU directive 91/414, the interest in developing environmentally sensitive pest and disease control for potatoes has risen considerably, claimed Branston Potatoes, the first potato supplier to exhibit at the Cereals event.

  • Cereals 2009: Saracen joins Recommended List

    19 June 2009

    NEWLY recommended sugar beet varieties Saracen and Sentinel were on display at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Free pocket-sized guides

    19 June 2009

    SEED breeder Nickerson launched a series of free winter wheat, barley and oilseed rape technical and marketing guides at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Improved promise of harvest 2010

    19 June 2009

    BUSINESS prospects for harvest 2010 look good in comparison to those for 2009, Velcourt's Richard Williamson said at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Call for £20m research and development funding

    19 June 2009

    THE plant breeders' representative body in the UK has set up a research and development working group to focus on bridging the gap between basic and applied research.

  • Cereals 2009: Challenge thrown down

    19 June 2009

    ELSOMS Seeds was challenging sugar beet growers at Cereals not growing a rhizomania-resistant variety to explain why.

  • Cereals 2009: All change for autumn weed control

    June 12th 2009

    TIM Holt of Bayer CropScience said that it was worth reminding growers once more that, from June 30, it was illegal for IPU to be used or stored on farms.

  • Cereals 2009: Approvals sought for new black-grass herbicides

    June 12th 2009

    APPROVAL is being sought for two new black-grass herbicides from Dow AgroSciences.

  • Cereals 2009: Break the tradition for P and K

    June 12th 2009

    Applying P and K fertiliser in spring rather than at the traditional autumn timing can ease autumn workloads and save the cost of an application without risking yield.

  • Cereals 2009: Grass weed resistance targetted

    June 12th 2009

    A new weed control initiative launched at Cereals aims to focus attention on the need for wheat growers to act against the problem of grass weed resistance.

  • Cereals 2009: New guide helps identify major broad-leaved and grass weeds

    June 12th 2009

    AN easy reference guide to the major broad-leaved and grass weeds in the UK, including how to identify and manage them, has been launched by HGCA, ADAS and BASF.

  • Cereals 2009: Price reflects market changes

    June 12th 2009

    THE new price structure for ammonium nitrate reflects big changes in the global fertiliser market, claimed GrowHow’s marketing manager, Ken Bowler.

  • NFU slams millers over mycotoxin test demand

    18 June 2009

    THE NFU has said it was ‘incredibly disappointed’ at the decision by millers to demand a full mycotoxin test on every wheat delivery this harvest.

  • Marker gene found in genetically-modified potato starch safe - EFSA

    17 June 2009

    A MARKER gene found in genetically-modified potato starch, and other GM products, has been declared safe for humans, animals and the environment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

  • Green campaigns could threaten food security

    17 June 2009

    GREEN campaigns to limit the use of pesticides in food production could threaten the supply of plentiful and affordable food, crop protection experts have warned.

  • Growers could receive refund on failed Ritz OSR

    17 June 2009

    GROWERS who have had problems with the Ritz variety of oilseed rape could be given a refund where their crops have failed.

  • Solution for meadow grass and black-grass control in cereals

    17 June 2009

    AGROCHEMICAL company Makhteshim Agan is making the chlorotoluron-based herbicide Dicurane available to growers to provide a 'value for money' solution for annual meadow grass and black-grass control in cereals, in the absence of IPU.

  • Cereals 2009: Sidewinder II brings T7000 functions to hand

    12 June 2009

    NEW Holland has added Power Command Sidewinder II versions of its T7000 tractors, with the new Sidewinder II operator interface, which the company ultimately plans to roll out to other tractors in the range.

  • Cereals 2009: Agri-Weld shows its Rhino subsoiler

    12 June 2009

    Agri-Weld was showing its updated Rhino subsoiler at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Tried&Tested goes electronic

    June 12th 2009

    NEW electronic versions of the Tried&Tested farm and field record sheets were unveiled at Cereals.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about disease control in winter oats?

    June 12th 2009

    RESPONSES to fungicides in oats are traditionally variable, but if crown rust is part of the equation then responses can be large.

  • Cereals 2009: Banks predict a bright future for the arable sector

    11 June 2009

    UK FARMING was on the end of some upbeat messages from the banks as industry analysts at Cereals pointed to a brighter future for the arable sector.

  • Cereals 2009: No repeat of fertiliser price hikes

    11 June 2009

    WITH ammonia nitrogen currently around £175/tonne on-farm, fertiliser companies are agreed we are looking at a more ‘normal’ trading year.

  • Cereals 2009: No shortage of new machinery at this year's event

    11 June 2009

    THERE was no shortage of new machinery at this year’s Cereals, with new names in the sprayers arena.

  • Cereals 2009: War chest needed for leaner times

    11 June 2009

    ARABLE producers must build a “war chest” as they are likely to make a business loss one year in every five in future, and they should also be taking steps to minimise price volatility.

  • Cereals 2009: Altek offers individual nozzle shut-off

    11 June 2009

    AUTOMATIC boom section shut-off using GPS is nothing new, but UK spraying equipment specialist Altek has joined up with US firm Harrison Ag Technologies to offer what it calls the next step in chemical saving technology – individual nozzle shut-off.

  • Cereals 2009: In house spray pack for Multidrive

    11 June 2009

    KELLANDS’ Multidrive tractor unit can now be supplied complete with the firm’s own spraypack, as an alternative to demounts from Knight or Chafer.

  • Cereals 2009: Vaderstad shows running cost of Rapid drill

    11 June 2009

    IN among the new kit on the Vaderstad stand was a 6m Rapid drill with eight seasons under its belt.

  • Cereals 2009: Sneak preview of Vicon's new mounted machines

    11 June 2009

    VISITORS to Cereals were given a sneak preview to Vicon’s new range of high-end, premium-spec mounted machines that will be launched at Agritechnica later this year in Germany.

  • Cereals 2009: MacAvoy’s Lite-Trac was on display

    11 June 2009

    PREVIOUSLY shown with an in-house spraypack, the latest version of MacAvoy’s Lite-Trac was on display at Cereals with this KRM Bredal demount spreader.

  • Cereals 2009: New motor for Sprayranger

    11 June 2009

    LOW ground pressure sprayer manufacturer Alanco showed its latest Sprayranger.

  • Cereals 2009: Flexible power unit meets contractor needs

    11 June 2009

    STANDEN Reflex showed its Holmer Terra Variant power unit with a Bergmann solid spreader; this model has been sold to Hertfordshire contractor Scott and Scott for sludge cake application.

  • Cereals 2009: Case IH adds 165, 180 and 195 models

    11 June 2009

    FOLLOWING the introduction of the two flagship Puma CVX models at LAMMA earlier this year Case IH has added the 165, 180 and 195.

  • Cereals 2009: Chafer debuts a number of products

    11 June 2009

    CHAFER debuted a number of products at Cereals, including its Horstine Farmery Twin Air one-pass cultivation, seeding, fertilising and slug pelleting system for OSR establishment in one hit.

  • Cereals 2009: Swap your body

    11 June 2009

    FOR multiple transport applications, Stronga has developed the Swap Loada chassis which uses hydraulic jacks to remove the grain trailer body for switching to a tanker or flat bed.

  • Cereals 2009: New Typhoon cultivator put through its paces

    10 June 2009

    TERRINGTON Machinery was putting its new Typhoon cultivator from Einbock through its paces at the working area at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Quivogne shows its SCD cultivator

    10 June 2009

    QUIVOGNE was showing its SCD cultivator at Cereals that is offered in working widths of 3m and 4m with five and seven tines.

  • Cereals 2009: Tine spacing to suit requirements

    10 June 2009

    COUSINS of Emneth has added a linkage mounted version of the Free Space cultivator to its range, with 6.0 and 7.0m versions available for use with high horsepower tractors and offering a lower cost alternative to the trailed design.

  • Cereals 2009: Tine seeder cuts establishment costs

    10 June 2009

    AMAZONE'S Cayena tine seeder is aimed at farms in the south of England where poor yielding land with a high stone content is frequently encountered.

  • Cereals 2009: Cereal sector of vital importance to UK economy - Kendall

    10 June 2009

    THE cereals sector will be of ‘vital importance’ to the UK economy as recovery is sought, NFU president Peter Kendall told an audience that included new Farming Minister Jim Fitzpatrick on the first morning of Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Spaldings updates disc cultivation module

    10 June 2009

    SPALDINGS has updated the disc cultivation module for its Flatlift subsoiler.

  • Cereals 2009: TFA calls for ‘united stand’ on rent reviews

    10 June 2009

    TENNANT farmers have been urged to co-operate in their negotiations on rent reviews with their landlords.

  • Cereals 2009: New online costing system launched

    10 June 2009

    A NEW online costing system launched at Cereals should help arable producers benchmark and manage their costs.

  • Cereals 2009: National Sprayer Testing Scheme to be extended

    10 June 2009

    THE National Sprayer Testing Scheme is to be extended to offer testing of slug pellet application kit and machinery.

  • Cereals 2009: Training for slug pellet applicator operators

    10 June 2009

    SLUG pellet applicator operators are to be offered training this autumn to ensure they are aware of the environmental impact of slug control products.

  • Cereals 2009: Mac Don header boosts combine capacity

    10 June 2009

    The Mac Don name is known to UK farmers from the company’s rape swather sold by Shelbourne Reynolds, but with swathing all but defunct, the Suffolk-based importer has turned its attention to a new combine header, and will have some examples on trial in the UK this harvest.

  • Cereals 2009: Cultivate and decompact in one

    10 June 2009

    McConnel’s Discaerator is designed for single pass cultivations, using heavy duty deep loosening legs arranged in two rows with a choice of five or seven leg configuration.

  • Cereals 2009: Keeping implements on track

    10 June 2009

    HOWEVER efficient the autosteer system, variable soils and sloping fields can affect accuracy by taking implements off course.

  • Cereals 2009: Heavy duty spader for high power tractors

    10 June 2009

    IMANTS UK’s agricultural business is now in the hands of the Campey family, which distributes the Dutch manufacturer’s spading machines and turf renovation equipment into the groundcare industry.

  • Cereals 2009: Straw harrow kills slugs

    10 June 2009

    TECHMAGRI is now offering the Cultimulch range of straw harrows.

  • Cereals 2009: Increased working width for Subdisc

    10 June 2009

    THE Subdisc tine and disc mounted cultivator from Weaving is now available with a hydraulic folding frame extending the working width to 5m.

  • Cereals 2009: Weaving shows 6m power harrow

    10 June 2009

    WEAVING has a Frandent 6m hydraulic folding power harrow on their stand.

  • Cereals 2009: Drill and rolls from Kverneland

    10 June 2009

    KVERNELAND has introduced two new machines at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Upfront with Europak rings

    10 June 2009

    ORIGINALLY conceived in response to a request from contractor RC Baker for a 6m press to mount on the front of the Xerion, more modest requirements can be met by the 4m Planipak from Gregoire Besson.

  • Cereals 2009: Wider spaced coulters from KRM

    10 June 2009

    KRM can now offer its Soladrill 799 with four rows of tine coulters.

  • Cereals 2009: Teagle takes on Tulip

    10 June 2009

    TEAGLE Machinery has taken on the distribution of the Tulip range for England, Wales and Southern Scotland – AM Phillip remains the importer for the rest of Scotland.

  • Cereals 2009: Stubble tackled up front

    10 June 2009

    A NEW addition to Lynx Engineering’s front mounted cultivators, the Streamline SG is a stubble grubber with two rows of heavy sprung tines at 600mm spacing.

  • Cereals 2009: Plant breeders call on Government to invest in crop research

    10 June 2009

    UK plant breeders are calling for a major injection of Government cash into crop research to help transfer new genetic knowledge into crops.

  • Cereals 2009: Take care on grain contracts, warns NFU

    10 June 2009

    WITH so many grain contracts on offer, farmers need to be careful to go over the details to avoid problems and potential legal action and arbitration hearings, the NFU has warned.

  • Cereals 2009: New machinery sales steady

    10 June 2009

    WITH tractor and new machinery deliveries still coming through from orders placed on the back of 2007 profits, this year could still be the second best for tractor registrations in 10 years or more.

  • Cereals 2009: Techneat introduces liquid fertiliser applicator

    10 June 2009

    TECHNEAT has introduced a liquid fertiliser applicator that can be used when establishing crops such as oilseed rape at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009: Winged opener handles trash

    10 June 2009

    ITALIAN manufacturer Tonnuti is best known for its straw harrows and rakes, but the Quasar drill is designed to offer a solution for farmers looking to sow into trashy seedbeds.

  • Cereals 2009: Entry level auto steer

    10 June 2009

    Soilessentials Ltd has introduced Leica mojoGLIDE auto steer.

  • Cereals 2009 event

    8 June 2009

    FARMERS Guardian has a round-up of all the news from this year's Cereals event.

  • New race of yellow rust found on UK winter wheat

    8 June 2009

    THE National Institute of Agricultural Botany has confirmed the presence of a new race of yellow rust on UK winter wheat.

  • Total ban on herbicide IPU comes into force at end of June

    5 June 2009

    THE Crop Protection Association is reminding growers that the total ban on use and storage of the herbicide IPU comes into force on June 30, 2009.

  • Showing no compromise made sound business sense

    5 June 2009

    BUILDING his potato business without compromise has paved the way to successful management and profitability. Angela Calvert meets Philip Clappinson and discovers how he proved his biggest doubter wrong.

  • Working around metaldehyde curbs

    5 June 2009

    RESTRICTIONS on the use of metaldehyde in potatoes effectively rule out the ‘little and often’ approach of applying mini metaldehyde pellets with every blight spray. However, according to one agronomist, growers can improve results by switching to a methiocarb-based slug control strategy.

  • TuYV in OSR surprisingly high – expert

    5 June 2009

    A NATIONWIDE survey of oilseed rape fields this spring has found high levels of turnip yellows virus (TuYV) in crops, despite lower levels of migrating aphids – the virus vector – arriving last autumn.

  • Mix and match cereals for yield success

    5 June 2009

    Ahead of this month’s Crop Tech 2009 event in Aberdeenshire, EMMA PENNY talks to host farmer Ian Davidson about why growing a wheat/barley blend helps achieve bumper yields.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about T3 fungicides on wheat?

    5 June 2009

    YIELD responses to ear spray, or ‘T3’ fungicides have traditionally been unpredictable, but after two wet summers, growers are getting used to the idea of routine application, says Richard Overthrow, of TAG.

  • Irrigation supply currently plentiful

    5 June 2009

    DESPITE little rain in recently and forecasters predicting a long, hot summer, growers in the east of England have no reason to fear irrigation restrictions in the near future. However, according to the NFU, things can change quickly if dry weather persists into the peak irrigation season.

  • Seed care to maximise nutrients

    5 June 2009

    A NEW seed treatment available this autumn is designed to maximise cereal crops’ ability to utilise nutrients available to it in the soil in the early growth stages.

  • Septoria unease ongoing

    5 June 2009

    SEPTORIA continues to be the main disease present in winter wheat crops with symptoms increasing most rapidly at high-risk sites, says Crop Monitor.

  • Growing concerns over Ritz’ poor performance

    June 5th 2009

    NFU Scotland is to take up members’ concerns over the poor performance of a spring oilseed rape variety this season.

  • Pheromone traps gauge OWBM threat

    June 5th 2009

    PHEROMONE traps provide the earliest warning of orange wheat blossom midge activity growers are being advised.

  • Technology can help feed world’s growing population

    June 5th 2009

    THE world needs industrial agriculture in order to feed a rising population, says one of the industry’s best-known economists.

  • Welcome news on nitrogen as fertiliser prices come down

    3 June 2009

    FARMERS waiting to hear new season fertiliser prices were given welcome news this week as the UK’s only fertiliser manufacturer GrowHow announced Nitrogen prices at lower levels than last year.

  • Bayer recalls Fandango fungicide

    3 June 2009

    FOLLOWING on from the crystallisation problems seen with some batches of the fungicide Fandango this spring, manufacturer Bayer CropScience is recalling all unused product from the market at the end of the 2009 usage season.

  • Verticillium wilt: a new threat to oilseed rape

    2 June 2009

    A NEW information sheet published by HGCA looks at the potential threat of verticillium wilt to oilseed rape.

  • Septoria is main disease in winter wheat crops

    2 June 2009

    SEPTORIA continues to be the main disease present in winter wheat crops with symptoms increasing most rapidly at high-risk sites says Crop Monitor.

  • Survey may not cover hotspots for orange and wheat blossom midge activity

    2 June 2009

    THE latest Pestwatch report from Dow AgroSciences shows hotspots for orange wheat blossom midge activity could occur in areas not covered by the survey as adults have been reported flying as far a field as Kent, the Midlands, Cornwall and Yorkshire.

  • Key Issues : Fertiliser with GrowHow UK

    29 May 2009

    Fertiliser supplies come under the Key Issue spotlight as GrowHow’s Ken Bowler looks ahead to the 2009/10 season.

  • Cereals 2009 preview

    29 May 2009

    READ our special feature to help you plan your day at the Cereals 2009 event.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: List of nine varieties vie for full listing after harvest

    29 May 2009

    Nine candidate win-ter wheat varieties could make the HGCA’s Recommended List later this autumn – including five potential bread-makers, three potential biscuit-making varieties and one feed variety.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Take care on combine straw spreader set-up

    29 May 2009

    Management of crop residues starts with the first pass at harvest, suggests New Holland’s combine specialist, Adrian Woods, with correctly set combine straw chopping and spreading equipment. GEOFF ASHCROFT reports.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: High yield OSR varieties debut

    29 May 2009

    The Cereals event – a focal point for the introduction of new varieties and products – this year includes newcomers including cereal, oilseed rape and sugar beet varieties.

  • Building bridges over fertiliser prices

    29 May 2009

    ‘Fertiliser at the heart of British farming’ was the theme of the GrowHow conference 2009. Christopher Lyddon reports.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Drax steps up requirement for renewable energy from crops

    29 May 2009

    Drax Power, sponsors of the Renewables exhibition area, sources biomass, mainly through producer groups, but an increase in their renewable fuel requirement means they can offer direct grower contracts. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Risk management strategies a key focus in times of volatility

    29 May 2009

    HSBC Bank is proud to be principal sponsor of the 2009 Cereals Event at Vine Farm, Cambridgeshire.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Crop plots to show off latest arable research

    29 May 2009

    Visitors to Cereals 2009 are promised a ‘quick-fire’ update on the UK’s latest arable research.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Willow – an easy to manage, low input crop

    29 May 2009

    Philip Rowbottom farms 150 hectares (330 acres) at Woolley, West Yorkshire. About 10 years ago, he planted 13.5ha (30 acres) of short rotation coppice (willow).

  • Five harvests salad days with green shoots to garnish future

    29 May 2009

    A two-week growing season and five harvests a year, is a welcoming thought for arable farmers, but for the team at Mullens Farm, Wiltshire, the journey has involved many trials and tests – the results of which are finally surfacing. DAVID JONES reports.

  • The need to face industry’s ‘perfect storm’ of problems

    29 May 2009

    ‘Fertiliser at the heart of British farming’ was the theme of the GrowHow conference 2009. Christopher Lyddon reports.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Renewables exhibit

    29 May 2009

    The Renewables exhibit at Cereals is dedicated to the renewables, biofuel and non-food crops sector.

  • Balancing the PK equation by the use of good husbandry techniques

    May 29th 2009

    A CAREFULLY managed approach to using organic manures has enabled farm management business Sentry to develop what it believes is a long term, sustainable strategy for balancing nutrient inputs and offtakes on its arable units.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Showcasing new business and market opportunities

    May 29th 2009

    Cereals 2009 will be held on June 10 and 11 at Velcourt’s Vine Farm, Wendy near Royston. This year the content will be more pertinent than ever given the current economic climate says event organiser Haymarket Exhibitions.

  • Strong contender for early drilling slot?

    May 29th 2009

    WINTER wheat variety Grafton joined the 2009/10 HGCA Recommended List last autumn with a specific recommendation for growers seeking an early maturing variety.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about wheat blossom midge?

    May 29th 2009

    SOIL temperatures have been lower than average this month, which will have slowed wheat blossom midges’ life cycle.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Revamped discs produce good mix of soil and trash

    28 May 2009

    Spaldings has been back to the drawing board to improve its Flatlift disc cultivation module. Mervyn Bailey takes a close look ahead of its launch at Cereals.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Simple drill for crop cultivation

    28 May 2009

    The He-Va Kulti Seeder employs a Vector Disc coulter with individual metering. To find out how it performed with crop establishment, the drill was put through its paces last September. Mervyn Bailey reports.

  • Blight pressure warning for potato growers in the South

    28 May 2009

    POTATO growers in the South of England are being warned that this weekend could see the season’s first major threat of intense potato blight pressure.

  • Best performing pulses sought

    May 29th 2009

    THE British Edible Pulse Association (BEPA) is seeking the highest performing pulse crops from the 2008 harvest – with a total of £1,000 prize money going to the winners’ chosen charities.

  • Flumioxazin SOLA changes

    May 29th 2009

    NEW SOLAs for residual and contact-acting herbicide, flumioxazin, available as SumiMax, Digital and Guillotine, in vining peas, carrots, parsnips and bulb onions have been altered to permit multiple low doses. All other conditions of use remain unchanged, but the SOLA numbers have altered.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Combi-Lift gets hydraulic auto-reset

    27 May 2009

    The Combi-Lift subsoiler from He-Va is available with hydraulic auto-reset.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Lemken shows extended line-up

    27 May 2009

    Lemken will debut its Sirius mounted sprayer, Karat trailed cultivator and the hydraulic folding version of the Compact Solitair cultivator drill in the UK.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Inter-row weed control

    27 May 2009

    Micron has developed a system for inter-row weed control in vegetable crops.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Trio of 6m machines from Amazone

    27 May 2009

    Amazone will be showing three 6m machines – the Cirrus Special 6001 cultivator drill, Cirrus Active 6000 trailed power harrow drill and the Cayena 6000 tine seeder.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Separator for stony ground

    27 May 2009

    Standen Pearson is launching the Uniweb soil separator for potato and root crop growers on predominantly stony soils.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Claas ISO-BUS

    27 May 2009

    Claas will be launching its Cebis Mobile terminal, which can be used as a standalone ISO-Bus terminal in any machine or tractor.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Split hopper saves time

    27 May 2009

    There is now a split hopper version of the TerraCast V2 from Techneat Engineering.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Raptor gets a workout

    27 May 2009

    Berthoud will be giving its Raptor self-propelled a workout in the Sprays and Sprayers arena.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Tecnoma mounted models

    27 May 2009

    Tecnoma says mounted sprayers still account for 50 per cent of the UK sprayer market and, with this in mind, it will be launching two new models.

  • NFU and CLA set land target for voluntary post set-aside policy

    27 May 2009

    THE NFU and Country Land and Business Association (CLA) have set a land coverage target of 142,000 hectares for their Campaign for a Farmed Environment (CFE).

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Vogel and Noot direct

    27 May 2009

    This will be the first event Vogel and Noot has exhibited at since establishing its UK subsidiary this spring.

  • Arable farmers can achieve huge production gains

    27 May 2009

    BRITISH arable farmers have the potential to more than double production of wheat and oilseed rape to help meet food security concerns, a new report has concluded.

  • Cereals 2009 preview: Spray control

    26 May 2009

    Among the features unveiled by John Deere for its sprayers will be the multi-function joystick for the 700i and 800i models using the GreenStar 2600 display.

  • Be on your guard against OWBM

    22 May 2009

    GROWERS should heed advance warnings, carry out risk assessments and ensure correct spray timings as monitoring of high risk sites for orange wheat blossom midge (OWBM) over the next couple of weeks will reveal the extent of the threat this season.

  • Change to mycotoxin risk assessment

    22 May 2009

    HGCA’s mycotoxin risk assessment has been modified, with the aim of overcoming shortcomings identified following last autumn’s wet harvest conditions.

  • Crucial battle to control virus-carrying aphid

    22 May 2009

    TURNIP yellows virus (TuYV) infection of oilseed rape crops in this country could account for up to 26 per cent yield reduction, according to Dr Mark Stevens, of Broom’s Barn.

  • Virus control strategy must start at emergence

    22 May 2009

    EARLY catches of aphids in suction traps are a signal to seed potato growers that virus control programmes will need to begin at emergence this year.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about late nitrogen for protein in wheat?

    22 May 2009

    Most wheat crops are moving towards, or beyond, flag leaf emergence.

  • Take-all warning after record early season levels

    22 May 2009

    EARLY season take-all infections are at their highest level recorded in the five years of NIAB root assessments at HGCA Recommended List second cereal trial sites across the country.

  • Potato virus strategy must start at emergence

    22 May 2009

    EARLY catches of aphids in suction traps are a signal to seed potato growers that virus control programmes will need to begin at emergence this year.

  • Risk assessments can determine dose and timings

    22 May 2009

    RISK assessment will help determine the need for fungicide dose and targeting to minimise mycotoxin levels.

  • Anger over plan for spray notification

    21 May 2009

    NFU president Peter Kendall has defended the union’s decision to consult its members on a voluntary approach to notifying neighbours about crop spraying.

  • Online forecast warns of local blight risk

    20 May 2009

    ADVANCE warning of local blight risk for the coming days, together with a forecast of spray opportunities is available live at www.syngenta-crop.co.uk

  • Centre for applied crop research and information looks likely

    20 May 2009

    THE National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) and The Arable Group (TAG) say they are at an advanced stage of merger discussions to create a national, independent centre for applied crop research and information.

  • Bruchid beetle found is early flowering winter bean

    20 May 2009

    BRUCHID beetle have been found in some early flowering winter bean crops, says PGRO.

  • Cruiser’s ‘complete solution’ for autumn

    19 May 2009

    SEVEN years after it was first submitted for approval in the UK, oilseed rape seed treatment Cruiser OSR will be available for growers to use on seed this autumn.

  • Defra appeal against Georgina Downs pesticide verdict begins today

    18 May 2009

    AN appeal hearing was due to begin today that could have profound implications for the way pesticides are used in Britain.

  • Arable Focus

    15 May 2009

    READ our special arable focus feature including a look at why spring barley may need better disease protection this year, what new water legislation means for arable farming, how the lowest freight costs for years boost the sector and more.

  • Robust T2 required to safeguard germination?

    15 May 2009

    Spring barley may need better disease protection this year to preserve malting quality and prevent a complete loss of premium during storage.

  • Scottish oilseed rape may defy adverse conditions

    15 May 2009

    SCOTTISH oilseed rape has come into flowering in the poorest condition in memory, according to CSC Crop Care technical director, Jim Rennie.

  • Court secures herbicide use

    15 May 2009

    THE continued availability of herbicides containing the active ingredient napropamide, has been secured across Europe following an interim relief ruling awarded to crop protection company, United Phosphorus.

  • High yield at low cost

    15 May 2009

    NEW conventional oilseed rape variety Bizzon delivers yields comparable to hybrids at less cost.

  • Making the most of T2 fungicidess

    15 May 2009

    T1 sprays are going on now across crops with a variety of growth stages with plenty of disease being found in winter wheat.

  • EU benefits from warm run

    15 May 2009

    CROPPING conditions across the EU are generally favourable although a wet and cold spring delayed the start of the spring sowing campaign, says HGCA.

  • Speaking out does more than promote business

    15 May 2009

    Could you ‘Speak Out’ to promote your industry? Hampshire grower Nick Rowsell found real business benefits from building bridges with his local community.

  • Water Framework Directive a threat to crop protection

    15 May 2009

    As the quest for improved water quality progresses, Teresa Rush examines the likely effects on arable farms.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about winter wheat flag leaf fungicides?

    15 May 2009

    Wheat development is still variable but the more forward crops are reaching the T2 stage (GS39).

  • Store and drying facility saves grain exports from ruin

    15 May 2009

    When agricultural merchanting business Gleadell opened its new dockside grain store at Immingham at the end of 2007, its management team could not have anticipated the difficulties the arable sector would face within the year as wet weather wreaked havoc with the following harvest, nor the pivotal role the new facility would play in keeping grain moving off farm and onwards to end users.

  • Cereal Watch Sponsored Series with Syngenta - May

    15 May 2009

    Shropshire Cereal Watch grower Andrew Roberts is hoping for some rain, but the dry conditions have at least meant disease pressure is low.

  • Boon of low freight costs

    15 May 2009

    Slow working in China’s blast furnaces has helped boost the fortunes of British arable farmers. Christopher Lyddon reports.

  • Single combine a winning choice

    15 May 2009

    Making the decision to replace two combine harvesters with a single machine may make complete sense on economic grounds, but is it always the best route to take? Andy Collings reports

  • Hiring could bring savings over buying a combine

    15 May 2009

    The decision to buy a new combine harvester is not one to be taken lightly. Andy Collings considers the factors which may make hiring a combine a more attractive proposition

  • Making the most of glyphosate

    14 May 2009

    There is much arable farmers across the UK can do to make more from their most widely used agrochemical, reveals the biggest-ever study of glyphosate practice.

  • Benn: EU approach hampering food security

    11 May 2009

    ENVIRONMENT Secretary Hilary Benn has hit out at EU legislation which is hampering efforts to boost food security.

  • Dry spring conditions could lead to increases in weeds

    8 May 2009

    BEET, maize and winter and spring cereal crops may be at an increased risk of weed infestation following an uncharacteristically wet autumn and dry spring.

  • New Roundup approvals

    8 May 2009

    POTATO growers will be able to use certain Roundup glyphosates post-planting and pre-emergence to tackle transplanted or early emerging annual weeds this season, following new Chemicals Regulation Directorate approvals.

  • HGCA outlines bioplastics opportunities for UK growers

    8 May 2009

    HGCA has launched a new leaflet outlining the opportunities available to UK growers from bioplastics and the potential use of UK cereals and oilseeds in bioplastic manufacture.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about my winter bean crops?

    May 8th 2009

    THE more advanced bean crops will be approaching early flowering soon when the first fungicide should be considered.

  • Good early asparagus

    7 May 2009

    NORFOLK farmer Roger Crane is reporting an excellent and early asparagus crop thanks to the unseasonal warm weather.

  • Flumioxazin has new off label approvals

    6 May 2009

    THE residual and contact-acting herbicide, flumioxazin, available as SumiMax, Digital and Guillotine, has new off label approvals for use in vining peas, carrots, parsnips and bulb onions.

  • Potential new race of yellow rust on winter wheat

    5 May 2009

    THE National Institute of Agricultural Botany is investigating a potential new race of yellow rust on winter wheat.

  • New initiative seeks to reverse decline of ‘Arable Six’ birds in South West

    5 May 2009

    ARABLE farmers across the South West of England are to be given free one-to-one advice about how to conserve wildlife on their farms.

  • Potato Blight special

    1 May 2009

    READ our potato blight special report including advice on starting control strategies early, maximum limit for propamocarb use and best practice guidelines aimed at keeping blight and the aggressive A2 strain in check.

  • Explore other possible outlets for Viscount

    1 May 2009

    THE breeder of soft endosperm nabim group 4 winter wheat Viscount is urging farmers to consider outlets available to the variety outside the traditional biscuit market.

  • Start control strategies early as higher risk of blight infection expected

    1 May 2009

    Field selection and taking possible external and in-field sources of infection into account should be the starting point for blight control strategies, according to guidance from the British Potato Council.

  • No problems with key septoria fungicides says leading agronomist

    1 May 2009

    FOLLOWING recent reports claiming strains of wheat disease septoria tritici in Ireland have shown reduced sensitivity to key triazole fungicides prothioconazole (Proline) and epoxiconazole (Opus), UK growers are being advised to continue to use both products as normal.

  • Maximum limit for propamocarb use

    1 May 2009

    A MAXIMUM propamocarb dosage of 4,500g per hectare (1,821g/acre) has been introduced for the 2009 Plant Protection Product List (PPPL), part of Tesco’s Nature’s Choice scheme.

  • 'Kickback' threat from Blue 13 strain

    1 May 2009

    NEW fungicide trials data demonstrating ‘kickback’ – or blight control shortly after infection – could be more significant this year as fungicide plans have to deal with the now dominant Blue 13 strain.

  • An application of fertiliser is not always necessary

    May 1st 2009

    CHECK your ‘available’ levels of soil nutrients to ensure you only use the fertilisers you really need, as variable results from analysis could mean fertilisers are being used unnecessarily.

  • Blight outbreaks from dumps rising

    May 1st 2009

    Potato Council has issued best practice guidelines aimed at keeping blight, and the aggressive A2 strain in particular, in check. Here we set out the priorities for the 2009 season.

  • Build in consistent tuber protection from the outset

    May 1st 2009

    THE last two years have provided more than sufficient evidence for Agrovista agronomist Andy Steven that potato growers need to be ready for more aggressive blight this year.

  • Giving OSR crops a head start

    May 1st 2009

    GROWERS looking to boost the establishment of their oilseed rape crops this autumn could consider a new liquid fertiliser application system delivering nitrogen to the seed at time of drilling.

  • Good roots are critical to a good yield

    May 1st 2009

    WE seem to have lost sight of the importance of soil structure, said Northern Technical Development manager for Masstock, Philip Marr speaking at the Opico Nitro-Jet launch last week.

  • No-till problem can become an asset

    May 1st 2009

    STRAW can be a problem in no-till systems but managed in the correct way it can become a grower’s greatest asset says independent tillage consultant Steve Townsend.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about spring barley?

    May 1st 2009

    MANY farmers are growing spring barley for the first time after a very difficult autumn.

  • Dry weather conditions affecting weed control

    29 April 2009

    APRIL's record temperatures and warm winds have allowed spring planting to continue almost interrupted, but dry soil surfaces and a lack of rain are affecting weed control in some crops.

  • A bird’s eye view of your crops

    24 April 2009

    Evening up a wheat crop this year will be a challenge for most. But one Bucks grower will look to the skies for help.

  • Warning on shift in septoria sensitivity to azoles

    24 April 2009

    STRAINS of septoria tritici showing reduced sensitivity to the widely-used azole fungicides prothioconazole and epoxiconazole have been identified by scientists working in Ireland.

  • Vining peas get off to a good start

    24 April 2009

    JUST over 50 per cent of this season’s pea vining crops have been drilled and while most have gone into ideal seedbeds, crops in the eastern region could do with some rainfall to maintain the good start to the season.

  • Dividends of direct action

    24 April 2009

    “For a contracting business to be successful, it needs to be able to offer a niche operation”, said a boss who has provided direct drilling for nine years. ANDY COLLINGS reports.

  • Depth and good soil to seed contact vital for direct drilling success

    24 April 2009

    Crop establishment without incurring cultivation costs has been the aim of many arable farmers over the years. It is an ambition few have actually fulfilled, but the dream lives on. Andy Collings reports.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about sclerotinia control for oilseed rape?

    24 April 2009

    MORE advanced oilseed rape crops are coming into flower, and with temperatures rising and many areas having rain, sclerotinia infection is likely.

  • High disease pressure risk following two wet summers

    24 April 2009

    SCELROTINIA disease pressure is increasing, but with huge variability between oilseed rape crops this season, growers should consider each field and the sequences to optimise fungicide application timings on an individual basis.

  • Study new PCN directive carefully

    24 April 2009

    Seed potato growers in the UK are thought to be those most likely to be affected by a European Directive that comes into force next year with new requirements for the control of potato cyst nematodes (PCN).

  • Do modern OSR hybrids deliver real benefits?

    24 April 2009

    Hybrid oilseed rape has taken off in the UK over the past two seasons as variety improvements and challenging autumn sowing conditions have persuaded growers to switch from pure lines in a major way.

  • Arable Focus

    April 24th 2009

    READ our Arable Focus special feature which includes a look at T1 fungicide applications, tougher controls on PCN, matching N inputs to crop need and how depth and good soil to seed contact are vital for direct drilling success.

  • Going green unlocks hidden profits

    April 24th 2009

    LINCOLNSHIRE-based Branston, one of the UK’s largest farmer-controlled produce businesses, became the first fresh food producer in the country to attain the Carbon Trust Standard. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Septoria and yellow rust main threats at T1

    April 24th 2009

    AGRONOMISTS and their grower customers up and down the country are busy assessing the optimum composition and timing of their all-important T1 fungicide applications.

  • Tough legislation could follow if farmers do not back campaign

    23 April 2009

    ARABLE farmers have been warned they must get behind the proposed new industry-led ‘Campaign for the Farmed Environment’ or face burdensome regulation in the future.

  • Cost-effective guide to disease sclerotinia prevention

    23 April 2009

    A NEW sclerotinia risk assessment chart has been developed with the aim of helping carrot growers to achieve cost-effective prevention and control of the disease.

  • Call to compare grain prices 'like-for-like'

    23 April 2009

    AN independent analysis and league table of grain trading companies’ pool results would give cereal growers a clearer picture of where to direct their crop.

  • Yellow rust peril surfaces in Scotland

    23 April 2009

    NEW rust sightings in winter wheat crops are now emerging in Scotland – in addition to earlier reports from parts of England.

  • British Sugar aghast as NFU sets ‘unrealistic’ 2010 sugar price target

    22 April 2009

    THE battle for a 2010 sugar price agreement began this week under controversial circumstances.

  • Cereal Watch - April

    17 April 2009

    With T0 sprays completed and spring growth under way, eastern Cereal Watch grower Paul Drinkwater's thoughts are now on T1 applications.

  • Disease control ratings key to fungicide strategy

    17 April 2009

    Is there a role for strobilurin fungicides in wheat this season? Teresa Rush put the question to a panel of experts during a round-table discussion in Essex.

  • Launch of low biomass osr

    17 April 2009

    THE first low biomass hybrid oilseed rape variety has been launched in the UK following its recent addition to the HGCA’s Recommended List. Monsanto’s Dekalb UK seed breeding team has hailed the introduction of the variety DK Secure as one of the most significant chapters in oilseed rape breeding yet.

  • Harnessing woad’s powerful promise

    17 April 2009

    While many arable farmers look to new ideas and techniques to increase profitability, Ian Howard believes the ancient crop woad has given him the blueprint to the future of his Norfolk farming business. CLEMMIE GLEESON reports.

  • New sugar beet varieties

    17 April 2009

    THREE new varieties have been added to the 2010 BBRO/NIAB Recommended List of Sugar Beet Varieties.

  • Are we running a risk with ramularia?

    April 17th 2009

    BARLEY growers need to be vigilant to the growing threat ramularia could pose, particularly in previous 'low-risk' areas. That's the warning from SAC plant pathologist Dr Fiona Burnett.

  • Heed late weeds warning

    16 April 2009

    BE prepared for a late flush of broad-leaved weeds in winter cereals this month as crops now start to grow away in the warmer spring weather.

  • Wheat exports could power British cars

    15 April 2009

    IF the UK retained all of its wheat exports and fed the crop into bioethanol refineries, it would meet its 5 per cent renewable fuel target.

  • Hemp processing company in administration

    14 April 2009

    HEMP processing company Hemcore is in administration.

  • Sugar compensation scheme deadline looming

    14 April 2009

    THE Rural Payments Agency is reminding sugar beet contractors that April 30 2009 is the deadline for the sugar contractor compensation scheme.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about wheat and timing the T1 fungicide?

    10 April 2009

    THE more advanced winter wheat crops will soon be approaching the T1 fungicide timing. This is ideally when the final leaf 3 is emerging, which usually occurs between GS31 and 32.

  • Potato planting progress gathers pace around UK

    10 April 2009

    PROGRESS with potato planting continues apace with planting to April 3 put at 32,000 hectares, compared with 13,700ha last year and 41,600ha in 2007, according to the Potato Council.

  • Folio Gold approval gives growers two-season cheer

    10 April 2009

    GROWERS will have access to supplies of mefenoxam metalaxyl-M for at least the next two seasons, following changes in the label approval for Folio Gold.

  • Teesside bioethanol plant to start production this summer

    10 April 2009

    THE Ensus bioethanol plant currently under construction at Wilton on Teesside is on track to start production this summer, John Pinkney, Ensus technical director told the HGCA biofuels conference at Yarm, Stockton-on -Tees

  • Pendimethalin blow as pesticides changes hit 23 active ingredients

    9 April 2009

    AROUND 23 pesticide active ingredients are likely to be lost as a result of the revision of EU pesticide legislation, of which 20 are currently used in the UK, a report commissioned by HGCA has concluded.

  • Cold weather fails to halt rust infection

    9 April 2009

    RUST infections are starting to appear in winter wheat crops in some areas, growers are being advised.

  • RPA issues sugar beet compensation reminder

    9 April 2009

    MACHINERY contractors have been reminded they have until the end of this month to apply for compensation under the Sugar Restructuring Scheme.

  • Pea and bean crops still lagging behind

    9 April 2009

    PEA and bean crops remain two to three weeks behind as a result of the cold nights, but winter beans have generally established well, says PGRO.

  • Support needed for 'vital' horticulture

    9 April 2009

    HELPING secure a sustainable future for UK horticulture is the challenge facing NFU Horticulture and Potato Board chairman, Sarah Pettitt.

  • Pesticides not a threat to honey bees - Benn

    8 April 2009

    HILARY Benn, Defra Secretary, has rejected calls from the organic lobby to ban insecticides they say damage the health of honey bees.

  • GM food still a major concern for UK consumers

    7 April 2009

    THE British public remains cautious about GM foods, according to a review of recent consumer research published by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

  • Starter fertilisers can bring benefits in late-drilled OSR

    3 April 2009

    OILSEED rape growers should take a leaf out of vegetable brassica producers’ book and re-examine the potential of starter fertilisers to give crops a good start.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about pollen beetle control?

    3 April 2009

    WINTER oilseed rape crops are at risk of damage by pollen beetle during the green-yellow bud stages.

  • Royalty contracts setback to growers

    3 April 2009

    NEW seed royalty contracts are increasing costs to growers and could be operating outside EU legislation, says the NFU.

  • Crop establishment fears come to light

    3 April 2009

    THE impact of harvest and autumn 2008 is starting to become clear, said Masstock technical manager David Langton. Oilseed rape growers, in particular, are asking themselves ‘is the crop actually going to get there?’

  • Get spring beans in ground before Easter

    3 April 2009

    WHERE spring beans are yet to be planted, try to get them in the ground by Easter.

  • Past trials show spring rolling merits

    3 April 2009

    DO not forget the benefits of spring rolling following a cold winter, says The Arable Group.

  • Latest farm to join SMART network

    April 3rd 2009

    THE latest enterprise to enter the Masstock network is CC Farming, a partnership between Richard Clarke and Tom Collier, who farm the combined 330 hectares of Brickhouse Farm and Tixall Heath Farm as one unit.

  • Single pass and drilled OSR establishment both variable

    April 3rd 2009

    The latest addition to Masstock’s SMART demonstration farms network invited north west Midlands farmers to discuss ways of managing backward crops and the lessons that might be learned from this season. David Jones reports.

  • Consultation on PCN risk

    2 April 2009

    DEFRA has launched a consultation on implementation of EU Directive 2007/33, which introduces new requirements on the control of potato cyst nematodes.

  • Lime assurance scheme mooted

    2 April 2009

    New legislation, changing regulations and agronomic developments were on the agenda at the Agricultural Lime Association’s 2009 technical forum. Christopher Lyddon reports.

  • Sugar drilling on for record despite seed delivery debacle

    2 April 2009

    SUGAR growers are on target for a record early finish to their drilling season despite delays on their seed deliveries.

  • Plan for better soil nutrient status data

    2 April 2009

    THE Agricultural Industries Confederation and other industry bodies are developing a system to provide farmers with better information on soil nutrient status.

  • Availability of calcium carbonate more important

    2 April 2009

    LIME can help fight clubroot in brassicas, but the latest research shows it is not a result of changing the pH of the soil, the Agricultural Lime Forum was told.

  • Seed certification fees set to rise

    1 April 2009

    SEED certification fees could increase by 5 per cent this summer if new Defra proposals are adopted.

  • BSPB opens permanent Scottish office

    1 April 2009

    THE British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) is strengthening its operational presence in Scotland with the establishment of a permanent office near Perth.

  • Cereal fungicide Fandango (fluoxastrobin+prothioconazole) is recalled

    31 March 2009

    A BATCH of the cereal fungicide Fandango (fluoxastrobin+prothioconazole) has been recalled as a result of potential crystallisation problems that could lead to sprayer filter blockages.

  • Simplicity makes Landini Landpower a good all-rounder

    27 March 2009

    Landini launched its Iveco-powered, five-model Landpower tractor range at the beginning of last year. Andy Collings tracked down one of the first users of the mid-range 135 version.

  • Grand designs on way to spray

    27 March 2009

    While chemical manufacturers invest millions of pounds into developing new pesticides, their efficacy can be affected by the design of the nozzle used to apply them. Andy Collings takes a look at air induction nozzles.

  • Popularity of hybrid OSR varieties on rise

    27 March 2009

    MORE oilseed rape growers have opted for a hybrid variety this season than in recent years, results from a National Farm Research Unit (NFRU) have revealed.

  • Co-formulation triazoles offer far better control of septoria

    27 March 2009

    Recently launched co-formulated triazole fungicides have topped the HGCA’s fungicide dose response charts compared with traditional triazole approaches for septoria control in winter wheat. Ahead of the main disease control season we asked two distributors how the two products should be used.

  • Currency collywobbles and farming

    27 March 2009

    THE pound’s sharp fall against the euro and dollar, looks like great news for UK arable farmers – supporting prices at home and keeping grain competitive on international markets. But with most of farming’s inputs coming from abroad. It’s not all gain, writes Christopher Lyddon.

  • What should I ask my agronomist about chlormequat ?

    27 March 2009

    LATE March is traditionally the time when growers consider starting the growth regulator programme on winter wheat crops.

  • Versatility and reliability promotes brand loyalty

    27 March 2009

    Often seen as a premium sprayer manufacturer Bateman, has a strong reputation. Jane Carley speaks to one user to see if it is justified.

  • Arable Focus

    March 27th 2009

    READ our Farmers Guardian Arable Focus special feature including findings from the latest research on blight control, a look at new technology helping root cropping, the latest advice on grass weeds from the FG round table and more.

  • Automation makes every drop count

    March 27th 2009

    Auto sprayer controls integrated with precision farming systems hold the key to improved profitability for one Norfolk grower. Geoff Ashcroft reports.

  • Blue 13 romps through spuds

    March 27th 2009

    Earlier this month the Potato Council gathered together leading UK experts on blight control to discuss findings from the latest research and how best to address the disease this season.

  • Increased threat from pollen beetles

    March 27th 2009

    Backward crops and a rise in the acreage of spring plantings could lead to an increased threat from pollen beetles this season in oilseed rape.

  • Intelligent spot spraying with a band sprayer tackles volunteers

    March 27th 2009

    Loss of herbicide active ingredients as a result of statutory pesticide reviews and customer pressure are reducing selective herbicide options to the extent that in some situations there are no products available.

  • New beet herbicide mixes may offer improved efficacy

    March 27th 2009

    Sugar beet growers have a number of new weapons in their fight against weeds for the coming season. Teresa Rush reveals more.

  • Round-table session gets to grips with grass weed control

    March 27th 2009

    It’s proving to be a challenging season for grass weed control. Where are we at? what are the options this spring? And what are the implications of this season’s delays for autumn 2009 plans? Teresa Rush posed these questions, and more, during a round table discussion to Yorkshire farmer Jonathan Longthorpe, agronomist Peter Lambert, Rubin Morris of CropWise and Bayer CropScience’s Bob Fitzgerald.

  • Switching strategies may improve slug control and cut costs

    March 27th 2009

    Potato growers should work on the basis that metaldehyde-free strategies for slug control will be needed this year, advises Dr Richard Meredith, molluscicide development manager at Bayer CropScience.

  • Carrot growers report ideal conditions for drilling

    26 March 2009

    AFTER a difficult start to the year when cold, wet weather hampered early plantings, carrot growers report ideal conditions for drilling the main crop.

  • Test failures a threat for organic pesticides

    26 March 2009

    NEARLY half of the pesticides specially approved for use in organic farming have failed EU safety tests and more could follow as the rules are tightened, according to the European Crop Protection Association (ECPA).

  • GM can safeguard the environment

    25 March 2009

    WORLDWIDE use of pest-resistant genetically modified crops (GM) has reduced pesticide use by nearly 300 million kg - equivalent to the EU's entire yearly usage of sprays.

  • Care and patience needed for sugar beet drilling on some soils

    23 March 2009

    WHILE some sugar beet drilling started 10 to 12 days ago on very light soils, care and patience is needed on heavier (and some lighter) soils where the soil is wet underneath the surface, warns the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO).

  • Rapid establishment is key to success

    23 March 2009

    THE key to success with spring oilseed rape crops is rapid establishment with no checks in early growth, says Ian Matts, Yara’s agronomic co-ordinator.

  • Apply a PGR early to stimulate root systems and tiller numbers

    23 March 2009

    THE legacy of poor soil structure resulting from last autumn, which has left soils very cold and wet, means that a PGR, applied early, could have the effect of stimulating both root systems and tiller numbers, growers are being advised.

  • Tuber damage reduced by better disease control

    23 March 2009

    BETTER control of rhizoctonia in potato seedbeds could help growers reduce the levels of cracked and split tubers at harvest – improving the marketable yield of valuable pre-pack supplies and cutting costly waste from processing crops.

  • Correct spray will have double benefit

    23 March 2009

    THE correct choice of T0 spray will boost yield due to the early septoria control and will also erase some of the pressure when getting on with a T1 should there be weather delays or extended acreages to cover,” says Chris Bean of UAP.

  • Biggest plant breeding investment for over 10 years

    23 March 2009

    A £3 MILLION plant breeding centre has been opened by RAGT Seeds at Ickleton, near Cambridge representing the UK’s biggest investment in plant breeding in over a decade.

  • Plastic from GM potatoes

    23 March 2009

    FIELD trials at the University of Rostock, Germany, are assessing genetically modified potatoes, which can be used to obtain a biodegradable plastic.

  • Outlook good for water resources in 2009

    20 March 2009

    OVERALL prospects for water resource availability for spray irrigation in the Anglian region for 2009 are good, says the Environment Agency.

  • Saving energy with variable speed control

    20 March 2009

    SWITCHING to Variable Speed Control (VSC) can improve the energy use efficiency of irrigation systems compared to fixed speed operations.

  • Reducing farming's water footprint

    20 March 2009

    'Pumping money down the pipeline' was the theme of the UK Irrigation Association’s spring seminar. Teresa Rush reports on some of cutting the impact of spiralling irrigation energy costs.

  • Making savings this season with switch from liquid N to granular applications

    20 March 2009

    VOLATILITY in fertiliser prices over the past 12 months has caused many growers to re-evaluate the way in which they go about their spring nitrogen applications for 2009. For Lincolnshire farmer Richard Applewhite, this has meant a wholesale change in policy by switching from liquid back to granular fertiliser applications for this season.

  • Focus on margins rather than yields

    20 March 2009

    AGRONOMY advice business The Arable Group is advising members to cut back on nitrogen doses and not to join the race for all-out maximum yield.

  • Cereal Watch March

    March 20th 2009

    CerealWatch is a new monthly feature in conjunction with Syngenta. From now through to January 2010 we'll be following the progress of two arable farmers, catching up with them at regular intervals as they make the key decisions affecting their crops. This month we introduce Shopshire farmer Andrew Roberts.

  • Hope for herbicide Totril usage beyond 2010

    March 20th 2009

    HBN herbicide Totril is to be subject to a phased revocation as of May 2009.

  • Potato and cauliflower crops regain protection from slugs

    March 20th 2009

    METALDEHYDE is available for use in potato and cauliflower crops once more following re-registration of key products at lower dose rates.

  • Stay legal and protect water urge Voluntary Initiative

    March 20th 2009

    THE Voluntary Initiative is urging growers to stay legal and protect water as final dates for use and storage of the herbicides IPU and trifluralin are fast approaching.

  • Yorkshire facing rising cyst nematode threat

    March 20th 2009

    POTATO growers in Yorkshire have been advised that nematode problems are increasing in the region’s crops.

  • NFU urges FSA to win GM debate

    18 March 2009

    THE NFU has called on the Food Standards Agency to win the debate over genetically modified food.

  • Maximum total dose set for propamocarb under Tesco protocol

    18 March 2009

    USE of the potato blight fungicide active ingredient propamocarb has been set at a maximum total dose per crop of 4,500 g/ha for 2009 under Tesco’s Nature’s Choice protocol.

  • Europe to accept new pesticide rules despite UK protestations

    17 March 2009

    DEFRA Secretary Hilary Benn is disappointed new EU pesticide regulations will be implemented without any idea of how it might impact on food production.

  • No shortfall of azole fungicide prothioconazole

    17 March 2009

    INDUSTRY rumours about a shortfall in supplies of the azole fungicide prothioconazole are ill founded, says manufacturer Bayer CropScience.

  • New HGCA Wheat Disease Management Guide

    17 March 2009

    HGCA has published a new version of the Wheat Disease Management Guide, updated to include the latest information on controlling important wheat diseases.

  • Agrovista announces new company members

    17 March 2009

    AGRONOMY business Agrovista has announced three new members of staff that have joined from within the industry.

  • Farmers must submit crop protection plans or risk more regulation

    16 March 2009

    FARMERS and growers have been urged to submit their Crop Protection Management Plans before the end of March or risk more regulation.

  • Spring planting gets under way into good seedbeds

    13 March 2009

    DESPITE various knock-on effects caused by poor weather on cropping plans in the north of the country since last autumn, spring crops are going in the ground only slightly delayed, and into very good seedbeds.

  • Fertiliser price demands optimum returns

    13 March 2009

    EFFICIENCY of fertiliser use is key in any season, but accurate targeting of its use to field and crop requirements will be uppermost on growers’ minds this spring in the light of high prices paid for their fertiliser supply.

  • Positive listing for triallate

    13 March 2009

    GRASS weed herbicide active ingredient triallate has received a positive listing for Annex 1 under EU Directive 91/414.

  • Maltsters' harvest 'wish list'

    13 March 2009

    THE Maltster’s Association of Great Britain’s ‘wish list’ for harvest 2009 includes less high nitrogen N barley compared to 2008 and more low nitrogen barley.

  • Mixed farming future from changing weather patterns

    13 March 2009

    Is climate change really happening and what it will mean for farmers was the topic discussed at a recent seminar held in Driffield, East Yorkshire. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Tuber treatment pack sizes increased

    13 March 2009

    THE pack size of potato tuber treatment Monceren DS (pencycuron) has been increased from 1kg to 2kg for 2009.

  • Hemp - a break crop alternative

    March 13th 2009

    GROWERS still to make a final decision on cropping choice this spring, and those with a larger acreage to drill than originally planned for, could look to grow hemp under contract as an alternative to regular break crops.

  • Protect against eyespot this spring - SAC

    10 March 2009

    WITH the vast majority of winter wheat acreage down to varieties with no robust eyespot resistance, the need for protection against this stem base pathogen is a key consideration this spring, says SAC’s Fiona Burnett.

  • Use on-planter applications to apply powder treatments potato growers told

    10 March 2009

    POTATO growers intending to apply powder treatments to seed tubers at planting this year should consider on-planter applications to minimise the risk of operator exposure and reduce the possibility of the product being blown in to the environment when applied by manual methods.

  • Potato growers told to plan ahead in light of new pesticide regulations

    9 March 2009

    POTATO growers have been told that changes to the EU Directive (91/414) governing pesticide use could have been a lot worse, but the industry still needs to plan ahead and embrace integrated pest and farm management.

  • Growers can take part in free boron analysis service

    9 March 2009

    A FREE boron analysis service for growers of oilseed rape is set to continue this year, following success of a scheme launched in 2008.

  • Phil Rix elected as new BEPA president

    9 March 2009

    PHIL RIX has been elected as the new president of BEPA, the British Edible Pulse Association, at the Association's AGM last week.

  • Latest HGCA canopy management information available

    9 March 2009

    A NEW HGCA topic sheet ‘Managing oilseed rape canopies for yield’ is now available, providing growers with the latest information on canopy management.

  • Treated seed can maintain profitability

    6 March 2009

    The focus was on seed treatment developments at the BCPC Seed Production and Treatment symposium. DAVID JONES reports.

  • Coping with threat of cabbage stem flea

    6 March 2009

    SEED treatment manufacturer Bayer CropScience described to the BCPC Seed Production and Treatment symposium how new combinations and formulations of existing active ingredients could extend pest control.

  • Promise of new triazole – effective in controlling seed and soil-borne diseases

    6 March 2009

    THE seed treatment armoury available to UK growers could soon include a new triazole –ipconazole – effective in controlling seed and soil-borne diseases.

  • Big gamble in meeting the milling wheat specification

    March 6th 2009

    MILLERS have used more home-grown wheat in the first half of this season than the first half of last, despite the fact only six per cent of Group 1 wheats met the NABIM bread making specification last harvest.

  • New Cherokee guidelines aim to improve control

    March 6th 2009

    NEW guidelines for use of cereal fungicide Cherokee (chlorothalonil + cyproconazole + propiconazole) have been released by crop protection company Syngenta, with the aim of improving control in high disease pressure situations.

  • Putting potatoes back on the table

    March 6th 2009

    GROWERS, packers and retailers all need to work together to ensure potatoes continue to be a staple on the British dinner table, according to British Potato Council (BPC) chairman Allan Stephenson.

  • Benn consults on voluntary and mandatory approaches to post set-aside policy

    4 March 2009

    DEFRA Secretary Hilary Benn has unveiled a consultation seeking views on both a compulsory and voluntary approach to replacing the environmental benefits of set-aside.

  • New herbicide offers control of broad-leaved weeds

    3 March 2009

    NEW broad-leaved weed sulfonylurea herbicide, Finy will be available to growers this spring.

  • Many growers can afford a P and K holiday

    3 March 2009

    A THIRD of the UK’s arable crop needs no phosphate (P) fertiliser this year and one in four hectares can take a potash (K) holiday, according to soil analysis figures from precision farming business SOYL.

  • Help assessing the nutrient content of straw

    3 March 2009

    HGCA has published a new information sheet to help arable growers assess the nutrient content of straw, and decide whether to return it to the soil or sell it.

  • Steady growth due to the green revolution

    2 March 2009

    A ‘green’ opportunity coupled with a pro-active approach to the land has seen one South Yorkshire farming couple take their arable business to new productive heights. Angela Calvert meets William and Lynda Mackintosh.

  • Arable Focus

    27 February 2009

    READ FG's Arable Focus special feature which takes a look at managing bolting problems, the best practice of Metaldehyde stewardship, spring drilled cereals and break crops, what farming can expect during the recession and much more.

  • News from Beet 09

    27 February 2009

    BBRO took the opportunity to update growers with news from its Research & Development programme at the Beet ’09 event at Peterborough. Teresa Rush and Dominic Kilburn report.

  • Strip tillage could be the answer for beet growers

    27 February 2009

    SUGAR beet growers could benefit from the latest tillage technique said to offer fuel savings, reduced soil erosion and help with the timeliness of field operations.

  • Early lifting a priority on heavy ground

    27 February 2009

    FEEDBACK from sugar beet growers on heavier land has confirmed that the ability to lift their sugar beet crop early in September, without compromising yield, remains a high priority and critical to achieving the best entry for a following wheat crop.

  • A variable application rate can save fertiliser

    February 27th 2009

    With fertiliser prices a major cost in crop production greater attention is being given to variable rate application systems. Andy Collings reports.

  • Achieving consistency while minimising waste with end of row cut-off

    February 27th 2009

    Spreading to less than maximum width and using the multiple overlap that his Sulky X36 offers, Peter Milne is able to maintain accuracy, even with variable materials. Jane Carley reports.

  • Backing for Stewardship Group's slug pellets plan

    February 27th 2009

    THE manufacturer of methiocarb slug pellets, which may provide an alternative to metaldehyde, has stated it fully supports the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group’s efforts to raise standards of handling and application of slug pellets in the supply chain and on farm.

  • Best option for spring cropping

    February 27th 2009

    WITH last autumn’s difficult drilling conditions combined with lower than average wheat prices, many growers delayed their decision on what, or even if, to plant at all, until the New Year.

  • Cereal drilling rates have leapt up thanks to move to disc/tine system

    February 27th 2009

    Having a versatile and adaptable tillage tool capable of producing a seed-bed in one pass has long been the aim for West Sussex grower James Childs. But until last year he had struggled to achieve that target, relying more on a set of heavy Massey Ferguson X-gang discs, followed by a pan-busting swipe from a McConnel Shakaerator for his non-inversion tillage.

  • Choose spring options carefully as seed supplies are tight and margins low

    February 27th 2009

    SPRING-drilled cereal and break crop plantings are likely to be up significantly this year, mainly due to high rainfall in 2008.

  • Get your sprayer through its test without a hitch

    February 27th 2009

    Derek Howe, of sprayer testing firm SCS, guides Geoff Ashcroft through key aspects of the National Sprayer Testing Scheme’s test.

  • In the field – Gareth Pugh

    February 27th 2009

    GARETH Pugh is a business partner in a 344-hectare (850- acre) mixed farm at Cwm Whitton near Knighton and is entering his fourth season with the Quantron M electronic control system on his Kuhn MDS 932 spreader.

  • Keep a close eye on lodging risk

    February 27th 2009

    THERE may be fewer crops requiring growth regulation this season as, generally speaking, it could be a low-risk year for lodging, but any crop with a moderately-sized canopy will still need an early PGR application, growers are being advised.

  • Look at all the options before deciding on T0 and T1 strategy

    February 27th 2009

    A COLD winter, coupled with later winter wheat drilling in some parts, have prompted some growers to question whether a T0 fungicide application is necessary this spring.

  • Managing the bolting risk

    February 27th 2009

    GROWERS run a serious risk of increased bolting in their sugar beet crops this season if they have drilled prior to March 1. However, delay the drilling programme into late March and early April and yield loss is likely to occur.

  • Metaldehyde at risk if leaching into watercourses not contained

    February 27th 2009

    THE farming industry is under pressure to reduce the amount of the slug pellet active ingredient metaldehyde finding its way into water by this autumn. Teresa Rush and Dominic Kilburn report.

  • Moving to a 40m boom ‘cuts field spraying times in half’

    February 27th 2009

    Want to apply fertiliser across 40m bouts with a high degree of accuracy? Try a bespoke GPS-controlled sprayer, David Wakefield tells Jane Carley.

  • Scotland should be DON test free

    February 27th 2009

    Farmers in Scotland should not have to put grain going for human consumption through mycotoxin testing.

  • Set up machinery correctly to achieve an even spread pattern

    February 27th 2009

    Slug pellet application machinery could play a major role in preventing key slug bait active ingredient metaldehyde being banned from use in the UK – but only if farmers are prepared to use and service it properly, say industry experts.

  • Short discs an alternative to power harrow?

    February 27th 2009

    There is now a wide range of short disc harrows on the market and for farms wanting to reduce cultivation costs there could be an alternative to the versatile power harrow. Mervyn Bailey tests the Lemken Heliodor to see whether it is a viable alternative.

  • Significant potato losses reported

    February 27th 2009

    TOTAL potato crop losses are now estimated to be between 1,500 and 2,000 hectares (3,706 and 4,942 acres) , due to the wet ground conditions seen at the end of last year, says Potato Council market information officer, Rob Burrow.

  • Soggy state of affairs for northern crops

    February 27th 2009

    Last autumn’s wet weather combined with a hard winter has left many northern arable farmers feeling frustrated and now well behind with work schedules. Joanna Baker takes a look at the issues facing northern growers.

  • Spoonful of N and a gentle approach to nurse battered OSR

    February 27th 2009

    AGRONOMISTS are seeing some of the most variable crops of oilseed rape at this stage of a season for many years, with more backward crops in evidence the further north you travel.

  • Timing is key to nitrogen strategy

    February 27th 2009

    More crops are likely to need an early nitrogen application this season. With a large number of autumn- and winter-sown crops looking thin and backward, growers are advised to plan carefully to ensure fertiliser is only applied when crop growth starts.

  • What can farming expect from the economic crisis?

    February 27th 2009

    The world’s economy may be going through a difficult period, but agribusiness–focused bank Rabobank believes demand for agricultural products will continue rising. Christopher Lyddon reports.

  • GM maize products creep nearer approval

    26 February 2009

    TWO genetically modified maize products which can be freely grown around the world and imported into Europe for use in human food and animal feed, still cannot be cultivated in the EU.

  • Arable farmers warned wild oats could appear in crops

    26 February 2009

    WATCH out for sudden flushes of wild oats appearing in crops after this winter’s cold snaps, arable farmers are being warned.

  • Threat to Ultima closed handling system

    26 February 2009

    AN increase in the number of nematicide containers being returned damaged is putting the Ultima closed handling system under pressure, says Bayer CropScience.

  • Lifting sugar beet early key for growers on heavy land

    26 February 2009

    FEEDBACK from sugar beet growers on heavier land has confirmed that the ability to lift beet early in September, without compromising yield, remains a high priority and critical to achieving the best entry for a following wheat crop.

  • Industry denies pesticide black-list

    25 February 2009

    FARMERS and retailers have been told there is no such thing as a ‘black-list’ of dangerous pesticides.

  • Grain for human consumption does not need mycotoxin testing

    20 February 2009

    FARMERS in Scotland should not have to put grain going for human consumption through mycotoxin testing.

  • Reducing reliance on pesticides vital for managing crop disease

    20 February 2009

    DEVELOPING alternative methods of managing crop disease and reducing the reliance on pesticides, will be vital in the light of impending European pesticide legislation, says SAC senior plant pathologist, Dr Simon Oxley.

  • Scottish whisky consumption forecast to keep growing

    20 February 2009

    SCOTTISH whisky consumption has been growing since 2004 and is forecast to keep growing until 2011, according to Adrian Dyter, commercial director, Greencore Malt.

  • Fusarium mycotoxins on the agenda at malting barley conference

    20 February 2009

    FARMERS in Scotland should not have to put grain going for human consumption through mycotoxin testing.

  • Long-term opportunities offer way out of recession

    20 February 2009

    The focus was on fertiliser, fuel, finance and food at The Arable Group’s 2009 Arable Outlook conference held at Scotch Corner. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Shift to hazard-based regulation on pesticides

    20 February 2009

    PESTICIDES regulation in Europe has shifted from risk to hazard-based, resulting in active ingredients being lost and the threat of resistance increased, TAG technical director Jim Orson told the Arable Outlook conference.

  • Controlling risk amid grain price volatility

    20 February 2009

    Risk management was a theme picked up by David Sheppard, managing director of Gleadell Agriculture at the TAG Arable Outlook conference.

  • Using good practice to make N count

    20 February 2009

    EVERY kilo of applied nutrient must count, otherwise it is a waste of money and potential environmental pollution, said Peter Dampney, ADAS.

  • HGCA malting barley conference

    20 February 2009

    MALTSTERS must come forward with malting barley contracts to give Scottish growers confidence to produce the crop this spring.

  • Cereal Watch - February

    February 20th 2009

    Cereal Watch is a new monthly feature in conjunction with Syngenta. From now through to January 2010 we’ll be following the progress of two arable farmers, catching up with them at regular intervals as they make the key decisions affecting their crops. This month we introduce Paul Drinkwater of the Abbotts Ripton Farming Company.

  • Scientists at Liverpool University awarded £1.7m to crack genetic code for wheat

    19 February 2009

    SCIENTISTS at the University of Liverpool have been awarded £1.7 million to decode wheat’s genome in order to help farmers increase the yield of British wheat varieties.

  • Highest levels of light leaf spot reported in oilseed rape since 1995

    19 February 2009

    LIGHT leaf spot in oilseed rape is at its highest level since the epidemic of 1995 a Defra-funded survey of commercial oilseed rape crops has revealed.

  • Farmers Guardian and BCPC relaunch congress

    17 February 2009

    DELEGATES at this year’s British Crop Production Congress can look forward to a fresh approach when they convene at the Scottish Exhibition & Conference Centre in Glasgow in November (9 - 11).

  • Bad weather hits potatoes

    February 13th 2009

    POTATO planting resumed briefly last week before cold wet weather halted any further progress.

  • Fighting allium white rot and the UK’s waste problems with composted onions

    February 13th 2009

    COMPOSTED onion waste has produced good allium white rot control in trials, providing a waste management and disease control solution in one, delegates at a vegetable conference heard last week.

  • Positive growth for vegetable demand in 2009 predicted

    February 13th 2009

    UK vegetable growers could be presented with new opportunities and be reasonably well-placed to deal with the recession.

  • SFP cut replaces warnings for glyphosate offenders

    February 13th 2009

    FARMERS and agronomists across the country have been warned to take particular care in their use of glyphosate and other widely available agrochemical actives from this season, following the significant tightening of cross-compliance policing by the Rural Payments Agency.

  • New herbicides available

    11 February 2009

    TWO new sulfonylurea herbicides will be available for broad-leaved weed control in key arable crops this spring.

  • Move quickly on Ramrod

    11 February 2009

    FIELD vegetable growers wishing to secure supplies of pre-emergence herbicide Ramrod (propachlor) for the coming year must do so before it becomes illegal to market throughout the UK on March 18.

  • Reducing nation’s saturated fat

    11 February 2009

    A Scottish biscuit manufacturer, helping to reduce the nation’s saturated fat intake, has been named as the first company to be part of HGCA’s Supply Chain Partnership Innovation Showcase.

  • Free access to product information

    11 February 2009

    GROWERS and agronomists now have free access to Monsanto’s library of agrochemical technical and product information following the launch of a specialist internet resource centre.

  • SAC oilseed rape recommendations

    11 February 2009

    THE new SAC list of recommended oilseed rape varieties is now available.

  • Meeting milling wheat specification

    11 February 2009

    MEETING the specification for milling wheat will be the focus of this year’s HGCA Milling Wheat Conference.

  • Herbicide re-registered

    11 February 2009

    MECOPROP herbicide Duplosan KV has gained re-registration under the European registration system for use in wheat, barley and oats, amenity grassland, managed amenity turf and grass seed crops.

  • Oilseed rape crops should still make full recovery

    11 February 2009

    MANAGING this year’s beleaguered oilseed rape crops will test even the most experienced oilseed growers, but crops still have the potential to make a full recovery, says United Oilseeds.

  • Domestic market for another million tonnes of wheat

    10 February 2009

    UK wheat growers will supply one million tonnes a year under contract to a new joint-venture bioethanol plant near Hull.

  • US growers tackle weeds with herbicide-tolerant beet

    6 February 2009

    THE US sugar beet crop is predicted to be nearly 100 per cent GM in 2009 following widespread adoption of Monsanto’s Roundup Ready (RR) herbicide-tolerant beet.

  • Black-grass concerns due to limited control options

    February 6th 2009

    Grass weed control in late-drilled crops remains the greatest concern this spring following difficulties experienced by growers all over the country last autumn.

  • Check manure’s source before its application

    February 6th 2009

    With a renewed interest in using farmyard manure as a source of nutrients, potato and pulse growers are being reminded to check manure sources to avoid unintentional crop damage.

  • Early fungicide key to winter barley yield?

    February 6th 2009

    Protecting winter barley crops against the threat of early season disease is critical if the crop is to reach its maximum yield potential. But does that mean a T0 spray should be included in winter barley fungicide programmes? Dominic Kilburn finds out more.

  • Get the timing right in dealing with black-grass

    February 6th 2009

    There’s no doubt that plenty of Atlantis will be applied to winter wheat crops this spring, but careful planning is needed to get the best out of these applications. We asked the experts for some best practice advice.

  • Growers advised to take care with T0 tank mix partners

    February 6th 2009

    DO not mix tank-mix Atlantis with chlorothalonil at the T0 timing, Agrovista is advising growers.

  • Herbicide is only half the solution

    February 6th 2009

    WITH ever-decreasing herbicide options to call upon, Birds Eye has successfully managed the potential threat of potato apples in vining peas through a carefully balanced control programme using drilling dates and the pre-emergence herbicide Nirvana (imazamox+pendimethalin).

  • HGCA/PGRO Oilseeds and Pulses conference

    February 6th 2009

    Nitrogen inputs for oilseed rape and pulse marketing were among the topics on the agenda at the HGCA/PGRO Oilseeds and Pulses conference at Peterborough.

  • 'Making Potatoes Pay'

    February 6th 2009

    ‘Making Potatoes Pay’, was the theme of the SAC/Association of Potato Growers conference held at Perth Racecourse last week.

  • New herbicide option for spring beans this season

    February 6th 2009

    SPRING bean growers have a new herbicide option to cover the expanding crop area this year, with a SOLA (Specific Off Label Approval) for Defy (prosulfocarb).

  • Phosphate reduction advice challenged

    February 6th 2009

    CHANGES in SAC fertiliser recommendations should help trim growers’ costs, with reduced levels of phosphates being recommended on some soils.

  • Promoting pulse merits

    February 6th 2009

    CANADIAN pulse growers will focus on rising consumption and promoting benefits of their crops, rather than solving agronomy problems, said Canadian grower Mike Donnelly-Vanderloo.

  • Seed potato treatment

    February 6th 2009

    POWDER seed treatment RhiNo DS (flutolanil) is now approved for use in potato seed crops for the control of seed borne disease.

  • SOLAs for plant propagation

    February 6th 2009

    THE residual and contact herbicide, flumioxazin has new off label approvals for use on several horticultural crops, including outdoor top fruit, outdoor soft fruit, outdoor ornamentals, farm forestry, outdoor forest nursery, outdoor plant production and outdoor hops.

  • Spring Spraying

    February 6th 2009

    An 8-page Farmers Guardian special supplement

  • Top performers are better at targeting their inputs

    February 6th 2009

    THE best performing arable businesses are better at targeting inputs to achieve higher yields, ProCam benchmarking data reveals.

  • Tougher PCN tests to impact on costs

    February 6th 2009

    FORTHCOMING changes to the EU potato cyst nematode (PCN) Directive could have a financial impact on seed producers, according to Dr Stuart Wale, potato specialist with the Scottish Agricultural College.

  • Tuber treatment for seed potatoes

    February 6th 2009

    A new tuber treatment for seed potatoes being developed by Syngenta offers potential for controlling a range of tuber-borne diseases, including activity against common scab, for which there is currently no chemical control.

  • Varietal resistance limits disease but fungicides are still required

    February 6th 2009

    When planning eyespot control this season bear in mind that varietal resistance to the disease will help limit disease development but won’t always negate the need for a fungicide treatment.

  • Yield losses may exceed nitrogen savings

    February 6th 2009

    NEW calculations of the economic nitrogen optimum for oilseed rape indicate N rates should be adjusted by 25 to 30kg per hectare per unit change in the grain price:fertiliser cost ratio.

  • Malting contracts concern for Scottish growers

    4 February 2009

    MALTING barley growers in Scotland are threatening to leave their corn drills in the sheds in the absence of contracts from maltsters.

  • Potato industry meets to agree best practice

    2 February 2009

    POTATO industry representatives are meeting in Peterborough next week to discuss marketable returns and blight control.

  • Potato growers set sprayer booms too high

    2 February 2009

    MOST potato growers set their sprayer booms too high, according to TAG spray application specialist Prof Paul Miller.

  • Agronomy company splits in two

    January 30th 2009

    WELL-known agronomy business Hampshire Arable Systems has changed its structure and as of January 30, 2009 will be run as two separate companies.

  • Be vigilant against wheat bulb fly threat

    January 30th 2009

    WHEAT bulb fly egg hatch has begun at three sampling sites monitored by Dow AgroSciences Pestwatch in Cambridgeshire.

  • Complete your potato returns online

    January 30th 2009

    POTATO growers can now update and complete their returns on-line at www.potatocouncil.co.uk.

  • End of month cut-off date for propyzamide

    January 30th 2009

    OILSEED rape herbicide Kerb Flo (propyzamide) can be used until January 31, says Dow AgroSciences. Poor weather conditions, reduced applications of pre-emergence herbicides in oilseed rape and doubts over the viability of some crops means many growers have postponed making a decision about using a herbicide.

  • Experts predict smaller world harvest for 2009

    January 30th 2009

    COMMODITY price volatility is here to stay, but the likelihood of a world harvest replicating that of 2008 is small, said Carl Atkin of Bidwells.

  • New initiative aims to maximise profits by maintaining high yields

    January 30th 2009

    CROP protection business Syngenta has launched an initiative designed to help cereal growers combat the effects of grain price volatility and high fertiliser costs in 2009.

  • Optimum seed rates with CAN produces results

    January 30th 2009

    DESPITE very different seasons over the past three years, winter wheat sowing date trials show optimum seed rates for September-drilled crops are around 200-300 seeds/sq.m, and 300 seeds/sq.m when drilled in October.

  • Plough and press best for getting OSR going

    January 30th 2009

    THREE years of oilseed rape trials have shown a plough and press combination delivers the best crop establishment compared with other cultivation methods.

  • Stringent DON tests to tackle high mycotoxin levels

    January 30th 2009

    NEW measures are being implemented to help resolve food safety concerns over deoxynivalenol (DON) mycotoxins in milling wheat.

  • Using a T0 'a good investment' to maintain wheat yield potential

    January 30th 2009

    A T0 fungicide on winter wheat will be a good investment this season.

  • Yields more important than cutting costs

    January 30th 2009

    AIM to maximise cereal yields to counter current financial pressures. Always look to be cutting costs per tonne but only if there is no detrimental effect on yields.

  • Voluntary approach mooted in debate over post set-aside future

    29 January 2009

    DEFRA Ministers may be about to offer arable farmers a ray of hope in the bitter debate about the environmental impact of removing set-aside in England.

  • New source of calcified seaweed available

    29 January 2009

    A NEW, dry granular source of calcified seaweed is now available direct to UK farmers.

  • Growing Oilseeds spring edition now available

    29 January 2009

    THE spring 2009 edition of Growing Oilseeds is now available from United Oilseeds.

  • Co-op bans pesticides to save bees

    28 January 2009

    THE Co-operative supermarket will prohibit the use of eight pesticides on its fresh produce from today (Wednesday, January 28).

  • Pooling pays on feed wheat

    28 January 2009

    WITHOUT the weakening pound UK feed wheat would have been trading in the £60s last back-end.

  • Website gives crop buyers easy route to sourcing produce

    28 January 2009

    A NEW website launched this month will specialise in achieving contacts between produce buyers and growers.

  • New Dow AgroSciences operation will enhance research capabilities

    28 January 2009

    AGROCHEMICAL company Dow AgroSciences is to establish a new UK research base on the Warwick Enterprise Park at Wellesbourne.

  • Organisations work together to shape future of CropMonitor

    27 January 2009

    A NEW collaboration agreed this month between the Central Science Laboratory (CSL), HGCA and Bayer CropScience will see the three organisations working together to look at how the CropMonitor cereal disease monitoring service can best meet the needs of the industry.

  • EBEC Conference moves to Stoneleigh Park

    27 January 2009

    THE European Bioenergy Expo and Conference (EBEC) will take place on October 9-10, 2009.

  • Farmer secretly grows GM crops in Wales

    26 January 2009

    ENVIRONMENTALISTS are calling for his prosecution, but a farmer who is claimed to have sabotaged Wales's GM-free status by secretly planting and harvesting genetically modified maize and feeding it to cattle and sheep is totally unrepentant.

  • Discount for NFU members

    January 23rd 2009

    NFU members can now benefit from 20 per cent discount off the web based product www.plantprotection.co.uk, which would normally cost £60 + VAT.The online service launched by BCPC in 2008 offers all that appears in the annually produced UK Pesticide Guide plus more and is regularly updated throughout the year. To benefit from the 20 per cent special offer, NFU members should contact NFU Callfirst 08708 458 458.

  • Improving brown rust control

    January 23rd 2009

    EPOXICONAZOLE (Opus) continues to give better control of brown rust than prothioconazole (Proline) in HGCA fungicide trials. However the addition of the strobilurin fluoxastrobin to both triazoles (in Firefly and Fandango) has given additional control.

  • New weapon in the fungicide armoury

    January 23rd 2009

    THE somewhat limited vegetable crop fungicide portfolio has been given a boost this season with the approval of a new active ingredient for use for cabbage and leek crops.

  • The UK Pesticide Guide

    January 23rd 2009

    THE 22nd edition of The UK Pesticide Guide, is available and accessible online at www.plantprotection.co.uk.

  • Phosphate fertiliser back in the UK

    22 January 2009

    PHOSPHATE fertiliser is flowing into the UK again.

  • HGCA's 'disease management in cereals' workshops

    January 23rd 2009

    Fungicide performance, take-all and spray application were on the agenda for the first of HGCA’s ‘disease management in cereals’ workshops, held in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire.

  • Cold could hit wheat bulb fly eggs

    21 January 2009

    THE recent cold spell may have delayed wheat bulb fly egg hatch, ADAS is advising.

  • Limited frost problems for stored potatoes

    21 January 2009

    RECENT heavy frosts have caused only limited damage to stored potato crops, according to the Potato Council.

  • Chances to take action for wheat growers

    20 January 2009

    WINTER wheat growers have four opportunities to take action against take-all, according to an expert on the disease.

  • Watch for high disease levels in winter barley

    20 January 2009

    WINTER barley growers are being advised to watch out for high disease levels appearing in crops.

  • NAAC launches quality control standards for agricultural waste

    19 January 2009

    THE National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has launched quality control standards for contractors who collect agricultural waste.

  • Pulse Agronomy Guide available for download

    19 January 2009

    THE PGRO has published the latest edition of its Pulse Agronomy Guide covering all aspects of pulse production from choice of crop and variety through to harvesting information.

  • Drought-resistant maize is step closer

    January 16th 2009

    AGROCHEMICAL and plant science giants BASF and Monsanto say they have taken a major step nearer to delivering the world’s first drought-tolerant maize.

  • Irrigation seminar plan

    January 16th 2009

    THE UK Irrigation Association (UKIA) is inviting farmers and growers to find out about reducing energy costs and preparing for new sustainability challenges at its 2009 spring seminar.

  • New releases offer hard hitting control of septoria

    January 16th 2009

    POWERFUL new co-formulated triazole fungicides available for the coming season have given better control of septoria than the best straight triazoles in HGCA trials.

  • Resistance to Atlantis increasingly common

    January 16th 2009

    A HIGH incidence of black-grass resistance to key herbicide Atlantis (iodosulfuron + mesosulfuron) was found on farms across the south and east of England in a small-scale survey carried out last summer. Of particular significance was that Atlantis appeared to work well in all of the fields sampled.

  • The right time and place to look at farmers’ prospects and solutions

    January 16th 2009

    IF you take Morpeth, in Northumberland, as being the epicentre of the very worst of the weather experienced by growers last autumn, then TAG's decision to stage its biennial Outlook Conference firmly in the North East of England is spot on.

  • World's first drought-tolerant maize a step closer

    15 January 2009

    AGCHEM and plant science giants BASF and Monsanto have announced they have moved a step closer to introducing the world’s first drought-tolerant maize.

  • Results show PLRV down in potatoes but infection levels of PVY high

    15 January 2009

    LATEST results from NIAB’s Labtest service suggest that while potato leaf roll virus (PLRV) is largely absent this year, a quarter of farm-saved seed potatoes destined for the 2009 crop have been infected at some level with potato virus Y (PVY).

  • New fungicides improve control of septoria

    14 January 2009

    TWO new fungicides available to growers this spring have given improved control of septoria compared with the best straight triazoles in HGCA trials.

  • UK Pesticide Guide available online

    14 January 2009

    THE 22nd edition of The UK Pesticide Guide, is now available and is also accessible online at www.plantprotection.co.uk

  • Fierce reaction to pesticide ban vote

    13 January 2009

    MEPs have voted with an overwhelming majority to remove a large number of pesticides from farmers’ crop protection armoury.

  • Many pesticides doomed after European vote

    13 January 2009

    KEY pesticides will be removed from farmer and growers’ armoury next year after a vote in the European Parliament today (Tuesday, January 13).

  • Belchim plans future products

    January 9th 2009

    CROP protection business Belchim Crop Protection is set to launch more products into the UK during 2009, in addition to Chikara.

  • Harness efficiency with precision farming

    January 9th 2009

    HGCA is launching a series of workshops focusing on precision farming in January 2009, as part of the Be PRECISE – ‘Precision for efficiencies, savings and the environment' campaign.

  • Helpful hints to protection

    January 9th 2009

    THE Crop Protection Association (CPA) has published an introductory guide to plant protection products.

  • Industry predicts record 2008 crop

    January 9th 2009

    WITH over 60 per cent of the country's contracted sugar beet tonnage lifted and delivered into factories, the 2008 crop looks set to break records for both root and sugar yields.

  • Managing cereal disease

    January 9th 2009

    MANAGING take-all, rusts, mildew and eyespot in winter wheat are some of the topics that will be covered in HGCA’s Disease Management in Cereals workshops in January 2009.

  • New herbicide gives total pre-em control

    January 9th 2009

    A NON-SELECTIVE residual herbicide for broad-spectrum weed control around farmyard buildings, gravel drives, tracks and static machinery, has been launched in the UK.

  • Wheat bulb fly egg hatch this month

    January 9th 2009

    WHEAT bulb fly egg hatch is likely to start during January, according to ADAS.

  • Still time to use up IPU herbicide stocks

    8 January 2009

    DELAYED drilling and spray programmes in the autumn mean higher than usual stocks of IPU-based products remain unused in farm sheds at the start of the herbicide’s last season of use.

  • Future of crop protection products in farmers’ hands

    5 January 2009

    FARMERS and growers across Britain have one last chance to save key crop protection products from the scrap heap, food chain bodies have warned.

  • Drax wants to set the pace with sustainable practices

    January 2nd 2009

    THE future was biomass, but it must be sustainable biomass and Drax Power aimed to be at the forefront of sustainable practices, said Nigel Burdett, head of environment for Drax.

  • Heavy land has become profitable due to energy crop

    January 2nd 2009

    GROWING energy crops is good for biodiversity, farmers and conservationists were told at a demonstration day, near Wetherby, West Yorkshire, sponsored by FWAG and Drax Power.

  • Energy crops improve biodiversity

    January 2nd 2009

    SEAMUS Eaves, of the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) conducted a survey of birds across 10 farms growing energy crops.

  • Late drilling and weather impact crops

    23 December 2008

    AS the year draws to a close, the development of most crops appears to be behind, says ADAS.

  • Switch to hybrid winter OSR but conventional varieties dominate

    23 December 2008

    THE past two seasons have seen a swing to hybrid winter oilseed rape varieties, the latest annual certified and farm-saved seed planting estimates from Masstock reveal.

  • NFU plans for 2010 sugar negotiations

    22 December 2008

    THE NFU is set to hold a series of meetings with sugar producers to set out its vision for 2010 beet contracts.

  • Getting to the root of the problem

    December 19th 2008

    With oilseed rape yields averaging only 3.3 tonnes per hectare last season, setting a farm target of 6t/ha could be seen as ambitious. Dominic Kilburn speaks to a Norfolk grower who is aiming for that.

  • New herbicide for winter wheat

    15 December 2008

    A NEW herbicide to combat wild oats, ryegrass and brome in winter wheat has been launched by agricultural company Dow AgroSciences.

  • EU pesticide proposals could doom British carrot production

    15 December 2008

    THE loss of certain sprays deemed too hazardous for farmers to use could bring an end to carrot production in the UK, the Government’s leading advisor on pesticide use has warned.

  • Agrochemical selection and handling advice

    December 12th 2008

    AGRONOMISTS and others involved in the selection and handling of agrochemical products are the primary targets of the England Catchment Sensitive Farming Delivery Initiative (ECSFDI), a campaign of free advice and awareness raising.

  • Barley and spring wheats

    December 12th 2008

    THE only new winter barley to join the HGCA Recommended List for 2009/10 is the high-yielding hybrid six-row Volume.

  • Catchment study provides insight into contamination

    December 12th 2008

    ALMOST exactly a decade after the Cherwell Study began monitoring a 100 hectare catchment site in Oxfordshire the findings have been reviewed and found to be more relevant to farmers now than ever before.

  • Eight winter hybrids join oilseed rape list

    December 12th 2008

    TWO semi-dwarf varieties and a single open-pollinated type are among the eight winter oilseed rape newcomers to the Recommended List for 2009.

  • Guide to barley disease management from HGCA

    December 12th 2008

    HGCA has published a new Barley Disease Management Guide, which aims to help growers in their decision-making about disease management in barley.

  • HGCA's 2009/10 Recommended Lists

    December 12th 2008

    HGCA’s 2009/10 Recommended Lists for cereals and oilseeds contained a few surprises when they were announced last week.

  • High hopes for a new active ingredient

    December 12th 2008

    CROP protection manufacturer BASF has unveiled a new active ingredient called Initium.

  • New varieties for 2009: key agronomic characters

    December 12th 2008

    • Varieties recommended with OWBM resistance: Qplus (Group 2), Scout (Group 3), Viscount (group 4).• Varieties performing well as a second wheat: Panorama (Group 2), Ketchum (Group 2), Grafton, Cassius (Group 4).• Varieties with potential for early drilling: Scout, Grafton.• Varieties with 6 or above rating for resistance to FEB: Gallant, Panorama, Ketchum, Scout, Viscount, Cassius.

  • OSR lists split regionally as yield performance varies

    December 12th 2008

    THE HGCA 2009/10 Recommended List of winter oilseed rape varieties is in fact two lists, one for the north region and one for the east and west region.

  • Pesticides case focuses attention on buffer zones

    December 12th 2008

    Pollution caused by pesticides – and possible ways of reducing it – concentrated the minds of Association of Applied Biologists members attending a conference at Harper Adams University College.

  • River management plans

    December 12th 2008

    THE introduction this month of individual river management plans may mean restrictions on the use of some pesticides, conference chairman Andy Massey, senior assessor at the Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD), told delegates.

  • Short rotations raise disease pressure

    December 12th 2008

    Ecomonic pressures have led to short rotations, which are causing a rise in soil-borne diseases in oilseed rape, including sclerotinia, warns Peter Gladders of ADAS.

  • Studying the effects of ethylene

    December 12th 2008

    A THREE-YEAR study underway at Cranfield University and Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit (SBEU) is seeking to understand how taste and health-related compounds are affected in tubers when ethylene is used during storage.

  • Surprise at Viscount decision

    December 12th 2008

    THERE were some major surprises in the HGCA 2009/10 Recommended List announcements, according to Barry Barker, national arable seeds manager, Masstock Arable.

  • Pressure on wheat prices due to significant crop surplus

    10 December 2008

    WHEAT prices continue to remain under pressure due to the amount of crop surplus still around, warned David Sheppard, managing director of Gleadell Agriculture.

  • Twenty one varieties on new Recommended Lists

    5 December 2008

    TWENTY one new cereal and oilseed rape varieties have joined the Recommended Lists for 2009/10, HGCA has announced.

  • Autumn conditions affect spring decisions

    December 5th 2008

    After a problematic autumn drilling period, what spring cropping options are available now? Joanna Baker asks some seed industry experts on their views and predictions for 2009.

  • Branston's carbon achievement

    December 5th 2008

    POTATO supplier Branston has become the first food producer in the country to receive the Carbon Trust Standard.

  • Consistently high wheat yields are the exception rather than the rule

    December 5th 2008

    GROWERS should not bank on a repeat of the exceptionally high wheat yields that were harvested this year during 2009 say two independent agronomists.

  • Developing high yielding spring barley for the distilling market

    December 5th 2008

    Rising whisky consumption and new higher-yielding spring barley varieties were the focus of a technical briefing at Simpsons Malt in Berwick-upon-Tweed. Joanna Baker reports.

  • Growth in whisky demand shows no sign of slowing

    December 5th 2008

    Malt production at Simpsons Malt has doubled in the last 20 years in response to UK demand.

  • IBD Approved List – harvest 2009

    December 5th 2008

    SPRING barley variety Publican has gained promotion to the full approval category on the Institute of Brewing and Distilling’s Approved List for harvest 2009.

  • New man on NIAB’s board

    December 5th 2008

    DAVID Baulcombe, Royal Society research professor and Professor of Botany at the University of Cambridge, has joined the Board of the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB).

  • Niche markets for spring crops

    December 5th 2008

    ALTERNATIVE crops such as white wheat and millet could be profitable spring-sown options for growers looking for more niche opportunities, says one adviser.

  • Nitrogen application timings crucial to quality

    December 5th 2008

    GETTING the timing of fertiliser applications right on spring barley varieties is crucial in order to achieve the right grain quality, says Simon Phillips, head of product development at Syngenta Seeds.

  • Provisional P1 listing for Tattoo

    December 5th 2008

    ONE new variety joins the PGRO’s 2009 Recommended List for spring beans in the P1 provisionally recommended category.

  • Pulse list newcomers reflect steady performance increase

    December 5th 2008

    White seeded pea varieties and a low-tannin spring bean join the PGRO Recommended Lists for 2009. Teresa Rush reports from the launch of the 2009 lists at Premier Foods’ Long Sutton plant in Lincolnshire.

  • Reasons for rejection

    December 5th 2008

    ON average 2.5 per cent of malting barley delivered to end users was rejected during the 2007/08 crop year, according to results from the Maltsters Association of Great Britain annual rejections survey.In total 35,892 tonnes was rejected from 1.44m tonnes offered during the 12 months up to July 31 2008.The percentage rejected was slightly down on the previous season. Poor germination capacity was the main reason for rejection.

  • Spring Crops

    December 5th 2008

    FIND out how to make the most of profitable spring drilling options in our FG Spring Crops special report.

  • Use slurry and manure better

    December 5th 2008

    THE publication of new soil data highlighting the need for farmers to optimise fertiliser use across the UK has been welcomed by the industry.

  • Winter bean variety Sultan joins PGRO list

    December 5th 2008

    ONE new winter bean variety joins the PGRO Recommended List for 2009, taking the total number of varieties on the list up one from last year to four.

  • World wheat plantings fall

    December 5th 2008

    THE International Grains Council estimates that world wheat plantings for harvest 2009 will be 1.6 per cent below 2008, at 221.7 million hectares.

  • Pesticide changes could damage agriculture and food production - Brown

    4 December 2008

    PRIME Minister Gordon Brown has finally responded to proposed EU rules that could remove a quarter of crop protection products from the market place.

  • David Baulcombe joins NIAB board

    4 December 2008

    DAVID Baulcombe, Royal Society research professor and Professor of Botany at the University of Cambridge, has joined the Board of the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB).

  • Rejected malting barley down slightly on previous season

    4 December 2008

    ON average 2.5 per cent of malting barley delivered to end users was rejected during the 2007/08 crop year, according to results from the Maltsters Association of Great Britain annual rejections survey.

  • In store potato stocks keeping well

    4 December 2008

    POTATO stocks in store are keeping well, particularly in the packing sector where lifting occurred before the October frosts.

  • EU regulations threaten a quarter of crop protection products

    3 December 2008

    GOVERNMENT advisors on pesticide use have warned that new EU regulations could still remove up to 23 per cent of crop protection products currently on the market.

  • Production tax on sugar beet sector to remain

    3 December 2008

    MINISTERS have decided to retain the production tax on the European beet sector, with the result that the beet sugar sector will be the only agricultural sector where a production charge is levied and paid into the General Budget, says the NFU.

  • NFU Sugar seeks election candidates for board

    3 December 2008

    NFU Sugar is seeking candidates for election to its sugar board.

  • Sharpes vining pea variety catalogue available to download

    3 December 2008

    THE 2009 edition of the Sharpes vining pea variety catalogue provides growers with a technical summary of all the varieties currently marketed by the company.

  • New GM feed looks for authorisation this week

    1 December 2008

    A NEW genetically modified soybean could be authorized for import into the European Union this week in a move that could see livestock feed prices drop.

  • Autumn spray schedules in disarray after wet November

    November 28th 2008

    AUTUMN workloads, including late drilling and herbicide applications, are suffering in the north of the country where persistent rain throughout November has meant all operations have now come to a complete halt.

  • 'Buy real bread' campaign

    November 28th 2008

    BAKERS, consumers and campaigners have joined forces this week with an appeal to consumers to buy 'real bread'.

  • Grain mycotoxins ‘worst since records began’ warns trade

    November 14th 2008

    This year’s UK Grain event at the Newark and Notts showground sought to bring together advice on achieving best practice for a range of grain storage issues. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Improving efficiency of fertiliser uptake

    November 28th 2008

    POTATO growers need to focus on getting better value from their fertiliser applications, according to Omex agronomist Andy Eccles.

  • Low yield risk from lack of potash

    November 28th 2008

    POTATO growers run the risk of lower-yielding, poorer quality crops if soil potash (K) index is less than adequate.

  • Organic oats test positive for herbicide and PGR use

    November 28th 2008

    THE Soil Association has pledged to increase the amount of random testing it conducts on the produce it certifies following the discovery that batches of oats being sold as organic and certified by the Association contained residues of the plant protection products chlormequat and glyphosate.

  • Phoma leaf spot widespread in oilseed rape crops

    November 28th 2008

    PHOMA leaf spot is now widespread in oilseed rape crops and while infection levels are developing slowly at the moment, there are likely to be further increases from November infections.

  • Soil phosphate warning as levels reach an all-time low

    November 28th 2008

    Soil P and K shortages pose a growing threat to potato crops, as growers heard at a Cambridgeshire seminar last week.

  • Timing and conditions key to weed control

    November 28th 2008

    WITH herbicides in oilseed rape accounting for over half of total crop protection inputs, timing and conditions, in terms of weed control and minimising risk of water pollution, are important.

  • Wheat volatility to continue

    26 November 2008

    WHEAT market prices are predicted to remain volatile – but could get back to 2007 levels, according to a report by Savills Rural Research.

  • Progress on NW grain store project

    26 November 2008

    THE development of a centralised grain store in the North West is closer to becoming a reality.

  • Government must intervene on pesticides - CPA

    25 November 2008

    THE Government is coming under renewed pressure to intervene to secure a last minute compromise on the new EU pesticide regulation.

  • Changes to organic regulations could leave businesses unprepared

    24 November 2008

    LOOMING changes to European organic regulations could catch out many businesses in the New Year, UK organic certification body Organic Farmers & Growers has warned.

  • Borderline OSR crops can still deliver yields

    November 21st 2008

    OILSEED rape growers should not be in a hurry to rip up borderline oilseed crops but rather should but leave them and re-assess in the spring.

  • Eco-friendly protection

    November 21st 2008

    ANNEX 1 listing has been granted for a range of environmentally-friendly, garlic-based crop protection products.According to manufacturer ECOspray, the products, which are marketed as ECOguard and NEMguard, have been granted Annex 1 listing in the EU for their repellancy, insecticidal and nematicidal activity. The products have no set maximum residue level (MRL) as they are classified as a food grade material, says the company.

  • Nitrogen fixing trials for pulse crops and varieties

    November 21st 2008

    NEW trials work at pea and bean research centre PGRO is examining differences in nitrogen fixation between a range of pulse crops and varieties.

  • This harvest sees wheat quality decline but barley has improved

    November 21st 2008

    WHEAT quality decreased this harvest but with marked regional differences, according to final results from the 2008 HGCA Cereals Quality Survey.

  • Wheat growing costs set for steep rise

    November 21st 2008

    GROWING costs for winter wheat are set to increase by up to £250 per hectare between 2008 and 2009 crops mainly as a result of higher input costs, according to advisors, who are expressing concerns over the likely impact on arable businesses.

  • Winter stubbles offer little for birds

    November 21st 2008

    WHILE winter stubbles are often claimed to be feeding havens for birds, results from a Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust study indicate that planting specific wild bird seed crops targeting declining winter bird populations would be a better option.

  • Sponsors give technical event a boost

    19 November 2008

    THE Royal Northern Agricultural Society’s Crop Tech 2009 arable technical event has attracted Clydesdale Bank and Yara as major sponsors.

  • Potato production up in 2008

    18 November 2008

    HIGHER yields this season mean that potato production in 2008 is up on 2007 despite poor harvesting conditions and a smaller planted area, says the Potato Council.

  • Growers reminded to follow best practice with propyzamide

    18 November 2008

    WITH the arrival of temperature and soil conditions suitable for the application of the herbicide propyzamide to winter oilseed rape crops over the next few weeks, Dow AgroSciences is reminding growers to follow best practice to ensure the herbicide is kept out of water.

  • Defra denies secret GM trials

    17 November 2008

    DEFRA has moved to deny reports that it is set to carry out secret GM crop trials around the UK.

  • Biofuels will send millions into poverty

    17 November 2008

    EUROPE must ‘slow down’ on biofuels, or else risk sending millions of people over the poverty line, warned the head of the Government’s biofuels' watchdog.

  • Chemistry benefit from new fungicide

    November 14th 2008

  • Conveyor thickness doubled

    November 14th 2008

    DEVON-BASED grain handling manufacturer, Perry of Oakley, has upgraded its range of farm chain and flight conveyors to a heavier duty specification.

  • Heavy soils slow potato harvest

    November 14th 2008

    THE 2008 potato harvest continues to progress at a slow pace with 95 per cent (122,400 hectares) of the crop now lifted.

  • High Court judge rules Defra is failing to protect residents from pesticides

    November 14th 2008

    PESTICIDES campaigner Georgina Downs has won a victory in the High Court that could force Defra to re-think its policy on protecting residents from crop spraying.

  • New augers for next season

    November 14th 2008

    NEW for 2009 from Astwell Augers are 10in and 12in general purpose augers.

  • Versatility from controllers

    November 14th 2008

    NEW portable automatic fan controllers from Martin Lishman have been designed to be moved around or between grain stores, according to where crop ventilation fans are being used.

  • Bendy fruit set to return

    12 November 2008

    THE EU is set to repeal laws which prevent misshapen and under-sized fruit and vegetables from being sold in supermarkets.

  • Brown given second warning on pesticide rules

    11 November 2008

    PRIME Minister Gordon Brown has again been urged to personally intervene in EU pesticide proposals to prevent a disaster for British agriculture.

  • New grain storage group aims to improve supply needs

    10 November 2008

    OFFERING end user customers access to the largest concentration of centrally stored and processed grain in the UK, in addition to unparalleled levels of service and value across the supply chain, are the key aims of newly-formed central storage organisation NetworkGrain UK.

  • Benn backs GM food safety

    10 November 2008

    ENVIRONMENT Secretary Hilary Benn has admitted that scientific evidence 'clearly' demonstrates the safety of genetically modified (GM) foods.

  • Early-drilled crops doing well, but later seedbeds and emergence disappointing

    November 7th 2008

    DESPITE difficult field conditions leading to slow drilling progress in many areas, around 90 per cent of the planned winter barley area and 85 per cent of winter wheat is now in the ground, according to ADAS.

  • Options for control of TuYV aphids in OSR

    November 7th 2008

    INSECTICIDAL seed treatments are likely to be the main option for control of turnip yellows virus-transmitting aphids in oilseed rape - for the near future at least.

  • Plant breeders sought to fill a growing global demand

    November 7th 2008

    THERE is an acute shortage of plant breeders in the UK and many concerns about where the next generation of breeders will come from, according to Dr Nigel Kerby, managing director, Mylnefield Research Services (MRS).

  • Potato costs likely to rise by 15 -20pc

    November 7th 2008

    CHOOSING the right land to grow crops on is a key part of business improvement, according to Jay Wootton of Andersons.

  • Potato Council's Seed Industry Event

    November 7th 2008

    Seed potato exports and business improvement were among the hot topics on the agenda when members of the British seed potato industry met at the Potato Council’s Seed Industry Event ‘Rising to the challenges ahead’, in Crieff, Perthshire.

  • Rethink strategies for meadow-grass control post IPU

    November 7th 2008

    TIGHT schedules and challenging seedbeds have led many growers to focus on drilling rather than weed control, but experts are warning about overlooked annual meadow-grass control.

  • Sacrifice temptation to opt for quantity over quality

    November 7th 2008

    SCOTTISH seed potato growers should resist the temptation of dramatically increasing production, in order to preserve the high health status of their seed.

  • Seed treatment offers improved yields

    November 7th 2008

    A new insecticidal seed treatment for oilseed rape offers longer activity duration and

  • Top of Class Stuart's triumph

    November 7th 2008

    Credit: © FARMERS GUARDIAN please contact 01772 799445.

  • An appliance of science backcloth to food debate

    6 November 2008

    A NEW exhibition looking at the global food crisis and the debate surrounding GM crops is set to launch at the Science Museum in London, paving the way for a major public debate on the issue.

  • Euro-MPs vote to cut pesticides

    5 November 2008

    EURO-MPs have voted to dramatically cut the number of pesticides available for use by farmers, despite campaigning and direct lobbying by Farmers Guardian and industry organisations.

  • Weetabix appeal for increased volumes of British white wheat

    5 November 2008

    WEETABIX has appealed for an increased tonnage of white wheat variety Zircon in a move to secure more domestic produce.

  • Project aims to bring precision farming to wider audience

    4 November 2008

    GROWERS interested in precision farming techniques are being encouraged to get involved with a new HGCA project, Be PRECISE: Precision for efficiencies, savings and the environment.

  • Vital pesticide vote on Wednesday

    4 November 2008

    AN influential European Parliament committee will vote tomorrow (Wednesday, November 5), on controversial pesticide proposals that could limit our ability to produce food for a growing population.

  • Wheat pool returns £130 / tonne

    31 October 2008

    GLEADELL Agriculture’s 2008 wheat pool has put another £50/tonne or so, compared with current values, in the pockets of growers who took the firm’s advice to lock into forward prices.

  • Best practice for using Nemathorin

    October 31st 2008

    NEW best use guidelines have been issued for the applicationof the nematicide Nemathorin (fosthiazate) for soil pest control. This follows moves that mean in-furrow treatment is no longer a recommended option for the reduction of wireworm and spraing.

  • Grain cooling helped by differential thermostats

    October 31st 2008

    HOTTER harvest conditions and milder autumns and winters, with fewer windows of cold night time air, will make effective grain cooling even more important in future.

  • Law says landowners must manage rabbits

    October 31st 2008

    The ability to devour crops and leave a lasting trail of damage, means rabbits are one of the biggest nuisances. But what can you do to ensure damage limitation?

  • Make sure your slug control plans meet new EC regulations

    October 31st 2008

    THE Potato Council is urging potato growers to discuss slug control plans with their agronomist, purchaser and crop protection supplier to ensure they conform to new EC regulations that came into force on September 1.

  • OSR and pest experts on hand with workshops, news and views

    October 31st 2008

    BE sure to reserve your place at one of the half-day HGCA/FG oilseed rape dis-ease and pest management workshops.

  • Step up battle to see off our gnawing pests

    October 31st 2008

    Rats are an ongoing problem on many farms – and this winter will be no exception. Sara Gregson takes a look how to tackle the troublesome rodent.

  • RPA alerted to possible unlawful sale of trifluralin herbicides

    30 October 2008

    TRIFLURALIN herbicides have been unlawfully offered for sale and supply in the UK beyond the expiry date for sale of such products, says the Pesticide Safety Directorate.

  • Book your place at HGCA/FG workshops

    28 October 2008

    BE sure to reserve your place at one of the half-day HGCA/FG oilseed rape disease and pest management workshops.

  • Growers warned risk of pest infestations high

    28 October 2008

    GROWERS are being advised to keep a close eye out for pest infestations in grain stores following the wet harvest.

  • New Syngenta website offers tailored service for crop growers

    28 October 2008

    A NEW website from Syngenta automatically gathers together essential agronomic and business information specifically for the crops grown on the user’s farm.

  • John Humphreys joins HGCA R&D Committee

    28 October 2008

    JOHN Humphreys of the AtlasFram Group is to join the HGCA R&D Committee, for a three-year term.

  • Scottish harvest increases - but warnings for 2009

    27 October 2008

    CEREAL production in Scotland increased by 15.7 per cent this year with a 13 per cent increase in planted area and yields up by 2.5 per cent.

  • Purple GM tomatoes to help fight cancer

    27 October 2008

    SCIENTISTS have unveiled the latest GM food product – a purple tomato which can protect against cancers.

  • Water companies failing to meet Government strategy - Natural England

    27 October 2008

    NATURAL England has called on the Government to tighten up regulation on water companies, which it believes are failing to commit policies to reduce water consumption and extraction.

  • CPMP now online

    October 24th 2008

    THE new Crop Protection Management Plan is now available online and is designed to be simpler and easier to complete and will be updated every year to encourage a regular annual review, says the NFU.

  • Crops and weeds flourish in mild and wet conditions

    October 24th 2008

    In the last of our BASF/Tillage 2008 grass weed control features, we look at black-grass emergence patterns and talk to the experts about the implications for control this season.

  • CTU-based holding sprays have a role to play

    October 24th 2008

    WITH many cereal crops later drilled than normal into cloddy seedbeds, growers are being advised to reconsider their grassweed control options.

  • HGCA workshops

    October 24th 2008

    A series of half-day HGCA workshops, in partnership with Farmers Guardian, will provide growers with the opportunity to hear the latest on oilseed rape disease and pest control.

  • Integrating technologies could be of great benefit

    October 24th 2008

    LINKING existing technologies to record agrochemicals loaded into crop sprayers could improve both traceability and control.

  • Phoma on the rise in the South and East

    October 24th 2008

    PHOMA leaf spot infection is increasing in OSR crops, although high levels are still quite localised, in the eastern and southern regions, says ADAS.

  • Regular monitoring of malting barley in store pays dividends

    October 24th 2008

    MALTING barley growers are being advised to keep a close eye on malting barley in store and make sure crops are dried well ahead of loading out.

  • Stopping GM spread

    October 24th 2008

    THE German government is to fund research projects to develop methods to limit the spread of GM plants.

  • Wheat stress from heat but drought fears eased

    October 24th 2008

    CLIMATE change will put wheat crops under increasing heat stress but not more drought stress, Rothamsted Research scientists are predicting.

  • NFU figures reveal bumper 2008 harvest

    23 October 2008

    UPDATED figures for this year’s grain harvest have done nothing to discredit earlier suggestions of a bumper yield.

  • Consumers not concerned by GM

    23 October 2008

    MOST consumers in Europe are not concerned about buying GM foods, says a new EU study into consumer attitudes towards the technology.

  • No more peas and beans in UK, industry warn

    22 October 2008

    PEAS and beans are the latest products found to be uneconomical to grow in the UK if European Parliament plans to remove crop protection products from growers’ armoury are successful.

  • Time running out for sugar growers

    21 October 2008

    SUGAR beet growers, who held contracts with British Sugar in the years 2006, 2007 and 2008, whether they continued to grow in 2008 or not, should return their application forms before October 31 to avoid missing out on compensation under the sugar beet restructuring scheme, the RPA has warned.

  • New easier to complete CPMP available online

    20 October 2008

    THE new Crop Protection Management Plan is now available online.

  • A 'positive step forward'

    October 17th 2008

    A derogation to enable the approval of a plant protection product where there would otherwise be a serious risk to plant health has been welcomed, with a degree of caution, as a positive move by some organisations involved in lobbying against the EU pesticide regulation proposals.

  • Approvals could be delayed

    October 17th 2008

    APPROVAL of new pesticide products could be delayed because of a requirement under new MRL legislation to set MRLs in advance of approval.

  • Black-grass immaturity could put Atlantis on hold

    October 17th 2008

    WINTER wheat crops drilled from mid October onwards are unlikely to be far enough advanced to receive an autumn of application of Atlantis (iodosulfuron+mesosulfuron) for grass-weed control before the spraying weather window closes.

  • Cool seedbeds buy time for quality pre-em treatments

    October 17th 2008

    WITH crop growth now slowed by seedbed temperatures 1-2degC lower than normal, a leading agronomist believes growers have a welcome reprieve in the race to apply pre-emergence herbicide treatments.

  • Growers warned on bean seed testing

    October 17th 2008

    STEM nematode is affecting significant numbers of bean seed samples this autumn. Growers planning to use home-saved bean seed are being advised to have it tested for the insect pest.

  • MRL rule changes

    October 17th 2008

    NEW maximum residue level (MRL) rules will not apply to products treated with pesticides before September 1, 2008, when new legislation came into effect.

  • New malt group aims to ensure supplies

    October 17th 2008

    UK malt manufacturer Muntons has joined forces with three farming co-operatives – Grainfarmers, Grain Co and Centaur Grain – to form a new company, Muntons Malt Supply Chain (MMSC) to ensure continuity of supply and demand for malting barley.

  • Plans could leave crops unprotected

    October 17th 2008

    The implications of maximum residue level regulations and EU pesticide legislation proposals were hot topics at an HDC/NFU-organised horticulture conference at Stockbridge Technology Centre, North Yorkshire.

  • Potato harvesting heavy going

    October 17th 2008

    HARVESTING conditions for potatoes remain difficult in many regions, in the North and North West in particular, with growers taking every opportunity to lift, says the Potato Council.

  • Research into crop disease control without chemicals

    October 17th 2008

    A TEAM of German scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Electron Beam and Plasma Technology in Dresden say they have developed an organic method of protecting plants from disease by using electrons to kill fungal spores and viruses.

  • Strong wheat indicators

    October 17th 2008

    EXPORT meetings in Spain, Portugal and Holland arranged by HGCA indicate that there is a strong demand for UK wheat in European markets this season but there is some concern over gluten quality.

  • Investigation into high beet bolting levels

    16 October 2008

    THE high level of bolting in sugar beet crops this season is being investigated by the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) and British Sugar.

  • Securing a supply of malting barley

    15 October 2008

    UK malt manufacturer Muntons has joined forces with farming co-operatives, Grainfarmers, Grain Co and Centaur Grain to form a new company Muntons Malt Supply Chain (MMSC) to ensure continuity of supply and demand for malting barley.

  • Strong demand for UK wheat in Europe this season

    15 October 2008

    EXPORT meetings in Spain, Portugal and Holland arranged by HGCA indicate that there is a strong demand for UK wheat in European markets this season but there is some concern over gluten quality.

  • Book now for Potato Council event

    14 October 2008

    THE last few places for Potato Council’s Seed Industry Event (SIE), which takes place on October 30, 2008, at Crieff Hydro, Crieff, near Perth in Scotland, are expected to be taken up shortly, according to organisers.

  • October-drilled wheat not emerging early enough

    14 October 2008

    WINTER wheat crops drilled from mid-October onwards are unlikely to be far enough advanced to receive an autumn of application of Atlantis (iodosulfuron+mesosulfuron) for grass-weed control before the spraying weather window closes.

  • England ‘out of touch’ on GM

    13 October 2008

    THE English Government has been accused of being out of touch with its consumers.

  • Pesticide proposals could devastate production, Dutch study warns

    10 October 2008

    DUTCH researchers have added further weight to UK warnings that European food and horticulture production could be severely hit by the EU’s pesticide proposals.

  • Greater slug threat to later-drilled crops

    October 10th 2008

    AS the days grow shorter, this autumn’s exceptional slug risk is being exacerbated, slowing establishment of late-drilled crops and leaving them vulnerable to longer periods of attack from night-feeding slugs.

  • Kerb available this season as re-registration approved

    October 10th 2008

    THE propyzamide herbicide Kerb has gained re-registration in the UK and will be available this season, Dow AgroSciences has confirmed.

  • Locals have a crush on family's farm rapeseed oil

    October 10th 2008

    A Perthshire farming family is crushing, bottling and marketing rapeseed oil direct from the field.

  • Plan to tackle black-grass in winter wheat and barley

    October 10th 2008

    A FIVE point plan to help winter wheat and winter barley growers manage this season’s added black-grass difficulties has been unveiled by Syngenta.

  • Store monitoring key to rot control

    October 10th 2008

    POTATO growers must handle stored crops carefully to avoid the risk of rots developing, the Potato Council’s Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit (SBEU) has warned.

  • Wheat bulb fly survey finds numbers similar to last season

    9 October 2008

    WHEAT bulb fly egg numbers this season are similar to those of 2007, the HGCA-funded wheat bulb fly survey has concluded.

  • British is best on biofuels

    8 October 2008

    BRITAIN is ahead of target to meet the EU’s Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) as British-grown biofuels lead the way in environmental standards, says the latest Government report.

  • Phoma could hit crops hard this year

    8 October 2008

    THIS season’s phoma threat could be worse than the heavy disease pressure of last year, Rothamsted plant pathologist, Dr Neal Evans is warning.

  • Defra's June survey shows increased wheat and barley areas but lower rapeseed

    8 October 2008

    DEFRA released the provisional results of its June survey last week, showing increased wheat and barley areas and lower rapeseed.

  • Consumers confused over GM foods

    7 October 2008

    CONSUMERS need more information on Genetically Modified (GM) food if the technology is to enter widespread use in British agriculture, claims a new report.

  • Euro-MPs push pesticide proposals

    7 October 2008

    DESPITE the threat of EU pesticide proposals to British agricultural production, continental MEPs have expressed their desire to wrap up the new legislation as soon as possible.

  • Shipment of feed barley first to leave Devon for seven years

    7 October 2008

    A SHIPMENT of feed barley which left Teignmouth in Devon last week represents the first consignment of grain to be exported from the county for seven years.

  • Big harvest for 2008 despite bad weather

    7 October 2008

    INITIAL figures from the NFU show harvest was not as bad as many had expected following some of the worst weather in living memory.

  • European experts gather to debate pesticide proposals

    6 October 2008

    PESTICIDES legislation was high on the agenda at the Healthy Foods European Summit in London today (Monday, October 6), as industry leaders held a fierce debate on the future for food production.

  • New government department a step in the right direction - NFU

    6 October 2008

    THE creation of the new Energy and Climate Change department in Gordon Brown's government reshuffle, with Ed Miliband as head of the new portfolio, is a step in the right direction says the NFU.

  • REF welcomes new department but warns of difficulties ahead

    6 October 2008

    THE Renewable Energy Foundation (REF) has welcomed the creation by the Prime Minister of a new Department of Energy and Climate Change but has warned Secretary of State Ed Miliband that the new department faces grave difficulties in terms of meeting renewable energy targets.

  • Defra extends derogation to waterlogged farmers

    6 October 2008

    DEFRA has extended the temporary exemption from the GAEC 3 cross-compliance standard for farmers who need to use machinery on waterlogged soil to harvest cereals, oilseeds and protein crops in England.

  • Growers reminded to keep samples of grain

    6 October 2008

    NFU Scotland is reminding growers to take and store samples of grain prior to batches being sent from the farm.

  • Cultivate with care to avoid further soil damage

    October 3rd 2008

    STAY off your land until it is fit to cultivate this autumn rather than rushing on in an attempt to catch up after the most challenging harvest in recent memory.

  • Establishing a winter bean crop

    October 3rd 2008

    When it comes to establishing the crop, Mr Belcher advises growers to try and keep plant populations down this season. “Aim to establish 18 to 20 plants per square metre for winter sown varieties with 20 to 25 actual seeds planted. Otherwise the crop tends to grow too tall and thick which can reduce pod set and make it prone to disease.”

  • New encapsulated PDM formulation

    October 3rd 2008

    A NEW pendimethalin-based herbicide from Sipcam, is said to offer excellent control of annual grass and broad-leaved weeds in winter wheat, winter and spring barley, winter rye, triticale, potatoes, combining peas, forage maize and sunflowers.

  • NIAB puts forward alternatives view to French fact-finders

    October 3rd 2008

    A GROUP of 10 French farmers visited the National Institute of Agricultural Botany to learn first hand about issues facing their British counterparts.

  • Pressure on spring crop seed supplies

    October 3rd 2008

    DESPITE a difficult harvest followed by problems with establishment and planting uncertainties across much of the country, seed supply for winter crops should be sufficient this autumn.

  • Soil Association calls for neonicotinoid ban

    October 3rd 2008

    THE Soil Association has written to Defra Secretary Hilary Benn, urging him to ban neonicotinoid insecticides with immediate effect.

  • UK has capacity to produce extra 15.7million tonnes of biomass

    October 3rd 2008

    FARMLAND currently under permanent pasture together with temporary grassland could potentially be used to boost biomass production in the UK, an ADAS report for the National Non Food Crops Centre concluded.

  • Winter bean yields

    October 3rd 2008

    While only half of the NIAB/ PGRO Recommended List trials for beans are in (at the time of writing), he says winter and spring field bean yields, like pulses in general, are up. Winter beans specifically are 1.3 tonnes per hectare up on the over-years mean (see Table 1), helped considerably by some 8 tonne yields at a site in Kent, points out Mr Kightley.

  • Winter beans make a comeback

    October 3rd 2008

    Following two difficult years, the winter bean crop is making a comeback. Reports of high yields from this harvest and a significant increase in the planned area for planting this autumn, means winter beans could provide growers with fresh opportunities for a break crop.

  • Yields excellent as sugar season under way

    October 3rd 2008

    NEWARK and Wissington sugar beet factories have been open since last week and report a good start to the season with excellent yields.

  • Fear of ‘boom-bust’ cycle after massive EU harvest

    2 October 2008

    CEREAL production across the EU grew by a massive 50 million tonnes this year, potentially resulting in an acceleration of the ‘boom-bust’ cycle for producers, the EU’s umbrella farming body has warned.

  • Prime Minster must intervene to save EU agriculture

    2 October 2008

    PRIME Minister Gordon Brown has been urged to personally intervene in the European process to prevent further progress of new pesticides proposals until their impact on crop yield and food price across Europe has been fully assessed.

  • Crop protection experts explain proposals to British MEP

    2 October 2008

    EU debate over the new pesticides proposals is reaching fever pitch across Europe.

  • HGCA survey results show mixed quality

    1 October 2008

    PRELIMINARY results from this season’s HGCA cereal quality survey show mixed quality from early harvested wheat samples this year compared with 2007.

  • More GM crops being grown across Europe

    29 September 2008

    THE amount of genetically modified (GM) crops cultivated across the EU increased by 21 per cent in 2008.

  • Brassica disease alert

    September 26th 2008

    DISEASE pressure is building on brassica crops, with significantly high levels of ringspot spores being picked up in monitoring traps across east Lincolnshire, reports Andy Richardson of the Allium and Brassica Centre.

  • Managing conditions for late OSR

    September 26th 2008

    IT is still worth sowing oilseed rape well into September, provided seedbed conditions and early control of slugs and pigeons are managed well enough.

  • OSR disease control

    September 26th 2008

    An exceptionally wet August and early September has resulted in late harvesting and delayed drilling in many regions, making emerging oilseed rape crops vulnerable to disease.

  • Politicians failing to recognise fake pesticide threat

    September 26th 2008

    FAKE pesticides are increasingly present in most European countries, according to a new report from the European Crop Protection Association.

  • Reducing workloads with less fungicide

    September 26th 2008

    APPLYING autumn fungicide applications at lower volumes could reduce overall workloads and ensure optimum spray timings are achieved this season, says Rotam. The company is advising that the newly-approved tebuconazole fungicide Toledo can be used for autumn phoma control and then again in the spring for growth regulatory activity.

  • Wet spell means robust weed control programmes are needed

    25 September 2008

    ROBUST weed control programmes will be needed following the record-breaking wet spell, according to independent advisers The Arable Group.

  • Ten wheat candidates to progress

    25 September 2008

    THE WHEAT Crop Committee has chosen to re-sow ten Candidate winter wheat varieties as the most likely contenders for addition to the HGCA Recommended List this autumn.

  • BASF GM crops' European future uncertain

    25 September 2008

    CHEMICAL giant BASF may abandon research into GM crops for the European market should it fail to gain approval for its genetically-modified Amflora potato.

  • Mixed picture as harvest struggle goes on

    24 September 2008

    GOOD weather last week provided farmers across the UK with an opportunity to salvage some of this year’s harvest, but for some areas the struggle against the wet weather continues.

  • High take-all infections found in cereal trials

    24 September 2008

    ROOT evaluations at HGCA Recommended List second cereal trial sites across the country have highlighted a major build-up of take-all infections for the second year in a row.

  • AIC advice on storing slug pellets

    24 September 2008

    STORE slug pellets carefully to avoid risks to pets, livestock and wildlife the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) is advising.

  • New research could help develop pea varieties

    23 September 2008

    NEW research from the John Innes Centre and the Central Science Laboratory could help breeders to develop pea varieties able to withstand drought stress and climate change. The research also shows that the composition of crops is likely to change with the climate.

  • OSR crops at risk from downy mildew

    23 September 2008

    DOWNY mildew is particularly widespread on many late-emerging oilseed rape crops, says Interfarm.

  • Four new winter wheat varieties to be trialed

    23 September 2008

    FOUR KWS-UK winter wheats have gone forward to CEL Recommended List trials to be planted this autumn.

  • Overcoming blight in West Wales

    19 September 2008

    Barry Alston reports from Ceredigion where a group of livestock farmers is diversifying into potatoes – despite growing blight worries.

  • Call for beet samples as rhizomania rife this season

    19 September 2008

    WITH strong symptoms of rhizomania now showing in many sugar beet fields, Broom’s Barn is urging beet growers to send in samples to its plant clinic so that the presence of the disease can be confirmed or ruled out.

  • Phoma risk to seedlings

    19 September 2008

    THE exceptional rainfall in August has primed phoma cankers ready for infective spore release each time it rains, posing a serious risk to emerging oilseed rape seedlings, says ADAS pathologist, Dr Peter Gladders.

  • Organic conversion guide published as demand grows

    19 September 2008

    HGCA has published a new guide aimed at helping farmers, managers and landowners who are considering organic conversion.

  • New WDG fungicide

    19 September 2008

    A new concentrated formulation of broad spectrum fungicide Rovral has label recommendations for use in Brussel sprouts, cauliflowers, bulb onions, salad onions, protected tomatoes, protected lettuce, outdoor lettuce, outdoor and protected strawberries, outdoor raspberries, brassica seed crops, outdoor ornamental pot plants, protected pot plants, winter oilseed rape and spring oilseed rape.

  • Arable farmers urged to complete NFU harvest survey

    17 September 2008

    ARABLE farmers throughout England and Wales are being urged to take part in the NFU’s annual harvest survey to help produce as clear a picture as possible of this year’s harvest.

  • Growers of permanent crops urged to express Single Payment interest

    16 September 2008

    GROWERS of permanent crops who wish to apply for Single Payments that will be available to them from 2010 are being urged to express an interest this month.

  • MEPs call for alternative biofuel source

    15 September 2008

    MEPs have voted to scale back EU plans to dramatically increase the use of biofuels derived from crops such as wheat and maize.

  • RPA assures beet growers after compensation mailing error

    15 September 2008

    ALL eligible beet growers will be able to apply for Sugar Restructuring Compensation despite a mailing error that may have resulted in some growers not receiving their application forms.

  • HGCA offers advice over fusarium mycotoxin development in wheat crops

    15 September 2008

    WEATHER conditions in 2008 have been favourable to fusarium mycotoxin development in wheat crops, says HGCA.

  • Arable Focus

    12 September 2008

    FG talks to a farm manager who shares his experience of building a biobed, looks at the best pelleting practice ths autumn, the latest trends for crop sraying and more in this edition of Arable Focus.

  • Autumn 'attention to detail' key to full OSR yield potential

    September 12th 2008

    In order to achieve the full potential for oilseed rape in this country, growers need to start treating the crop as a high value earner, rather than a low cost break from cereals.

  • Bad season ahead for black dot infection

    September 12th 2008

    East Anglian potato growers had a valuable opportunity to gain the latest ideas and innovations in potato agronomy at a Potato Council event staged near Aylsham in North Norfolk last week.

  • BCPC calls for change to the 'cut-off criteria'

    September 12th 2008

    THE British Crop Production Council has stepped up its campaign to convince MEPs to reject the new EU pesticide proposals.

  • Biobeds send the right message

    September 12th 2008

    Installing an on-farm biobed to manage residue from sprayer filling and washdown areas may not be compulsory, but making such a commitment indicates that arable farmers are taking the issue of agrochemical water pollution seriously.

  • CTU has role as a holding spray

    September 12th 2008

    Do not ignore the imp-ortance of a 'holding spray' within a grass weed control spray programme, says UAP technical director, Chris Bean.

  • Finding a successful break crop to replace beet

    September 12th 2008

    A return to growing beans turned out to be profitable in more ways than one for Geoff Trewhitt.

  • Latest results sort the wheat from the chaff

    September 12th 2008

    How have individual Recommended and candidate varieties fared? Joanna Baker talks to RL manager Jim McVittie about his observations on variety performance this summer.

  • Oilseed rape drilling schedules in chaos

    September 12th 2008

    OILSEED rape drilling schedules have been thrown into chaos, with continuing rain, unharvested crops and saturated soils all contributing to mounting planting delays.

  • Potato growers urged to consider min-till cultivations

    September 12th 2008

    POTATO growers, like their cereal growing counterparts, should consider minimum tillage and non-inversion cultivations prior to planting potatoes if they want to get the most out of their crops, said Dr Mark Stalham of Cambridge University Farms.

  • Respect your slug pellets

    September 12th 2008

    s oilseed rape stubbles receive the first of the season's slug pellet treatments, Dr Paul Fogg of ADAS says it has never been so important to use molluscicides in the same way as any other pesticide.

  • Spring barley yields up 10pc

    September 12th 2008

    SPRING barley yields are up by as much as 10 per cent this year according to the HGCA’s RL trials team, although it’s too early to tell if quality has been badly affected by the bad weather this summer.

  • Tramlines visible for early herbicide success

    September 12th 2008

    Whether it is black-grass or annual meadow-grass that’s the target this autumn, growers are being encouraged to think about early treatments against a backdrop of potentially rushed cultivations, high dormancy predictions for black-grass and the withdrawal of IPU.

  • Updated guidelines on insecticide use

    September 12th 2008

    THE Insecticide Resistance Action Group (IRAG) has issued new and updated guidelines on insecticide use and resistance management.

  • When it comes to spraying is it boom or bust?

    September 12th 2008

    Are you a ‘wide-boom’ boy or a low volume, speed merchant, or do you employ a combination of all three? Dominic Kilburn seeks advice from four experts.

  • Defra grant derogation to waterlogged farmers

    10 September 2008

    DEFRA has granted a derogation to farmers to harvest crops growing on waterlogged land.

  • New pesticides regulations move a step closer

    9 September 2008

    EUROPE has taken another next step towards implementing strict new regulations on the use of pesticides, prompting a call to arms from industry leaders.

  • Potato growers warned of high black dot risk

    9 September 2008

    THIS season promises to be a bad one for potato blemish disease black dot, potato growers are being advised.

  • Start of beet campaign delayed due to wet weather

    9 September 2008

    BRITISH Sugar has revised the start dates for the 2008 / 09 sugar beet harvesting campaign as a result of the wet weather.

  • Both Tillage shows cancelled

    8 September 2008

    THE Agricultural Engineers Association has announced that it has unfortunately had to cancel both Tillage events due to the atrocious weather conditions and poor forecast.

  • British Sugar announce harvesting start dates

    September 5th 2008

    British Sugar has announced the start dates for the 2008/09 sugar beet harvesting campaign.The dates have been agreed with NFU Sugar. Newark and Wissington will start accepting loads on Wednesday, September 17. Bury St Edmunds and Cantley will open on Tuesday, September 30.

  • CTU applications require careful planning - Bayer

    September 5th 2008

    GROWERS considering chlorotoluron (CTU) as an IPU alternative in black-grass control programmes need to be aware of sequence restrictions with Atlantis, Bayer CropScience is warning.

  • Early plant needs can be met by starter fertiliser technique

    September 5th 2008

    USE of a starter fertiliser technique used in vegetables and maize could help raise average winter wheat yields and at the same time maximise nutrient efficacy.

  • Legal challenge over MRL rules

    September 5th 2008

    EUROPEAN green groups have issued a legal challenge to the EU over new legislation governing maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticides, which came into force on Monday.

  • Long way to go on winter wheat, but RL yields are up this year

    September 5th 2008

    WINTER wheat yields are up by 0.9t/ha in the HGCA Recommended List trials this year, according to RL manager, Jim McVittie.

  • Long-term future with miscanthus energy plans

    September 5th 2008

    IF all of Bical's figures add up, farmers who choose to grow miscanthus in the south west of the country could be in for a long-term, profitable income.

  • Loss of IPU and trifluralin has serious implications

    September 5th 2008

    WHILE IPU and trifluralin were less important in terms of controlling rye-grass rather than black-grass, their loss from the market will still be significant, says to Sygenta’s Jason Tatnell.

  • New head of NIAB

    September 5th 2008

    DR Tina Barsby took over as the new chief executive of Cambridge-based plant science organisation National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) on Monday, (September 1). A plant geneticist, Dr Barsby became the first female chief executive in the Institute’s 90-year history when she, succeeded Professor Wayne Powell.

  • Pesticides plan could kill off British beet industry

    September 5th 2008

    SUGAR beet production in the UK would certainly be less profitable, and may not continue, if EU pesticides proposals become law, the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) has concluded.

  • Trials reveal winter OSR varieties that perform well under tough conditions

    September 5th 2008

    COMMERCIAL scale trials by Cambridge Arable Technologies at Great Wilbraham near Cambridge have underlined the ability of some winter oilseed rape varieties to perform under the toughest of establishment conditions.

  • Wet-process slug pellets may be a better option

    September 5th 2008

    WET-process slug pellets with a larger number of baiting points could be a better option for slug control this autumn, says Makhteshim Agan.

  • Report claims organic more attractive as oil price rises

    4 September 2008

    RISING oil prices could see many farmers switching to organic as combinable crops such as wheat, barley and oilseed rape could become more profitable compared to their non-organic counterparts.

  • Potato crop yields remain variable

    4 September 2008

    POTATO crop yields remain variable, with some growers expected to leave crops as long as possible before harvesting in the hope of some sunshine during late summer, to increase bulking.

  • Risk of contamination of pre-packed salads minute - Fresh Produce Consortium

    4 September 2008

    RECENT media reports on health risks linked to salad packs fail to put in perspective the minute risk of contamination of pre-packed salads, says the Fresh Produce Consortium.

  • Parish questions Commission on pesticides proposals

    3 September 2008

    THE European Commission has come under further pressure to justify its controversial pesticides proposals.

  • Compensation becomes available for beet growers and contractors

    1 September 2008

    COMPENSATION for beet growers and contractors affected by the EU’s Sugar Restructuring are now eligible for compensation and are being urged to apply as soon as possible.

  • CIPC best practice

    August 29th 2008

    To get the best from CIPC it is essential to:

  • Days are numbered for Widgeon variety

    August 29th 2008

    THE single most popular English wheat thatching straw for the past 30 years, Maris Widgeon is set to go the same way as Maris Huntsman following the decision by exclusive certified seed producer, J. Pickard and Co. of Umberleigh in Devon to make 2008/9 its last season of production.

  • Desiccation will cut risk of potato tuber disease

    August 29th 2008

    WITH continued heavy rain this season potato growers could make significant savings in fuel costs for haulm destruction, reduce soil damage and cut the risk of tuber disease spread by adopting desiccation programmes.

  • Don't delay, keep sprouting at bay

    August 29th 2008

    Make sure you are prepared and that your store is ready for potato harvest, advises the Potato Council. New rules on chlorpropham (CIPC) usage mean you are likely to have to take a fresh look at best practice.

  • Get the knowledge - stored potato rop

    August 29th 2008

    Three Potato Council publications have been issued recently to help you get more from your stored crop:

  • Moisture contents high and Hagbergs falling as harvest makes slow progress

    August 29th 2008

    Wheat yields continue to be high, but quality is starting to suffer in some crops, as harvest progresses at varying rates across the country. JOANNA BAKER takes a look at yields, quality and progress in some of the main grain-producing counties.

  • No shift in triazole fungicide resistance on septoria

    August 29th 2008

    MONITORING of UK septoria populations has shown no further shift in resistance to triazole fungicides.

  • One-day irrigation events

    August 29th 2008

    THE UK Irrigation Association is staging four one-day irrigation events for growers during September.Events in Shropshire and Cambridgeshire take the themes ‘Managing irrigation better’ and ‘Thinking about an irrigation reservoir’.The events are free but advance registration is required. For full details go to www.ukia.org or telephone 01427 717627.

  • Prepare your store - top tips from Sutton Bridge

    August 29th 2008

    AS well as ensuring it is clean, that equipment has been checked and serviced and that you are ready for loading the harvested crop, pay particular attention to ventilation and airflow throughout the store.

  • Ryegrass emergence in autumn, not spring

    August 29th 2008

    RYEGRASS sprays in winter cereals should not be delayed in anticipation of protracted emergence, growers are advised.

  • Tillage 2008

    August 29th 2008

    READ FG's special Tillage 2008 preview as we take a closer look at the host farm and the conditions exhibitors and visitors can expect, find out who's showing and where at each event, what will be on display and more.

  • Winter barley harvest 'as expected'

    August 29th 2008

    VARIETIES in the HGCA Recommended List winter barley trials have performed pretty much as expected, according to RL manager, Jim McVittie.

  • Lobbying to ditch pesticide proposals

    28 August 2008

    LABOUR MEPs are being lobbied to ditch their support for EU pesticides proposals that could decimate British agriculture.

  • British Sugar collect majority of quota

    28 August 2008

    BRITISH Sugar has collected all but a handful of sugar contracts from growers for next year’s harvest despite initial criticism over the 2009 contract price agreement.

  • Who needs livestock to go organic?

    August 29th 2008

    Conventional organic arable production uses livestock to build fertility, but a Borders farmer decided life would be simpler without resident animals as Neil Ryder found out.

  • GM drought-resistant wheat increases yield by 20%

    26 August 2008

    SCIENTISTS in Australia think they have developed a genetically modified wheat variety to withstand severe droughts and increase yields by 20 per cent.

  • Harvest delay should not impact on OSR plantings

    26 August 2008

    GROWERS waiting to cut wheat before they can plant next year’s oilseed rape are being advised not to panic.

  • Biosolids plant provides better quality sludge

    August 22nd 2008

    A NEW state of the art biosolids processing plant in north Norfolk is claimed to be delivering improved energy efficiency for its operator and a better quality product for farmers.

  • Cooking up a culinary enterprise

    August 22nd 2008

    Rapeseed oil may not be as well-known as some culinary oils, but it is certainly gaining popularity thanks to the efforts of one farming family, as Angela Calvert discovers.

  • Diflufenican shows pre-em worth in trials

    August 22nd 2008

    PRE-EMERGENCE applications of diflufenican can provide useful control of black-grass, new trials have demonstrated.

  • Medicinal crop can offer similar returns to conventional wheat

    August 22nd 2008

    White poppies are not something that immediately spring to mind when considering alternative cropping regimes. For a number of growers, the flower is now providing a useful income.

  • OSR hybrids give strongest performance in List trials

    August 22nd 2008

    MOST of the oilseed rape varieties giving the strongest performance in this year’s HGCA Recommended List trials are hybrids, according to RL manager, Jim McVittie.

  • Why Farming Matters in the Fens

    August 22nd 2008

    FARMERS and growers in the Anglian region are putting their produce in the shop window at one of the region’s busiest supermarkets as part of a campaign highlighting the importance of farming in the Fens.

  • East Anglian Potato Event

    August 22nd 2008

    EAST Anglian potato growers have a chance to get a grip on rapidly escalating input costs at the East Anglian Potato Event, taking place on September 4 at Stratton Strawless Estates, Colby near Aylsham in Norfolk.

  • 'Good2Go' initiative launched against black-grass

    August 22nd 2008

    AGROCHEMICAL manufacturers BASF and Monsanto have joined forces to launch the ‘Good2Go’ initiative, which aims to support cereal growers in the battle against black-grass.

  • Higher risk from wheat bulb fly in eastern UK

    August 22nd 2008

    CEREAL growers on the eastern side of the UK are being reminded of the threat posed by wheat bulb fly.

  • New cereal breeding centre for RAGT Seeds UK

    August 22nd 2008

    A new European cereal breeding centre is nearing completion at Ickleton south of Cambridge as the headquarters for RAGT Seeds UK wheat development programme.

  • NFU sugar mileage calculation method suspended

    20 August 2008

    THE NFU has been forced to suspend its controversial new method to calculate transport mileage for sugar growers.

  • Government minister defends GM

    18 August 2008

    THE Government has hit back after Prince Charles said last week that GM crop production could cause the "biggest environmental disaster of all time".

  • Black dot control advice

    August 15th 2008

    A guide aimed at managing black dot risk and offering advice to help control the disease was launched at Potatoes in Practice.

  • Case study: Reaping the rewards of the first harvest

    August 15th 2008

    CHRIS Bradley, a member of regional producer group Bisel, which is a subsidiary of Bical, planted 30 hectares of miscanthus in April 2006 and had his first harvest this year.

  • Cutting carbon footprints of potatoes

    August 15th 2008

    Aberdeen University’s Jona-than Hillier said there were good opportunities to reduce the carbon footprint of potatoes.

  • Early treatment of meadow-grass essential this autumn

    August 15th 2008

    In the second of our autumn grass weed control features with BASF ahead of Tillage 2008, we look at the specific challenges of annual meadow-grass control in the coming season.

  • Potato growers are urged to respond to EU pesticide plans

    August 15th 2008

    A record 715 growers, merchants, seed suppliers, packers and processors braved the torrential rain and muddy conditions to attend Potatoes in Practice, near Dundee.

  • Renewable energy strategy makes miscanthus 'an attractive alternative'

    August 15th 2008

    BICAL, the miscanthus developer, is offering an improved contract for 2009 plantings to growers supplying Drax power station.

  • Results are variable from Recommended List OSR varieties

    August 15th 2008

    OILSEED rape yields from varieties in the HGCA Recommended List trials are variable, according to RL manager, Jim McVittie.

  • Variety-specific virus strategies

    August 15th 2008

    NEW evidence concerning the role of different aphid species in transmitting virus infection in potato crops could lead to better targeting of control measures.

  • Wheat concerns - but crop should still be reasonable

    August 15th 2008

    THIS year’s cereal harvest is now a week to 10 days behind normal and, with showery weather set to continue into the weekend, growers are becoming increasingly concerned about the quality of wheat crops.

  • Prince warns of GM catastrophe

    13 August 2008

    GENETICALLY modified crops are on course to lead the world into the biggest environmental disaster of all time, Prince Charles has warned.

  • Sugar growers to stick together for next round of price negotiations

    13 August 2008

    THE nation’s sugar growers are being urged to come together in January to start 2010 beet price negotiations on a collective front after the NFU failed to reach a satisfactory price agreement for 2009.

  • UK biofuels fall short of environmental targets

    12 August 2008

    THE UK biofuel industry is dominated by imports that fall short of basic environmental standards, the Renewable Fuel Agency (RFA) has revealed.

  • Arable Focus

    11 August 2008

    FG takes a look at varieties key for early-drilled wheats, autumn grass weed control, effective slug management, getting the pressure right in combine tyres and more in our special feature.

  • Potato Council urges growers to take action against pesticide proposals

    8 August 2008

    THE Potato Council is urging growers to take action against the EU’s pesticide proposals.

  • Excellent harvests across Europe will bring prices down

    8 August 2008

    EXCELLENT harvests so far this season across Europe have the potential to bring prices down. With a 20 million tonne surplus expected in the European Union growers are likely to face direct competition from the Black Sea region.

  • Urgent call for EU pesticides proposals impact assessment

    8 August 2008

    THE Government’s pesticides watchdog, the Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD), has warned that the face of British agriculture could be about to change dramatically if European politicians agree to new pesticides proposals.

  • High dormancy in black-grass seed samples

    8 August 2008

    DORMANCY in black-grass seed samples this autumn is very high, according to results from HGCA-funded research.

  • Advice on pesticide run-off

    August 8th 2008

    NEW best practice advice and pesticide decision trees for selected catchments have been designed to help farmers and advisers reduce the chance of pesticides reaching water.

  • Average winter barley yields up by 0.4 tonnes per hectare

    August 8th 2008

    WINTER barley yields continue to be above the long-term average as more results come in from this year’s HGCA Recommended List trials.

  • NRoSO event

    August 8th 2008

    THE 2008/09 NRoSO training event will cover spray stores, sprayers and buffer zones, says City & Guilds NPTC and NRoSO.

  • Sclerotinia up in OSR

    August 8th 2008

    SCLEROTINIA was more prevalent this season, a survey of commercial oilseed rape crops found.

  • Variable yields from OSR harvest

    August 8th 2008

    WITH around half of the UK oilseed rape crop now harvested, yields appear to be very variable so far.

  • New sugar deal 'smoke and mirrors' says grower

    6 August 2008

    THE NFU and British Sugar have concluded their sugar negotiations to mixed industry reaction.

  • Government remain quiet as food rots

    5 August 2008

    AN ESSEX fruit farmer has been forced to leave nearly £40,000 worth of raspberries to rot after he was unable to find enough labour to pick them, meanwhile the Government remain eerily quiet on the issue.

  • £75M crop protection investment

    4 August 2008

    CROP protection giants BASF have announced plans to invest more than £75 million into a new generation of products over the coming years.

  • New Crop Management Plan simpler and easier to complete - NFU

    1 August 2008

    A NEW look Crop Protection Management Plan was unveiled at this year’s launch of the Voluntary Initiative’s annual report.

  • Call to move Soil Directive forward

    1 August 2008

    EUROPEAN environmental organisations have challenged the European Union’s French presidency to start delivering on its promise to move forward on the Soil Framework Directive.

  • Fears over handling of aminopyralid products

    1 August 2008

    DOW AgroSciences has asked the Pesticide Safety Directorate (PSD) for a temporary suspension of sales and use of herbicides containing aminopyralid until assurances can be given that the product and subsequent treated forage and resultant animal wastes will be handled correctly.

  • Boosting sugar beet yields and controlling disease

    August 1st 2008

    A NEW sugar beet fungicide from Syngenta controls all key diseases and can boost sugar yields by up to 120 per cent, says the company.

  • David Walker joins Mylnefield Research Services board

    August 1st 2008

    DAVID Walker, who until March this year was the chairman of the British Potato Council, has joined the board of Mylnefield Research Services (MRS).

  • Direct early warning brassica disease alerts

    August 1st 2008

    BRASSICA growers can now receive early warning of impending disease outbreaks direct to their mobile phone with the Syngenta Brassica Alert SMS service.

  • First incidence of sugar beet powdery mildew this season

    August 1st 2008

    SUGAR beet powdery mildew put in its first reported appearance of the season last week, in a crop at Bawdsey in Suffolk. The disease is likely to spread further into Suffolk and south Norfolk and if the warm weather continues is expected to appear further west and north within a fortnight.

  • First results in from HGCA Recommended List trials

    August 1st 2008

    THE first results from this year’s Recommended List trials indicate that it has been a ‘pretty good year’ for winter barley, according to HGCA Recommended List manager, Jim McVittie.

  • Long service in the Lincolnshire pea industry

    August 1st 2008

    Three stalwarts of the Lincolnshire pea industry have clocked up an amazing 135 years of service between them, and most of these years for Louth Park Farms, now owned by the Co-op.

  • Mixed performances for two-row barley feed varieties

    August 1st 2008

    TWO-ROW feed varieties were generally performing ‘close to what was expected’, said Mr Jim McVittie about htis year's HGCA Recommended List trials .

  • Optimum timings for Fazor application

    August 1st 2008

    POTATO growers are advised that the window of application for in-crop applications of Fazor (maleic hydrazide) for suppression of volunteer potatoes in subsequent crops is fast approaching. There are, however, a number of criteria that need to be met in order to optimise performance, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • Potatoes in Practice event, Dundee

    August 1st 2008

    THE latest potato-related research and answers to technical challenges faced by growers will be among the highlights of next week’s Potatoes in Practice event.

  • Speciality OSR opportunities

    August 1st 2008

    HIGH Oleic, Low Linolenic (HO,LL) oilseed rape growing is becoming an increasingly attractive proposition for UK growers with the arrival of the third Vistive variety in as many seasons, believes Frontier Agriculture which is including V161OL in its expanded Cargill speciality oils contract portfolio for harvest 2009.

  • Plant clinic interested in sugar beet with galls

    31 July 2008

    THE plant clinic at Broom’s Barn would be interested to see any sugar beet plants found with galls on their roots.

  • Increased supply could cause crop prices to fall

    31 July 2008

    WHEAT and barley plantings have seen a significant increase this year, fuelling speculation that increased supply could bring prices down.

  • Growers alerted to seed-borne disease problems

    29 July 2008

    GROWERS have been alerted to potential seed-borne disease problems in wheat, oilseed rape and field beans following wet and showery periods at critical times in the growing season.

  • GM trials need more protection says leading scientist

    28 July 2008

    ONE of Britain’s leading GM scientists will meet with Environment Minster Phil Woolas to discuss new ways to protect GM field trials in the UK.

  • Syngenta announces major investment boost

    28 July 2008

    SYNGENTA is to increase investment in UK manufacturing and research and development by more than £100 million.

  • Potato growers advised to keep spray intervals tight to combat blight

    28 July 2008

    THERE has been consistently high blight pressure as indicated by a run of Smith Periods throughout the early and mid-season and potato growers are being advised to keep spray intervals tight and to use robust fungicide treatments with both foliar and tuber blight protection from now on.

  • New sugar beet fungicide controls all key diseases

    28 July 2008

    A NEW sugar beet fungicide from Syngenta controls all key diseases and can boost sugar yields by up to 120 per cent, says the company.

  • Cereal varieties facing the climate challenge

    July 25th 2008

    Extreme weather patterns are having a major impact on crop performance, says Dr Steve Hoad, of SAC Crop and Soil Systems. Here he considers variety options for Scotland and the north of England.

  • Encouraging winter barley harvest is progressing well

    July 25th 2008

    WINTER barley harvesting is going well in the South and Midlands with up to 40 per cent of the national crop now cut, according to Berkshire-based senior consultant, Susan Twining, ADAS.

  • Late surge in septoria catches out many growers and agronomists

    July 25th 2008

    A LATE surge of septoria across many parts of the country has taken many growers and agronomists by surprise.

  • 'No second chance' when using CIPC sprout suppressant

    July 25th 2008

    USE CIPC more effectively, more efficiently and keep residue levels at acceptable levels, or lose the use of the sprout suppressant altogether. That was the warning from the Potato Council.

  • Oilseed rape variety debate rages

    July 25th 2008

    The debate on conventional versus hybrid rape varieties continues with some breeders claiming hybrids to be the future while other industry experts point out that hybrids are attracting little interest from growers.

  • Pendimethalin and CTU to play key role

    July 25th 2008

    Ever-increasing black-grass weed pressure in some parts of the country combined with the last season of use for IPU and trifluralin will result in a lot of pre-emergence herbicides being used on wheat and barley crops. JOANNA BAKER talks to two agrochemical directors about weed control this year.

  • Possible increase to winter barley due to high input costs

    July 25th 2008

    H igh fuel and fertiliser prices could see a re-think on winter wheat planting in favour of cheaper-to-grow winter malting barley on some farms this autumn, experts are predicting.

  • Pre-em herbicides are a vital first step in weed control

    July 25th 2008

    WITH what he describes as a ‘100 per cent black-grass situation’, agrochemical director, Richard Peake, Harlow Agricultural Merchants, says that at least half to two-thirds of the predominantly-wheat acreage they cover in East Anglia already receives a pre-emergence treatment.

  • Rising to the second wheat challenge

    July 25th 2008

    G ood variety selection and specialist take-all seed treatment may be the two most important priorities for second wheat, but an integrated approach to management involving these and a number of other agronomic tools is the real key to making the most of the crop this season.

  • Store management the focus at Potato Storage Day

    July 25th 2008

    The Potato Council staged a Potato Storage Day at North Scarle, Lincolnshire. Store management, in particular the use of sprout suppressant treatments, was the main focus of the event.

  • Store Manager's Guide

    July 25th 2008

    WITH over 3.5 million tonnes of potatoes stored in the UK annually, the biggest issue for potato growers is ensuring a quality crop for market.

  • Taking greater care when selecting what to plant

    July 25th 2008

    G rowers looking to increase their wheat area and, in so doing, widen their drilling window, need to take greater care when selecting what to plant.

  • Tracking study highlights new wheat value

    July 25th 2008

    A special tracking study undertaken by Agrovista with a cross section of UK growers last year has highlighted the particular value of one of the most promising recent wheat additions to the HGCA Recommended List ahead of its first commercial growing season.

  • Varieties and seeds supplement

    July 25th 2008

    READ FG's special supplement for growers including a look at winter wheat candidates, the impact of weather patterns on crop performance, what growers' priorities should be for second wheats and more.

  • Variety survey shows winter wheat rising

    July 25th 2008

    GROUP 4 winter wheat plantings are up from 10 per cent of total wheat plantings in 2007 to 37 per cent this season, according to the 2008 HGCA variety survey.

  • Winter wheats vying for top spots

    July 25th 2008

    There’s quite a crop of winter wheat candidate varieties vying for a position on the 2009/10 HGCA Recommended List. Recent open days gave growers the opportunity to take a look at them before the combines roll.

  • New Potato Council chairman

    24 July 2008

    ALLAN Stevenson was appointed the new chair of the Potato Council, taking up a position on the boards of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (ADHB).

  • Late surge of septoria

    23 July 2008

    A LATE surge of septoria in the south in particular, has taken many growers and agronomists by surprise according to Broom’s Barn director Bill Clark, who says that questions are being asked as to the reason for this increase in disease levels in what has been considered a low disease year to date.

  • New option for onion growers to control downy mildew

    23 July 2008

    ONION growers now have a new option for the control of downy mildew with the granting of a specific off-label approval (SOLA) by the Pesticides Safety Directorate for the use of Valbon (benthiavalicarb-isopropyl + mancozeb) on bulb onions and shallots.

  • Wheat and barley plantings sharply up in HGCA survey

    21 July 2008

    THE area sown to wheat and barley has seen a significant increase compared to last year, according to the HGCA Planting Survey.

  • Group 4 winter wheat plantings up from 10pc to 36pc

    21 July 2008

    GROUP 4 winter wheat plantings are up from 10 per cent of total wheat plantings in 2007 to 37 per cent this season, according to the 2008 HGCA variety survey.

  • Sugar growers show solidarity

    18 July 2008

    SUGAR growers have sent the NFU back to the negotiating table with British Sugar with renewed optimism to get a better price deal after a dramatic show of solidarity today (Friday, July 18).

  • Close monitoring can cut input costs

    July 18th 2008

    Cutting spiralling crop production costs was high on the agenda for over 240 growers attending the Potato Council’s East Midlands Potato Day, near Spalding.

  • Establishment boost for OSR variety NK Grace

    July 18th 2008

    NK SEEDS is offering its oilseed rape variety NK Grace with the option of Cruiser (thiamethoxam) seed treatment to improve establishment prospects this autumn.

  • Growers considering early drilling of wheat

    July 18th 2008

    THE majority of UK wheat growers are considering an early September start to drilling this autumn to ease their workload and reduce weather risk, according to the latest management study conducted by wheat breeder, RAGT Seeds.

  • Laboratory results under the field trial microscope

    July 18th 2008

    A MAJOR field trial initiated by Sygenta is testing European experience and laboratory results that show that fludioxonil-based cereal seed treatments can help reduce grain mycotoxin contamination.

  • Learning how to grow OSR again

    July 18th 2008

    WHEN the Arable Stewardship pilot scheme came to a close for Robert Deeks, he looked at growing oilseed rape on his 500-acre Suffolk farm at Cowlinge, near Newmarket, for the first time in 25 years.

  • NK Seeds' Performance Evaluation Network (PEN) oilseed rape trials

    July 18th 2008

    Nitrogen use with hybrid varieties was at the forefront of discussions at NK Seeds’ Performance Evaluation Network (PEN) oilseed rape trials site, near Cambridge, from where Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Seed treatment and protection correction

    July 18th 2008

    IN our report from the Broom’s Barn Research Centre Open Day (FG July 4), we stated that, potentially, an application of Biscaya (thiacloprid) to oilseed rape in the autumn will help protect the crop against turnip yellows virus. Dr Mark Stevens of Broom’s Barn points out that it is, in fact, neonicotinoid seed treatments that potentially could protect the crop from the virus.We apologise for any confusion caused.

  • True extent of sclerotinia in OSR highlights spray timing importance

    July 18th 2008

    OILSEED rape crops are now showing the true extent of sclerotinia disease pressure this year and the importance of spray application timing has been highlighted.

  • Seed treatments special supplement

    16 July 2008

    FG has the latest news on seed treatments including big decisions for the future of sugar beet, a look at disease and pests, what grower's priorities are for second wheats and more.

  • Tentative start to year's harvest

    16 July 2008

    A TENTATIVE start to this year’s harvest has been made in some regions this week. With crops ready in many areas, it’s just a matter of getting the weather to get on with it.

  • Sclerotinia remains active

    16 July 2008

    IT has been another bad sclerotinia year. Further severe attacks have been reported, and the disease remains active.

  • Defra faces legal challenge over pesticide risk assessment

    15 July 2008

    A LANDMARK High Court battle will begin today (Tuesday, July 15), as pesticides campaigner Georgina Downs begins a legal challenge against Defra.

  • Farm waste recycling hub opens in Suffolk

    15 July 2008

    CROPCO Agricycle has opened a new farm waste recycling hub at Akenham Hall Farm, on the outskirts of Ipswich in Suffolk.

  • New 'preminum' seed treatment

    15 July 2008

    A NEW co-formulated cereal seed treatment from Syngenta brings together the triazole fungicide difenoconazole (available as a foliar fungicide in Plover) with fludioxinil for contol of fusarium, micodochium nivale, soil and seed borne bunt as well as septoria nodorum in winter wheat, rye and oats.

  • Case study: Pest threat reduced on Fenland farm

    July 11th 2008

    MILLIPEDES are an annual threat to successful sugar beet establishment at BTW and J Allen’s fenland farm and this year, pest numbers have been the highest that James Allen can recall.

  • Emergence is quicker and more reliable for 2009

    July 11th 2008

    NEW seed priming technology available on selected sugar beet varieties for spring 2009 planting is said to provide more consistent and quicker emergence

  • Emphasis shift from risk to hazard in proposals

    July 11th 2008

    Most arable crops grown in the UK receive a seed treatment of some kind but the range of products available to farmers could be substantially reduced if European proposals concerned with the approval and marketing of pesticides become law.

  • Growers are left with a dilemma

    July 11th 2008

    BRITISH Sugar’s 2009 seed treatment list presents growers with a dilemma – whether or not to continue going all out for yield?

  • Lodging effect is extra benefit

    July 11th 2008

    Protect your investment from lodging this coming season starting with the correct seed treatment as recent results from the field confirm scientific findings.

  • Mix and match seed treatments on rust susceptible wheats

    July 11th 2008

    Mix and match seed treatments on rust susceptible wheatsWith many popular wheats prone to rust, growers are advised to carefully consider seed treatment selection for next year.

  • New herbicides for grass weed control

    July 11th 2008

    ANNOUNCED at Cereals, but still awaiting PSD approval for use in the UK, two new herbicides will provide growers with control of a range of grass weeds, including black-grass, wild oats, rye-grass and bromes, as well as broad-leaved weeds in winter cereals.

  • Organic conversion challenge

    July 11th 2008

    The challenges presented by an organic conversion have helped one family forge a successful arable enterprise, as Angela Calvert found out.

  • Pre-ems 'vital' for future

    July 11th 2008

    INCREASING use of pre-emergence treatments is crucial for maximising black-grass control, optimising yields and prolonging the life of Atlantis (iodosulfuron+mesosulfuron), according to Bayer CropScience.

  • Reduce black-grass populations now

    July 11th 2008

    NOW is the time to think about getting black-grass populations down. Cereal growing without isoproturon, trifluralin and eventually Atlantis will be difficult, and alternative herbicides will give satisfactory control of only low populations.

  • Relieving the pressure from larger pests

    July 11th 2008

    NEW trials data has confirmed beet seed treatment Cruiser Force's activity against large soil-living pests such as millipedes.

  • Seed treatment boost to rust control

    July 11th 2008

    Recent trials results from Agrovista have shown that where Epona (fluquinconazole+prochloraz) seed dressing has been used on winter wheat variety Robigus, there is a 'remarkable reduction 'in the amount of yellow rust compared to plots treated with a standard seed dressing - an invaluable tool when growing a premium rated Group 3 variety, in 2009, says the company.

  • Take-all seed treatment standard in second wheat

    July 11th 2008

    Treating second wheat seed for take-all has become standard practice for the bulk of UK growers, according to a benchmark national study conducted with more than 400 wheat growers this summer.

  • Trials put GF-2070 on a par with Atlantis

    July 11th 2008

    TRIALS conducted by Dow AgroSciences in winter wheat compared the performance of GF-2070 with Atlantis (iodosulfuron-+ mesosulfuron), applied in the autumn and following three different pre-em treatments including Defy (prosulfocarb), Liberator (diflufenican + flufenacet) and Crystal (flufenacet + pendimethalin) - all at recommended label rates.

  • Rooker backs arable farmers on buffer strips

    10 July 2008

    FOOD and Farming Minister Jeff Rooker has backed arable farmers in their battle to avoid compulsory environmental measures to replace set-aside.

  • Industry leaders give support to sugar grower meeting

    9 July 2008

    INDUSTRY leaders have given their support to a gathering of sugar beet growers planned for July 18, in Whittlesey near Peterborough.

  • Sugar beet offer ‘insufficient’

    9 July 2008

    FARMERS should think carefully before committing to sugar beet for the 2009 season, a leading agribusiness consultant has warned.

  • Allied Mills offers buyback contract for new Group 2 wheat

    8 July 2008

    ALLIED Mills has announced a special buyback contract for newly Recommended Group 2 wheat, Marksman at £20/tonne over feed for harvest 2009.

  • GM crops are part of the answer to food crisis – Monsanto

    4 July 2008

    GENETICALLY modified crops can help the world meet burgeoning food demand and tackle issues such as climate change and water shortage, Monsanto has declared.

  • Allied Mills offers buy-back contract

    4 July 2008

    ALLIED Mills has announced a special buy-back contract for newly Recommended Group 2 wheat, Marksman at £20/tonne over feed for harvest 2009.

  • ADAS dormancy testing

    July 4th 2008

    ADAS is seeking samples of black-grass, Italian rye-grass, barren brome and meadow brome for dormancy testing as part of an HGCA-funded project studying dormancy in grass weeds.

  • Crop colour not always linked to yield

    July 4th 2008

    GREEN is not always better. That is the message from the British Beet Research Organisation, which is advising growers that dark green crops do not always give better yields than paler ones.

  • Engaging interest in crop science

    July 4th 2008

    HIGH risk, high rewards; or low risk, low returns? This was the question facing a group of Reading University students when they visited The Arable Group’s Sutton Scotney trial site in Hampshire last week as they bid to secure a bursary under the ASSET programme.

  • Experts forecast high levels of powdery mildew

    July 4th 2008

    A dvisers at Broom’s Barn Research Station are forecasting high levels of powdery mildew in the beet crop this season, particularly in the south of the country where it favours warmer and drier summer weather.

  • Fungicide timing critical for beet

    July 4th 2008

    TIMING is critical when it comes to fungicides for sugar beet, growers attending a British Beet Research Organisation open day at Lavenham, Suffolk, were told.

  • Fusarium ear spray may have treated brown rust

    July 4th 2008

    THE threat of fusarium in wheat crops last season has meant that growers who applied an ear spray to reduce the risk of the disease appearing this season, may also prevent brown rust getting to the ear, said Broom’s Barn director, Bill Clark.

  • Growers warned to keep close watch for rhizomania

    July 4th 2008

    HIGH pressure from disease in the soil, or a change in the rhizomania virus itself, could be responsible for the disease appearing in fields drilled with rhizomania-tolerant varieties.

  • Increased herbicide power

    July 4th 2008

    GROWERS should add more power to their herbicide mixes if weed control in the crop is going to be delayed, said Mike May of Broom’s Barn, who advocated using more oil in applications.

  • Mixed levels of take-all recorded around the UK

    July 4th 2008

    TAKE-ALL is present at higher levels than in previous years, probably because there is more second wheat in the ground this season, although there are also some first wheats showing symptoms of the disease.

  • New season potato initiative a success

    July 4th 2008

    VALES Emerald potatoes grown in East Lothian made the journey from field to supermarket within a few hours during a three-week celebration of local produce organised by Greenvale AP and Tesco.

  • Newcomer fungicide scores an impressive Euroblight rating

    July 4th 2008

    A provisional rating in the Euroblight assessment of blight fungicides gives recently introduced Revus (mandipropamid) the highest rating for effectiveness in protecting leaf blight.

  • Root Crops special feature

    July 4th 2008

    IN our Root Crops special feature FG takes a look at controlling blight at mid-canopy timing, how experts forecast high levels of powdery mildew and more.

  • Simplified rules governing beet N applications

    July 4th 2008

    RECOMENDATIONS for nitrogen applications to sugar beet are to be made simpler following changes to RB209, growers are being advised.

  • Stressed crops could be down to a lack of air around roots

    July 4th 2008

    CASES of staring or stressed sugar beet being seen on medium soils in particular are probably the result of lack of air around the roots.

  • Turnip yellows risk to oilseed rape increasing

    July 4th 2008

    Work on cereals and oilseed rape as well as sugar beet was presented to visitors to the Broom’s Barn open day in Suffolk.

  • Scientists want Benn to battle EU over pesticides

    3 July 2008

    SEVEN prominent scientists have criticised European Union plans to dramatically reduce farmers’ armoury of crop protection products in a letter to the Government.

  • Why Horticulture Matters campaign launches

    1 July 2008

    BRITISH fruit and vegetable growers can provide for the health of the nation, tackle climate change and nourish the economy but only if policy makers wake up to the challenge, the NFU said today (Tuesday, July 1).

  • New report alleviates corn price fears after US floods

    1 July 2008

    CORN prices fell sharply this week after the US agriculture department (USDA) predicted a bumper harvest despite severe flooding in the Midwest which had threatened to wipe out millions of acres of planted crop.

  • British Sugar climb-down over 2009 beet contracts

    27 June 2008

    SUGAR processor British Sugar was forced this week to back down on its offer to guarantee beet growers a minimum contract price only if 2009 contracts were returned early.

  • Arable farmers may face 6m waterside buffer zone strips

    June 27th 2008

    ARABLE farmers could be forced to leave 6m uncultivated strips alongside all waterways to counter the possible negative environmental impact of removing set-aside.

  • EC cereal import duties on hold

    June 27th 2008

    THE European Commission has confirmed that import duties on cereals will remain suspended for another year.

  • Government Minister re-ignites GM debate

    26 June 2008

    THE Government appears willing to adopt a more supportive stance towards growing genetically modified (GM) crops in the UK in response to the global food crisis.

  • Dispelling some of the myths around protecting crops

    26 June 2008

    As the EU debate heats up over Commission pesticide legislation proposals, William Surman visited Syngenta’s specialist crop protection research centre at Jealott’s Hill to hear their views.

  • Still gaps in post-em treatment

    26 June 2008

    THE first season following the removal of some of the more established herbicides used in pulse crops was going well, said PGRO technical director, Dr Anthony Biddle, but there were still gaps for post-emergence treatments that needed filling.

  • Possible shortage of pulse seeds

    26 June 2008

    PULSE breeding programmes continue in earnest and varietal performance is improving but, with increased grower interest expected in pulse crops generally for next season, growers are being warned that seed availability could be in short supply.

  • Varieties closing the yield gap on Fuego

    26 June 2008

    Dominic Kilburn reports from the trial plots at this year’s PGRO Open Day, near Peterborough.

  • Alternatives to chemical control of nematodes

    26 June 2008

    WITH the number of nematicide products available to growers likely to decline further over time, efforts are being stepped up to discover more biological solutions for the control of nematodes.

  • Chips back on the menu

    26 June 2008

    OVEN chip giant McCain has transformed the way it goes about its business over the past two years, since the infamous 'Chips kill boy' headlines appeared in the tabloid press, sparking a major processed food scare.

  • Utilising local organic manures on potato crops

    26 June 2008

    FINE weather greeted the 150 or so visitors attending the West Midlands Potato Day, hosted by Andrew Watson-Jones at Howle Manor, near Newport, Shropshire. David Jones reports.

  • Milling wheats for Spain

    26 June 2008

    THE need for continued imports of UK soft milling wheat varieties, mostly falling within the nabim Group 3 category, was reiterated by Spanish millers last week.

  • Using herbicides pre-em is essential

    26 June 2008

    PRE-EMERGENCE herbicides are essential for black-grass control and should take priority in weed control programmes, say the experts.

  • Time for major re-think on black-grass control

    26 June 2008

    USE of cultural control methods will soon be unavoidable on most black-grass-affected farms, predict grass weed experts.

  • EC cereal import duties on hold

    June 27th 2008

    THE European Commission has confirmed that import duties on cereals will remain suspended for another year.

  • GM trial destroyed by activists

    25 June 2008

    A TRIAL to develop a genetically modified potato that could save the UK potato industry £50 million a year and benefit farmers worldwide has been destroyed by activists.

  • EU pesticide regulation moves closer to reality

    24 June 2008

    EU plans to dramatically slash the number of pesticides used in farming moved a step closer yesterday (Monday, June 24) as European agriculture ministers voted in favour of new proposals.

  • Bread market is changing, so should wheat growers worry?

    June 20th 2008

    Consumers are becoming more discerning as the choice of breads becomes more diverse, but should the erosion in demand be of concern to UK wheat growers? Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Possible shift in Government stance on GM crops

    19 June 2008

    A DEFRA Minister has indicated that the Government is preparing to adopt a more supportive stance on genetically modified (GM) crops.

  • Cereals 2008

    16 June 2008

    FG has a round-up of all the news including the latest machinery developments from this year's Cereals 2008 event which took place in Leadenham, Lincolnshire last week.

  • High septoria tritici threat

    June 13th 2008

    THIS season is becoming the worst for septoria tritici for many years, says Dr Jonathan Blake, senior research scientist at Rosemaund. He said the wet spring and persistent humidity had created ideal conditions for the disease, and failure to control it effectively could prove to be very costly. “There is every incentive to adopt a belt-and-braces approach to disease control,” he said.

  • Ideal conditions for OWBM

    June 13th 2008

    HIGHER night temperatures in early June created the ideal conditions for flights of orange wheat blossom midge.

  • Improving manure analysis

    June 13th 2008

    THE development of new technology to enable more precise analysis of manures is the subject of an on-going ADAS project, centring on the use of Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS).

  • Organic grain shortage – but it can be a viable proposition

    June 13th 2008

    BRITAIN is desperately short of organic grain. A burgeoning livestock sector needs far more organic wheat for food than this country produces, making imports vital.

  • Preventing herbicide resistance

    June 13th 2008

    Disease, muck and midges were among the topics at the ADAS Rosemaund open day. David Jones reports from Herefordshire.

  • Variety improvements responsible for increase in cereal yields

    11 June 2008

    AROUND 90 per cent of the increase in national average cereal yields over the past 25 years can be attributed to innovation in plant breeding, according to a new study by NIAB.

  • Cereal farmers urged to take care spraying glyphosate

    11 June 2008

    POTATO growers are appealing to neighbouring cereal farmers to take extra care when spraying glyphosate this summer. Undetectable levels of drift can cause serious damage to potato crops, especially those sown for seed.

  • Event provides opportunity to select next year’s oilseed varieties

    11 June 2008

    OILSEED rape growers at this year’s Cereals event should seek expert advice when choosing which variety to sow this autumn, according to United Oilseeds managing director Chris Baldwin.

  • New fungicide seed treatment on show for first time

    11 June 2008

    NEW fungicide seed treatment Crusoe was on show for the first time at Cereals.

  • Bayer CropScience launch new herbicide Othello

    11 June 2008

    THERE will be life after IPU, according to Bayer CropScience, who launched a new herbicide at Cereals.

  • New farm saved seed arrangements working well - BSPB

    11 June 2008

    NEW farm saved seed arrangements to deter the false declaration of royalty-bearing varieties are working well, according to the British Society of Plant Breeders.

  • New Holland introduces T9000 series articulated wheeled tractors to UK

    11 June 2008

    New Holland is introducing its T9000 series articulated wheeled tractors to the UK, almost 30 years since the blue marque first brought Ford FW artic models to our shores.

  • Sainsbury’s launches combine to celebrate wheat supply chain deal

    11 June 2008

    SAINSBURY'S unveiled a combine harvester at Cereals 2008, to celebrate becoming the first supermarket to use flour from guaranteed traceable UK farms in its 390 bakeries.

  • New crop price risk management package

    11 June 2008

    AGRICULTURAL business consultants Brown & Co have launched a new independent crop risk management package, incorporating training and optional ongoing specialist advice at Cereals 2008.

  • Defra must not turn back set-aside clock

    11 June 2008

    THE Tenant Farmers Association has warned the Government that it would be a serious mistake to re-impose a set-aside requirement upon arable farmers.

  • Defra must implement flawed directive

    10 June 2008

    THE controversial Nitrates Directive is ‘flawed’ but Defra must still implement it, according to a report from an influential committee of MPs released today (Tuesday, June 10).

  • Blight spraying a priority in early planted crops

    June 6th 2008

    WITH potato planting virtually completed and crops growing rapidly, pre-emergence and blight spraying is now a priority in many regions, says the Potato Council.

  • Duxford 'ideal' for maximising yields

    June 6th 2008

    HIGH prices for feed wheat mean that farmers are looking to maximise yield. Sygenta believes it has got the ideal answer with Duxford, a new high-yielding Group 4 variety that can also be grown for the bread wheat market.

  • High prices justify the investment

    June 6th 2008

    THE high value of wheat crops makes it easier to justify a T3 spray to increase yield, according to the Arable Group (TAG) and Syngenta.

  • Nitrogen planning for 2008/09

    June 6th 2008

    MANY TAG members are planning their nitrogen requirements for next year with a view to forward purchases before the price gets any higher,” says TAG agronomist Richard Overthrow.

  • Septoria tritici warning

    June 6th 2008

    GROWERS should look at consistency in their winter wheat variety for drilling this autumn and resistance to septoria should also be a key objective, says Nickerson senior wheat breeder, Bill Angus.

  • Six new candidate varieties on offer

    June 6th 2008

    Nickerson has revealed six new winter wheat candidate varieties up for recommendation this autumn, including the first bread quality wheat with resistance to orange wheat blossom midge.

  • Tackling malting barley grower problems head on

    June 6th 2008

    With malting and distilling industries buoyant the demand for top quality malting barley is increasing. Yet, growers say the industry has faced real problems often linked to uncertainty on prices. A group of Angus farmers are tackling the problem with a £13m processing and marketing project. Neil Ryder went to the Carnoustie launch.

  • Using a T3 spray could be worth up to £17.50 per day

    June 6th 2008

    THERE is a long way to go between T2 sprays and harvest and a T3 spray can make a big difference to yield and specific weight, according two leading technical experts.

  • Farmer involvement to remain central to water pollution initiative

    5 June 2008

    THE more farmers and the Government could work together to reduce water pollution, the less need there would be for regulation, said Environment Minister Phil Woolas.

  • Levels of fusarium infection lower this year

    4 June 2008

    LEVELS of stem base fusarium infection are currently lower than at the equivalent time last year, according to HGCA-funded CropMonitor.

  • Septoria tritici main threat to yield

    4 June 2008

    THE profile of septoria tritici, as a yield robber, needs to be raised again following brown rust getting the headlines last year.

  • Spray order can have a considerable effect on blight control - SAC

    3 June 2008

    BLIGHT control can vary considerably between programmes containing exactly the same fungicides but sprayed in a different order.

  • Seed treatments used correctly pose minimal risk to bees - PSD

    3 June 2008

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has said that it is not aware of any problems related to the use of seed treatments and bees and there have been no incidents reported to the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme that could be connected to the use of seed treatments.

  • Cereals preview videos

    30 May 2008

    FG went to meet Cereals 2008 host farmer Andrew Ward. Watch our video footage as Mr Ward shows us where the site will be on his farm as well as giving his thoughts on topical arable issues including whether the current high wheat and oilseed prices are sustainable.

  • Cereals Preview

    30 May 2008

    READ FG's Cereals 2008 preview and watch our video interview as we catch up with host farmer Andrew Ward.

  • ‘Spot-on’ T3 timing delivers results

    May 30th 2008

    GROWERS looking towards their final wheat fungicide spray of the season to boost both end market quality and reduce mycotoxin risk, could also provide significant yield enhancement to their crop this harvest, provided they get their T3 programme right.

  • All the OSR experts will be attending

    May 30th 2008

    Arable farmers looking to select the best oilseed variety for the forthcoming growing season should head to the Cereals event.

  • Benefit of independent advice

    May 30th 2008

    THE 220 members of the Association of Independent Crop Consultants provide independent advice on over three million acres in the UK.

  • Disease and pests the main concern

    May 30th 2008

    THE Central Science Laboratory’s themes for Cereals 2008 will be food security, weather vagaries and the importance of monitoring, identification and risk-evaluation in the management of pests and disease in arable crops.

  • Encyclopaedia of disease launches

    May 30th 2008

    HGCA's plots and marquee displays have four themes; increased competitiveness, equipping for change, improved environment and new market opportunities.

  • Fine-tuning the cultivation system

    May 30th 2008

    Looking to improve seedbed quality on light land, one Norfolk grower is making the switch to Vaderstad’s Spirit cultivator drill to replace an ageing Rapid with system tine. Geoff Ashcroft looks at how the decision was made.

  • Have your cake and eat it

    May 30th 2008

    Rapidly becoming, if not already, a Cereals institution, master baker John Haynes will produce bread, biscuit and cake products from KWS UK wheat varieties at the event.

  • High-yield Volume launches

    May 30th 2008

    Amongst the main attractions on the New Farm Crops stand at this year’s Cereals event will be a new, high-yielding hybrid winter barley, plus one of the first public appearances for a new, high-yielding winter feed wheat.

  • Intelligent hoe helps organic growers

    May 30th 2008

    Mechanical weeding has long been the friend of the organic vegetable grower but, as Jane Carley found out, the Garford Robocrop guided hoe is also proving effective on combinable crops.

  • New kit at Cereals 08

    May 30th 2008

    Cereals is used by manufacturers to introduce their latest machines and show them in action. Andy Collings provides a flavour of what will be there.

  • Nitrogen, weeds and disease focus in event’s crop plots

    May 30th 2008

    THE 90-plus sown crop plots at the 2008 Cereals event will give visitors first-hand access to the latest findings from the UK's current research and development projects into soil nitrogen management, yield enhancement, pests, weeds and diseases.

  • Opportunities in a global market

    May 30th 2008

    Cereals takes place against a backdrop of incredible price volatility. Rob Seeley, agriculture banking manager with principal sponsor HSBC, considers the key drivers influencing the marketplace.

  • Opportunity to maximise your yields

    May 30th 2008

    Syngenta Crop Protection describes it’s major theme for cereals as ‘looking forward to a buoyant era of arable farming.’

  • OSR varieties can suit all

    May 30th 2008

    OILSEED rape varieties that provide answers to the wide range of environmental and market issues facing British growers, now and in the future, will be the focus for plant breeder NK at Cereals 2008.

  • Practical application of research

    May 30th 2008

    The focus is on research in action in the crop plots at this year's Cereals event with a total of 33 companies presenting more than 90 sown crop plots.

  • Prioritising harvest management – key findings from national study

    May 30th 2008

    EFFICIENT, rapid and reliable harvesting has become an increasingly important priority for the overwhelming majority of UK growers as workload pressures, operating costs and weather uncertainty all increase.

  • Profitable sugar beet is in the choice of the variety

    May 30th 2008

    WITH nearly 40 per cent market share of this year’s national sugar beet crop, breeder Hilleshog says that it is confident that it can provide growers with what they need to produce a profitable crop.

  • Pushing semi-dwarf OSR’s case

    May 30th 2008

    THERE is a lot of interest in semi-dwarf oilseed rape varieties at present but the Recommended List testing system as it stands does not provide the conditions required for them to show their true potential.

  • Soil information will reduce input cost

    May 30th 2008

    KEITH Mount Liming will be encouraging growers to concentrate on getting as much information as possible from the soil, so that input costs can be reduced by treating only the areas necessary.

  • Spring slurry applications will save on N

    May 30th 2008

    NITROGEN cost savings of £80 per hectare can be achieved where spring applications of slurry are made to growing crops growers attending a recent workshop were advised.

  • TAG teams up to research OSR rotations

    May 30th 2008

    It is often said that oilseed rape grown on virgin land will yield more than subsequent oilseed rape crops. But is it true?

  • There is life after IPU

    May 30th 2008

    BAYER CropScience will be focusing on 'Life After IPU' on its stand at Cereals 2008. The company will be showcasing its new herbicide Othello (mesosulfuron+ iodosulfuron+DFF), which is designed to offer growers efficient control of annual meadow-grass and broad-leaved weeds.

  • What should I ask my agronomist?

    May 30th 2008

    Orange wheat blossom midge: TAG agronomist Richard Overthrow’s spies have been busy. “Adult orange blossom midge have been sighted across the south.

  • Win the use of a tractor for a year

    May 30th 2008

    n DOW AgroSciences is giving farmers the chance to win a year’s free use of a New Holland compact tractor complete with mower deck at the Cereals event.

  • Defra finally agrees sugar compensation deal

    28 May 2008

    THE long-running saga over sugar reform compensation has finally ended with Defra agreeing to the original industry proposal for how the money should be shared out.

  • Potato planting almost finished

    28 May 2008

    POTATO planting is nearing completion, although some heavy soils in Herefordshire and the north west remain difficult to work.

  • SAC advises potato growers to start virus management programmes

    28 May 2008

    SAC is advising potato growers that virus-carrying and transmitting aphids have been caught in Scottish water and suction traps and so virus management programmes should begin as soon as possible.

  • Learning from the best in the business

    27 May 2008

    This year's Cereals event will be hosted, as it was four years ago, by Andrew Ward at Leadenham, Lincolnshire. Angela Calvert meets the farmer who likes to put industry knowledge to good use in his business.

  • Positive and innovative focus to this year's event

    27 May 2008

    'THINK ahead, think positively and think innovation'. That is the core message awaiting thousands of arable farmers set to attend this year's two-day Cereals event.

  • More support for non-food crops

    May 30th 2008

    Entrepreneurial farmers ready and willing to explore alternative crops and markets – such as medicinal poppies – will welcome Arable Outlook, a new feature at the 2008 Cereals event.

  • French ‘non’ puts block on EU pesticides approval deal

    23 May 2008

    FRESH uncertainty has been cast over the future availability of key pesticides for British farmers and growers, after EU Ministers failed to reach agreement on changes to the approval process.

  • Low disease levels after effective T1 sprays

    May 23rd 2008

    CEREAL crops are looking promising this season, with low levels of disease around so far, according to Norfolk-based agronomist Andrew Watson.

  • Monitor crops for OWBM

    May 23rd 2008

    WINTER wheat varieties susceptible to orange wheat blossom midge (OWBM) should be monitored for the pest until the middle of June.

  • New hybrid breeding system for OSR crops

    May 23rd 2008

    A NEW hybrid breeding system is being developed and used by Syngenta to produce a large number of high performing oil seed rape hybrids.

  • New lentil aims to tackle slugs of all ages and sizes

    May 23rd 2008

    RESEARCH into the feeding mechanisms and habits of the main slug species has resulted in a new slug control product with novel shape, formulation and texture – the slug lentil.

  • OSR growth in east Europe

    May 23rd 2008

    WHILE experts at Syngenta do not expect the acreage of oilseed rape grown in western Europe to increase in the next five years, they predict some growth in eastern European countries.

  • Premiums available for Group 3 varieties

    May 23rd 2008

    GROWERS should look again at Group 3 varieties to tap into £8-£10/tonne premiums selling into well-established export, biscuit and distilling markets, in addition to having biofuel options in the future.

  • Sustainable farming award

    May 23rd 2008

    PEA growers who produce crops for Birds Eye in East Anglia and the Yorkshire Humber region can enter the Forum for Sustainable Farming Grower Award.

  • Viscount is a top high yielder in UK trials

    May 23rd 2008

    A NEW winter wheat variety showing the highest Group 3 yields in UK trials, in addition to a host of strong characteristics in its field performance, looks set to provide growers with increased sowing options, while breathing new life into a group where existing varieties are becoming outclassed in terms of their yields.

  • What should I ask my agronomist?

    May 23rd 2008

    PROMPT action is now needed in order to protect bean crops against downy mildew, according to agronomist Richard Overthrow, The Arable Group.

  • Late start for Pembrokeshire’s earlies – but quality good

    22 May 2008

    FOLLOWING token liftings in time for last weekend’s local retail outlets, Pembrokeshire’s new season potato trade got under way in earnest on Monday – two weeks later than expected but with some top quality samples coming out of the ground.

  • No deal on EU pesticides proposals

    20 May 2008

    EU MINISTERS have failed to reach agreement on controversial proposals concerning the approval of pesticides.

  • EU face challenge on biofuel ‘splash and dash’

    19 May 2008

    THE EU will be challenged over the ‘splash and dash’ biofuels scam tomorrow (Tuesday, May 20), as a UK MEP calls on Commissioners to make the practice illegal.

  • Achieving the best crop from a seeding pass

    May 16th 2008

    A one-pass seeding system requires attention to detail in soil preparation. Dominic Kilburn reports on trials in the UK to discover how to achieve optimum establishment.

  • Droughts will continue to threaten global harvest and push prices

    May 16th 2008

    GRAIN harvests across the world are threatened by summer water shortages because human activity has pushed global temperatures to new highs, an eminent group of scientists have warned.

  • EU pesticide proposals threaten food production

    May 16th 2008

    THE United Kingdom’s ability to produce food is under serious threat from planned changes to European Union rules governing the approval of pesticides, the Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) has warned.

  • Frost damage to some early-flowering OSR

    May 16th 2008

    STERILE pod sites are evident on early-flowering oilseed rape varieties following frosts and wide variation of daily temperatures in April, warns OSR breeder NK.

  • Growers moving to HO,LL earn full premium

    May 16th 2008

    The experience of the past two years shows UK growers are well able to achieve the linolenic acid levels of less than 4 per cent essential to the market, despite the threat posed by ‘double low’ volunteers in particular.

  • Major expansion expected in High Oleic, Low Linolenic OSR

    May 16th 2008

    Two seasons of successful commercial growing in the UK and burgeoning demand from food companies across Europe mean speciality High Oleic, Low Linolenic (HO, LL) winter oilseed rape production is poised to expand in a major way over the coming few years.

  • Preserving water for the future

    May 16th 2008

    BUILDING reservoirs on farms is the right option for the farming industry, according to Dr Keith Weatherhead of Cranfield University, Silsoe, Bedfordshire.

  • RB209 revision set for June completion

    May 16th 2008

    REVISION of the Defra RB209 fertiliser recommendations for agricultural and horticultural crops has progressed well and should be completed by Defra’s end of June deadline.

  • Re-think needed for T3 sprays to manage risk

    May 16th 2008

    Dominic Kilburn reports on the risks of fusarium and mycotoxins and the decisions to be considered ahead of the T3 spraying window.

  • Warning over high input costs if the crop market price falls

    May 16th 2008

    While cereal prices have bought optimism to the arable sector, experts warn that with rising input costs a small price fall could be devasting for producers.

  • Weather heightens cereal disease risk

    May 16th 2008

    WATCH out for a possible leap in cereal diseases after the combination of warm conditions in early May, following the high April rainfall, growers are being urged.

  • What should I ask my agronomist?

    May 16th 2008

    Last chance for grain protein boost

  • New guide to help farmers interested in growing fruit and vegetables

    15 May 2008

    FARMERS interested in growing fruit and vegetables could benefit from a new technical guide produced by the Welsh Assembly-funded Organic Centre Wales with financial support from Farming Connect and Triodos Bank.

  • Straw shortage sees thatching price double

    14 May 2008

    ENGLISH Heritage has been forced to relax its guidelines on the use of traditional materials for thatching following last autumn’s difficult harvest, which saw several growers of long strawed wheat lose their entire crop.

  • New research into beetle egg laying activity

    14 May 2008

    NEW research has identified that targeting adult bruchid beetle with lambda cyhalothrin (Hallmark Zeon) before they have chance to lay eggs, will prove more effective than the conventional route of controlling larvae.

  • PSD warning over EC pesticide proposals

    13 May 2008

    COMMERCIAL UK arable farming in its current form would be unachievable if European Commission proposals on pesticide approval and use were to be adopted, the Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) has warned.

  • Trials to begin on GM potatoes

    12 May 2008

    LEEDS University has been given permission to begin a research trial on genetically modified potatoes.

  • Applying N to OSR canopy

    May 9th 2008

    EVIDENCE to support the application of nitrogen to the flowering canopy of oilseed rape has been growing since 2005 and is now producing a convincing financial argument. Yield increases ranging from 3.5 to 46 per cent – with 15 per cent regarded as typical – mean application costs of £50/hectare are producing returns of around £150/ha.

  • Arable 'weeds' adapted to the techniques of farming

    May 9th 2008

    Arable farmers do not usually consider their cropped land as a reservoir of wildlife, even though recognising its importance for a range of birds, small mammals and beneficial insects. But some species have thrived in the past because they were adapted to the techniques of arable farming, and these are arable 'weeds'. FWAG's Elizabeth Ranelagh explains.

  • EU proposals threaten vital wheat fungicides

    May 9th 2008

    THE main group of fungicides used to protect UK and European wheat crops - the triazoles - could be outlawed under plans being proposed by the EU Agriculture Council.

  • First peach potato aphids of 2008 are caught

    May 9th 2008

    THE first two peach potato aphids of 2008 were caught in the Rothamsted Insect Survey suction traps last week.

  • Good trials see Epure hit market early

    May 9th 2008

    A highly consistent performance from oilseed variety Epure in National and Recommended List trials to date has prompted KWS to bring it to market a year ahead of schedule.

  • New inclusions for Grainfarmers’ lists

    May 9th 2008

    OILSEED rape Recommended List candidate varieties for 2008/09 DK Cabernet, Dimension and DK Secure have been included in the Grainfarmers offer for next season.

  • New technology breakthrough

    May 9th 2008

    A technological breakthrough that is on the verge of revolutionising the food processing and packaging industries could soon be offering arable farmers science fiction solutions to the control of pests and diseases.

  • Reliability of yield is 'major factor' in shortlisting OSR

    May 9th 2008

    OILSEED rape growers cannot afford to choose a variety with a high average yield rating that masks a large variation in yield.

  • What should I ask my agronomist?

    May 9th 2008

    It’s now or never for OSR fungicides

  • Winter cereals behind

    May 9th 2008

    WINTER cereals are seven to 10 days behind normal as a result of the cold weather during April, says ADAS.

  • BASF targeted in GM protest

    6 May 2008

    ACTIVISTS prevented staff entering BASF UK’s headquarters at Cheadle Hulme, near Manchester, this morning (Tuesday, May 6), in a protest at the company’s GM potato trials.

  • Assuming blight is in the crop from day one is good start point for control

    May 2nd 2008

    THE quality of the potatoes still coming out of storage that resulted from a blight-ridden crop 10 months before is testimony to a blight control strategy that delivers, according to a Masstock agronomist.

  • Be vigilant on potato blight

    May 2nd 2008

    POTATO growers should be extra vigilant for signs of blight early in the season.

  • Beet fungicide approved

    May 2nd 2008

    ESCOLTA, the new sugar beet fungicide from Bayer CropScience, has gained regulatory approval.

  • Blue 13 blight strain is set to dominate

    May 2nd 2008

    PHENYLAMIDE resistance will be the main blight control challenge this season and to tackle it effectively programmes need to be constructed in two distinct phases.

  • Demand for better quality wheat drives higher prices

    May 2nd 2008

    THE availability of quality wheat has ensured that the UK’s exportable surplus has not traded at feed values this season.

  • Field Walker

    May 2nd 2008

    Your weekly update on crop developments and pest and disease risk

  • Improved practices help with farm biodiversity

    May 2nd 2008

    FARMING techniques, promoted as part of the Voluntary Initiative (VI), can improve habitats and so enhance biodiversity, according to the final report from the VI Indicator Farms Project for the Crop Protection Association (CPA).

  • Loss of effective herbicides reduces options for pulses

    May 2nd 2008

    WITH the increased area for beans in the ground plus fewer pulse herbicides now available as a result of reregistration issues, there could well be more crops that will require a post-emergence herbicide this year, says BASF.

  • More aphids posing a disease threat

    May 2nd 2008

    BE on the lookout for a wider range of aphid species in order to avoid the spread of virus in seed crops this season, seed potato growers are being advised.

  • Natural fungus could reduce use of chemicals on potatoes

    May 2nd 2008

    A TEAM of UK researchers say they have made a breakthrough in pest control in potatoes by proving a naturally-occurring fungus can be used to combat potato cyst nematode.

  • New appointments at United Oilseeds

    May 2nd 2008

    OILSEED rape marketing company United Oilseeds has announced the appointment of three new area managers to strengthen its local support team.

  • New group 3 varieties 'sold out' as seeds in short supply

    May 2nd 2008

    THE market share of group 3 wheat varieties is likely to slip back further, from 19 per cent in 2007/08 to 16 per cent for 2008/09, according to Grainfarmers.

  • Product News

    May 2nd 2008

    • A NEW liquid formulation of propamocarb+cymoxanil offers curative and preventative activity against potato blight. Proxanil from Sipcam combines 400g/litre propamocarb and 50g cymoxanil.

  • Seven new beet varieties make Recommended List

    May 2nd 2008

    THERE are seven new additions to the BBRO-funded Recommended List of sugar beet varieties for 2009, taking the total number to 23.

  • Subsidised biofuel imports hit EU margins

    May 2nd 2008

    EUROPEAN biodiesel margins are poor and the sector could stagnate unless subsidised imports are halted.

  • UKIA annual spring seminar

    May 2nd 2008

    THIS year's UKIA annual spring seminar takes the theme 'Thinking about an irrigation reservoir?'

  • Biofuel industry in Europe could stagnate

    1 May 2008

    EUROPEAN biodiesel margins are poor and the sector could stagnate unless subsidised imports are halted.

  • Blight warning for potato growers

    1 May 2008

    POTATO growers have been warned to be extra vigilant for signs of blight early in the season.

  • Farming techniques can enhance biodiversity

    1 May 2008

    FARMING techniques, promoted as part of the Voluntary Initiative (VI), can improve habitats and so enhance biodiversity, according to the final report from the VI Indicator Farms Project for the Crop Protection Association (CPA).

  • Time to replace black fuel with green fuel?

    30 April 2008

    THE signs are that oil production is reaching its peak - prices hit a record $120 a barrel this week and the president of Opec warned that oil could soon rocket to $200 a barrel.

  • Sugar beet fungicide Escolta gains approval

    30 April 2008

    ESCOLTA, the new sugar beet fungicide from Bayer CropScience has gained regulatory approval.

  • Label restriction lifted

    30 April 2008

    A LABEL restriction limiting the application timing of the spray adjuvant ZinZan up to tuber initiation only, for applications with blight spray Valbon (benthiavalicarb + mancozeb), has been lifted.

  • Impact of pesticides down but tough times ahead

    25 April 2008

    ENVIRONMENTAL damage caused by pesticides has reduced but there are tough times ahead, experts have warned.

  • Arable Focus

    25 April 2008

    FOR expert views on blight control for this season, plus arable fixed cost management, the new case for strobilurins and the latest thinking on cultivations, read FG's Arable Focus special feature.

  • ‘Go Faster’ nozzle designed to meet growers’ demands

    April 25th 2008

    IN response to increasing demand from growers for higher sprayer work rates and lower levels of spray drift, Syngenta has introduced a new nozzle.

  • 100 per cent success rate

    April 25th 2008

    A GROUP of Yorkshire farmers has achieved a 100 per cent success rate in the BASIS Plant Protection Award (PPA) Certificate.

  • Ability to cater for consumer needs by expanding into niche vegetables

    April 25th 2008

    ANGELA CALVERT reports on the Scholes family, the long-established potato and cereal producers from East Yorkshire who are rapidly becoming recognised as one of the country’s leading suppliers of speciality vegetables.

  • Analysis aims to uncover level of boron deficiency

    April 25th 2008

    AN often overlooked micronutrient could be vital to securing optimum yields from oilseed rape crops this year.

  • BASF considers legal action against EC over GM potato delays

    April 25th 2008

    THE EU has been accused of making a mockery of its genetics approval system after stalling for over five years on a decision to allow cultivation of a GM potato in Europe.

  • Consider re-drilling beet as cold snap continues

    April 25th 2008

    LONG lasting cold weather has meant that sugar beet growers hoping to gain yield benefits from early drilling have, instead, seen the crop slow to establish and, in some cases, have to be re-drilled altogether.

  • Don’t go early with your T1 application

    April 25th 2008

    APRIL’s unsettled weather could lead to stretched T-timings in winter wheat this season, say agronomists.

  • Field walker

    April 25th 2008

    Your weekly update on crop developments and pest and disease risk

  • HGCA issues updated Wheat Growth guide

    April 25th 2008

    THE HGCA Wheat Growth Guide has been updated to reflect important changes in variety performance and increased knowledge over the past decade.

  • Keeping blight at bay

    April 25th 2008

    Vigilance, an early start to control programmes and tight intervals between sprays. These are among the tactics growers will need to keep blight at bay this year. Farmers Guardian seeks out the latest developments from the experts at the forefront of the blight battle.

  • Light leaf spot a growing threat in most regions

    April 25th 2008

    Light leaf spot is no longer just a problem of northern oilseed rape crops. Increasing areas of cropping mean it is becoming a significant threat to growers in almost every region of the country.

  • Look at options as sugar contracts ‘out early’

    April 25th 2008

    SUGAR beet contracts will ‘almost inevitably’ go out early this year according to William Martin, NFU sugar board chairman. Although no date has been set, it is likely to be within the next few weeks, or even as soon as two weeks, he said.

  • Maintaining pace with conventional cultivations on ‘difficult’ heavy clay

    April 25th 2008

    While most farmers like to think they have their share of what could be considered ‘difficult’ land, the reality is that few are actually faced with the prospect of establishing crops on field after field of heavy clay each year.

  • More aggressive new yellow rust strains hit Europe

    April 25th 2008

    NEW, more aggressive strains of yellow rust are migrating across the wheat growing regions of the world. While they are not yet present in the UK, they have spread to Denmark, Austria and Germany and are expected to reach the UK soon.

  • Ploughing and subsoiling in one pass

    April 25th 2008

    While ploughing inverts and refreshes the top layer of soil, the use of heavy tractors and ploughshares that smear can cause problems at greater depths. Andy Collings takes a look at plough pan busting – while ploughing.

  • Pooling resources in partnership

    April 25th 2008

    By pooling resources and treating their respective arable farms as one unit, two East Yorkshire neighbours have slashed fixed costs by 45 per cent to less than £300/ha for 2008 – and as an added bonus have created more time to pursue outside sources of income.

  • Rhizomania-resistant varieties to become the norm in five years as disease takes hold

    April 25th 2008

    IN five years time, growers will be planting rhizomania resistant varieties as standard practice. Over the same timescale, nematode-tolerant types will also have made significant in-roads in the UK.

  • Ruth is managing crops instead of people

    April 25th 2008

    REWIND the clock five or so years and Ruth Stanley had no intention of becoming a farmer.

  • Sclerotinia risk set to increase

    April 25th 2008

    SCLEROTINIA activity is increasing and first germination has now started at three sites covering southern, eastern and western regions in monitoring supported by BASF.

  • Slug control with natural soil predators

    April 25th 2008

    POTATO business Branston is continuing to develop its novel non-chemical approach to slug control.

  • Tempest is high yield heavyweight

    April 25th 2008

    EARLY indications are that newly-recommended sugar beet variety Tempest is well adapted to being in the ground for up to 12 months.

  • Time to revisit using strobilurins as fertiliser prices spiral upwards

    April 25th 2008

    When strobilurin chemistry was launched in the 1990s it was heralded as a revolution for cereal disease control.

  • Using direct drilling approach to cut establishment costs

    April 25th 2008

    Buying a new drill can be an expensive investment, but for arable farmer Simon Cowell simplicity has proved key. Not only has it cost just £12,000, but is saving costs by working direct into stubbles. Mervyn Bailey reports.

  • Waste problem from harvest worker shortage

    April 25th 2008

    THE harvest worker shortage is causing valuable produce to go to waste, says NFU Scotland

  • What should I ask my agronomist?

    April 25th 2008

    DISEASE patterns in winter wheat are following a very different pattern to that of last year.

  • Brown fails to recognise UK potential

    24 April 2008

    THE Government has been accused of failing to grasp the potentially vital role British agriculture could play in addressing the global food crisis.

  • Cucumber price ‘is unsustainable’

    24 April 2008

    CUCUMBER growers will suffer heavy losses this year unless prices improve to soak up crippling energy costs, producers have warned.

  • Downing Street announces funding boost to improve crop yields

    23 April 2008

    DOWNING Street has announced extra funding for research to improve crop yields in response to the global food crisis.

  • EU bioethanol production slump

    23 April 2008

    BIOETHANOL production slumped in the EU last year as high feedstock prices forced buyers to look outside of Europe for their fuel.

  • Improving logistics in grain transport

    23 April 2008

    THE logistics of grain haulage is being put under the spotlight by two farmer-controlled businesses in a bid to improve efficiency throughout the grain supply chain.

  • Sugar beet growers advised to re-drill

    22 April 2008

    SUGAR beet growers with March-drilled crops yet to emerge are being advised to consider re-drilling sooner rather than later.

  • Farmers planning UK’s most modern crop storage and processing facility

    April 18th 2008

    A group of enterprising East Midlands farmers has unveiled ambitious plans to build the most modern crop storage and processing facility in the UK.

  • Field walker

    April 18th 2008

    Your weekly update on crop developments and pest and disease risk

  • High blight risk this season

    April 18th 2008

    EARLY action to stamp out the blight risk from potato dumps, must be a priority this season.

  • Research to find herbicide replacement for potatoes

    April 18th 2008

    A NEW Potato Council-funded research programme aims to help growers fill the void left by restrictions on two of Britain’s most widely-used potato herbicides.

  • Taking a ‘clever’ approach to managing older varieties

    April 18th 2008

    NEW varieties with better attributes are always in huge demand. However, when drilling in autumn 2007, many growers could not access the varieties they wanted to grow.

  • What should i ask my agronomist?

    April 18th 2008

    TAKE-ALL is common in many second and third wheats, reports The Arable Group’s Richard Overthrow.

  • Start early with Signum for quality lettuce production

    17 April 2008

    THE protectant fungicide Signum can be used in outdoor and protected lettuce from April 1 onwards and will be a good choice for the control of sclerotinia, rhizoctonia and botrylis, as well as for the physiological and plant defence effects it offers, says BASF.

  • Act early to tackle blight infected dumps

    17 April 2008

    EARLY action to stamp out the blight risk from potato dumps must be a priority this season, advise experts.

  • Tackling Brome

    17 April 2008

    THE Weed Focus initiative from Bayer Crop Science has launched an on-line tool to advise on tackling brome.

  • Canopy management in OSR benefits yield

    17 April 2008

    ProCam’s 4Cast agronomy database indicates that using a stem extension, as well as flowering spray in a programme will be worthwhile in terms of yield says ProCam Group senior agronomist, Nick Myers.

  • Biofuels spark rainforest debate

    16 April 2008

    TESCO has been accused of selling biodiesel made from palm oil grown at the expense of rainforests.

  • New broad-spectrum fungicide available for vegetable growers

    16 April 2008

    OLYMPUS is a new broad-spectrum fungicide, which will be available to bulb onion, shallot and garlic producers this year.

  • TAG teams up with Vaderstad for ASSET investment

    16 April 2008

    The Arable Group’s pioneering ASSET programme is to be sponsored by Vaderstad.

  • How do you turn an average wheat crop into a really good one?

    16 April 2008

    “CHOOSE the correct variety for the situation and match the fungicide inputs appropriately,” said wheat breeder, Bill Angus of Nickersons-Advanta.

  • New report predicts record year for cereal production

    15 April 2008

    CEREAL production in 2008 is set to break records, according to the latest forecast from the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).

  • Careful OSR seed selection can boost oil bonus payments and improve farm margins

    15 April 2008

    OILSEED rape growers who choose a select seed variety with a high oil content can boost their farm’s profitability by taking advantage of inflated oil bonus payments said Chris Baldwin, managing director of United Oilseeds.

  • Panorama improves the outlook for Group 2 wheats

    15 April 2008

    NICKERSON have announced the release of Panorama, a potential bread-making winter wheat with the highest untreated and treated yield of all this year’s candidate bread-making varieties.

  • Biofuel revolution steps up a gear

    14 April 2008

    ALL vehicles will run on biofuel from tomorrow (Tuesday, April 15), but nine out of 10 Britons don’t know it, revealed a recent YouGov poll.

  • Manchester wheat plant comes on stream

    14 April 2008

    THREE-quarters of a million tonnes of UK grown wheat has begun moving through Cargill’s redeveloped Manchester sweeteners plant and completely replaces imported maize for the process.

  • Vintage tractors to be used in fundraising trip

    14 April 2008

    KEEP a look out over the hedge during late May/early June for a pair of vintage Massey Ferguson 135 tractors.

  • Field walker

    April 11th 2008

    Your weekly update on crop evelopments and pest and disease risk

  • Growth regulating fungicides can benefit yields in all OSR varieties

    April 11th 2008

    CONVENTIONAL low biomass winter oilseed rape varieties benefit from increased yields when treated with growth regulating fungicides.

  • Irish septoria experience delivers a clear message

    April 11th 2008

    CEREAL growers aiming for high levels of disease control this season must recognise the importance of robust dose rates, agree researchers and agronomists.

  • It’s a slow way down to raise money for charity

    April 11th 2008

    KEEP a lookout over the hedge during late May/early June for a pair of vintage Massey Ferguson 135 tractors. They will be trundling sedately along the B roads between John o’ Groats and Lands End, driven by Essex arable farmer James Nott and Roger Bedson, a chartered surveyor from the Midlands.

  • New crops chairman facing an ‘agricultural revolution’

    April 11th 2008

    Yorkshire farmer Ian Backhouse is the new chairman of the NFU’s combinable crops board. Angela Calvert went along to hear about the sector issues he plans to be focusing on in the coming months.

  • Two-spray protection against sclerotinia in OSR this season?

    April 11th 2008

    TWO fungicide applications could give more reliable protection against sclerotinia in oilseed rape this season and deliver yield increases.

  • What value late N applications?

    April 11th 2008

    NITROGEN applications to winter oilseed rape crops should be completed very soon, according to TAG Agronomist Richard Overthrow.

  • Dales Authority’s new leaders

    10 April 2008

    TWO new members will join the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority in April.

  • Growers advised to check crops for pollen beetles

    10 April 2008

    THE first pollen beetles have now been reported from oilseed rape crops in a number of locations.

  • Brown warned over rising price of food

    9 April 2008

    GORDON Brown has been warned that the rising price of food could threaten economic stability and could lead to further rioting across the globe.

  • Martin Lainsbury appointed editor of The UK Pesticide Guide

    9 April 2008

    MARTIN Lainsbury has been appointed editor of The UK Pesticide Guide and its on-line version www.plantprotection.co.uk, following the retirement of long serving editor, Dick Whitehead.

  • New role for NIAB's Wayne Powell

    9 April 2008

    PROFESSOR Wayne Powell, chief executive of the National Institute of Agricultural Botany has accepted the position of Professor and Foundation Director at the new Institute for Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), based in Aberystwyth.

  • Renewed call to reform potato levy payments

    8 April 2008

    POTATO farmers that failed in their attempts to receive a levy rebate after losing entire crops to last summer's floods have joined with the NFU to demand a review of the levy system.

  • Agricultural giants continue strong growth

    7 April 2008

    TWO of the world’s largest agricultural super-powers have recorded impressive profits and are confident of continued growth.

  • Brome species

    April 4th 2008

    Credit: © FARMERS GUARDIAN please contact 01772 799445.

  • Brome species control

    April 4th 2008

    FIVE species of brome grass are now considered to be serious arable weeds in Britain. In this Weed Focus special feature, six independent agronomists from around the country share their thoughts, insights and recommendations for brome control – both in recognised problem areas and areas where populations are not yet regarded as serious.

  • Brown rot water control

    April 4th 2008

    AMENDED irrigation and spraying controls, which were effective from March 31, will affect potato growers with crops grown in the vicinity of certain watercourses. 

  • EAST ANGLIA

    April 4th 2008

    Increasing in prevalence because of min-till

  • Maintaining biodiversity after set-aside

    April 4th 2008

    CURRENT cereal and oilseed rape prices may be a powerful incentive to expand the cropped area on many farms since zero set-aside was introduced last summer, but it might not be the long-term solution for everyone, a Midlands environmental adviser has suggested.

  • NORTH EAST

    April 4th 2008

    Min-till leads to increase

  • Rare disease hits oilseed rape crops

    April 4th 2008

    A rarely seen disease of oilseed rape has been identified in a number of crops this spring.

  • SCOTLAND

    April 4th 2008

    Serious in winter cereal rotations

  • Septoria levels rise

    April 4th 2008

    DISEASE in wheat crops is returning to a more normal level for the time of year, but septoria levels are rising as the time for T0 treatments approaches.

  • SOUTH CENTRAL

    April 4th 2008

    Ebb and flow depending on yearly conditions

  • SOUTH EAST

    April 4th 2008

    Not a big problem if appropriately managed

  • SOUTH WEST

    April 4th 2008

    Brome species a problem across all soil types in the region

  • Potato plantings hampered

    3 April 2008

    UNSETTLED weather and cold temperatures have hampered progress with potato planting, says the British Potato Council.

  • Beet – a crop of two halves

    3 April 2008

    THE sugar beet crop is likely to be a crop of two halves this year, according to British Sugar agricultural business managers around the country.

  • Guide to wheat disease updated

    3 April 2008

    THE HGCA Wheat Disease Management Guide has been updated for 2008.

  • Hybrid rape growers need to manage crops effectively

    3 April 2008

    WITH the high proportion of hybrid rape in the ground this year, growers of these varieties need to make sure that they manage their crops effectively, not just for yield potential but also to prevent lodging.

  • Mixed messages on organics

    2 April 2008

    THE Soil Association has hit back at claims that there is no reliable evidence to suggest eating organic food is better for you.

  • LLS could significantly reduce oilseed rape crops

    2 April 2008

    OILSEED rape crops across the UK could be infected with light leaf spot (LLS), but there may be no obvious symptoms.

  • Changes to irrigation and spraying controls

    2 April 2008

    AMENDED irrigation and spraying controls effective from March 31, 2008, will affect potato growers with crops grown in the vicinity of certain watercourses.

  • Maize GA21 approved for import

    2 April 2008

    THE European Commission has approved the genetically modified maize GA21 for import.

  • Levy board launch hailed as fresh opportunity for farmers

    1 April 2008

    THE new levy board structures that comes into place today (Tuesday, April 1) has been hailed as a ‘real opportunity for a fresh start in responding to the challenges facing farmers and growers’.

  • Soil strategy consultation launched

    1 April 2008

    DEFRA has launched a consultation on protecting England’s soils for the future through a new Soil Strategy.

  • Test useful for establishing disease pressure

    1 April 2008

    THE sclerotinia germination monitoring service on the www.totaloilseedcare.co.uk website will this season be supported by a petal culture test, so that disease risk can be more accurately assessed.

  • Pesticide regulator PSD to become agency of HSE

    31 March 2008

    THE Government’s pesticides regulator, the Pesticides Safety Directorate, will become an agency of the Health and Safety Executive tomorrow (April 1, 2008).

  • Arable Focus

    28 March 2008

    OILSEED rape crops are coming out of the winter smaller than last year but omitting a PGR spray could be false economy, agronomists are advising. For more on oilseed canopy management, plus pests and diseases, sugar beet weed control and a high output spraying set-up read our Arable Focus special supplement.

  • A traditional art can play a major part in the future

    March 28th 2008

    NEIL RYDER visited the Scotch Whisky Research Institute in Edinburgh and discovered that while the majority of the work carried out there benefits distillers, it is also relevant to the modern bioethanol biofuel industry.

  • Balancing spraying capacity with cost for a flexible weed control strategy

    March 28th 2008

    However you plan to approach weed control in beet crops this season, build in flexibility is the advice from Broom’s Barn.

  • Don’t miss your T0 spray this year

    March 28th 2008

    CEREAL growers should try hard not to miss T0 sprays this year despite continuing bad weather limiting spraying opportunities, says ProCam.

  • Emergence of new brown rust races threatens RL ratings

    March 28th 2008

    TWO new races of brown rust first identified on 2006 Robigus winter wheat crops also resulted in high levels of infection on the variety in 2007.

  • Expanding capacity to meet growing needs

    March 28th 2008

    With an expanding acreage and busy workload, Thoresby Home Farm in Nottinghamshire needed more sprayer capacity. A 4,000-litre high-speed self-propelled sprayer fitted the bill, increasing productivity beyond expectations. Jane Carley reports.

  • Lowering light leaf spot treatment threshold could make economic sense for this year’s crop

    March 28th 2008

    The relatively late development of oilseed rape crops last autumn resulted in many of them receiving only a single fungicide spray, leaving them more susceptible to spring diseases.

  • OSR crops smaller, but risk of lodging persists

    March 28th 2008

    Many oilseed rape growers will have observed that autumn conditions have slowed down their crops’ development and, on the threshold of spring, they are looking small and often underdeveloped.

  • Saving seed with precision

    March 28th 2008

    While pneumatic seeders are a must for wide working widths there is still a market for gravity fed box drills for mounting on power harrows. MERVYN BAILEY speaks to a user that finds these simple drills save seed.

  • What is the best practice?

    March 28th 2008

    AN informal discussion group, based around the Grainfarmers/UAP Project Energise investigation, is helping an agronomist get to grips with his rape crop.

  • What should i ask my agronomist?

    March 28th 2008

    IF the recent cold snap persists and the passage to flowering in winter oilseed rape crops becomes protracted, then pollen beetles could become a matter of concern, warns TAG agronomist, Richard Overthrow.

  • Indecision over biofuels RTFO policy

    27 March 2008

    NATIONAL Farmers’ Union president Peter Kendall has warned the Government that backtracking from its biofuels policy would stifle the UK renewable fuel industry and harm the global environment.

  • Watson warns of possible ‘insanity’ of biofuels push

    25 March 2008

    DEFRA’S chief scientific adviser has warned that it would be ‘insane’ to continue pushing for increased use of biofuels until more is known about their impact on climate change.

  • Defra launches new advice service for farmers wanting to go organic

    25 March 2008

    DEFRA has re-launched a free national information and advice service for farmers thinking of converting to organic production.

  • Oilseed rape crops should be treated as priority

    25 March 2008

    OILSEED rape crops ravaged by pigeons over the winter will be more susceptible to pollen beetle damage this spring, and should be treated as a priority.

  • Growers concerned about mycotoxin risk

    25 March 2008

    ANALYSING mycotoxin risk is a cause for concern amongst growers, according to feedback from recent farmer meetings.

  • Discrepancies in test levels

    March 21st 2008

    THIS year’s mineral nitrogen values returning from analysis are again highlighting discrepancies caused by the use of different assessment methods, says Mark Tucker, head of agronomy for Yara UK.

  • GM’s stumbling block is EU politicians

    March 21st 2008

    THE Council of Ministers of the EU is coming under increasing pressure to release the log jam of GM crop varieties currently banned from being grown in or imported into the EU for political reasons despite the overwhelming scientific opinion they are both safe and beneficial.

  • Reducing the impact of farming’s carbon footprint

    March 21st 2008

    OTHER projects under the research programme include looking at how farming can reduce its carbon footprint.

  • Research into long-term static rape yields is extended by four years

    March 21st 2008

    The Arable Group’s Morley research centre is now in its 125th year of crop research. Current projects are investigating how to reduce farming’s carbon footprint, the interactions between rotation and cultivation approaches and reasons behind static oilseed rape yields. CLEMMIE GLEESON reports.

  • Revised pesticide proposals sees cut-off criteria reduced

    March 21st 2008

    THE European Commission has finalised an amended proposal for a new regulation on the placing of pesticides on the market.

  • Rising soil temperatures could trigger early sclerotinia activity

    March 21st 2008

    SOIL temperatures are rising to a point that could trigger early activity of sclerotinia fruiting bodies, increasing the risk of spore production.

  • Take-all poses significant threat to second wheats

    March 21st 2008

    WITH high inoculum levels in 2007, a warm winter and moist soils, take-all could pose a significant threat to second wheat crops this season, according to a leading researcher into the disease.

  • HGCA help growers determine need for sulphur fertiliser

    19 March 2008

    HGCA has developed a new decision support matrix to help growers determine whether crops need sulphur fertiliser.

  • Estimated 10.4 per cent increase in English wheat area

    19 March 2008

    THE English wheat area is estimated at 1.9 million hectares, up 10.4 per cent according to the results of Defra's December survey.

  • BASF launch water dispersible Rovral WG

    19 March 2008

    BASF has supported the re-registration of the fungicide active ingredient iprodione and are launching a new water dispersible formulation, Rovral WG, for use in a wide range of crops including Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, onions, lettuce, oilseed rape, strawberries and raspberries.

  • Poor weather conditions haven't delayed carrot planting

    18 March 2008

    EARLY carrot plantings are now up-to-date, despite difficulties with the wet and windy weather throughout January and February says British Carrot Growers Association chairman, Martin Evans.

  • Don't delay nitrogen application to sugar beet

    18 March 2008

    THE BBRO is urging sugar beet growers to make sure that there is no delay in applying nitrogen. Crops needs N for canopy expansion and hence yield, so advice is to apply the first dose immediately after drilling.

  • Irrigation and water abstraction

    17 March 2008

    When it comes to water abstraction matters there is strength in numbers, believes Andrew Alston, of the Broadland Agricultural Water Abstractors Group.

  • Sainsbury's potato buyer arrested over bribery claims

    17 March 2008

    A potato buyer for food retailer Sainsbury's has been arrested over claims he took bribes from supplier Greenvale AP.

  • Sclerotinia risk increasing

    14 March 2008

    SOIL temperatures are rising to a point that could trigger early activity of sclerotinia fruiting bodies, increasing the risk of spore production.

  • Nearly all food is within maximum pesticide level limit

    14 March 2008

    THE latest quarterly report from the Pesticide Residues Committee shows that 537 out of 749 samples of 13 different foods tested had no detectable pesticide residues, while 207 contained levels below the maximum residue level (MRL) – the legally permitted level.

  • Future for azoles despite growing septoria resistance

    March 14th 2008

    AZOLE chemistry will remain an important component of cereal disease control programmes into the future.

  • Higher cereal prices lowers the leatherjacket threshold

    March 14th 2008

    HIGH cereal prices mean that thresholds for leatherjacket treatment will be lower this season so the threat in cereals sown after grass or set-aside should not be neglected, a leading entomologist is advising.

  • Managing N input for an optimum GAI

    March 14th 2008

    UNDERSTANDING an oilseed rape variety’s growth habit and how it utilises nitrogen could help growers achieve the best from their OSR crop and save money.

  • Potato growers should be aware of production costs

    March 14th 2008

    COST inflation is having a huge impact on potato production, according to the British Potato Council (BPC), which is urging growers to ensure they have a comprehensive knowledge of their production costs.

  • Reacting to rust

    March 14th 2008

    "RECENT frosts have been insufficient to remove the threat of yellow rust in winter wheat crops, particularly in the Midlands and East Anglia," says TAG Agronomist, Richard Overthrow.

  • Spray oilseed rape before petal fall

    March 14th 2008

    UNEXPECTEDLY high levels of spore production, an extended flowering period and favourable weather conditions in late spring all contributed to last season’s sclerotinia epidemic in oilseed rape.

  • Statutory notification consultation

    March 14th 2008

    DEFRA has issued a consultation on statutory notification arrangements for potatoes introduced from other member states.

  • Yorkshire farmer elected as new NFU combinable crops chairman

    13 March 2008

    IAN Backhouse has been elected as the new chairman of the NFU’s combinable crops board.

  • Meeting provides training for Telone II

    11 March 2008

    A TWO-day stewardship meeting held at Riseholme College in Lincolnshire provided key advisors and operators with training with the aim of ensuring that the soil fumigant product Telone II continues to be applied responsibly and safely.

  • Agrovista launches on-line modelling system for growers

    10 March 2008

    CROP protection company Agrovista has developed a web-based top fruit disease and pest modelling system that is available for use by growers.

  • Aphids survive cold spell

    10 March 2008

    APHIDS have survived the recent cold spell, the BBRO is advising sugar beet growers.

  • Breeding research into pearl millet for drought-prone areas

    March 7th 2008

    POOR subsistence farmers in areas of Africa and Asia will be the direct beneficiaries of research work being carried out in West Wales – but with the growing concerns over climate change, the findings could also have a significant bearing on the future performance of crops world-wide.

  • Climate change could alter fungicide timings

    March 7th 2008

    A MOVE away from traditional fungicide timings may be required if climate change favours the development of new wheat diseases such as black stem rust and tan spot.

  • Early drilling yield benefits

    March 7th 2008

    SUGAR beet growers have an ideal opportunity this season to take advantage of the yield benefits linked with early drilling.

  • Final sugar quota cut of 1.16m tonnes

    March 7th 2008

    SUGAR growers across Europe may face a final quota cut of 1.16 million tonnes in 2010. The European Commission will impose the cut – with no compensation – if countries fail to renounce enough quota to reach the 6 million-tonne target.

  • First export for the Seed Company

    March 7th 2008

    THE Seed Company of Sherborne, Dorset is sending out its first export. It is an order to Ireland for a pallet of Dorset-grown rapeseed oil.  

  • Getting the right contract to manage price risk in a volatile grain market

    March 7th 2008

    MOST of the grain sold by farmers in Britain is traded under standard contracts, but in a volatile market merchants are looking at ways of helping growers handle price risk.

  • Guard against influx of generic herbicides

    March 7th 2008

    FARMERS and agronomists must guard against the influx of generic sulfonylurea herbicides finding their way onto the UK market, warns a leading agronomist.

  • HGCA ‘Crop Oracle’ updated

    March 7th 2008

    HGCA’s ‘Crop Oracle’ CD has been updated for 2008. The CD contains the latest information on varieties, crop management and business planning for cereals and oilseeds.

  • Landowners responsible for rabbit control on their land

    March 7th 2008

    FARMERS suffering damage to crops from rabbits on neighbouring land are being reminded of their legal rights.

  • ProCam spring conference

    March 7th 2008

    Grain prices, market ‘bubbles’ and mycotoxins were on the agenda at the ProCam spring conference held at Newmarket, Suffolk. Over 250 farmers from the eastern region made their way to the event, which was supported by Farmers Guardian. Teresa Rush reports.

  • PSD warning

    March 7th 2008

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has advised that an isoproturon product marketed as ‘Emrald Wotsit’ has been manufactured to a different formulation from the approved formulation and anyone selling, supplying or using this counterfeit product may be committing an offence.

  • Quota compensation move angers NFU

    March 7th 2008

    NFU Sugar is considering legal action after Defra revealed it was planning to reopen negotiations on how compensation should be split between growers and contractors following British Sugar’s successful application to renounce 13.5 per cent of the UK sugar quota.

  • Spring grass weed control ‘a struggle’

    March 7th 2008

    WITH the maximum dose rates of IPU (isoproturon) having been cut to 1,500g of active ingredient in the autumn many farmers could be struggling with grass weed control this spring.

  • Wheat bulb fly larvae now hatching

    March 7th 2008

    WHEAT bulb fly larvae have now begun to invade plants, according to Dow AgroSciences.

  • Diversification opportunities for Welsh farmers

    5 March 2008

    HORTICULTURE is being seen as an important part of the rural economy in Wales and an area that could offer a number of diversification opportunities for farmers.

  • Yellowing in wheat crops associated with mildew and frost damage

    5 March 2008

    STRONG yellowing in some forward wheat crops is associated with severe mildew and frost damage, says ADAS.

  • Defra publishes consultation for Environmental Liability Directive

    4 March 2008

    DEFRA has published a consultation on draft regulations and guidance implementing the Environmental Liability Directive 2004/35/EC, which is concerned with preventing and remedying environmental damage.

  • New approvals secured for herbicide Hurricane

    4 March 2008

    NEW approvals have been secured for use of the diflufenican herbicide, Hurricane SC, says Makhteshim Agan.

  • Arable Focus

    29 February 2008

    READ FG’s 12-page Arable Focus. There’s an in-depth look at disease and weed management for spring, plus nitrogen planning, spring cropping options and machinery.

  • AN supplies will be tight as supply uncertainty continues

    February 29th 2008

    With fertiliser prices across the world almost doubling since the middle of last year and continued global uncertainty over supply, UK growers yet to receive this season’s supply of nitrogen fertiliser could be forgiven for wondering if their crops will get an adequate dressing this spring.

  • Blight: Vigilance and tight control

    February 29th 2008

    THE British Potato Council (BPC) is advising potato growers that vigilance and a tight and responsive rein on control will be key to keeping blight at bay this season following the confirmation by scientists that one aggressive strain of the disease now dominates the British blight population.

  • Effective T0 spray obligatory on most winter wheats to combat brown rust, septoria

    February 29th 2008

    An effective T0 spray will be obligatory on most crops of winter wheat next month to ensure that the brown rust and/or septoria onslaughts of 2007 are not to be repeated, according to agronomists.

  • Fertiliser value of organic manures

    February 29th 2008

    THE fertiliser value of organic manures has always been worth a lot of money, but this value has increased dramatically due to the recent large increases in fertiliser prices.

  • Group 3 wheat area decline ‘a concern’

    February 29th 2008

    THE Group 3 wheat area has been falling as a proportion of the total as farmers move into Group 4. With millers determined to secure more quality wheat, growing on contract could be the way forward.

  • HGCA Milling Wheat Conference

    February 29th 2008

    Milling wheat premiums, the changing market for bread and the declining area of Group 3 wheat came under the spotlight at the HGCA/nabim Milling Wheat Conference. Christopher Lyddon reports.

  • High prices could mean record crop

    February 29th 2008

    THE world’s farmers are responding to high wheat prices with increased plantings. If they get the right growing conditions, that could mean a record crop. The conference got a reminder that the weather has to be right to give the world a chance to rebuild wheat stocks.

  • Programmes need to be reviewed in face of threat

    February 29th 2008

    BLIGHT control programmes may need to be reviewed in response to the spread of the genotype 13 blight threat, says BPC research and director director Dr Mike Storey, who is advising potato growers to discuss blight control plans with their agronomist well before the season begins.

  • Spray timing and residues

    February 29th 2008

    IN the article ‘Spray timing can help achieve lower pesticide residues’ on February 15, the comments on mepiquat and glyphosate should have read:

  • Spring weed control: Application should be as early as possible to maximise efficacy

    February 29th 2008

    Growers planning ahead for their spring herbicide applications in cereal crops this season should heed the same advice given to them for their autumn programmes – application should be as early as possible to maximise efficacy.

  • Winter wheat area impacts on spring crops future

    February 29th 2008

    The larger area drilled to winter wheat for harvest 2008 is impacting on the future of spring crops, with areas of many set to drop but price prospects improved in some cases.

  • Milling Wheat Guide 2008 launched

    28 February 2008

    THE UK Flour Millers’ Association, nabim, launched its 2008 Wheat Guide at the HGCA/nabim Milling Wheat Conference held at Chilford Hall in Cambridgeshire.

  • UK horticulture looks jealously at Spanish investment

    28 February 2008

    FARMERS in Spain will dramatically reduce pesticide residues on their fruit and vegetable produce with the help of a huge government investment.

  • Early drilling essential

    27 February 2008

    AS soon as the hard frosts of the last fortnight had been taken over by the mild winds from the Atlantic the sugar beet drill was out on Elsoms Seeds’ early drilled bolter trials at Quadring near Spalding, Lincolnshire.

  • Pesticide exposure small according to HSE report

    27 February 2008

    THE annual prevalence and incidence of patients consulting their doctor over concern about pesticide exposure is small, a Health and Safety Executive (HSE) report has concluded.

  • 'Crop Oracle' CD updated

    27 February 2008

    HGCA’s ‘Crop Oracle’ CD has been updated for 2008.

  • Research finds GM crops attractive to farmers

    25 February 2008

    FARMERS are upbeat about genetically modified crops, according to new research funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

  • PSD advise using counterfeit herbicide may be an offence

    25 February 2008

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has advised that an isoproturon product marketed as ‘Emrald Wotsit’ has been manufactured to a different formulation from the approved formulation and that anyone selling, supplying or using this counterfeit product may be committing an offence.

  • Climate change only one of many tests

    February 22nd 2008

    CLIMATE change is only one of a number of challenges faced by farmers and many others are equally as important, including, reform of the CAP, environmental constraints, markets and cost of production.

  • News in brief

    February 22nd 2008

    Demand equal for spring and winter barley

  • NFU offer future vision for combinable crops

    February 22nd 2008

    THE NFU launched its ‘Vision’ for the future of the combinable crops sector at the East Midlands Combinable Crops Seminar.

  • Potato planting under way as growing conditions improve

    February 22nd 2008

    EARLY potato planting is currently progressing well, with many growers in the South West reporting conditions are ideal for the crop.

  • Research into herbicide-resistant rye-grass

    February 22nd 2008

    DIFFERENCES exist in the degree of control of herbicide-resistant rye-grass provided by the so-called ‘fop, dim and den' or ACCase-inhibiting herbicides, new research has revealed.

  • Satellite monitoring survey

    February 22nd 2008

    FARMERS are being invited to voice their opinions on the future use of satellites in monitoring their compliance to regulations.

  • Sugar beet appointment

    February 22nd 2008

    KWS UK has appointed Volker Utesch (right) as its new commercial manager for its sugar beet operation in the UK.

  • Sustainability must address all the issues

    February 22nd 2008

    SUSTAINABILITY, which includes maintaining the viability of growers and the rural economy, is a much bigger issue than the carbon footprint alone, Alan Wilson, head of agronomy for Waitrose, told an ADAS/Syngenta Vegetable Conference at the East of England showground.

  • Stalemate on approval requests for GMOs

    20 February 2008

    EUROPEAN Union agriculture ministers were unable this week to reach a consensus regarding five requests for approval of new strains of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

  • Single-pass cultivation systems have important role to play

    20 February 2008

    LAND intended for spring cropping will benefit significantly from as little tillage traffic as possible, meaning single-pass cultivation systems have an important role to play this year, says SW Agriservices, manufacturer of Sumo cultivation machinery.

  • Temperatures need to be warmer before applying herbicides

    19 February 2008

    WAIT for the frosts to end and temperatures to warm up, before applying herbicides to tackle cleavers, mayweed and other broad-leaved weeds in oilseed rape, Dow AgroSciences is advising.

  • UK maltsters to purchase 1.86 million tonnes of barley

    19 February 2008

    UK maltsters are likely to purchase around 1.86 million tonnes of barley from the 2008 harvest according to the Maltsters Association of Great Britain (MAGB).

  • Government under pressure to protect GM trials

    18 February 2008

    THE Government is under pressure from biotech firms to provide greater security for genetically modified crop trials in the UK.

  • Extra care on nitrogen timings

    15 February 2008

    “THE penalty from applying nitrogen too early will be even greater this year,” advises TAG agronomist Richard Overthrow.

  • Aphids with tolerance, but they have yet to reach UK

    February 15th 2008

    MYZUS persicae or peach potato aphids with tolerance to neonicotinoid insecticides used on sugar beet have been identified under laboratory conditions but no aphids with resistance to this group of insecticides have yet been found in the field, growers attending Beet 08 were told.

  • BBRO’s Beet ‘08 event

    February 15th 2008

    Over 1,000 sugar beet growers registered to attend the BBRO’s Beet ‘08 event at the East of England showground, Peterborough. TERESA RUSH reports on some of the key messages from the technical sessions.

  • Beet growers to get compensation for 13.5pc quota cut under EU reforms

    February 15th 2008

    EVERY sugar beet grower who has had a contract to grow the crop since 2006 will receive compensation for the 13.5 per cent cut in quota announced by Defra last week as part of the latest EU reforms.

  • Change to nitrogen fertiliser advice for sugar beet

    February 15th 2008

    NITROGEN recommendations for sugar beet are set to change significantly when the replacement for Defra’s RB209 Fertiliser Recommendations for Agricultural and Horticultural Crops is eventually published.

  • Grain store temperature ‘vital’ to insect and disease control

    February 15th 2008

    CAREFUL management of temperatures in grain stores is essential for preserving the quality of stored grain, but growers first need to ensure they understand the cooling capacity and system available to them.

  • Herbicide changes for 2008

    February 15th 2008

    CHANGES to herbicide options for sugar beet for 2008 include a reduction in the maximum dose of ethofumesate and the withdrawal of paraquat.

  • HGCA/ACCS workshop

    February 15th 2008

    Pesticide residues, mycotoxins and grain storage tips were on offer at a recent HGCA/ACCS workshop staged near Witham, Essex. DOMINIC KILBURN reports.

  • Home-grown pea and bean shortage fears with harvest estimates 40pc down

    February 15th 2008

    PULSE processors are voicing concerns over the predicted shortfall of home-grown peas and beans this harvest.

  • Managing risks posed by mycotoxins

    February 15th 2008

    WITH mycotoxin risk assessment a requirement for wheat grain passports since last November, growers were reminded at the workshop the importance of both assessing and managing the risk that mycotoxins posed.

  • OSR canopy assessment tool

    February 15th 2008

    ASSESSMENT of the green area index of oilseed rape crops is made easy with the web-based Canopy GAI tool says BASF, which has developed the tool in conjunction with ADAS.

  • Publican malting barley gets distillers’ approval

    February 15th 2008

    A NEW SCOTTISH spring barley variety, which its breeder says could offer distillers similar quality to the popular variety Optic, while also delivering significantly more yield, is being commercially launched to farmers this season.

  • Pulse prize for highest output

    February 15th 2008

    THE British Edible Pulse Association is offering a one-off prize of £1,000 for a charity of choice of the grower with the highest gross output from a 2007 harvest pulse crop. Gross output measurement will be by yield and net market value ex-farm at point of sale. To register, visit www.bepa.co.uk, fax 01354 610661 or contact a pulse merchants from the BEPA website. Growers have until May 31 to register.

  • Research into soil nitrogen measurement

    February 15th 2008

    A new HGCA-funded research project aims to establish best practice for estimating the amount of nitrogen available to the crop from the soil.

  • Risk assessment tool

    February 15th 2008

    HGCA’s Fusarium Mycotoxin Risk Assessment Tool provides growers with a means of entering their own risk scores for factors associated with the risk of fusarium mycotoxin developing on wheat.

  • Rule change warning over pesticide products

    February 15th 2008

    LANDOWNERS in the UK must respond to industry calls to supply ‘pesticide use’ information or risk losing a number of products which currently enable them to optimise the management and performance of game cover and environmental crops.

  • Trials show best way to deal with powdery mildew

    February 15th 2008

    A SINGLE full dose spray of a triazole fungicide timed to coincide with the arrival of powdery mildew in sugar beet crops will give the best results in terms of yield and economic returns.

  • Wheat bulb fly hatch at 16pc

    February 15th 2008

    MILD weather has encouraged early wheat bulb fly hatch in most areas, according to Dow AgroSciences.

  • EU pesticides rules ‘will seriously cut crop yields’

    14 February 2008

    OVERLY stringent EU rules on pesticides will lead to a decline in European agricultural self-sufficiency by hampering the food industry’s ability to produce safe, high-quality, affordable food for European consumers, an industry-funded study has warned.

  • Spray timing can help achieve lower pesticide residue levels

    13 February 2008

    FUTURE EU legislation is likely to put more pressure on growers to reduce pesticide residues in food and water but a few simple actions can go a long way towards achieving some of these aims.

  • BPC urges potato growers to take action to reduce bruising in crops

    13 February 2008

    POTATO growers are being urged to take action to reduce bruising damage in crops, which costs growers about £26 million per year, or on average £200 per hectare, says the British Potato Council.

  • Insect resistance to GM crop

    11 February 2008

    AN insect pest that is supposed to be killed by a type of genetically modified cotton crop with an in-built toxin gene has developed resistance and is beginning to spread in parts of the United States, surveys conducted by the University of Arizona have revealed.

  • Alternative strategies needed to tackle dormant black-grass problem

    February 8th 2008

    Winter wheat growers may need to develop alternative strategies to tackle dormant black-grass once it starts emerging if they are to prevent it inflicting yield damage, a leading expert is urging. Otherwise, it could get out of hand or be too cold to control at an optimum spraying time.

  • Basta promises control of broad-leaved weeds

    February 8th 2008

    A NEW contact herbicide for use in potatoes will control all the main arable broad-leaved and grass weeds up to four true leaves, including difficult weeds like cleavers, fat-hen and polygonums, according to manufacturer Bayer CropScience.

  • Black-grass a real threat as autumn treatments down due to cold weather

    February 8th 2008

    Controlling grass-weeds this spring will be a priority for many growers who did not apply post-emergence herbicides in the autumn, according to agronomists around the country.

  • Brown rust epidemic risk ‘above average’

    February 8th 2008

    THERE is an above-average risk of a brown rust epidemic this season, according to Syngenta.

  • Bruchid beetle control advice ‘a waste of time’

    February 8th 2008

    ADVICE given on bruchid beetle control in field bean crops over the past couple of years has been a complete waste of time.

  • Careful N management for 2008 OSR success

    February 8th 2008

    AFTER one of the most difficult autumns for establishment in many years, careful nitrogen management could be a deciding factor in OSR success for 2008, according to breeder NK.

  • Controlling potato scab

    February 8th 2008

    ADEQUATE water, soil acidity, soil manganese levels, and the potato varieties themselves all played a part in controlling potato scab, said CSL plant bacteriologist, John Elphinstone.

  • CPB-Twyford become KWS UK but it promises innovations will continue

    February 8th 2008

    ONE of the UK’s leading plant breeders, CPB-Twyford is to take on the name of its parent company, KWS.

  • Crop clinics reveal trends in weed control over two decades

    February 8th 2008

    Analysis of farmers’ requests for information from the SAC crop clinic has revealed the changing face of weed control over the last two decades or so, SAC weed specialist Dr Ken Davies told the HGCA R&D conference.

  • Fewer leatherjackets but damage risk still present

    February 8th 2008

    LEATHERJACKET population levels in Scotland have crashed this winter from the extremely high levels recorded over the past four years.

  • Four-spray fungicide could triple winter wheat profits

    February 8th 2008

    THE profit generated by a four-spray fungicide programme on winter wheat could potentially triple this season as a result of higher grain prices, according to Syngenta technical manager Dave Ranner.

  • Greater workload at spray timings

    February 8th 2008

    AN increased acreage of winter cereals, including more second wheat, will mean an increased workload at key spray timings this season.Growers face the practical challenge of around 10 per cent more winter crop area to get round with the sprayer, says Sygnenta’s Matt Pickard.The increased area of second wheat means that there is an increased risk of the diseases that would normally be controlled by a break crop, he adds.

  • High wheat prices good for fungicide investment

    February 8th 2008

    Do much-improved wheat prices justify increasing the disease control budget for the coming season?

  • Lessons learned from 2007

    February 8th 2008

    THERE are a number of lessons to be learned following last season’s brown rust epidemic, according to independent agronomist Andrew Watson.

  • Low-dose herbicides introduced

    February 8th 2008

    A new generation of low dose herbicides will reduce active ingredient applications by up to two-thirds compared with existing products, says DuPont.

  • Lower wheat bulb fly risk

    February 8th 2008

    THE risk of wheat bulb fly damage is lower this year than in recent years, but growers must nevertheless remain vigilant, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • News in brief

    February 8th 2008

    Details wanted for LTAEU’s to SOLA conversion

  • Pesticide Guide now available

    February 8th 2008

    THE 21st edition of The UK Pesticide Guide 2008 is now available and provides farmers and growers with the most up-to-date information relating to UK approved products, for agriculture, horticulture, forestry and amenity use.

  • Potato volunteer control

    February 8th 2008

    THE pre-emergence herbicide Nirvana (imazamox+pendi-methalin) has achieved good control of volunteer potatoes in vining peas in trials conducted by Birds Eye.

  • SAC Association of Potato Producers’ conference

    February 8th 2008

    After the problems of last year, blight was one of the key subjects at the SAC Association of Potato Producers’ conference in Perth. Neil Ryder reports.

  • Seed production opportunity

    February 8th 2008

    WITH numbers of potato seed growers at an all time low, there could be real opportunities for ware producers to look again at seed production, said SAC potato specialist, Stuart Wale.

  • Set-aside not always ideal ‘clean up’ remedy for crops

    February 8th 2008

    With a large proportion of land that was previously set-aside now being cropped, JOANNA BAKER talks to Masstock about just which crops have been replacing set-aside and what problems growers may encounter producing cereals on land that has been down to grass for long periods of time.

  • Spring barley plantings could increase 10 to 15pc as seed sales for all crops rise

    February 8th 2008

    SPRING barley plantings could increase by as much as 10 to 15 per cent this spring as a large proportion of previously un-cropped and rotational set-aside land is brought back into production.

  • Spring conferences

    February 8th 2008

    BOOK your place at one of the Rutherfords/ProCam spring conferences to hear the latest news and views on key management and agronomy issues for the coming season.

  • Spring spraying decisions

    February 8th 2008

    AN FG special feature giving an update on the potential weed and disease threats this spring.

  • Temperature-tolerant yellow rust found in USA

    February 8th 2008

    NEW yellow rust isolates, more tolerant of higher temperatures than previous populations, are currently threatening wheat crops in the USA and may pose a risk to UK crops in the future.

  • Water and skilled labour

    February 8th 2008

    EFFICIENT management of water and the supply of skilled labour were two key issues for the future of potato growing, according to Norfolk farmer, Tim Papworth.

  • Weather delaying potato plantings

    February 8th 2008

    RAIN and strong winds in Cornwall held up progress with potato planting last week, although about 200 hectares had been completed up to February 1 compared with 350ha to the same date last year.

  • Wheat plantings up 13pc in UK in response to prices

    February 8th 2008

    WHEAT plantings are up by 13 per cent in the UK this year following the unprecedented prices experienced in recent months.

  • Your questions on coming spraying season answered

    February 8th 2008

    Farmers and agronomists attending the HGCA/Farmers Guardian disease management workshop at the East of England showground had a range of questions for the speakers. Teresa Rush picks out some of the most relevant for the coming season.

  • Farmers encouraged to complete survey on future use of satellites

    7 February 2008

    FARMERS are being invited to voice their opinions on the future use of satellites in monitoring their compliance to regulations.

  • Application to relinquish 13.5 per cent of UK sugar beet quota approved

    6 February 2008

    BRITISH Sugar’s application to relinquish 13.5 per cent of UK sugar beet quota in return for compensation to UK growers, has finally been approved by Defra this week.

  • UK Pesticide Guide 2008 now available

    6 February 2008

    THE 21st edition of The UK Pesticide Guide 2008 is now available and provides farmers and growers with the most up-to-date information relating to UK approved products, for agriculture, horticulture, forestry and amenity use.

  • Book your place at spring conferences

    6 February 2008

    BOOK your place at one of the Rutherfords/ProCam spring conferences to hear the latest news and views on key management and agronomy issues for the coming season.

  • Pesticides Safety Directorate announces arrangements for conversion of LTAEUs

    6 February 2008

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has announced arrangements for the conversion of the Long Term Arrangements for the Extension of Use (LTAEU) to Specific Off-label Approvals (SOLA).

  • New contact herbicide for potatoes

    6 February 2008

    A NEW contact herbicide for use in potatoes will control all the main arable broad-leaved and grass weeds up to four true leaves, including difficult weeds like cleavers, fat-hen and polygonums, according to manufacturer Bayer CropScience.

  • Helping farmers manage coastal change

    February 1st 2008

    A rise in sea levels and Defra’s withdrawal from maintaining sea walls threatens the future of 300 miles of Essex coastline and could affect more than 180 landowners. The Managing Coastal Change project is looking at the opportunities and threats and helping farmers plan for the future. CLEMMIE GLEESON reports.

  • Higher sugar content as beet growers try to maximise yield

    February 1st 2008

    SUGAR contents have been consistently high, but yields lower during this year’s sugar beet campaign, which draws to a close at three of the four remaining factories this week.

  • Soil condition ‘more important for N uptake’

    February 1st 2008

    SOIL conditions favourable to nitrogen uptake are more important than calendar date when applying N to oilseed rape.

  • Spring conferences

    February 1st 2008

    WHAT was the cost per tonne of production in 2007? What opportunities are there for combinable crops in 2008? What predictions are there for disease pressure this season?

  • UK arable sector ‘optimistic’ for season

    February 1st 2008

    A survey of 12 leading arable consultants and agronomists, commissioned by BASF in the light of recent market changes, has highlighted several key economic and agronomic drivers for the coming season and beyond.

  • Wheat bulb fly warning

    February 1st 2008

    WITH the wheat bulb fly season fast approaching, Dow AgroSciences is warning against applying Dursban WG (chlorpyrifos) in tank mixes with Atlantis WG (iodosulfuron+mesosulfuron). 

  • More pesticide regulation likely

    29 January 2008

    INCREASED regulation for pesticide use could be on the cards if users fail to complete Crop Protection Management Plans (CPMPs).

  • How will climate change affect UK farmers?

    28 January 2008

    THE climate in the UK is changing and will continue to change, Roger Street of the Oxford University-based UK Climate Impacts Programme (UKCIP) told the HGCA R&D conference.

  • Investment needed to help industry change - Kendall

    28 January 2008

    RESEARCH and development is essential to the sustainability of the farming industry, yet first rate scientists are working in ‘third world’ establishments in the UK, NFU president Peter Kendall told the HGCA R&D conference.

  • At the forefront of the Yorkshire rhubarb revival

    January 25th 2008

    Combining age-old tradition with modern technology is ensuring that the Oldroyd family stay at the forefront of rhubarb production. ANGELA CALVERT reports.

  • Fast aphid knockdown for new insecticide

    January 25th 2008

    A NEW insecticide available for use in potato crops this season will give essential fast knockdown of aphids – comparable to the pyrethroids currently used by growers, claims its manufacturer, Syngenta.

  • Grain distillers lead demand for barley

    January 25th 2008

    WHILE there are expected to be above average quality premiums for malting barley in the coming year, it also means that the market will pay less for crops failing to meet specifications, especially in regard to nitrogen content, said SAC cereal varieties specialist, Steve Hoad in Perth.

  • Irrigation audits can help maintain water resources

    January 25th 2008

    ABSTRACTORS must adapt to climate change. That was the key message from a series of water-related seminars at ‘The Heat is On’, a conference organised by Natural England with partners including NFU East Anglia and the Environment Agency.

  • Most cereals now at mid-tillering stage

    January 25th 2008

    DESPITE this month’s wet weather, most winter cereals around the country are looking generally well, although some oilseed rape crops are continuing to struggle and may have to be replaced this spring, says Susan Twining, senior consultant, ADAS Boxworth.

  • Variety mixtures will reduce barley problems

    January 25th 2008

    THERE is increasing evidence that taller spring barley feed crops are less prone to disease than shorter feed varieties. The exact reasons for this are unclear, but particularly apply to splash borne diseases, SAC’s Dr Steve Hoad told the workshop.

  • Virus threats seen earlier in seed potatoes

    January 25th 2008

    SEED potato growers will need to start their insecticide applications earlier and put together more comprehensive programmes to tackle an increasing threat of virus transmission by aphids, according to leading Scottish advisor, Stuart Wale of SAC.

  • Yields ‘consistent’ across establishment methods

    January 25th 2008

    GOOD seed-to-soil contact should be the primary aim when establishing oilseed rape. While there are various crop establishment methods available, in practice there is likely to be little between them in terms of yield as long as crops establish well. These are the conclusions drawn to date from CAT trials into oilseed rape establishment conducted over the last two seasons and continuing this season.

  • South west cauliflower production under threat

    23 January 2008

    FALLING prices are threatening the long-term future of cauliflower production in the south west, growers in the region are warning.

  • Sugar beet growers advised over docking disorder

    23 January 2008

    THE mild winter could lead to high aphid activity again in 2008.

  • Vigilance needed despite lower wheat bulb fly risk

    22 January 2008

    THE risk of wheat bulb fly damage is lower this year than in recent years, but growers must nevertheless remain vigilant, according Dow AgroSciences.

  • Low dose herbicides will reduce active ingredient applications

    22 January 2008

    A NEW generation of low dose herbicides will reduce active ingredient applications by up to two-thirds compared with existing products, says DuPont.

  • MPs call for moratorium on biofuel targets

    21 January 2008

    BIOFUEL targets should be scrapped until a sustainable framework is put in place for their development, according to a new report from cross-party MPs.

  • Pollen beetle: Awareness of resistance risk

    18 January 2008

    THE Home-Grown Cereals Authority (HGCA) has published a new factsheet to raise awareness of controlling pollen beetle and combating insecticide resistance in oilseed rape.

  • HGCA workshop

    18 January 2008

    DISEASE control experts tackled a range of issues, from fungicide choice to optimum dose rates at the first HGCA/Farmers Guardian wheat disease management workshop at Peterborough this week. Teresa Rush reports.

  • More herbicides expected to be axed

    18 January 2008

    THE restrictions on use, and loss of crop protection products seen to date under the EU’s review of pesticides could just be the tip of the iceberg, field vegetable growers are being warned.

  • Spring barley fits environmental and farming needs on Stetchworth Estate

    18 January 2008

    PROFITABILITY is key when growing any crop, says Ron Gabain, but growing spring barley in East Anglia is something that holds a much wider appeal.

  • Applying N early can lead to oversized OSR canopies

    January 18th 2008

    LARGE oilseed rape crops benefit from delayed applications of nitrogen in the spring, HGCA-funded research has demonstrated.

  • Best peas and beans ‘five’

    January 18th 2008

    FIVE farmers from the same county have won national awards for growing the best dried peas and beans in the country. All the winners in the competition run by the British Edible Pulse Association (BEPA) farm in Essex.

  • Estimated UK crop yields down

    January 18th 2008

    DEFRA has revised UK 2007 wheat production down by 0.25 million tonnes, following final 2007 UK June survey results.

  • Fewer tested under HGCA’s new performance project

    January 18th 2008

    FEWER fungicides will be tested under HGCA’s new ‘Fungicide performance on winter wheat’ project, than were tested under the Appropriate Fungicide Dose project that it replaces.

  • Jatropha’s biodiesel industry potential

    January 18th 2008

    AGROCHEMICALS manufacturer Bayer CropScience has announced plans to jointly explore the potential for a biodiesel industry based on jatropha with agribusiness Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) and Daimler.

  • Livestock producers must also comply with the law

    January 18th 2008

    LIVESTOCK farmers do not always think of themselves as pesticide users, but in reality they are, according to Voluntary Initiative manager Patrick Goldsworthy.

  • Make better use of slurry

    January 18th 2008

    There is growing interest in Holland to make better use of the nitrogen in animal slurry in crops such as forage maize, cereals and even potatoes. Steven Vale takes a look at a number of innovative application techniques.

  • MCPA levels high in the Wyre

    January 18th 2008

    PESTICIDES have been recorded at high levels in the River Wyre, with the grassland weed control product MCPA particularly noticeable at certain times of the year.

  • On BCPE board

    January 18th 2008

    BRITISH Crop Production Enterprises (BCPE), the operating arm of BCPC, has announced the appointment of Prof Peter Mills of Warwick University to the BCPE board.

  • Performance of sequences and mixtures studied

    January 18th 2008

    IN fungicide programmes targeting septoria tritici in winter wheat, the addition of chlorothalonil to the triazole epoxiconazole reduced the triazole dose required for equal disease control by 50 per cent or more.

  • Potato vodka distillery plan

    January 18th 2008

    A crisp company is building a potato vodka distillery and biofuels plant in Herefordshire. Tyrrells has been given planning permission for the site on farmland at Preston Wynne. It plans to make vodka from potatoes grown on its farms but which are too small to turn into crisps and to deliver waste sunflower oil from crisp manufacturing to the site for conversion into biodiesel.

  • Revamped disease management plan

    January 18th 2008

    A revamped HGCA wheat disease management research programme will see the end of the long standing appropriate fungicide dose project and the introduction of a new ‘fungicide performance on winter wheat’ project from this season.

  • Specialist crops pair for HDC panels

    January 18th 2008

    CROP protection, agronomy and consultancy company, Agrovista UK, have had their agronomic technical knowledge recognised in specialist crops with the appointment of two members of staff to Horticultural Development Council (HDC) sector panels.

  • Unacceptable pesticide levels

    January 18th 2008

    Diffuse pollution from agriculture can be a big problem in waterways and a headache for the utility companies. JOANNA BAKER found out how the England Catchment Sensitive Farming Delivery Initiative is working with farmers in the Wyre River Catchment to tackle the issue.

  • Unusual weather brings fungicide questions for winter wheat growers

    January 18th 2008

    Disease control experts tackled a range of issues, from fungicide choice to optimum dose rates at the first HGCA/Farmers Guardian wheat disease management workshop at Peterborough this week. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Meeting organic bread demand

    17 January 2008

    A NEW Defra LINK project is seeking to enable bakers to produce good quality bread using the maximum amount of sustainably-produced UK organic wheat.

  • Crops and grass nutrition

    16 January 2008

    READ our special feature on crops and grass nutrition, including a look at how to make better use of the nitrogen in animal slurry in crops such as forage maize, cereals and even potatoes.

  • Farm business growth from co-op’s investment

    15 January 2008

    A FARMERS' co-operative in Cambridgeshire is set to increase its processing and storage capacity of combinable crops by 90,000 tonnes.

  • Royal Society tells Government to wake up over biofuels

    14 January 2008

    BIOFUELS will deliver a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from transport but only if the Government gets its act together, warns a new Royal Society report today.

  • Farmers urged to complete CPMP

    14 January 2008

    THE NFU is urging all farmers who use pesticides on their farm to complete a Crop Protection Management Plan (CPMP) and show their continued support for the Voluntary Initiative (VI).

  • Closer rotations prone to poorer performance

    January 11th 2008

    OILSEED rape crops grown in a close rotation perform less well than crop grown in longer rotations according to preliminary findings from a TAG (The Arable Group) project examining the effect of previous cropping on winter oilseed rape yields.

  • Disease management update

    January 11th 2008

    FOR the latest news and views on cereal disease control register now to attend one of the forthcoming HGCA/Farmers Guardian Disease Management Workshops.

  • Energy crops grants

    January 11th 2008

    DETAILS of the new round of establishment grants for perennial energy crops have been confirmed following approval of the Rural Development Programme for England 2007-2013.

  • Essential oilseeds

    January 11th 2008

    THERE’S still chance to catch up with the latest developments in oilseed rape agronomy at the forthcoming HGCA oilseed rape workshops.

  • Full doses are better for the crop

    January 11th 2008

    LATEST HGCA-funded appropriate dose fungicide trials revealed significant differences between products in terms of phoma and light leaf spot control.

  • Guidelines

    January 11th 2008

    Plant breeders Nickerson have published a husbandry guide for Westminster, the high-yielding spring malting barley, which was given full approval for brewing in 2007. “The guidelines are primarily targeted at the malting barley grower who is growing Westminster for the first time,” said Nickerson product manager Lee Robinson. The guide includes information on market potential, varietal performance, fungicide programmes and husbandry trials.

  • HGCA/Farmers Guardian oilseed rape workshop

    January 11th 2008

    There was new information on improving yields and disease control available at the HGCA/Farmers Guardian oilseed rape workshop at Peterborough. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • OSR disease control 2007-8 key facts

    January 11th 2008

    • Phoma risk will continue to stem extension on small plants and disease will need to be chased. A 2-spray approach is worthwhile, particularly on smaller plants.

  • Pollen beetle resistance worsens

    January 11th 2008

    ONLY apply an insecticide spray to control pollen beetle if absolutely necessary, ADAS entomologist Jon Oakley advised oilseed rape growers at the workshop.

  • Replacement for PDQ is approved

    January 11th 2008

    A NEW contact herbicide positioned as a direct replacement for the spring contact herbicide PDQ (paraquat+diquat), which is no longer available following the removal of paraquat from Annex 1, has gained full approval for the coming spring for use on potatoes, sugar beet and vegetable crops, including peas and beans.

  • Still opposed to NVZ changes

    January 11th 2008

    THE National Farmers’ Union is continuing to lobby hard against many of Defra’s proposed amendments to the Nitrates Directive, which it describes as ‘blanket solutions with perverse impacts’.

  • Potato planting underway in Cornwall

    8 January 2008

    EARLY potato planting got underway in Cornwall before Christmas, says the British Potato Council.

  • Better prices for beet with closer link to wheat

    7 January 2008

    SUGAR beet growers’ returns are to be linked more closely to prevailing wheat prices for 2009 and there is an improved animal feed element for both 2008 and 2009.

  • Research shows dirty sprayers could pollute drinking water

    7 January 2008

    Dirty sprayers left out in the rain may result in pesticides reaching water, claims a leading pesticide application researcher.

  • Disease Management

    January 4th 2008

    BROWN rust will be on the agenda at the forthcoming HGCA Disease Management workshops but so to will be the latest information on control of septoria, yellow rust and mildew.

  • Handful of dedicated growers key to Anya variety’s success

    January 4th 2008

    GROWING a potato that tastes good is the key focus for MBMG specialist procurement manager and agronomist, Peter Cocks, when he produces the speciality potato Anya with a few dedicated growers around the country.

  • Syngenta launches new contact herbicide

    3 January 2008

    A NEW contact herbicide from Syngenta has been launched to give growers a direct replacement for the no longer available PDQ (diquat+paraquat), the former industry standard spring contact herbicide.

  • Raising public awareness of spelt’s benefits

    3 January 2008

    As an ancient grain and a distant cousin to wheat, spelt is receiving renewed recognition as a healthy and versatile ‘super-crop’. KATIE ROEBUCK visits a South West farm working hard to market the niche product.

  • Husbandry guide for Westminster

    3 January 2008

    PLANT breeders Nickerson have published a husbandry guide for Westminster, the high-yielding spring malting barley, which was given full approval for brewing in 2007.

  • Biofuels hopes hit by high feedstock values and cheap US/Brazil imports

    December 28th 2007

    ARABLE farmers looking to the biofuels industry to bolster wheat and rapeseed prices could be in for a disappointment. While European biofuel plants cannot operate at current high feedstock values, the market in Europe is being undercut by shiploads of cheap biodiesel and bioethanol from the US and Brazil. John Parry reports.

  • Keep malting barley crops cool

    December 28th 2007

    MALTING barley growers are being advised to keep stored crops cool over the festive period to protect quality.

  • Telone II withdrawal dates issued

    24 December 2007

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has issued dates for the withdrawal of the active ingredient 1, 3-Dichloropropene, which is marketed as the soil fumigant Telone II in the UK.

  • Rejection of Soils Directive draft is welcomed by NFU

    21 December 2007

    EUROPEAN Ministers have rejected draft proposals for an EU Soils Directive – a move that has been welcomed by the NFU.

  • Tighter crop protection law

    21 December 2007

    TIGHTER legislation on crop protection products was taken a step further this week with the first reading of the draft Pesticides Framework Directive by the European Council.

  • Spring crops special

    21 December 2007

    Joanna Baker looks at how spring crop plantings could be up by as much as 5 per cent next year, there are newcomers to the spring crops Recommended Lists for 2008/09 and there's good news for spring malting barley growers.

  • Growers warned: Limited supply of spring barley

    December 21st 2007

    AVAILABILITY of spring malting barley seed is limited, growers are being advised.

  • Maize fast becoming a viable break crop for arable farmers

    December 21st 2007

    Think maize is only for the dairy boys? Arable farmers are being advised to think again and keep an open mind when considering spring cropping options this season.

  • News all good for spring malting barley growers

    December 21st 2007

    Much-improved grain prices, a leaner and fitter growing and malting industry and new, high-yielding varieties are all good news for spring malting barley growers as they plan their spring 2008 cropping, according to several industry experts.

  • Pea varieties

    December 21st 2007

    FOUR new pea varieties – two large blue and two marrowfat – have been added to the NIAB/PGRO Recommended List for 2008 to bolster the five newcomers added in 2007.

  • Quench will be commercially available for harvest 2008

    December 21st 2007

    SPRING malting barley variety Quench will be commercially available to growers for harvest 2008.

  • Spring barley

    December 21st 2007

    HGCA has added four varieties to the Recommended List of spring barley: Belgravia, Jolika, Sweeney and Scout.

  • Spring beans

    December 21st 2007

    THE NIAB/PGRO Recommended List of spring beans for 2008 has two new pale hilum varieties, Memphis and Betty – both fall short of the yield of Fuego.

  • Spring linseed descriptive list

    December 21st 2007

    One variety, Linoal from Premium Crops, was added to the new Descriptive list.

  • Spring oats full list 2008/09

    December 21st 2007

    Conventional husked varietiesAscot, Husky, Atego, Winston, Firth, SW-Argyle, Drummer, Leven.

  • Spring oilseed rape descriptive list

    December 21st 2007

    TWO new varieties - Ritz and Ortego – join the 2008/09 Descriptive list of spring oilseed rape for 2008/09.Ritz, from Senova, is a conventional type. Ortego, from Elsoms Seeds, is a restored hybrid.Five varieties were removed from the list: Annie, Dorothy, SW Landmark, SW Tambora and Orinoco.

  • Spring wheat full list 2008/09

    December 21st 2007

    THERE are no changes to the spring wheat Recommended List for 2008/09 but one variety, Granary, was deferred until 2008 in order to give nabim more time to fully assess its milling performance.Nabim group 1Paragon, Nabim group 2Tybalt, Ashby, Chablis Nabim group 4BelvoirOtherZircon

  • Support National Chip Week 2008

    December 21st 2007

    THE BRITISH Potato Council is calling on potato suppliers to support National Chip Week 2008, which takes place in February.

  • Kendal calls for Soils Directive rejection

    20 December 2007

    NATIONAL Farmers’ Union president Peter Kendall has reinforced his call to European Ministers to reject proposals for an EU Soils Directive.

  • Quality of UK wheat commended

    19 December 2007

    MILLERS from Spain, Portugal, Morocco and Tunisia commended the quality of UK wheat during this year’s HGCA Bread Baking Workshop.

  • Report shows pesticide residues at a safe level

    17 December 2007

    CONSUMERS should be reassured that the food they eat is safe from harmful pesticide residues, the chairman of the Pesticide Residue Committee has said.

  • ‘Failed’ varieties to be trialled

    December 14th 2007

    SO unusual were the 2007 season’s growing conditions that the HGCA sought independent advice on the statistical validity of its Recommended List trials results, RL manager Dr Jim McVittie has confirmed.

  • Agriculture needs access to latest technology

    December 14th 2007

    FUTURE legislation relating to crop protection products, genetic modification and counterfeit products are the three key issues for the European agricultural industry as we head into the New Year, believes David Scorer, managing director of Dow Agrosciences.

  • Availability of full RL list

    December 14th 2007

    Summaries of the new HGCA Recommended Lists are available on the HGCA website www,hgca.com. The full HGCA Recommended Lists booklet will be distributed to farmers early in the new year. Look out for details of spring crop recommendations in the December 21 issue of Farmers Guardian.

  • Estima seed rates guide can reduce costs – and further guides are in the pipeline

    December 14th 2007

    OPTIMISING potato seed rates by taking account of tuber size and seed age is key to the new seed rate recommendations guide for the variety Estima.

  • Funding secured until 2011

    December 14th 2007

    FUNDING for the Recommended Lists has been secured through to the end of harvest 2011, HGCA has announced.

  • Fungicide aimed at septoria and rust

    December 14th 2007

    A SIMPLE, one-pack fungicide designed to fit the needs of the grower looking for a broad-acre solution for septoria and rust control at T2 timing in winter wheat is how Bayer CropScience sums up its new fungicide – Firefly (100g/l prothioconazole + 50g/l fluoxastrobin).

  • HGCA recommended lists 2008/09

    December 14th 2007

    Thirteen new varieties join the HGCA Recommended Lists for 2008/09 and a further 22 varieties have been removed. Teresa Rush reports.

  • High blight fungicide sales during summer

    December 14th 2007

    BLIGHT fungicide sales increased by around 40 per cent during summer 2007 compared to previous years, according to Simon Parker, potato manager, Syngenta.

  • New descriptive list varieties

    December 14th 2007

    Winter triticale: Two new varieties were added to the descriptive list of winter triticale. These are Grenado from Polish breeder Danko, marketed in the UK by Senova and Trilogie, bred in France by Maison Florimond Desprez and marketed in the UK by Elsoms Seeds.Winter rye: No new varieties have been added to the descriptive list of winter rye. Gamet was removed from the list.

  • SAC’s recommended winter wheats unchanged

    December 14th 2007

    WINTER wheat trials carried out for the 2008 Cereals Recommended List identified a number of varieties with seriously reduced grain set in 2007, says SAC.

  • Winter barley

    December 14th 2007

    Wintmalt is only new variety to join the list

  • Winter oats

    December 14th 2007

    No new oat varieties for RL

  • Winter oilseed rape

    December 14th 2007

    What was added to the Recommended List?

  • Companies join forces to develop new winter oilseed rape varieties

    12 December 2007

    AGROCHEMICAL manufacturer Bayer CropScience and French seed business Euralis Semences have announced that the two companies are to work together to develop new winter oilseed rape varieties for the European market.

  • HGCA Recommended List 2008/09

    7 December 2007

    HGCA has added three new winter wheat varieties to the 2008/09 Recommended List: hard milling feed varieties Duxford and JB Diego and nabim Group 2 variety Marksman.

  • Future funding for Recommended Lists secured

    7 December 2007

    FUNDING for the Recommended Lists has been secured through to the end of harvest 2011, HGCA has announced.

  • Essential oilseeds

    6 December 2007

    MAKE sure you register for one of the forthcoming HGCA oilseed rape workshops for the latest news and views from the oilseeds sector.

  • New insecticide launched at British Potato 2007

    6 December 2007

    A new insecticide, capable of controlling all aphid species in potatoes, including current resistant strains, was launched at British Potato 2007 in Harrogate.

  • Potential for potato growers to cut costs

    6 December 2007

    FOCUSING on energy use in potato stores could provide significant on-farm cost savings, according to Andrew Kneeshaw, FEC Services.

  • Stored potatoes holding up well

    6 December 2007

    STORED potatoes are holding up well in spite of the pressures of the 2007 growing season, according to McCain Foods, agronomy manager, Andy Goodwin.

  • Herbicide warning

    5 December 2007

    GROWERS looking to dispose of farmyard manures and slurries over the winter months need to think about what may have gone into it, where it is going and whether any herbicide used last summer could affect crops next year.

  • Soil Protection Reviews to be updated by end of year

    5 December 2007

    CROSS Compliance Soil Protection Reviews must be updated by December 31 2007 growers are being reminded.

  • Project hopes to shed light on PCN

    5 December 2007

    THE Scottish Crop Research Institute (SCRI) is joining a consortium of world-leading scientists in a bid to sequence the DNA of the potato cyst nematode.

  • David Walker awarded for contribution to potato industry

    5 December 2007

    BRITISH Potato Council chairman David Walker is the winner of the British Potato Industry Award 2007.

  • Volatility in wheat will continue says trader

    3 December 2007

    WHEAT remains an extremely volatile and dangerous market to trade in.

  • New blight strains increase their dominance

    30 November 2007

    NEW potentially more aggressive blight strains increased their dominance of the potato blight pathogen population during 2007, BPC-funded monitoring has revealed.

  • Biofuel plant officially open

    November 30th 2007

    HILARY Benn MP, secretary of state for Defra officially opened the UK’s first bioethanol plant last week

  • Certis-organised blight seminar

    November 30th 2007

    BLIGHT outbreaks arising from oospores produced by recombination of A1 and A2 blight mating strains are quite different to those caused by infected tubers, Dutch potato blight expert Dr Huup Schepers told growers attending a Certis-organised blight seminar at British Potato 2007.

  • Collaborative case studies

    November 30th 2007

    Bury Beet Factory Group

  • Field hygiene important as PCN problem ‘widespread’

    November 30th 2007

    DEVELOPMENTS in potato cyst nematode management and the implications of the forthcoming PCN Directive were on the agenda at a meeting for potato growers organised jointly by the NFU North East and the British Potato Council (BPC).

  • HGCA oilseed rape workshops

    November 30th 2007

    Updating growers on new oilseed rape research will be the focus of the five HGCA oilseed rape workshops taking place over the next three months, says HGCA research communications manager, Elizabeth Gray.

  • International Year of the Potato

    November 30th 2007

    THE British Potato Council has pledged its support for the International Year of the Potato in 2008 and will be linking with IYP activity to encourage the public to eat more potatoes and raise the profile of the British potato industry.

  • Much to gain from collaboration

    November 30th 2007

    WORKING together can help growers manage excess beet production while also reducing harvesting and haulage costs, explained rural business consultant Jamie Gwatkin.

  • Saint should be sinner

    November 30th 2007

    In our keeping pesticides out of water article on p20, FG November 23 we inadvertently switched the Environment Agency’s Jo Kennedy’s comments. Routinely leaving the plugs or covers off drains in concrete filling areas is most definitely a sin, while checking where farmyard drains go and making a site drainage plan are the actions of a saint in terms of protecting water.

  • Seabrook’s new supply chain

    November 30th 2007

    SEABROOK Crisps is sourcing local potatoes for its range of crisps. The Bradford-based company has asked the EFFP for assistance in setting up a supply chain with local producers.

  • Working to achieve the full 7 tonnes per hectare yield potential of OSR

    November 30th 2007

    ACHIEVING the full yield potential of oilseed rape crops grown in the UK will be one of the key topics being discussed at the first of five HGCA-organised oilseed rape workshops taking place around the country this winter.

  • Planting peas and beans a solution to tight cropping issues

    29 November 2007

    ARABLE farmers who have cut back their cropping options to wheat and oilseed rape should take another look at peas and beans, according to Anthony Biddle of PGRO.

  • Confusion for growers reigns regarding new IPA agreement

    29 November 2007

    THE EFFP survey highlighted some confusion about what the new Inter-Professional Agreement (IPA) means for their business, explained NFU Sugar vice-chairman William Martin.

  • UK sugar beet: Securing a future for the crop

    29 November 2007

    The NFU and EFFP believes collaboration between sugar beet growers could help secure a future for the crop.

  • Retailer grain deal first

    29 November 2007

    ARABLE farmers received a major boost after supermarket giant Sainsbury’s announced a ‘ground-breaking’ deal to secure the long-term future of their wheat supplies.

  • Fertiliser at a price – if you can get it

    28 November 2007

    A LOGISTICAL supply problem with fertilisers in spring 2008 is now a reality not a possibility, say fertiliser companies.

  • Pesticide spraying advice

    26 November 2007

    ANTI-PESTICIDE campaigners have welcomed the publication of advice to farmers when spraying pesticides near to residential areas, but say they do not go far enough to protect public health.

  • BP2007 promises some crucial business pointers

    November 23rd 2007

    A DAY spent at British Potato 2007 (BP2007) will bring at least a dozen valuable pointers to take potato businesses forward with confidence.

  • Do’s and don’ts of keeping pesticides out of water

    November 23rd 2007

    THE winter period can be one of the worst times for pesticides getting in to water.

  • Inspirational Keith lands award

    November 23rd 2007

    THE inventor of a revolutionary new way of collecting and sowing wild seeds to help restore medieval hay meadows in Sussex has this week been awarded the top honour in Natural England’s ‘Future of Farming’ Awards.

  • Nitrogen needed most by rape when it is flowering

    November 23rd 2007

    FOCUSING on increasing oil yield is the key when oilseed rape is being produced for the biofuel market, however new research may alter nitrogen timings on the crop, says Mark Tucker, head of agronomy, Yara.

  • Time to consider spring variety choices

    November 23rd 2007

    NOW that winter has arrived it’s time to consider spring barley variety choices.

  • Yields remain focus for biofuel producers

    November 23rd 2007

    Producing wheat and oilseed rape for the up and coming biofuel market is an exciting prospect for many UK growers. But how does that affect the way crops are treated nutritionally? JOANNA BAKER reports.

  • PSD extend phase-out period for herbicides containing trifluralin

    21 November 2007

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) has extended the phase-out periods for herbicides containing trifluralin, to allow more time for the sale of stocks through the supply chain.

  • Malting barley contracts should allow for the risk

    21 November 2007

    PRICES for malting barley have risen out of the doldrums and an increase in the UK planted area of spring barley is expected.

  • Voluntary levy to be increased

    21 November 2007

    THE voluntary levy paid by pea and bean growers and collected by processors to fund the PGRO is to be increased from 50p/t to 75p/t from the 2008 crop following a strategic review of the organisation by its new director Salvador Potter.

  • Only three bean varieties on Recommended List

    21 November 2007

    THERE are just three varieties on the NIAB/PGRO Recommended List of winter beans for 2008 - Wizard, Arthur and Clipper. No new varieties join the list and Griffin and Target have been dropped.

  • Merging the PSD with the HSE could be beneficial according to Defra

    20 November 2007

    MERGING the Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) would deliver scientific and policy advantages, according to proposals published by Defra this week.

  • Trials show using adjuvants improve performance in dense oilseed rape crops

    20 November 2007

    ADJUVANTS can improve herbicide distribution and performance in dense oilseed rape crops, according to crop protection distributor Agrovista.

  • Battling against black-grass

    November 16th 2007

    ARABLE farmers are refusing to allow black-grass to get the better of them, says Bayer CropScience, following the release of results from its annual technical audit.

  • Changes are in the offing to the current ELS scheme

    November 16th 2007

    CHANGES are likely to be made to the Entry Level Stewardship (ELS) scheme which is currently under review, said Sarah Wilson of Natural England.

  • Cost savings for beet growers on the agenda

    November 16th 2007

    SUGAR beet growers from across the East of England are being invited to find out more about saving costs by working more closely together at three events organised jointly with English Food and Farming Partnerships (EFFP) and NFU Sugar.

  • End to set-aside could be bad for farmland birds

    November 16th 2007

    SET-ASIDE has provided farmland birds with winter food, summer breeding habitat and a foraging habitat, said Dr Ian Henderson, research manager for the BTO.

  • Going back to basics may save energy and money

    November 16th 2007

    SAVING energy and money with grain drying may mean going back to basics.

  • Handle with care to avoid rots risk in potato stores

    November 16th 2007

    THE British Potato Council is urging potato growers to stay vigilant and handle stored potato crops carefully to avoid the risk of rots developing. 

  • Key discovery in fight against potato blackleg

    November 16th 2007

    SCIENTISTS have made a key discovery into the genetics of the bacteria that causes blackleg in potatoes that could lead to new ways to fight the disease.

  • Making CPD points system user-friendly

    November 16th 2007

    NRoSO, the professional body for sprayer operators, is changing the way members can achieve CPD points in order to make the scheme easier to understand and the system for achieving and recording points more user-friendly.

  • More returns per hectare possible

    November 16th 2007

    CULTIVATING former set-aside land could bring additional returns of £15 to £36 per hectare across the whole farm, agricultural consultant Jamie Gwatkin told delegates.

  • New-look website

    November 16th 2007

    THE British Potato Council has given its dedicated consumer website www.britishpotatoes.co.uk a new look to coincide with the autumn campaign to encourage consumers to buy and eat more potatoes. It provides consumers with information on different potato varieties, together with potato-based recipes and cooking advice, and should be a useful tool for growers to direct customers to, says the organisation.

  • NEWS IN BRIEF

    November 16th 2007

    Storage event

  • Reminder that previously zero-rated farm-saved seed must be declared

    November 16th 2007

    THE British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) is reminding growers that from this autumn all use of previously ‘zero-rated’ varieties (such as Riband and Hereward winter wheat) will become eligible for farm-saved seed payment and must be declared to BSPB.

  • Use of the HACCP system could mean major changes to grain storage advice

    November 16th 2007

    A PROJECT looking at food chain safety could result in some major changes to grain storage advice that is given to growers.

  • Young farmer takes over management role and aims to carry on learning

    November 16th 2007

    ON one of Scotland’s two new HGCA arable monitor farms, Hugh Black is busy preparing for the first meeting on the farm next Thursday. Neil Ryder heard how he had to take over management of the family farm at a moment’s notice.

  • Council to withdraw automatic planning permission for all polytunnels

    14 November 2007

    HEREFORDSHIRE Council is to withdraw its policy of requiring automatic planning permission for all polytunnels in the county.

  • Centaur farmers top £118 – plus premiums

    14 November 2007

    GRAIN marketing business, Centaur Grain says its farmers will receive an average feed wheat price of £118.16.

  • Virus levels in potatoes generally low

    13 November 2007

    VIRUS levels in potatoes are generally low but erwinia and blight infection on tubers is significant, according to the latest lab test results from NIAB.

  • 'Back to Basics' conference will encourage audience debate

    13 November 2007

    ORGANISERS of the Norfolk Farming Conference have set the theme for next year’s event with the title of 'Back to Basics – Farming for Profit'.

  • GB potato production for 2007 down one per cent on 2006

    13 November 2007

    TOTAL GB potato production for 2007 is 5.446 million tonnes, down one per cent on 2006, estimates the British Potato Council.

  • Campaigners react angrily to GM statement

    9 November 2007

    ANTI-GM campaigners have reacted angrily to the ministerial statement on the co-existence of GM and non-GM crops made by environment minister Phil Woolas.

  • Boosted output and reduced waste benefits of liquid fertiliser injection

    November 9th 2007

    Liquid injection has increased fertiliser output by at least 50 per cent over a solid application system and has also eased the problems associated with new waste packaging legislation, storage and disposal for Cambridgeshire potato grower Ian Gilbert of Butcher’s Hill Farm, near Littleport.

  • Brassicas resistant to turnip mosaic virus

    November 9th 2007

    SCIENTISTS have identified a new way to breed brassicas that are resistant to a damaging virus. Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) is an economically devastating virus that infects a wide range of cultivated plants, but especially brassicas.

  • Climate change could mean BYDV problem could worsen

    November 9th 2007

    Disease forecasting was the focus of a workshop jointly hosted by Rothamsted Research Association (RRA) and HGCA at East Malling Research near Maidstone in Kent. Dominic Kilburn reports.

  • Post-harvest weather is a good disease indicator through to following harvest

    November 9th 2007

    RAINFALL in August and September is the most important factor in predicting phoma and stem canker risk in oilseed rape and, according to one expert, data gathered during these months can provide a disease risk assessment in the crop through to the following harvest.

  • Understanding the soil, N usage and run-off

    November 9th 2007

    UNDERSTANDING the soil, how nitrogen is used by crops and how farming practices influence run-off pollutants into watercourses is increasingly important as farmers face proposed changes to the Nitrates Directive.

  • Seeds’ herbicide resistance

    8 November 2007

    HERBICIDE resistance is present in commercial ryegrass seed varieties, according to preliminary screening carried out by Rothamsted Research.

  • Weeds factor in rare plants decision

    8 November 2007

    CONCERN over the effects of weeds growing in a crop or adjacent to it may be a major factor in farmers’ deciding against environmental stewardship (ES) options that would benefit rare arable plants.

  • Organic carbon footprint higher than conventional wheat and potato crops

    8 November 2007

    THE carbon footprint of organically-produced wheat and potatoes is higher per unit area than that of conventionally-grown crops in terms of weed control.

  • ES options not always those that benefit the environment the best

    8 November 2007

    ENVIRONMENTAL stewardship management options favoured by farmers are not necessarily those that offer the greatest benefits for the environment, a review of the first two years has revealed.

  • Wide variation in yields as beet harvest progresses well

    7 November 2007

    SUGAR beet yields are varying widely as harvest progresses during this seasons campaign.

  • Study looks at plant health threats

    7 November 2007

    A NEW study into threats to plant health in the UK has been published by Defra and the horticultural and agricultural industries.

  • Time to belt black-grass?

    5 November 2007

    AFTER a slow start, black-grass is now emerging in untreated winter wheat fields. TAG is warning its members that these fields may now require prompt treatment.

  • Bromuconazole approved

    November 2nd 2007

    TRIAZOLE fungicide bromuconazole has been approved for use on wheat and barley in the UK and Ireland.

  • CAP focus for conference

    November 2nd 2007

    LIFE after set-aside and CAP reform are on the agenda for the eastern region FWAG and Framlingham Farmers conference on Tuesday, November 6.

  • Changing the way in which EU approves agrochemicals for crops

    November 2nd 2007

    Last week the European Parliament voted on two key pieces of pesticide legislation that are set to have a big impact on the way that agrochemicals are approved, marketed and used by EU states. Teresa Rush takes a look at some of the detail of the proposed legislation and what it might mean for farmers.

  • Cold store could get a biogas generator?

    November 2nd 2007

    SOMERSET could be ahead of the field in renewable energy production if proposals to install a biogas energy-producing generator are approved by planners next month.

  • CONFERENCE BRIEFS

    November 2nd 2007

    • THE Water Framework Directive is ‘the most useful directive’ according to John Gummer MP, the conference chairman.

  • Demand outstrips supply for fertilisers

    November 2nd 2007

    FERTILISER costs climbed further this week in an exceedingly tight market with rising demand, according to trader, Calum Findlay, Gleadell.

  • Don’t panic buy on autumn Atlantis

    November 2nd 2007

    THERE will be enough Atlantis to go round this autumn – as long as there is no panic buying, says Bayer CropScience.

  • Expert warns that ignoring CAMS is a huge financial risk

    November 2nd 2007

    ALL farmers should get involved in their local Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS) – they are taking a ‘massive financial risk’ if they do not.

  • Identifying agriculture’s way forward

    November 2nd 2007

    AGRICULTURAL irrrigation accounts for just 1 per cent of total water use, said Dr Jerry Knox, of Cranfield University.

  • Refill to save on waste

    November 2nd 2007

    POTATO growers who fail to return their Nemathorin Surefill containers could be in breach of new waste regulations and be threatening the viability of the returnable packaging initiative. They will also incur the unnecessary costs of safe disposal.

  • Safe and cost-effective grain storage information from HGCA

    November 2nd 2007

    A NEW area on the HGCA’s website has been designed to provide farmers with easy access to the latest information on cost-effective and safe grain storage.

  • Switching to spring barley may be better

    November 2nd 2007

    GROWERS confident of achieving a full malting specification may be better off switching from late drilled winter wheat to a leading spring malting barley, given grain prices quoted for harvest 2008.

  • The use of water is morally and commercially justifiable

    November 2nd 2007

    THE creation of three reservoirs which hold a total of 101 million gallons of water has brought the Benacre Estate in Suffolk increased flexibility and will help it move forward in the long term.

  • Tighter residue restrictions should cause a rethink of fogging regimes

    November 2nd 2007

    A POTATO store’s entire fogging regime, and not just the final treatment, is vital to consider in abiding with the new CIPC residue restriction MRL of 10ppm, enforced for the first time this season.

  • Winning thoughts from the BCPC congress

    November 2nd 2007

    Credit: © FARMERS GUARDIAN please contact 01772 799445.

  • Cultivation of GM crops rocketing in Europe

    30 October 2007

    CULTIVATION of GM crops in Europe has rocketed in the last year, according to figures out this week.

  • Supplies of Atlantis sufficient this autumn

    29 October 2007

    THERE will be enough Atlantis to go round this autumn - as long as there is no panic buying, says Bayer CropScience.

  • Waterwise director warns the cost of water will rise dramatically

    29 October 2007

    ALL farmers should get involved in their local Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS) – they are taking a ‘massive financial risk’ if they do not.

  • PSD asks agrochemical manufacturers to make label changes

    26 October 2007

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) is asking agrochemical manufacturers to change product labels to include a recommendation on the range of water volumes in which products can be safely applied.

  • Cool enough for Kerb?

    26 October 2007

    TAG is advising growers to delay applications of the herbicides, Kerb (propyzamide) or Crawler (carbetamex) to their winter oilseed rape crops until soil temperatures have dropped sufficiently.

  • ‘Economic success’ of GM technology in US agriculture

    October 26th 2007

    WITH 10 years experience of GM cropping to draw upon, scientists from the United States and Canada were able to offer a practical insight into the effects of GM technology on their agriculture.

  • Buildings are biggest contributor

    October 26th 2007

    BUILDINGS are the biggest contributor to global warming, not transport, so focus should be on producing biomass for energy and not fuels, according to Professor Roland Clift of the University of Surrey.

  • Climate change research into insect pest behaviour

    October 26th 2007

    THE extent to which the trend toward milder, wetter winters and drier summers is affecting the behaviour and life cycles of pest insects is the subject of a long-term research project at HRI Wellesbourne.

  • Crop protection comes under the spotlight

    October 26th 2007

    Crop protection has come under the spotlight at conferences and meetings recently.

  • Disease risk heightened by strong biofuel demand

    October 26th 2007

    DISEASE problems are set to increase in oilseed rape and cereals as demand for biofuels leads to shorter rotations, scientists speaking at the conference warned.

  • Explosion in nematode numbers as soil-applied pesticide options are lost

    October 26th 2007

    POPULATIONS of soil-dwelling migratory nematodes have grown to such an extent over the past decade that it is now estimated that one hectare of good quality arable land contains between 250 million and 2.5 billion nematodes, with 30 per cent likely to be plant feeders.

  • Feedstock of the future may be algae

    October 26th 2007

    ALGAE could be the feedstock of the future as it can contain as much as 70 per cent oil – up to 25 times more than oilseed rape.

  • FWAG eastern conference

    October 26th 2007

    THE 2007 eastern region FWAG/Framlingham Farmers conference will be debating life after set-aside and CAP reform.

  • Increased risk of yellow dwarf virus

    October 26th 2007

    APHIDS most responsible for spreading barley yellow dwarf virus ae increasing this season with mild conditions and the high proportion of early sown crops increasing the risk of disease spreading.

  • Loss of actives leads to gaps in minor crop plant protection

    October 26th 2007

    THE cost of finding alternative pesticides to those lost during the EU review of active ingredients will be considerable, independent consultant Cathy Knott told the congress.

  • Miscanthus ticks the right growing boxes

    October 26th 2007

    MISCANTHUS offers farmers a financially viable crop that can improve the soil and has less environmental impact that other energy crops, believes David Croxton, farmer and CEO of Bical.

  • Miscanthus ticks the right growing boxes

    October 26th 2007

    MISCANTHUS offers farmers a financially viable crop that can improve the soil and has less environmental impact that other energy crops, believes David Croxton, farmer and CEO of Bical.

  • Report pre-harvest wheat sprouting

    October 26th 2007

    REPORTS of pre-harvest sprouting in the ears of winter wheat crops this summer has led the HGCA Recommended List team to call for some variety feedback from growers on the issue.

  • Scottish producers ‘using high risk seed sourcing strategy’

    October 26th 2007

    A British Potato Council survey of potato growers in Scotland has identified a number of potentially risky practices in terms of the introduction and spread of ring rot that are occurring within the industry.

  • Turning 1,800 acres of land into saltmarsh and mudflats

    October 26th 2007

    A £12million scheme, which will turn 1,800 acres of farmland on Wallasea Island into saltmarsh, creeks and mudflats, is hoping to lure several species of bird back to the Essex coast.

  • Turnip sawfly returns to UK

    October 26th 2007

    A previously well-established and damaging pest has suddenly reappeared, with occasionally devastating effect.

  • National authorities need to step up counterfeit enforcement activities

    25 October 2007

    THE fight against the illegal trade in plant protection products across Europe is intensifying according to Rocky Rowe, the European Crop Protection Association's (ECPA) adviser for trade affairs.

  • News in brief: BCPC congress

    25 October 2007

    MIXING potassium chloride fertiliser in solution with fungicides may help to suppress foliar disease in cereals, according to study results presented at the BCPC international congress in Glasgow.

  • MEPs vote for tighter rules on pesticides

    24 October 2007

    UK farmers and growers look set to face tighter rules on pesticides use following a European Parliament vote on pesticide legislation.

  • Potato growers warned over high levels of black dot

    24 October 2007

    POTATO growers have been advised to be on the look out for the skin disease black dot as stores are filled.

  • Exhibitors expelled for infringement of patent laws

    24 October 2007

    THE crop protection industry’s tough stance on illegal pesticide imports and patent infringements was in evidence at the BCPC International Plant Protection Congress in Glasgow, when two exhibitors were expelled for infringement of patent laws.

  • Yorkshire Organic Centre to hold arable meetings

    24 October 2007

    THE Yorkshire Organic Centre will be holding two arable meetings on October 31 2007 to discuss the issues surrounding the shortage of organic arable crops in the region and the impact of rising feed costs on livestock production.

  • European Parliament to make a decision on pesticides

    23 October 2007

    THE European Parliament is this week debating and voting on three reports on plans to modernise EU law on pesticides.

  • Popularity of energy crops leads to cut in aided area

    23 October 2007

    THE area on which individuals will receive special aid for energy crops is being reduced to about 70 per cent of the claimed area. This is because the total eligible area of 2 million hectares in the EU has been exceeded.

  • Curative control essential this autumn

    23 October 2007

    OILSEED rape growers must look at the curative strength of phoma fungicides to tackle infection quickly this autumn.

  • ‘Economic success’ of GM technology in US agriculture

    22 October 2007

    WITH 10 years experience of GM cropping to draw upon, scientists from the United States and Canada were able to offer a practical insight into the effects of GM technology on their agriculture.

  • 2008 weather crucial to increasing wheat stocks

    October 19th 2007

    WHEAT harvests around the world need to be delivering high yields during 2008 if current, ‘all time low’ stocking levels are to be alleviated.

  • Different issues fuel consumer concerns

    October 19th 2007

    OPENING the Cereals Industry Forum conference CIF chairman Christopher Ritson posed the question: How well do you know the consumer?

  • Global warming presents opportunities

    October 19th 2007

    CLIMATE change is already happening in the UK and affecting the way we farm.

  • HGCA cereal quality survey 2007

    October 19th 2007

    UK harvest had a good start, but rain disrupted progress in different regions

  • HGCA Outlook conference

    October 19th 2007

    THE HGCA hosted its last Grain Market Outlook and Cereals Industry Forum conferences in its current format prior to changes in the way the levy boards will operate. Volatility in world wheat markets, CAP health checks, global warming and consumer food buying habits were all on the agenda. Dominic Kilburn reports from London.

  • Late bid to retain trifluralin

    October 19th 2007

    THE herbicide active ingredient trifluralin must be withdrawn from the market in the UK by March 20, 2008 the Pesticides Safety Directorate has announced.

  • Little to fear from CAP health check

    October 19th 2007

    THE scheduled 2008 CAP health check is very much a ‘health check’ and not ‘open heart surgery’, suggested NFU chief economist Carmen Suarez.

  • OSR fields re-sown due to variable emergence

    October 19th 2007

    SOME fields of oilseed rape drilled shortly after harvest are now having to be re-sown with another crop due to variable emergence.

  • Pumkins are the latest to suffer from poor summer

    October 19th 2007

    PUMPKIN growers around the country are yet more victims of this summer’s wet weather.

  • UK exportable wheat surplus could go towards powering the nation

    October 19th 2007

    WITH most of the world’s energy sectors slowing down, except that is for transport fuels, biofuels presents UK agriculture with an exciting opportunity, said John Pinkney, technical director for Ensus.

  • RPA to invite applications from sugarbeet growers to renounce delivery rights

    18 October 2007

    THE Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is to write to sugarbeet growers to invite applications from growers to renounce their 2008/09 beet delivery rights in return for EU compensation.

  • Survey results show a decrease in quality of wheat and barley compared with last year

    18 October 2007

    LATEST results from this year's HGCA Cereals Quality Survey reveal a decrease in the quality of wheat and barley compared with the 2006 crop.

  • New guidance issued on ammonium nitrate fertilisers

    18 October 2007

    NEW guidance notes have been issued for fertiliser manufacturers, importers, blenders, storekeepers, transporters and suppliers as a result of changes in legislation concerning safety in handling ammonium nitrate-based fertilisers.

  • BPC advise growers to get potato sprouting control programmes under way

    17 October 2007

    THE British Potato Council is advising growers to get potato sprouting control programmes under way as soon as possible.

  • Forecast for the sugar market 'reassuringly balanced'

    16 October 2007

    THE European Commission has decided against any changes to the level of preventive withdrawal of two million tonnes of sugar decided in March 2007.

  • Herbicide products containing trifluralin available until March 2008

    15 October 2007

    HERBICIDE products containing trifluralin will be available to purchase until March 20, 2008 the Pesticides Safety Directorate has announced.

  • Pirimiphos-methyl achieves Annex 1 listing

    15 October 2007

    THE grain storage insecticide pirimiphos-methyl has achieved Annex 1 listing, Syngenta has announced.

  • What shall I ask my agronomist?

    12 October 2007

    IN the first of a new series of articles with independent agronomy advisors The Arable Group (TAG) we take a look at phoma control in oilseed rape.

  • Defy option for winter beans

    October 12th 2007

    A SOLA (Specific Off-Label Approval) for Defy (prosulfocarb) in winter beans gives growers a new option for pre-emergence weed control this autumn.

  • Earlier than expected revocation

    October 12th 2007

    AUTHORISED use of chlorothalonil on raspberries and blackberries has been revoked with immediate effect following the earlier than expected publication of an EU Directive lowering the Maximum Residue Level (MRL) permitted for the fungicide in these crops.

  • Farmers voice anger at NVZ rules change proposal

    October 12th 2007

    FARMERS in the eastern region have reacted angrily to the proposed changes to Nitrate Vulnerable Zone rules and regulations.

  • Focus on granular material handling for Operator Roadshow

    October 12th 2007

    GRANULAR materials handling forms the basis of the Operator Roadshow training for farmers and sprayer operators this winter.

  • Going vertical for CDA sprayer to control weeds

    October 12th 2007

    PRECISION application specialist Micron Sprayers is aiming to adapt two items in its application equipment armoury to help growers overcome the weed control problems posed by the withdrawal of metoxuron.

  • Herbicide decisions should not be based on rainfall levels

    October 12th 2007

    GROWERS are being advised that seedbed conditions and drilling depth and not levels of rainfall should be driving pre-emergence herbicide decisions.

  • Large soil volumes in stores

    October 12th 2007

    STORED potato crop quality has been jeopardised by the dry harvesting conditions seen in the first half of this year’s potato harvest, with large volumes of soil having been brought into potato stores, according to Adrian Cunnington, operations manager of the BPC’s Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit.

  • Less wheat bulb fly eggs this year

    October 12th 2007

    RESULTS from this year’s HGCA survey looking at the incidence of wheat bulb fly suggest that numbers are low.

  • Maleic hydrazide change

    October 12th 2007

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has issued a new Specific Off Label Approval (SOLA) for the use of maleic hydrazide (Fazor) in outdoor carrots and parsnips.

  • Our carrot industry is under threat

    October 12th 2007

    RISING land rent expectations, together with supermarket price pressure, are threatening the future of the British carrot industry, according to the British Carrot Growers Association.

  • Phoma epidemic predicted

    October 12th 2007

    OILSEED rape growers are being advised about the imminent threat of a phoma epidemic.

  • Rainfall aids lifting but wastage is high

    October 12th 2007

    BETTER soil conditions after more much-needed rain came this week has aided potato lifting progress around the country, but greening, growth cracks and slug damage are all leading to high wastage levels, according to the British Potato Council.

  • Real-time crop information

    October 12th 2007

    INFORMATION from the 4cast agronomy database will be even more beneficial to advisers and customers, following investment in new technology that links all the ProCam agronomists, says the company.

  • Revised benchmarking tool

    October 12th 2007

    AN updated version of the British Potato Council’s potato enterprise costing and benchmarking CD, compatible with Windows Vista and XP, will be posted this month to registered growers who have attended a BPC workshop. 

  • Scottish growers gain from later harvest but yields still below average

    October 12th 2007

    SCOTTISH growers took advantage of their traditionally later harvest timings this year by combining much of the cereal crop in the early autumn sunshine.

  • SOLA sought for aclonifen use in the UK

    October 12th 2007

    APPROVAL is being sought for use of the herbicide active ingredient aclonifen in the UK with the aim of providing carrot growers with an alternative to metoxuron, which will be withdrawn from use on December 31 this year.

  • Technology for weed detection could help control volunteers

    October 12th 2007

    TARGETED spot application of non-selective herbicides using computer analysed video images could provide a way of controlling volunteer potatoes in field vegetable crops, following the removal of the herbicide metoxuron in particular.

  • Yields are ‘very high’ in replicated variety trials

    October 12th 2007

    Varieties and weed control came under the spotlight at the British Carrot Growers Association’s demonstration day at Everton, near Bawtry, Nottinghamshire, hosted by H W Smith and Sons and Sherwood Produce. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Potato growers need to be aware of EU contract rules

    11 October 2007

    THE NFU has warned members to be wary of EU contract rules after Welsh potato growers John and Andrew Morgan lost over £1 million as a result of diseased seed potatoes.

  • Phoma epidemic is imminent

    11 October 2007

    OILSEED rape growers are advised that a phoma epidemic is imminent.

  • NFU calls for an extension to pesticide deadline

    10 October 2007

    FARMERS could lose important pesticides from their crop protection armoury if a political deadline remains in place, the NFU has warned this week.

  • Serious concerns about British carrot industry

    10 October 2007

    RISING land rent expectations together with supermarket price pressure are threatening the future of the British carrot industry, the chairman of the British Carrot Growers Association has warned.

  • Have your say on the future of Crop Protection Management Plans

    10 October 2007

    FARMERS and agronomists are being urged to have their say on the future of Crop Protection Management Plans (CPMPs) by taking part in an NFU survey.

  • Cantley sugar beet factory closed for deliveries

    8 October 2007

    CANTLEY sugar beet factory in Norfolk has been closed to deliveries since Friday following a technical problem.

  • Cross compliance: Water Volume Issue Resolved

    5 October 2007

    IN addition to keeping their land in Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition (GAEC) farmers must also comply with Statutory Management Requirements (SMRs) to fully meet their Cross Compliance requirements and receive their Single Payment in full.

  • Autumn agronomy website

    October 5th 2007

    A NEW autumn agronomy website built by ADAS on behalf of BASF is offering one BASIS point for registered agronomists and growers who work through training elements of the site.

  • EU legislation may cause trouble for the oat industry

    October 5th 2007

    FURTHER EU legislation governing fusarium mycotoxin levels in cereals destined for human consumption could pose problems for the UK oat industry.

  • Farm standard for fusarium control

    October 5th 2007

    A MYCOTOXIN Certification Standard launched at the meeting is designed to be the farm standard for fusarium control with respect to legal compliance and market expectations, according to the company responsible for its development.

  • Follow herbicide sequence for optimum weed control

    October 5th 2007

    DIFFICULT arable grass weeds should be treated with a sequence of residual and contact herbicides to achieve optimum control this autumn.

  • Growers sought for ‘closed-loop’ contract on new milling wheat

    October 5th 2007

    GROWERS are being sought to grow a new milling wheat variety, with improved starch potential, on a novel speciality wheat contract this autumn.

  • Hybrid barley offers later drilling options to growers looking to increase cereals acreage

    October 5th 2007

    GROWERS looking to increase their cereals acreage this autumn are being reminded of the potential of hybrid barley for later drilling.

  • Managing mycotoxins

    October 5th 2007

    A CCFRA-organised seminar, in association with Bayer CropScience, brought together growers, grain end users and scientists at the East of England showground, Peterborough, to discuss new developments in managing mycotoxins. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • New fungicides for OSR project results are revealed

    October 5th 2007

    SUMMARY results for phoma stem canker and light leaf spot control from year two of the HGCA ‘New fungicides for oilseed rape’ project indicate that control of phoma leaf spot was less effective six to nine weeks after the first spray last autumn compared with autumn 2005.

  • OSR crops still susceptible to slugs

    October 5th 2007

    GROWERS in the south and east have been advised to stay vigilant as moisture returns to cloddy soils in which high value wheat and oilseed rape crops have struggled to establish. Poor seedbeds have left crops very vulnerable to attack from slugs.

  • Processor levels must have a lower limit than regulations

    October 5th 2007

    FOOD processors will have no choice but to set mycotoxin specification levels below regulatory limits to ensure that final product regulations are met.

  • Robust approach required at T3

    October 5th 2007

    EAR or T3 fungicide sprays are currently a compromise between foliar disease top up and ear disease control, according to Dr Alison Daniels of Bayer CropScience.

  • Rye-grass levels cut by delayed sowing and chemical control

    October 5th 2007

    DELAYED sowing of cereals, together with effective chemical control can significantly reduce rye-grass problems, according to the HGCA, which has just published a new topic sheet on effective, sustainable rye-grass control.

  • Sugar negotiations continue after Farm Ministers agree programme of changes

    October 5th 2007

    THE decision by EU Agriculture Ministers to support plans for changes to the sugar regime restructuring scheme has been backed by the NFU.

  • Taking on the complementary challenge of SPS and environmental stewardship

    October 5th 2007

    The advent of the Single Payment and Higher Level Stewardship scheme has changed the face of Offley Hoo Farm, in Hertfordshire. CLEMMIE GLEESON met farm manager Jon Birchall.

  • Variable drilling progress as some still wait for seedbed improvements

    October 5th 2007

    CEREAL drilling progress has been variable across the country with some growers now way ahead, while others have hardly started.

  • Fun way for pupils to learn

    4 October 2007

    A NEW user-friendly multimedia resource offers children a fun way to learn about healthy eating and an insight into the ‘field to fork’ cycle of how wheat is grown and used to produce breads and cereals.

  • NIAB warning over stem nematode infection

    4 October 2007

    STEM nematode infection could be a problem for farmers wanting to sow home-saved bean seed this year, NIAB is warning.

  • Users can earn BASIS point on new website

    3 October 2007

    ONE BASIS point is available to users of a new autumn agronomy website built by ADAS on behalf of BASF.

  • Cert ID launch new Mycotoxin Certification Standard

    3 October 2007

    A MYCOTOXIN Certification Standard launched last week is designed to be the farm standard for fusarium control with respect to legal compliance and market expectations, according to the company responsible for its development.

  • New Energy Crops Scheme open for applications

    1 October 2007

    THE new Energy Crops Scheme has opened for applications, although no grant agreements will be offered until the Rural Development Programme for England 2007-2013 (RDPE) has been approved by the European Commission.

  • ‘Horrendous’ potato crop wastage

    September 28th 2007

    POTATO packers are reporting ‘horrendous’ wastage levels this harvest, says the British Potato Council. Some fields are becoming uneconomic to lift, with up to 80-90 per cent growth cracks reported in a few crops in the east. In other cases estimates of 70 per cent waste, and many at 50 per cent will also make harvesting doubtful.

  • Biofuels demand has prevented stagnation

    September 28th 2007

    WITHOUT the demand for crops for biofuel, there was a real danger that grain stocks would have continued to grow as the result of better agronomy and higher yields leading to stagnation and surpluses in the marketplace, HGCA crop marketing director, Alistair Dickie told the meeting.

  • Biomass: Start with the market

    September 28th 2007

    THERE are business opportunities from biomass, but it is important to start from the market and work backwards, Dr John Gilliland of Brook Hall Estate, Londonderry, and Northern Ireland’s Sustainable Development Commissioner told the meeting.

  • Disappointing pea and bean yields, but still pulse benefits

    September 28th 2007

    PEA and bean yields have been disappointing this harvest following the wet summer, however, high demand and good prices should still provide encouragement for growers to consider pulses for this coming season, says Dr Anthony Biddle, technical director, Processors and Growers Research Association (PGRO).

  • DVD highlights importance of safe potato handling

    September 28th 2007

    A DVD produced by the British Potato Council (BPC) with support from the Health and Safety Executive, NFU and Grimme UK is seeking to highlight the importance of health and safety in potato production.

  • Encouraging results for Catana

    September 28th 2007

    A STRONG varietal resistance to light leaf spot, saw the new oilseed rape variety, Catana, produce some encouraging results for northern growers in this year’s HGCA Recommended List trials.

  • European farmers campaign for need to protect their crops

    September 28th 2007

    FIVE weeks ahead of a vote in the European Parliament (EP) on two key EU pesticide dossiers, European farmers, with the support of national crop protection associations and the European Crop Protection Association (ECPA), have launched a campaign to illustrate what the new legislation could mean for them.

  • Growers must be vigilant for signs of leaf spotting on OSR

    September 28th 2007

    GROWERS should be vigilant for signs of leaf spotting on oilseed rape crops, as phoma infection is predicted to start earlier than normal this autumn.

  • Long-term stability needed

    September 28th 2007

    THE market for crops grown for energy and bio-fuels was very much an artificial one, and there was a need for some long-term stability, the CLA’s Oliver Harwood told a question-and-answer session.

  • More growers needed for organic produce price information system

    September 28th 2007

    THE organisers of a joint project on organic vegetable price information are calling for input from more growers.

  • NIAB mycotoxin tests reveal a higher presence of DON toxin

    September 28th 2007

    INITIAL results from mycotoxin tests conducted at NIAB have shown that levels of DON toxin are higher this year with several wheat samples exceeding the EU threshold of 1250 parts per billion (ppb).

  • Oats on the increase

    September 28th 2007

    THE number of growers intending to include oats in their rotation is on the increase, according seeds company Senova.

  • Potential in non-food crops

    September 28th 2007

    The third of the Moffitt Symposiums, founded by Northumberland farmer and businessman John Moffitt, looked at the challenges to agriculture presented by biofuels and biomass. NEIL RYDER reports from Newcastle Civic Centre.

  • Routine seed treatment could be needed

    September 28th 2007

    ROUTINE seed treatment application may be required this autumn, The Arable Group (TAG) has advised members – or else use grain from the 2006 harvest.

  • Soil condition product gets approval

    September 28th 2007

    SOIL conditioning product TwinN has been approved for use by organic certification bodies Organic Farmers and Growers and the Soil Association.

  • Tuber blight level concerns

    September 28th 2007

    THE high level of tuber blight this season has raised concerns for the stored potato crop. The BPC is urging growers to follow recommendations in updated Growers’ Advice Sheet number 13, prepared by Sutton Bridge Experimental Unit. For specific advice on the control of rots call 0800 02 82 111 or see the latest Storage Bulletin. Go to the website www.potato.org.uk for more or call 01865 782222.

  • UK pesticides open meeting

    September 28th 2007

    THE committee that advises the Government on the safety of pesticides is offering an opportunity for the public to meet its members and discuss their work at an open meeting later this autumn. The subject will be ‘The UK Pesticides Strategy.’

  • Unprecedented year for outbreaks of blight – BPC

    September 28th 2007

    RESULTS from this season’s combined Fight Against Blight (FAB) and Blightwatch service reveal that 2007 has been an unprecedented year for the disease, according to the British Potato Council.

  • Wait for 10-20pc disease threshold for phoma spray

    September 28th 2007

    WAIT until a 10 to 20 per cent disease threshold has been reached to trigger the first phoma spray on oilseed rape this autumn.

  • Blight alert services vital - BPC

    27 September 2007

    THIS season’s combined Fight Against Blight (FAB) and Blightwatch service has revealed unprecedented disease levels, says to the British Potato Council (BPC).

  • Licences might need to be changed

    27 September 2007

    THE Environment Agency has launched a consultation on changes to abstraction licence charges as part of its review of the water abstraction charges scheme.

  • Scientists believe biofuels may contribute to global warming

    26 September 2007

    GROWING and burning biofuels may increase rather than reduce greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new study.

  • Oilseed rape growers may need to spray with a pyrethoid insecticide

    26 September 2007

    OILSEED rape growers are being advised to keep a look out for signs of turnip sawfly larval damage, which is now showing on some early-emerged crops in the south of England.

  • Alternating angled nozzles gives better spray coverage

    September 21st 2007

    USING alternating forward and backward angled nozzles along the spray boom to apply a pre-emergence herbicide can give visibly better spray coverage, even when treating bare soil, results from a farm trial have shown.

  • Bayer announce an IPU alternative

    September 21st 2007

    A NEW post-emergence herbicide, positioned to provide an alternative to IPU, is to be test marketed this autumn.

  • High level of black-grass dormancy puts the emphasis on in-crop control

    September 21st 2007

    LATE black-grass germination as a result of its predicted high levels of dormancy in shed seed could place increased emphasis on in-crop control methods for the coming season, a leading ADAS researcher is predicting.

  • High levels of slugs anticipated

    September 21st 2007

    DEMAND for slug pellets is predicted to reach unprecedented levels this autumn as high value wheat crops face severe pressure from a record population of juvenile slugs.

  • Lifting difficult as beet harvest gets underway

    September 21st 2007

    DRY lifting conditions have caused some difficulties for growers in the first week of this season’s sugar beet campaign, while the variable size of plants may become an issue as harvest progresses.

  • Quota cut of 13.5 per cent is expected

    September 21st 2007

    A 13.5 PER cent quota cut, removing some 165,00 tonnes of sugar from the market in the UK, is looking likely under the latest round of EU sugar regime restructuring, according to the NFU.

  • Regulation proposals could result in long approval delays

    September 21st 2007

    THE vote by the European Parliament Environment Committee on the new Regulation concerning the authorisation of plant protection products in the EU has provoked a mixed reaction.

  • Secure data disposal fits in well with arable enterprise

    September 21st 2007

    Handling confidential paper waste may be a far cry from his arable business but it is providing Ian Gilliat with a steady additional income. ANGELA CALVERT found out how and why he set the waste paper business up.

  • Weed Control

    September 21st 2007

    Crucial to choose

  • Adjust weed control strategy to get best level of control

    20 September 2007

    BE prepared to adjust weed control strategy carefully according to soil moisture or dryness this autumn, cereal growers are being urged.

  • Storage rots warning

    19 September 2007

    STORAGE rots are set to cause problems in this year’s harvested potato crop, disease experts from the Central Science Laboratory are warning.

  • Oilseed rape affected by lack of rain

    18 September 2007

    MANY seedbeds are now so dry that oilseed rape establishment is being adversely affected, notably in eastern England where little or no rain has fallen for three to four weeks.

  • Study links asthma to pesticide use

    17 September 2007

    PESTICIDE use on farms can double the risk of adult-onset asthma in farmers, according to a study conducted in the US.

  • Cover crop could have negative effect

    September 14th 2007

    CONCERNS were also voiced during the open afternoon over Defra proposals, under the Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ) legislation, requiring cover crops to be grown ahead of spring-sown crops.

  • Don’t cut weed control corners

    September 14th 2007

    BETTER returns may be available from other crops in the rotation but growers should not cut corners in terms of weed control in their sugar beet crops to keep costs down.

  • Hard ground damaging harvesters

    September 14th 2007

    HARD, crusted soils are impeding harvesting progress for many potato growers, according to the British Potato Council.

  • Plant species mix offers best cover and wild bird food

    September 14th 2007

    In the second instalment of her feature on combining agronomy best practice and biodiversity on a Yorkshire farm, JOANNA BAKER reports on cropping for wildlife.

  • Rocky withdrawn over sterility problems

    September 14th 2007

    PROMISING Group 3 winter wheat variety Rocky has been withdrawn from Recommended List trials by its breeders because of sterility problems.

  • Up to 50pc yield boost from appropriate fungicide treatment

    September 14th 2007

    CEREAL disease pressure was ‘massive’ during the last crop year, but wherever crops were looked after with an effective fungicide programme, green leaf area was maintained.

  • Variable results this harvest, but wheat yields are down 7pc

    September 14th 2007

    WINTER wheat variety results have varied fairly significantly from site to site this year, with weather conditions during flowering having now possibly led to one candidate variety being withdrawn, said Recommended List manager, Jim McVittie, this week.

  • Virus yellows not at the forecast levels

    September 14th 2007

    VIRUS yellows infection in sugar beet has not reached the levels forecast at the beginning of the season in spite of high early aphid pressure and dry weather conditions hampering the activity of insecticidal seed treatments.

  • Warm nights favour cercospora

    September 14th 2007

    LATE powdery mildew infections may develop in sugar beet crops if weather conditions remain settled.

  • Waterlogging extension

    September 14th 2007

    DEFRA has announced that the suspension of the waterlogged soils requirement under Cross Compliance GAEC 3 is to be extended. Where waterlogging remains, farmers may apply for an individual exemption to last until September 30.

  • Wheat growers encouraged to conduct mycotoxin risk assessment if in any doubt

    September 14th 2007

    GROWERS who think their wheat may have an increased risk from mycotoxins should undertake a risk assessment before grain for human consumption is moved off the farm this autumn, NFU chief arable advisor Guy Gagen said this week.

  • Wheat: Words of warning to British Sugar

    September 14th 2007

    A combination of the latest research news and practical advice for sugar beet growers was on the agenda at the British Beet Research Organisation Broom’s Barn open afternoon in Suffolk. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Revocation notice on paraquat herbicides

    13 September 2007

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has issued a revocation notice on paraquat herbicides stopping further supplies of product from manufacturers.

  • Selected farms chosen to lead new Scottish Arable Monitor Farm project

    11 September 2007

    HGCA has announced details of the arable farmers chosen to lead the new Scottish Arable Monitor Farm project.

  • Hard ground causing problems for potato growers

    11 September 2007

    HARD, crusted soils are impeding harvesting progress for many potato growers, according to the British Potato Council.

  • Rain helps crops kill off aphids

    11 September 2007

    VIRUS yellows infection in sugar beet has not reached the levels forecast at the beginning of the season in spite of high early aphid pressure and dry weather conditions hindering the activity of insecticidal seed treatments.

  • Benefits from using cover crops 'tiny'

    11 September 2007

    PROPOSALS for cover crops ahead of spring sown crops outlined in the consultation on Nitrate Vulnerable Zone regulations are a cause for concern for sugar beet growers, according to a leading sugar beet research scientist.

  • Crops Storage

    September 7th 2007

    POOR storage continues to be potentially a weak link for quality in the cereal supply chain. However a new £1.3 million LINK project, funded jointly by Defra and industry, is aiming to find solutions to current storage challenges. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Early wheat results reveal lower quality

    September 7th 2007

    WHEAT protein content and hagberg falling numbers are lower this harvest than last, according to preliminary figures from this season’s HGCA cereal quality survey.

  • Highest level of microdochium seedling blight for nine years after mild spring and wet weather

    September 7th 2007

    EARLY results from NIAB’s seed testing laboratory in Cambridge are showing that microdochium seedling blight is at its highest level in seed lots since 1998.

  • Maltsters ‘react responsibly’ to barley quality

    September 7th 2007

    UK winter malting barley crop quality is average to good, say grain traders Gleadell. Moisture and nitrogen levels are higher than last year and barley size is plumper, although hectolitre weights are disappointing, reflecting lower yields.

  • Plans to merge rules on pesticide use

    September 7th 2007

    LOCAL authority, industrial and amenity users of pesticides will face the same record-keeping requirements as farmers and growers under a new proposal put forward by the Pesticides Safety Directorate and the Welsh Assembly.

  • Potato maincrop plantings up on 2006

    September 7th 2007

    THE maincrop potato area is up this season on last, with a number of newer pre-pack varieties showing substantial increases in plantings, according to the latest planting and variety figures from the British Potato Council.

  • Revolutionary cold store is Branston’s ‘jewel in the crown’

    September 7th 2007

    A £5 MILLION investment programme by potato supplier Branston Ltd has just been completed and the company now boasts one of the industry’s most revolutionary cold stores.

  • Rot control in potatoes a big concern

    September 7th 2007

    THE coming potato storage season is set to be a challenging one with control of rots likely to be a major concern, says the British Potato Council, which has issued some guidelines to help storekeepers.

  • Three key steps to success

    September 7th 2007

    There were some practical tips for herbicide resistance management this season to be had at the Bayer Crop Science/Farmers Guardian Weed Focus conference on the future of cereal weed control . TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Warm, wet summer prompts a major rat alert

    September 7th 2007

    WATCH out for larger than normal rat pressures on your newly-harvested grain this season, farmers have been warned by UK rodent behaviour experts.

  • Things set to become worse for brassica growers

    5 September 2007

    THE difficult growing season so far encountered by brassica growers is set to become even worse with high levels of leaf disease prevalent earlier than normal this year, according to Andy Richardson of the Allium and Brassica Centre (ABC).

  • Early wheat sample results show lower quality

    4 September 2007

    THE first set of results from this season’s HGCA cereal quality survey suggest that early harvested wheat samples show a reduction in wheat quality on last year with an decrease in hagberg falling number and protein content.

  • Changes could lead to water savings for agricultural sector

    4 September 2007

    WATER savings of up to 50 per cent could be made in the agricultural sector by applying innovative changes to the irrigation infrastructure and technological investments according to a European Commission report published last week.

  • Cross compliance: Don’t fall foul of buffer strip rules

    31 August 2007

    ProCam agronomist Nick Myers provides some timely reminders on buffer strip requirements under cross compliance.

  • Big farms – big changes – for Hungary’s super enterprises

    August 31st 2007

    Hungary contains some of the largest farming enterprises in Eastern Europe. Take Agroprodukt, one of an estimated 100 Hungarian farms that operate on 10,000-hectares plus. Steven Vale takes a closer look.

  • Bigger is best for one Home Counties farm

    August 31st 2007

    The search for a better seedbed preparation system has led one Hertfordshire grower to add an 8m Kockerling Quadro tined cultivator to his min-till system. Geoff Ashcroft reports on progress.

  • Choose the consistent performers

    August 31st 2007

    CHOOSING varieties that have performed consistently well over several seasons is crucial this autumn, says agronomist Andrew Wells, TAG (The Arable Group).

  • Controlled traffic provides significant production boost

    August 31st 2007

    Interest in permanent tramlines might be on the increase but the system developed by three Dutch organic growers is different to say the least as they operate a fleet of tractors on a 3.15m track width. Steven Vale has the full story.

  • Good rotations can be cost-effective

    August 31st 2007

    Less black-grass discovered where traditional rotations have been used

  • Land prices on the increase

    August 31st 2007

    Labour costs are not the only ones on the increase as land prices continue on an upwards trend. Prices in the Veszprem area, which does not rate as the highest quality arable land, currently fetch around £1,000/hectare.

  • Low horse power to go min-till

    August 31st 2007

    Using a tine cultivator with a pass width of 3m and only taking 110hp to pull, John Webster believes he has been able to trim his establishments cost without having to heavily restructure his machinery fleet.

  • Making the most of pre-emergence herbicides

    August 31st 2007

    Pre-emergence herbicides are set to become the cornerstone of grass weed control programmes this autumn as growers are urged to ease off the use of post-emergence Atlantis and prepare for the loss of IPU and trifluralin in 2008.

  • Oilseed rape varieties

    August 31st 2007

    OILSEED rape varieties with good stem canker resistance seemed to hold up well in this year’s HGCA Recommended List trials, according to RL technical manager, Bill Handley.

  • Rotational choice needs careful planning

    August 31st 2007

    With wheat prices where they are growers could be forgiven for maximising their margins this autumn by planting more second wheats at the expense of other crops.

  • Stubble management

    August 31st 2007

    Making most effective control of weeds and volunteers between harvest and drilling

  • Winter barley and brown rust

    August 31st 2007

    THERE was a clear pattern to the winter barley results in the HGCA Recommended List trials this year, which revolved around just how susceptible varieties were to brown rust.

  • Winter wheats’ reduced yields

    August 31st 2007

    Although winter barley and oilseed rape yields held up relatively well during the wet summer in the HGCA Recommended List variety trials across the country, the winter wheat plots have seen reduced yields. JOANNA BAKER takes a look at how varieties have performed in trials this year.

  • OSR slightly down on 2006

    30 August 2007

    THE oilseed rape area is probably not going to be larger than last year’s 560,000 hectares.

  • Seed sales increase on back of higher grain price

    30 August 2007

    CEREAL seed sales are ahead of normal this autumn with a seed shortage expected in some varieties, according to Dalgety national seed business manager, Barry Barker.

  • Winter wheat area may top 2 million hectares

    30 August 2007

    WINTER wheat plantings will increase this autumn if set-aside is removed in the next few weeks, according to Mr Barker.

  • Arable Focus

    30 August 2007

    IS a wheat/oilseed rape rotation still the best option for combinable crop growers? Which varieties are finding favour at the moment? What are the key weed control messages for the new season?

  • Where biodiversity and profit go hand-in-hand

    29 August 2007

    JOANNA BAKER reports from a four-hectare agronomy and biodiversity trials site at an East Yorkshire farm where the aim is to achieve best practice agronomy alongside high quality biodiversity, working in co-operation with crop protection manufacturer BASF.

  • FVPs to be abolished from 2008

    29 August 2007

    THE fruit, vegetable and potato (FVP) authorisation system is to be abolished in England from 2008.

  • Seed sales ahead of the equivalent time last year

    28 August 2007

    CEREAL seed sales are up this autumn, with shortages being predicted in some varieties.

  • Effective slug control and damage limitation

    August 24th 2007

    Slugs have thrived in this summer’s wet weather but does that mean that problems are certain this autumn? TERESA RUSH reports on a round table discussion on slug control that brought together agronomist James Cheesman of agronomy business H L Hutchinson, scientist and slug expert Dr David Glen, Robert Lidstone of Certis, distributor of a range of metaldehyde-based slug pellets in the UK and Gloucestershire farmer David Smart.

  • HGCA winter wheat yields down 12pc

    August 24th 2007

    WINTER wheat yields are down by around 12 per cent in the HGCA Recommended List trials harvested so far this season.

  • Hitchhiking Scotch genes

    August 24th 2007

    The Scotch whisky industry is one of Scotland’s and the UK’s great success stories with worldwide exports. For cereal producers it offers a premium market for malting barley, although this brings with it a need to meet increasingly stringent specifications. SCRI’s Dr Bill Thomas explained to NEIL RYDER the new role of hitch hiking genes in meeting the needs of distillers and maltsters.

  • £3.6 million industrial hemp processing facility given the go-ahead

    23 August 2007

    FARMERS in the eastern counties have welcomed the news that a new £3.6 million industrial hemp processing facility near Halesworth in Suffolk by Hemcore has been given the go-ahead.

  • This year's potato crop loss estimated at 3,300 hectares

    23 August 2007

    THE extent of losses to the 2007 potato crop from flood, waterlogging and blight is provisionally estimated at 3,300 hectares (2.6 per cent of total plantings).

  • Recycle Min-Rinse bags

    22 August 2007

    WASTE disposal contractor Agri-cycle is offering free recycling of Min-Rinse bags dropped off at any one of its 37 nationwide hubs.

  • SAC winter training course

    22 August 2007

    SAC will again be running its BASIS Certificate course in Crop Protection (Agriculture) over the winter.

  • Breeders scan collections for cyst nematode resistance

    August 17th 2007

    POTATO breeders are scanning potato collections in the search for species with genetic resistance to potato cyst nematodes, Dr John Bradshaw of SCRI said at Dundee.

  • DNA testing

    August 17th 2007

    PROFILES of DNA found in soil samples can prove valuable aids in assessing disease risks, Dr Jennie Brierley, of SCRI, told visitors.

  • Potatoes in practice

    August 17th 2007

    Neil Ryder reports from Gourdie Farm, near Dundee

  • Rapid harvest progress is made in the South

    August 17th 2007

    ALMOST half of the UK wheat crop has been cut in one week, as the harvest progressed rapidly until rain arrived over much of the country once again on Tuesday, to bring it to a halt.

  • Varying yields and quality may mean UK faces wheat shortfall

    August 17th 2007

    WHEAT yields and quality vary widely across the country, in a season already experiencing high grain prices and could even see the UK running out of wheat, according to Grainfarmers, head of milling wheat, Simon Ingle, this week.

  • Harvest considerations for sugar beet growers

    16 August 2007

    SUGAR beet growers are being advised to consider their cropping plans for harvest 2008 carefully in view of the recent increase in commodity prices.

  • Variations in wheat yields and quality

    16 August 2007

    WIDE variations are being seen in wheat yields and quality this harvest, according to Grainfarmers, head of milling wheat, Simon Ingle.

  • Results indicate dormancy in black-grass seed is high

    15 August 2007

    DORMANCY in black-grass seed samples this autumn is high, results from HGCA-funded research have shown.

  • Revised thresholds for economic cabbage stem flea control

    15 August 2007

    THE threshold for the cost-effective treatment of cabbage stem flea beetle in oilsed rape has been revised.

  • Oilseed rape growers not taking full account of seed size

    15 August 2007

    OILSEED rape growers are still sowing crops by weight and are not taking full account of seed size and number when establishing their crops.

  • 'Guide to winter wheat varieties and marketing'

    15 August 2007

    NICKERSON have released a ‘Guide to winter wheat varieties and marketing’ to help growers focus on the choice of wheat varieties to meet 2008 markets.

  • Miller offers improved harvest growing contracts

    15 August 2007

    ADM Milling is extending its supply chain initiative with Grainfarmers, Gleadells and ADM Direct, for the specialist Group 2 wheat Cordiale.

  • Above-average OSR yields not spectacular

    August 10th 2007

    ALTHOUGH oilseed rape yields have been slightly above average in the HGCA Recommended List trials harvested so far, they are not spectacular, according to RL technical manager, Bill Handley, this week.

  • Caution is advised when applying maleic hydrazide

    August 10th 2007

    POTATO growers should take extra care when applying Fazor (maleic hydrazide) this summer, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • Dry weather aids OSR and barley harvest

    August 10th 2007

    CEREAL harvesting in England has proceeded rapidly in this week’s dry weather. Many growers have completed oilseed rape and winter barley combining and are well into wheat crops. In Scotland recent rain has held up progress.

  • High fusarium levels in some wheat regions

    August 10th 2007

    LATEST wheat ear disease disease monitoring results have highlighted regional variations in levels of the toxin-forming ear blight fusarium graminearum, says the HGCA.

  • New OSR herbicide offers a broad defence

    August 10th 2007

    A NEW pre- and early post-emergence herbicide for use in oilseed rape offers excellent control of a range of broad-leaved weeds as well as useful control of annual meadow-grass and black-grass, according to manufacturer BASF.

  • Prepare to take on rapid volunteer competition in min-till OSR seedbeds

    August 10th 2007

    WITH more oilseed rape set to be established by min-till this autumn, growers can expect rapid and intense competition from volunteer cereals and grass weeds germinating from moist seedbeds, warns Syngenta oilseed rape crop manager, Rod Burke.

  • National Express calls a halt to biodiesel bus trial

    7 August 2007

    COACH company National Express has suspended its first generation UK biodiesel bus trial because of concerns over the sustainability of supplies.

  • Appeal to bale straw

    7 August 2007

    DON’T chop it bale it – that is the appeal from a Gloucestershire livestock farmer to cereal growers everywhere.

  • Heavy rain has helped sclerotinia to germinate early

    7 August 2007

    THE carrot sclerotinia monitoring system, available to growers and advisors on www.agriCentre.basf.co.uk is showing early germination of sclerotia at all sites.

  • Growers advised to think how soils will react to the combine

    7 August 2007

    THE Arable Group (TAG) is advising growers to give careful thought to how soils will react to the combine following the recent heavy rainfall.

  • Consistency differences in winter wheat varieties

    7 August 2007

    SOME winter wheat varieties are over three times as consistent as others in terms of their annual yielding ability, according to independent variety consultant, Richard Fenwick.

  • Control weeds before drilling

    August 3rd 2007

    TAKE advantage of opportunities to control arable weeds ahead of planting this autumn to keep on top of escalating problems compounded by the wet summer, advises Monsanto.

  • Fusarium-affected wheats should be stored separately after harvest

    August 3rd 2007

    WITH ear wash fungicides running out of steam, the wet weather is fuelling fusarium risks in wheats.

  • Gene research into texture and flavour

    August 3rd 2007

    NEW British Potato Council-funded research is seeking to understand the mechanisms that underpin texture and flavour in potatoes.  

  • Latvian system undergoes trials

    August 3rd 2007

    AN agronomy system, dubbed ‘extreme’, that works well in Latvia – part of Europe’s ‘bread basket’ – is now being trialled at TAG’s Sutton Scotney national agronomy centre in order to find out more about the controversial practice.

  • New approval for desiccant

    August 3rd 2007

    POTATO growers can now use up to five litres of Reglone (diquat) to desiccate crops this season – a 25 per cent increase over the previously available rate.

  • New Products

    August 3rd 2007

    Mission desiccant

  • Role of lower IPU rate ahead of herbicide’s withdrawal

    August 3rd 2007

    THE 1.5 kilograms per hectare rate of isoproturon approved for use ahead of the complete withdrawal of the herbicide in 2009 continues to have a role to play in grass-weed and broad-leaved weed control, according to Nufarm.

  • Take-all infections high this summer

    August 3rd 2007

    TAKE-ALL tracking at HGCA Recommended List second cereal trial sites across the country has revealed infections taking off in a major way this summer.

  • Yield main factor in OSR variety choice

    August 3rd 2007

    HIGH yield is the main consideration amongst oilseed rape growers when it comes to variety choice, according to the latest survey information for NK Seeds.

  • Brown rust impact a major factor

    2 August 2007

    WINTER barley varieties with a weakness to brown rust have not performed as well as varieties with good resistance to the disease in the HGCA Recommended List trials harvested so far this season, according to RL trials consultant, Peter Hanson.

  • Consistent oilseed rape varieties continue to perform in TAG trials, with hybrids doing ‘particularly well’

    2 August 2007

    OILSEED rape varieties that have performed well in the past couple of seasons have continued to produce good yields this year at The Arable Group (TAG) trials site at Marr near Doncaster, said TAG northern contracts manager Christine Lilly this week.

  • Herbicide launched for grass and broad-leaved weed control

    2 August 2007

    WINTER wheat growers have a new option for grass and broad-leaved weed control this autumn, following the launch into the UK market of the active ingredient flumioxazin.

  • Study will help in the development of potatoes

    1 August 2007

    NEW British Potato Council-funded research is seeking to understand the mechanisms that underpin texture and flavour in potatoes.

  • Average disease levels the highest in three years

    1 August 2007

    TAKE-ALL tracking at HGCA Recommended List second cereal trial sites across the country has revealed infections taking off in a major way this summer.

  • The BPC urges growers to keep a close eye on potato crops

    30 July 2007

    THE British Potato Council (BPC) is urging ware growers to keep a close eye on potato crops for unusual wilting symptoms and to take hygiene measures on farm to protect against diseases such as dickeya dianthicola tuber rot.

  • ‘Most wheat crops standing quite well’

    July 27th 2007

    ALTHOUGH some arable crops have been badly affected in the worst parts of the flood-stricken Midlands area, most are still standing, says Cirencester-based regional agronomist Richard Overthrow of TAG.

  • Agronomists ‘nervous’ about crops as wet weather continues

    July 27th 2007

    WINTER barley and oilseed rape harvesting has continued at a slow pace this week in between further spells of wet weather, with both quality and yields so far being very variable.

  • Conversion strategy determines yield

    July 27th 2007

    THE choice of conversion strategy to organic arable farming influences crop yield and can do so for many years afterwards, according to a recent survey carried out by Nottingham University.

  • Growers ‘desperate’ to tackle high disease pressure in potato crop

    July 27th 2007

    POTATO growers desperate to spray their crops because of the high disease pressure have been “having a go” when conditions are just not suitable.

  • Helping children learn where food comes from

    July 27th 2007

    POTATO growers have played a key supporting role in the British Potato Council’s (BPC) education project for primary school children, helping to ensure the success of the popular ‘Grow Your Own Potatoes’ initiative once again.

  • Identifying the most robust varieties

    July 27th 2007

    THE end user is of prime importance when it comes to choosing which varieties to grow, but there is still scope for farmers to select varieties with an eye on improved agronomics and potential for cost savings.

  • Move away from Group 3 could compromise exports

    July 27th 2007

    With the Group 4 area predicted to rise as high as 40 per cent this autumn, a major grain marketing company is warning that the shift away from Group 3s could begin to compromise markets and drive down the domestic price of feed wheat.

  • Paraquat herbicide to be withdrawn from use after European Court ruling

    July 27th 2007

    THE non-selective herbicide paraquat is set to be withdrawn from use in EU member states following a ruling by the European Court of First Instance.

  • Price and yield boost to feed barley

    July 27th 2007

    Better grain prices and leaps in yield from newer varieties could boost the appeal of winter feed barley, including hybrids, in rotations this autumn, experts are suggesting.

  • Survey highlights emphasis on wheat for yield alone

    July 27th 2007

    Regardless of the breakdown of current plantings by wheat type, over three quarters of the UK’s 2007 crop is being grown for yield alone, according to a major grower study by RAGT Seeds.

  • UK-grown organic crops in short supply

    July 27th 2007

    The Soil Association has hosted two national organic arable events – at Burwash Manor Farm, Barton, Cambridgeshire and at Rushall Farm, Pewsey, Wiltshire – to encourage more growers to convert to organic. Demand is high for home grown grains and the two events aimed to promote business opportunities and marketing networks. The Soil Association believes converting to organic arable production presents a great business opportunity for farmers looking to both improve profitability and ...

  • Well-pleased with first HOLL crop

    July 27th 2007

    The first crop of high oleic, low linolenic (HO,LL) oilseed rape to be harvested on a Vistive contract this season has underlined the potential of the crop by delivering around 1.5 tonne/acre (3.7 tonne/hectare) at an oil content of 45.1 per cent.

  • Wheat crops set for reasonable harvest

    25 July 2007

    DESPITE the wet summer weather, the majority of wheat crops across the UK are still set for a reasonable harvest.

  • Crops standing quite well despite flooding

    25 July 2007

    ALTHOUGH some arable crops have been badly affected in the worst parts of the flood-stricken Midlands area, most are still standing according to Cirencester-based regional agronomist, Richard Overthrow, TAG.

  • Paraquat to be withdrawn

    25 July 2007

    THE non-selective herbicide paraquat is set to be withdrawn from use following a ruling by the European Court of First Instance.

  • Unsuitable spraying conditions lead to further problems

    25 July 2007

    POTATO growers desperate to spray their crops because of the high disease pressure have been “having a go” when conditions are just not suitable.

  • New approved Reglone rate

    25 July 2007

    POTATO growers can now use up to five litres of Reglone (diquat) to desiccate crops this season - a 25 per cent increase over the previously available rate.

  • Weed Focus

    23 July 2007

    WEED control from science to practice, now and into the future, was on the agenda at the Bayer CropScience/ Farmers Guardian Weed Focus conference at Peterborough.

  • Arable talent

    July 20th 2007

    A BID to attract fresh talent into arable farming kicks off this month with help from four of the UK’s leading agriculture and crop science universities.

  • Brassica approval for Amistar Top

    July 20th 2007

    STROBILURIN+triazole co-formulation Amistar Top has been approved for use in brassica crops.

  • Desiccants considered for malting barley this summer

    July 20th 2007

    WITH the changeable weather this summer there is concern within the industry about harvest moisture levels.

  • DON levels likely to be low

    July 20th 2007

    DON mycotoxin contamination of grain is likely to be low this year, although toxin levels could be higher where wheat has lodged early and if bad weather delays harvest.

  • Harvest progress steady in showers

    July 20th 2007

    HEAVY showers continued to disrupt the start of the winter barley and oilseed rape harvest this week, with only a few fields around the country having been cut so far.

  • HGCA Planting Survey shows 16 per cent increase in OSR crops

    July 20th 2007

    THE area sown to oilseed rape has seen a significant increase compared with last year, according to results from the HGCA Planting Survey released this week. The total area sown to cereals in Great Britain for harvest 2007 shows only a small increase.

  • New winter feed barley for ‘easy to grow’ market

    July 20th 2007

    A NEW winter feed barley variety aimed squarely at farmers who are looking for an easy-to-grow option which combines robust yields with high grain quality is being launched by New Farm Crops, the UK cereal breeding arm of Syngenta Seeds.

  • Win £3,000 with Weetabix

    July 20th 2007

    WEETABIX has linked up with the NFU to offer farmers the chance to win £3,000 by creating straw bale sculptures on their farms.

  • Sugar beet quota cut of 10pc – compensation about £30/tonne

    19 July 2007

    SUGAR beet quota is to be cut by 10 per cent for the 2008/09 campaign, British Sugar and the NFU have confirmed in a letter to growers this week.

  • Concern over harvest moisture levels

    17 July 2007

    WITH the changeable weather this summer there is a concern within the industry about moisture levels at harvest.

  • Opportunity to find out more about potato breeding

    16 July 2007

    THREE Potatoes in Partnership open days, due to be held in July will provide an opportunity for growers and others in the industry to hear about the latest developments in a five-year Scottish Executive commissioned research programme on potato breeding and potato pathology.

  • New winter barley gives easy-to-grow option

    16 July 2007

    A NEW winter feed barley variety from New Farm Crops is aimed at farmers – possibly with livestock – who are looking for an easy-to-grow option which combines robust yields with high grain quality.

  • Combination gives protection against key brassica diseases

    16 July 2007

    STROBILURIN+triazole fungicide Amistar Top has been approved for use in brassica crops.

  • Seed treatments

    July 13th 2007

    Read our Farmers Guardian special feature covering all you need to know about seed treatments.

  • ‘Major step forward’ in securing optimum plant stands

    July 13th 2007

    A trial block of a new oilseed rape seed treatment – available for the first time last year on seed brought into the UK from Germany – has provided near 100 per cent establishment on a Northamptonshire farm.

  • Arable monitor farms to be set up

    July 13th 2007

    FOLLOWING on from the success of the Scottish livestock monitor farms project, HGCA has teamed up with the Scottish Executive and Scottish Enterprise to establish two arable monitor farms and six arable business groups.

  • Attention to detail earns Golden Loaf

    July 13th 2007

    GROWING quality milling wheat for Warburtons has led to one Worcestershire farmer and his son collecting a top award.

  • Crop quality ‘compromised’ while field work remains difficult in wet weather

    July 13th 2007

    ALTHOUGH many cereal crops have withstood the recent wet and windy weather remarkably well, crop quality will undoubtedly have been compromised, says TAG (The Arable Group), agronomist Andrew Wells, Nottinghamshire, this week.

  • Disease and pest control in one seed treatment

    July 13th 2007

    A co-formulation of fludioxinil and tefluthrin available for the coming season combines disease and pest control activity in one seed treatment.

  • Early potato lifting disrupted by weather

    July 13th 2007

    THE unsettled weather is continuing to cause disruption to early potato lifting and blight spray programs.

  • Evict treatment to be replaced by Austral Plus

    July 13th 2007

    THE tefluthrin-based cereal seed treatment Evict will be discontinued following the launch of the fludioxonil+ tefluthrin co-fomulation Austral Plus, Syngenta has announced.

  • FWAG forum

    July 13th 2007

    The great crested newt is a large and striking amphibian, growing up to 15cm in length, dark brown to black above with an orange/yellow belly and black spots.

  • Multi-virus plant test to help manage spread of diseases

    July 13th 2007

    A NEW multi-virus plant clinic test for potatoes has been developed by Cambridge-based NIAB.

  • New fludioxonil formulation brings better control of seed-borne fusarium – manufacturer

    July 13th 2007

    A NEW formulation of the cereal seed treatment fludioxonil, available to growers this autumn, brings improvements in control of seed-borne fusarium, according to its manufacturer.

  • No regrets on move despite wheat prices

    July 13th 2007

    Grain prices have risen substantially since Co. Durham farmer Stewart Vernon joined the ELS and HLS environmental programmes, but he is generally happy with his decision, as he explained to Neil Ryder.

  • Photo discovery aids farm machinery club’s celebration

    July 13th 2007

    THE discovery of a collection of fascinating old photographs has prompted two special evenings to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Norfolk Farm Machinery Club (NORMAC).

  • Seed treatment vital to keep early rust at bay

    July 13th 2007

    IN what has been described as one of the worst seasons for yellow and brown rust infections in wheat nationwide, many varieties’ resistance ratings to this yield robbing disease have been tested to their limits.

  • Solstice is spreading Warburtons’ risk

    July 13th 2007

    AT Centaur Grain, sales and marketing director Richard Jenner said 140,000 tonnes of UK milling wheat from over 300 farmers producing the crop would be required by Warburtons this year.

  • Study to focus on black- grass, ryegrass and brome

    July 13th 2007

    HGCA has funded a 40-month project to look at dormancy of black-grass, Italian ryegrass, barren and meadow brome.

  • Answering your sampling questions

    July 6th 2007

    HOW do you go about sampling for soil and plant borne pests in order to make informed crop protection decisions?

  • Biobeds and sprayer washings disposal

    July 6th 2007

    BIOBEDS are not the only means of disposing of sprayer washings containing pesticides, but are probably one of the best ways of dealing with this waste liquid, NFU pesticides specialist Paul Chambers told a North East NFU arable meeting at Heighington, near Darlington.

  • Bringing new milling wheat varieties to the market

    July 6th 2007

    Nickerson’s plant breeding centre at Docking, Norfolk, is home to one of the company’s winter wheat breeding programmes, the other being based at Woolpit, Suffolk. CLEMMIE GLEESON met some of the team.

  • Brown rust flourishes in winter wheat crops

    July 6th 2007

    WITH no cold spell to check it over, winter brown rust has flourished in winter wheat crops this season, Stuart Knight of TAG told visitors to the agronomy group’s open day at Morley in Norfolk.

  • Getting the better of blight and slugs

    July 6th 2007

    POTATO growers are reporting very high levels of slug damage this season, with the current wet and warm soil environment proving ideal for pest activity in the root zone.

  • Growers urged to make use of older active ingredients

    July 6th 2007

    MAKE the most of isoproturon and trifluralin while they are still available, growers attending the Arable Group’s (TAG) open day at Morley, Norfolk, were advised.

  • Incentive for herbage seed

    July 6th 2007

    BRITISH Seed Houses is hoping a new ‘wheat tracker’ contract for the major IGER-bred agricultural perennial ryegrasses will provide an added incentive for farmers to grow herbage seed this autumn.

  • Maximising OSR potential with optimum establishment rates and seed treatments

    July 6th 2007

    GROWERS looking for higher yields from their rape need to be establishing no more than 50 plants sq m. That is the conclusion from joint Grainfarmers/UAP Project Energise trials last year.

  • New markets continue to open for UK wheat

    July 6th 2007

    THE wheat market continues to race forward, with commodity prices and futures persistently increasing and some new markets for the crop getting closer on the horizon.

  • Root Crops Disease Control

    July 6th 2007

    Threat from potato blight at its highest level in five years

  • Seasonal root lodging

    July 6th 2007

    ROOT lodging has been a fairly widespread problem this season, with Einstein in particular appearing to be affected.

  • Severe crop losses puts price pressure on pea growers

    July 6th 2007

    VINING pea production has been badly hit following further heavy downpours of rain this week, in what continues to be one of the most challenging pea harvests growers have seen for many years.

  • Think about pest control after ‘mid-season crash’

    July 6th 2007

    VEGETABLE growers in the south east of England are experiencing a ‘mid-season crash’ in the number of aphids appearing in their crops, due to high numbers of beneficial insects present this year.

  • Use a rainfast fungicide in wet conditions

    July 6th 2007

    POTATO crops are coming under unprecedented blight pressure this season, disease experts are warning.

  • Virus yellows symptoms appearing in beet crops

    July 6th 2007

    CLEMMIE GLEESON and TERESA RUSH report on some unusual developments in sugar beet diseases according to the latest findings from Broom’s Barn scientists.

  • Weed control

    July 6th 2007

    PLANNING autumn 2007 weed control strategies? Bayer CropScience in conjunction with Farmers Guardian is hosting a free, one-day weed control conference at the East of England showground, Peterborough, on Thursday, July 12. It will focus on weed control in cereals and cover a range of essential topics.See the panel on p15 for more information. To register go to www.farmersguardian.com/weed focus or call 0845 673 2176.

  • Wider spraying intervals mean robust doses are now required

    July 6th 2007

    SPRAY intervals for blight control in potato crops have been extended ‘quite considerably’ due to the wet weather this year, according to SAC potato agronomist, John Sarup, who covers crops in northern England.

  • ‘Fine-tuning’ to Recommended List proposed

    June 29th 2007

    THE Agricultural Industries Confederation has called for a focus on candidate and best-in-class varieties following CEL’s decision to carry out a strategic review of the HGCA Recommended List operation.

  • ‘Turn clock back’ to help protect Atlantis efficacy

    June 29th 2007

    A leading weed expert has warned growers that the only way to protect the efficacy of the grass-weed herbicide Atlantis (iodosulfuron +mesosulfuron) is to stop using it.

  • An ambitious plan needed to double farm’s turnover

    June 29th 2007

    Salle Moor Hall Farm in Norfolk produces organic arable crops, vegetables and meat. Its new general manager Giles Blatchford has been charged by it’s owner with taking the business forward. CLEMMIE GLEESON reports.

  • Angled spray boom nozzles increase control

    June 29th 2007

    USE of alternate forward and backward angled nozzles along the sprayer boom has improved control of black-grass from pre-emergence spray applications by up to 30 per cent, compared with standard 110 degree vertical flat fan nozzles in Syngenta trials.

  • Battalion had Cereals launch

    June 29th 2007

    CEREALS 2007 saw the launch of high yielding Group 2 winter wheat variety Battalion.Battalion’s agronomic characters are said to include excellent high yields, Solstice-level protein content, good disease resistance, which includes a 9 rating for resistance to brown rust and pch1 eyespot resistance, and good second wheat performance.“Battalion is rated as a desirable Group 2 variety by UK millers,” said Ed Flatman of RAGT Seeds.

  • BBRO’s open day

    June 29th 2007

    CLEMMIE GLEESON reports from BBRO’s open day, which shared the latest sugar beet advice with growers in Norfolk.

  • Beet yields continue to rise

    June 29th 2007

    SUGAR beet yields continue to increase year on year, unlike any other mainstream crop, said Mark Culloden of BBRO.

  • Campaign to get more potatoes on family table

    June 29th 2007

    ENCOURAGING more families to eat potatoes more often is the key to a new marketing campaign launched by the British Potato Council at the event.

  • Canopy management starts when seeding

    June 29th 2007

    DON’T wait until next spring to manage your 2008 oilseed rape canopy, start before you even put the crop in the ground if you want the best chance of getting it right and achieving the least possible cost.

  • CEREALS NEWS IN BRIEF

    June 29th 2007

    • EAST Anglian grain cooperative, Fengrain, has unveiled its new online service, Fenactive, which will allow members to see farm samples, store intake, contract details, weights and other information from their trading accounts with the company, on a daily basis.

  • Joint venture creates new testing and trials company

    June 29th 2007

    A NEW plant breeding company has been established in the UK following the establishment of a joint venture between NPZ Lembke, Germany and Serasem SNC, France.

  • Late N can boost OSR margins

    June 29th 2007

    APPLYING a proportion of an oilseed rape crop’s nitrogen late can increase gross margins where crop canopies are average or slightly below average in size, studies conducted by Kemira GrowHow, in conjunction with ADAS, have revealed.

  • Longer beet campaign is anticipated

    June 29th 2007

    THE 2007 campaign is likely to be longer then previous years as the four remaining factories cope with an increased amount of beet, said Clive Casburn.

  • Renewable energy systems – what you can do on your farm

    June 29th 2007

    In the third of our features on climate change and renewable energy David Burrows looks at how to save energy on farm by investing in a renewable energy system.

  • Stewardship scheme not delivering, says Plantlife

    June 29th 2007

    A REPORT published this week highlights the plight of Britain’s rare cornfield flowers and the failure of current conservation policies to conserve them effectively, says wild plant conservation charity Plantlife.

  • Treating weed beet early is essential

    June 29th 2007

    TACKLING weed beet must be a priority for growers said Tim Duckett.

  • Weed Control conference

    June 29th 2007

    PLANNING autumn 2007 weed control strategies? Bayer CropScience in conjunction with Farmers Guardian is hosting a free, one-day weed control conference at the East of England showground, Peterborough on Thursday July 12.

  • Increasing threat of blight in potato crops

    28 June 2007

    THERE is now an increasing threat of blight occurring in potato crops across the UK following the recent wet and warm conditions.

  • Cereals 2007

    22 June 2007

    Around 22,500 visitors made their way to Cereals 2007 at Vine Farm, Wendy, Cambridgeshire last week.

  • ‘Buy from UK to cut fertiliser miles’

    June 15th 2007

    FERTILISER companies at the event set their stalls out to counter the argument that nitrogen use will have to fall to reduce the negative effects on the environment associated with the manufacturing process and leaching into the soil.

  • An eNhance(d) tool from Terra gives instant field data

    June 15th 2007

    TERRA’S eNhance electronic online fertiliser recommendation tool gives growers, or advisors, the opportunity for instant, field-by-field data for fertiliser inputs across their farms.

  • Arable production and biodiversity working hand-in-hand

    June 22nd 2007

    In 2001, the Voluntary Initiative (VI) was established in response to the Government’s proposal for a tax on pesticides.

  • BCPC issue guide to using pesticides legally

    June 15th 2007

    BCPC has published a quick and easy-to-use guide to spraying within the law. ‘Using Pesticides’, produced by BCPC for farmers, growers and those operating in the horticultural, forestry and amenity sectors, provides all the information operators need to apply pesticides safely, accurately and within the law.

  • Biofuel plant operational in 2009

    June 15th 2007

    GROWERS in Humberside and Teeside can expect to supply Glencore’s new bioethanol plant from harvest ’08.

  • Black Sea export ban is good news for UK growers

    June 15th 2007

    A NEW threat of wheat export bans out of Black Sea countries is giving additional cause for optimism for UK growers.

  • Brown rust causes change of message

    June 15th 2007

    WITH brown rust not septoria tritici the disease threat of the season, Velcourt adjusted its message at Cereals accordingly.

  • CabCards simplifies field management

    June 15th 2007

    WITH stewardship margins, no-spray zones, public access, pylons and any number of other features to take into consideration, field operations are becoming a complicated business.

  • CLA to develop a web-based carbon footprint calculator

    June 15th 2007

    ALMOST £50,000 has been awarded to the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) to fund a project to enable farmers and land managers to calculate the carbon footprint of their businesses.

  • Compaction mapping to measure soil profile

    June 15th 2007

    PRECISION farming company Soyl launched four new services at Cereals.

  • Drop in use of pesticides

    June 15th 2007

    THERE was a further reduction in pesticide usage on arable land during last year, according to the Crop Protection Association.

  • East is best

    June 15th 2007

    LINCOLNSHIRE and Yorkshire are the two best areas for starch production from wheat, according to a Velcourt study.

  • EPSO top is now available

    June 15th 2007

    A NEW foliar fertiliser, based on the established product EPSO Top (formerly Bittersalz) will be available in the UK for the first time this season.

  • Farming industry must take stewardship issue seriously

    June 15th 2007

    ROBUST stewardship of the graminicide Atlantis (iodosulfuron+ mesosulfuron) is required if the product is to be retained for use into the future. That was one of Bayer CropScience’s key messages to growers at Cereals 2007.

  • Fears over food shortages ‘unfounded’

    June 15th 2007

    FEARS promoted in the media that food production could be threatened by the expansion of crops grown for biofuels are largely unfounded, the audience at an HSBC forum at Cereals was told.

  • High establishment of OSR is the key to achieving optimum crop and yield

    June 15th 2007

    A high level of establishment is the single most important factor in achieving the optimum crop and yield for oilseed rape, according to farmer co-operative, United Oilseeds.

  • Highest ever gross output oilseed rape for Recommended List consideration

    June 15th 2007

    CEREALS 2007 saw the launch of the highest ever gross output winter oilseed rape to be considered for addition to the HGCA Recommended List.

  • Key source of ramularia in spring barley is seed borne – HGCA

    June 15th 2007

    THE key source of ramularia, which is now considered the most important disease affecting spring barley, is seed borne, an SAC/HGCA project has confirmed.

  • Lower rate recommendation for Defy

    June 15th 2007

    THE graminicide prosulfocarb (Defy) has a new lower rate recommendation to cover use for control of annual meadow-grass and broad-leaved weeds in winter cereals.

  • New co-formulation is the ‘first true PGR for OSR’

    June 15th 2007

    WITH interest and expertise in plant growth regulation in oilseed rape increasing, Syngenta is seeking approval for a new fungicide co-formulation.

  • New graminicide going through the approvals process

    June 15th 2007

    NEW herbicide options for grass-weed control will be few and far between in the next seven to 10 years, agrochemical manufacturers are warning.

  • Reducing CO2 emissions

    June 15th 2007

    A NEW carbon footprint service for agricultural businesses is set to help reduce energy and CO2 emissions while delivering cost saving benefits.

  • Revised RB209 benchmark to be delayed until 2009

    June 15th 2007

    A three month cash freeze by Defra has scuppered any chance of the UK’s new benchmark fertiliser recommendations, RB209, appearing in time for spring 2008.

  • Rust trap hosts wanted by NIAB

    June 15th 2007

    NIAB plant pathologist Rosemary Bayles is looking for volunteer wheat growers around the UK to host rust trap nursery sites to monitor disease in the wake of this year’s devastating outbreaks of yellow and brown rust.

  • Tailored inputs produce a more marketable yield

    June 15th 2007

    BY implementing a more detailed soil test, The Glenside Group claims that growers using its data can more accurately tune inputs to individual crop and field requirements leading to improved management of resources and better soil productivity.

  • Top up phosphate levels before it’s too late, farmers warned

    June 15th 2007

    FARMERS who have been taking ‘phosphate holidays’ over the last pew years were urged at Cereals to re-invest some of the recent gains from improved wheat and oilseed rape prices by topping up the soil reserves before they drop to dangerous levels.

  • Farmers to wait until 2009 for RB209

    18 June 2007

    A three-month cash freeze by DEFRA has scuppered any chance of the UK’s new benchmark fertiliser recommendations, RB209, appearing in time for spring 2008.

  • Study reveals best areas for starch production

    18 June 2007

    LINCOLNSHIRE and Yorkshire are the two best areas for starch production from wheat, according to a Velcourt study.

  • New product will have key role within weed control programmes

    18 June 2007

    NEW grass weed chemistry for the control of bromes, wild oats, rye-grass and a range of broad-leaved weeds in winter cereals could be available within the next 12 months if it is approved by the Pesticides Safety Directorate.

  • Syngenta seeks approval for new co-formulation

    18 June 2007

    WITH interest and expertise in plant growth regulation in oilseed rape increasing Syngenta is seeking approval for a new co-formulation that it describes as the first true PGR and fungicide designed specifically for the crop.

  • 80pc reduction in PCN with solanum

    June 15th 2007

    CONTROLLING potato cyst nematode with the help of a trap crop is now becoming a reality, according to Paul Coleman, technical director, Greenvale AP.

  • Angular leaf spot threat to strawberrys

    June 15th 2007

    STRAWBERRY growers have ben reminded to remain vigilant against the bacterial disease angular leaf spot (Xanthomonas fragariae), following a further finding in the UK.  

  • Great interest in early maturing peas

    June 15th 2007

    EARLY maturing pea varieties are attracting attention amongst growers seeking to bring in their pea crops ahead of the winter wheat harvest.

  • Isn’t it time that you built a biobed?

    June 15th 2007

    WHETHER you spray 10 hectares or 10,000 hectares the recent announcement that lined biobeds can be registered with the Environment Agency as an exemption under the Agricultural Waste Regulations is good news.

  • Kendall dispels ‘untruths’ about renewable energy and biofuels

    June 15th 2007

    IT would be a tragedy if bio-energy development, which has so much to offer, were to be held back by myths and misconceptions. We have a great opportunity and we want to take it, but we must maintain our commitment to the environment and sustainability while, importantly, taking our customers with us.

  • New approach to collecting variety royalty based on area

    June 15th 2007

    PLANT breeder and crop development company Senova, is to pilot a new approach to collecting variety royalty payments based on area collection.

  • New measures for declaration of older farm-saved seeds

    June 15th 2007

    NEW arrangements for the declaration of older, previously zero-rated varieties as farm-saved seed (FSS) will take effect from this autumn, the British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) has announced.

  • New varieties with higher yield figures

    June 15th 2007

    OF the four new winter wheat varieties available from Syngenta Seeds this autumn, three currently have the highest figures for treated yield amongst Recommended List 2008/09 candidate varieties.

  • Study to combat the bruchid beetle

    June 15th 2007

    LIMITING damage to field beans as a result of bruchid beetle attack is the subject of a new research project to be undertaken by the Processors’ and Growers’ Research Organisation (PGRO).

  • The West Midlands Potato day

    June 15th 2007

    The West Midlands Potato day saw over 200 farmers gather at Richard Solari’s Heath House Farm, Beckbury, near Shifnal, Shropshire, to listen to formal presentations and field-based discussions on topics including erwinia soft rots, potato marketing and biological pest control. Organised by the British Potato Council, the event was sponsored by Greenvale AP, McCain Foods and the Environment Agency. JOANNA BAKER reports.

  • Enviornmental guide for potato production planned for Scotland

    14 June 2007

    FOLLOWING on from the successful launch of ‘Environmental Guidance for Potato Production in England’, FWAG and potato packers Branston are joining forces once more to produce a version of the guide for Scotland.

  • Strawberry growers must remain vigilant against angular leaf spot

    13 June 2007

    DEFRA is reminding strawberry growers of the need to remain vigilant against the bacterial disease angular leaf spot (Xanthomonas fragariae), following a further finding in the UK.

  • Spotlight Plus application restrictions revised

    12 June 2007

    LABEL recommendations for use of Spotlight Plus (carfentrazone-ethyl) on seed potatoes have changed, says Belchim. Previously restricted to one application per crop Spotlight Plus can now be used up to a maximum individual dose of 1.0l/ha and a maximum total dose of 1.6l/ha, which matches the ware crop approval. Where flail and spray is employed, this change allows a follow up spray to control any haulm regrowth should it be necessary.

  • Potato growers should introduce protectant fungicides into blight programmes

    12 June 2007

    AS potato crops reach stable canopy stage and the blight pressure mounts across the country potato growers should be incorporating strong protectant fungicides with known zoospore and hence tuber blight activity into their blight programmes, says Dow AgroSciences.

  • HGCA has released new guidelines on mycotoxins

    11 June 2007

    HGCA has published new guidelines to minimise the risk of mycotoxins in cereals.

  • Annex 1 rejection for Telone II

    June 8th 2007

    THE EU’s Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health has voted against the inclusion of the fumigant 1,3-Dichloropropene in Annex 1 of Directive 91/414/EC.

  • Arable Focus

    June 8th 2007

    A Farmers Guardian special supplement, including expert advice on disease control, the Weed Focus Conference and machinery spotlights

  • Battalion forges ahead while Zebedee bounces back

    June 8th 2007

    With thoughts naturally turning to seed variety choice for next season, over the next three pages we ask NIAB and HGCA experts to weigh up the pros and cons of recently Recommended winter wheat and oilseed rape varieties, as well as taking a glimpse at the future of candidate varieties being grown in trials for the first time.

  • Black-grass battle: ‘Get serious about pre-ems’

    June 8th 2007

    WITH good establishment conditions and an early growing season, attempts last autumn to get on top of black-grass should have been as straightforward as in any season in recent years.

  • Exciting prospects in winter wheat trials

    June 8th 2007

    THERE is no shortage of winter wheat candidate variety contenders being grown in the HGCA’s Recommended List trials for the first time – five selected potentially as bread-making varieties, one as biscuit-making and three for feed.

  • Fungicides armoury under attack

    June 8th 2007

    THE disease onslaught on wheat this season and the discovery of new races of brown rust on Robigus and Hyperion and possibly Oakley and Timber is set to trigger a major re-think of variety choice and fungicide policy for 2008, according to agronomists.

  • Group 3 wheat varieties suffer as growers put focus on yields

    June 8th 2007

    Group 4 varieties account for 38 per cent of crop

  • OSR candidates impress in trials

    June 8th 2007

    HGCA has flagged up 11 candidate oilseed rape varieties for possible recommendation this coming autumn and two, in particular, offer gross outputs that could challenge the existing Recommended List ‘big hitters’.

  • Plenty of choice for winter rape growers

    June 8th 2007

    WHEN it comes to Recommended winter oilseed rape varieties growers are faced with a bigger choice than ever, says NIAB’s Simon Kightley.

  • Potato insecticide is registered

    June 8th 2007

    A NEW potato insecticide has received registration just in time for what is predicted will be a high-pressure season for aphids.

  • Seed treatments’ new names

    June 8th 2007

    CEREAL seed treatments Baytan and Baytan Secur are to be marketed under new brand names Tripod and Tripod Plus from this autumn onwards. Both are unchanged in formulation.

  • Threat to top leaves means challenging times ahead for T3

    June 8th 2007

    A T3 spend will be obligatory this year as wheat crops continue to be threatened by septoria in the west and by rusts from the south coast to north east Scotland. FG asked the experts how to protect yields on this last lap to harvest.

  • Topic sheet aiming to tackle ramularia

    June 8th 2007

    A NEW HGCA topic sheet gives the latest information on control of ramularia in barley, which has been increasing in incidence in recent years.

  • Trophy winner to be revealed at the Great Yorkshire Show

    June 8th 2007

    THE 2007 FWAG Tye Trophy winner is set to be unveiled on Wednesday June 11, the second day of this year's Great Yorkshire Show.

  • Weather is key to midge threat

    June 8th 2007

    Wheat orange blossom midge ‘years’ are sporadic but can have a devastating effect. Is 2007 turning out to be a midge year? Alison Lea looks at the risk around the country and reviews what we know about this pest and how to prevent it damaging crops.

  • Weed Focus Conference

    June 8th 2007

    Weed Focus is about optimising weed control through knowledge, innovation and best practice.

  • New names for cereal seed treatments Baytan and Baytan Secur

    7 June 2007

    CEREAL seed treatments Baytan and Baytan Secur are to be marketed under new brand names Tripod and Tripod Plus from this autumn onwards. Both are unchanged in formulation.

  • New insecticide InSyst registered in time for aphid control this season

    7 June 2007

    A NEW potato insecticide has received registration just in time for what experts predict will be a high-pressure season for aphids.

  • Control of ramularia in barley

    6 June 2007

    A NEW HGCA topic sheet gives the latest information on control of ramularia in barley, which has been increasing in incidence in recent years. The disease has reduced yields for some farmers, especially of crops grown for malting in northern Britain.

  • Telone II use permitted until March 2009

    6 June 2007

    THE EU’s Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health has voted against the inclusion of the fumigant 1,3-Dichloropropene in Annex 1 of Directive 91/414/EC.

  • New spraying guide

    4 June 2007

    BCPC has published a quick and easy-to-use guide to spraying within the law. ‘Using Pesticides’, produced by BCPC for farmers, growers and those operating in the horticultural, forestry and amenity sectors, provides all the information operators need to apply pesticides safely, accurately and within the law.

  • ‘Profiting from yield’

    June 1st 2007

    Cereals has become a ‘first look’ opportunity for upcoming varieties and also provides an ideal opportunity to quiz breeders and end-users on variety performance. Here’s a snapshot of what will be on offer at the event.

  • ‘World cannot afford a wheat crop problem’

    June 1st 2007

    ALTHOUGH a large world wheat crop is forecast this summer the world cannot afford to have a crop problem because of the current extremely tight stock situation.

  • Biocrop/biomass the theme

    June 1st 2007

    SAVILLS will have a biocrop/biomass theme in their marquee (415) for both days. There will be discussion sessions with independent guest experts from the biocrop and biomass industry available to advise and talk to visitors to the stand. Confirmed speakers include representatives from the NFU, Renewables East and Greenfinch.

  • Biofuel bike highlights renewable energy

    June 1st 2007

    AGRONOMY specialist Agrovista (754) will be giving visitors a chance to win a biofuel ready EcoRider at Cereals.

  • Biofuel bike highlights renewable energy

    June 1st 2007

    AGRONOMY specialist Agrovista (754) will be giving visitors a chance to win a biofuel ready EcoRider at Cereals.

  • Black-grass control and management

    June 1st 2007

    Bayer CropScience (605) will be highlighting the value of pre-emergence herbicide Liberator (diflufenican+flufenacet) as an  important first treatment before Atlantis (iodosulfuron+ mesosulfuron) for black-grass control, yield and resistance management.

  • Case IH Puma launch

    June 1st 2007

    CASE IH is set for the UK launch of its new European-built Puma tractor range.

  • Cereals / Varieties

    June 1st 2007

    Excel impresses

  • Crop nutrient management

    June 1st 2007

    THE main focus of the Terra stand (604) will be on effective nutrient management, particularly of nitrogen and sulphur in combinable crops.

  • Crop plots – the ‘must see’ technical heart of the event

    June 1st 2007

    MORE than 90 crop plots created by more than 30 exhibitors will deliver the ‘must-see’ technical heart of the Cereals Event 2007.

  • Crop production and environment

    June 1st 2007

    Velcourt’s crop plots (stand 602) at Cereals are divided into two main themes: Crop production and environment.

  • CropWalker products update

    June 1st 2007

    CEREALS will update growers and agronomists with the latest news and developments on the CropWalker family of products, says Muddy Boots (427). Developments revealed at this year’s event will include CropWalker Mobile, the successor to Pocket CropWalker, which is to be released following the launch of Microsoft Windows Mobile 5.0. Features include a restyled user interface with simplified menus and enhanced functionality.

  • Does it pay to be green?

    June 1st 2007

    CAROLINE Drummond from LEAF and farmer spokesman Guy Smith will ask ‘Does it pay to be green?’ in one of three Forums being run by the Cereals event’s principal sponsor HSBC Agriculture on both days of the event at 2.30pm.

  • First look at Claas Conspeed

    June 1st 2007

    Claas is planning to provide visitors with a first look at its new Conspeed maize header – recognition by the company that grain maize is becoming an increasingly important crop in the UK. The new header employs conical rollers which capture the stalk before breaking off the attached cob. While the cob continues into the combine, the stalk is chopped up by a horizontal knife positioned beneath the picking area.

  • Forums, seminars and advice

    June 1st 2007

    HSBC Agriculture, the dedicated farming division of HSBC Bank plc, is the principal sponsor of Cereals.

  • Good practice is Potash Association’s theme

    June 1st 2007

    THE Potash Development Association’s (810) theme for Cereals 2007 is based around improving practice and the need for good crop nutrient management – whatever the crop.

  • Grain storage and pricing / Varieties and markets / Biofuels and climate change / Food and nutrition

    June 1st 2007

    HGCA's stand (306) this year will showcase the latest research results on a wide range of topical issues, as well as offering the chance to get first-hand information on factors affecting the markets.

  • High performers from CPB Twyford

    June 1st 2007

    CPB Twyford will feature two new high yielding feed wheats on its stand which are expected to take a 10 per cent market share of the UK wheat area this autumn.

  • HOLL and hybrid oilseed rape

    June 1st 2007

    GRAINFARMERS (816) are offering more information on HOLL and hybrid oilseed rape, new winter wheat varieties and new options for grain storage. Staff will talk visitors through the growing HOLL (high oleic, low linolenic) market, what makes the ‘right’ farm for HOLL and which regions are the most appropriate for expansion of the HOLL Vistive oilseed rape varieties, which could be worth £30-40/t over double lows.

  • Improve your nitrogen footprint

    June 1st 2007

    ‘Recycle your rubbish, use low energy light bulbs, don’t leave the video on standby and, whatever you do, don’t take a plane! The pressure to be green has never been greater. While there is nothing wrong in asking people to be green we do need to keep a degree of perspective in the debate.’

  • Kverneland Accord i-drill Pro

    June 1st 2007

    Kverneland’s presence will include the Accord I-Drill Pro power harrow/drill combination which, says the company, uses modular components for the seed hopper, markers, toolbar and steps.

  • Looking beyond farming alone to make a living

    June 1st 2007

    THERE is an increased willingness among landowners to look beyond farming alone in order to make a living, according to a survey of landowners conducted by the Country Land and Business Association (CLA).

  • Managing brown rust

    June 1st 2007

    RUST has been a hot topic this spring and, at Cereals, NIAB is aiming to help growers manage the disease threat with information on rust diversification, emphasising the importance of correct choice of variety to reduce the risk of the development of rust epidemics.

  • Mccormick XTX tractor range

    June 1st 2007

    AS McCormick rides out the turmoil of transferring tractor production from Doncaster to Italy it has set about introducing new members to its XTX tractor range.

  • Meeting the 70t beet challenge

    June 1st 2007

    THE British Beet Research Organisation/ British Sugar stand (616) will be majoring on increasing yields and meeting the industry’s 70 tonnes/hectare yield challenge.

  • Min-till with a capability to direct drill too

    June 1st 2007

    The search for lower establishment costs has led one Warwickshire grower to ditch the plough and opt for a min-till approach that offers the capability to direct drill too. Geoff Ashcroft looks at the system in use.

  • Mycotoxin test

    June 1st 2007

    STATE OF THE ART mycotoxin diagnostic products can be seen for the first time in the UK on the Calibre Control stand 7(18).

  • New guide to winter OSR

    June 1st 2007

    LOOK out for a definitive new guide to winter OSR management to be launched by oilseeds experts, DEKALB at Cereals.

  • New products launched

    June 1st 2007

    Farm Works (447) is launching several new products at Cereals. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the new version of the X2 software which has been improved and updated since it was initially on show at LAMMA in January.

  • Nitrogen application focus: Winter wheat variety trial

    June 1st 2007

    NITROGEN application will be the focus on one of two trial plots being organised by independent agronomy company, TAG (The Arable Group).

  • On-farm processing study

    June 1st 2007

    RESULTS of a study that has reviewed the potential for on-farm processing of various non-food crop products, will be announced by the National Non Food Crops Centre (528) at the event.

  • PGRO approach for pulse grower

    June 1st 2007

    PGRO is planning a coordinated approach to demonstrating and discussing pulses for Cereals 2007, involving BEPA, NIAB and PGRO.

  • Same Deutz-Fahr

    June 1st 2007

    A busy event for Same Deutz-Fahr, Cereals will see the company forging ahead with its determination to make its mark in the combine harvester market.

  • Sprays & Sprayers

    June 1st 2007

    Sprays and Sprayers is now an integral part of Cereals. As ever, this important sector will present visitors with static and working displays of the latest developments in sprayer machinery.

  • The RB209 fertiliser guidelines

    June 1st 2007

    ROTHAMSTED Research wants to make the most of the opportunity offered by Cereals to talk to farmers about its current work but more particularly about the RB209 fertiliser guidelines.

  • The real biofuels agenda

    June 1st 2007

    The competition between food and fuel production will be at the heart of the debate in the HSBC Forums at this year’s Cereals event.

  • Trailed machine replaces self-propelled

    June 1st 2007

    Growing a grain heap cheap is how Warwickshire farmer Robert Hadley sums up the challenge for growers. Wanting to simplify his system further he is making the move to liquid fertiliser, which has resulted in the self-propelled being swapped for a larger capacity trailed machine.

  • UK introduction of John Deere iTEC Pro

    June 1st 2007

    JOHN Deere’s march to ever greater sophistication in electronic automation for its tractors continues with the UK introduction of the company’s iTEC Pro headland management system.

  • Vigour and yield potential

    June 1st 2007

    THE Glenside Group (607) has a range of cereal crops in the ground at the Cereals site with the aim of demonstrating that nitrogen is not the only limiting factor on vigour and yield potential, even when nitrogen rates are cut by as much as a third.

  • Vine Farm hosts event for third time

    June 1st 2007

    The 1,392-hectare Vine Farm, near Wendy, will be hosting the Cereals event for the third time, when growers and exhibitors gather on the Cambridgeshire unit this June.

  • Weed control solutions

    June 1st 2007

    VISITORS to the Dow AgroSciences stand (822) will have the opportunity to get a preview of new chemistry designed to deliver a range of weed control solutions to cereal growers, which the company is developing for launch in the near future.

  • What is carbon neutral farming?

    June 1st 2007

    CAN UK agriculture ever achieve a carbon neutral footprint?

  • Win a cap spanner

    June 1st 2007

    Win one of hundreds of free spanners for making light work of removing crop protection pack lids on the Syngenta stand (900).

  • Eccleshall project ready to burn local miscanthus

    30 May 2007

    CROPS of miscanthus planted back in 2004 had their first commercial harvest last year, says Mike Cooper, chairman of the BiEcc miscanthus producer group, which was created three years ago by Bical and encompasses the Eccleshall project in Staffordshire.

  • A man on a mission

    30 May 2007

    SUFFOLK farmer and director of Agricultural Development in the Eastern Region, Chris Knock, has been awarded a Farmers’ Club scholarship to study how governments are changing farming policies to be more carbon-friendly.

  • CropCo loyalty card

    30 May 2007

    AN East Anglian agricultural merchant has launched what is believed to be the farming industry’s first loyalty card.

  • Strike a balance for good yields

    30 May 2007

    THE best oilseed rape yields require a balance to be struck between good establishment and giving plants space to branch out, says Richard Fenwick, of Cambridge Arable Technologies.

  • An unconventional approach

    May 25th 2007

    The Organic Research Centre trial work’s theme at Wakelyns Agroforestry in Suffolk is challenging disease and other problems through diversity. CLEMMIE GLEESON reports.

  • Black stem rust threat is ‘very real’

    May 25th 2007

    The threat of black stem rust returning to the UK is a very real one, warns Professor Martin Wolfe of The Organic Research Centre .

  • Bruchid beetles in bean crops

    May 25th 2007

    BRUCHID beetles are now present in crops of winter and spring field beans, according to agronomists this week.

  • Early potato recapturing the market

    May 25th 2007

    With a farm just a stone’s throw from Land’s End, seeking out a market is never going to be easy. But Richard Thomas, along with a dozen or so of his neighbours, has managed to do just that. David Burrows reports on the continued renaissance of the Cornish early potato.

  • Emergency off-label approval for Biscaya

    May 25th 2007

    THE British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) has received an emergency off-label approval for the use of the insecticide Biscaya (thiacloprid) to control MACE resistant aphids. 

  • High risk of virus spread from winged aphids

    May 25th 2007

    EARLY results from virus tests on winged aphids caught in water pans suggest that the number carrying the virus is likely to be at least as high or higher than in recent seasons.

  • High yields, flexibility and disease resistance from new group 4 varieties

    May 25th 2007

    PLANT breeders at CPB Twyford have officially launched two new group 4 hard feed wheat varieties, Humber and Oakley.

  • Prompt action required to tackle OWBM

    May 25th 2007

    LATEST PestWatch information from Dow AgroSciences suggests that wheat blossom midge populations are comparable with those in 2005.

  • Protect yield and quality – think carefully about T3 options

    May 25th 2007

    The traditional ear wash treatment at GS 59-65 has a vital job in keeping the flag leaf disease free.

  • Rain while much needed has increased OSR disease risk

    May 25th 2007

    WHILE the much-needed rain has been welcomed, it has brought back the threat of sclerotinia in oilseed rape crops that are still flowering, along with the risk of alternaria infecting pods.

  • Rust becomes a threat much earlier than usual

    May 25th 2007

    RUST is developing quickly in winter field beans and is set to be a major threat in spring beans too.

  • T3 treatment ‘critical’ if brown rust risks re-appear

    May 25th 2007

    SLIGHTLY more wheat crops will need a T3 spray for disease control this season compared to last year, according to Chris Bean, technical director, UAP.

  • Emergency off-label approval for Biscaya

    18 May 2007

    THE British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) has received an emergency off-label approval for the use of the insecticide Biscaya (thiacloprid) to control MACE resistant aphids.

  • A strong trials performance means early Komando launch

    May 18th 2007

    WINTER oilseed rape Komando from CPB Twyford is to be marketed this autumn, a year earlier than originally planned on the back of good disease resistance ratings and a strong performance in trials.

  • Cercospera has capacity to devastate beet crops

    May 18th 2007

    SUGAR beet growers are being alerted to a leaf spot disease, which although not yet established in the UK, has the potential to devastate a crop of sugar beet in a very short space of time.

  • Early aphid migration service for potato growers

    May 18th 2007

    The British Potato Council’s web-based aphid-monitoring service has now gone live for the 2007 season to help potato seed growers maintain the high health status of the British crop.

  • New brown rust race found in UK – survey

    May 18th 2007

    RESULTS from this year’s UK Cereal Pathogen Virulence Survey suggest that a new race of brown rust is present on winter wheat crops in the UK.

  • New root shape for beet reduces tares

    May 18th 2007

    THREE of the new additions to the BBRO-funded NIAB sugar beet Recommended List for 2008 – Trinita, Alota and Opta – all benefit from the new Hilleshog root shape, which is said to reduce dirt and crown tares.

  • NEWS IN BRIEF

    May 18th 2007

    SOLA for Defy

  • Varietal resistance still a vital part of disease management

    May 18th 2007

    WHILE varietal resistance to disease in oilseed rape is currently contributing to yield improvements, greater flexibility in spray timings and potential savings in fungicide applications, in some diseases it is steadily being overcome.

  • Wheat at risk from OWBM from late May

    May 18th 2007

    RAIN following recent high temperature weather conditions means that an attack of orange wheat blossom midge is possible this year. Soil samples indicate high numbers of larvae present.

  • Wetter soils mean wild oats are likely

    15 May 2007

    WATCH out for sudden bursts of wild oat germination and growth after recent rainfall, cereal growers are being urged.

  • Defy Sola

    15 May 2007

    THE herbicide Defy (prosulfocarb) is now available under an HDC Specific Off Label Approval (SOLA) for broad-spectrum weed control in onions and leeks.

  • Defra approves GM potato site

    14 May 2007

    DEFRA has approved an application for a trials programme of GM disease-resistant potatoes in East Yorkshire.

  • Grazing Monitor: Grazing conditions look good

    11 May 2007

    DESPITE April being one of the warmest and driest on record, our contributor farmers report good grazing conditions and signs that growth is recovering to normal levels.

  • Keeping it local means organic crops direct to nearby mill and bakery

    11 May 2007

    Hertfordshire grower Howard Roberts is benefiting from the surge of interest in local food by supplying a nearby mill and bakery with organic cereals.

  • ‘Put brown rust at campaign forefront’

    May 11th 2007

    WITH unprecedented levels of brown rust now in evidence in the UK’s wheat crop, growers are being advised to put the disease at the forefront of their T2 fungicide campaign.

  • Bright future predicted for sugar beet with dual role

    May 11th 2007

    SUGAR beet has a bright future despite the uncertainty seen in recent years, according to Syngenta’s global head of sugar beet research and development.

  • Carbon assurance required ‘eventually’

    May 11th 2007

    VIRTUALLY unheard of a few years ago, climate change is now being talked about by almost everybody, Alan Buckwell, the CLA’s chief economist and head of land use, told farmers at the Lincolnshire Agricultural Society’s spring lecture.

  • Exemption granted for lined biobeds

    May 11th 2007

    NEW exemptions to the agricultural waste regulations mean that growers can install lined biobeds to treat pesticide washings and run-off from pesticide handling areas.

  • Fusarium ear blight infections affected by late season weather

    May 11th 2007

    ANNUAL monitoring to check for wheat samples that exceed EU limits for DON mycotoxin levels have emphasised the importance of late season weather on fusarium ear blight infection levels.

  • Is Energy Aid worth applying for this year?

    May 11th 2007

    ENERGY crops are set to be less financially attractive this year than they have been in previous years, according to the NFU, which is advising farmers to take the time to work out whether applying for the EU Energy Aid scheme is worthwhile before sending off their forms.

  • NEWS IN BRIEF

    May 11th 2007

    Foliar sprays may assist yield

  • One-stop shop for blight alerts

    May 11th 2007

    POTATO growers are set to get free, real time access to both weather-based warnings and actual local outbreaks following the decision of two powerful web-based blight decision support tools to combine.

  • Pesticide taxation plan

    May 11th 2007

    THE European Crop Protection Association has described a European Parliament industry committee proposal on pesticide taxation as ‘problematic’. The proposal that member states may introduce a tax or levy on plant protection products was one of several agreed by the committee. Other proposals related to restrictions on use of plant protection products in sensitive areas and the prohibition of repackaging of parallel import agrochemicals.

  • Spend a little time and you can save a lot of energy

    May 11th 2007

    In the second of FG’s four-part series on agriculture and our climate David Burrows looks at some measures to save energy – and money – on-farm.

  • Wheat crops will left vulnerable by earlier T2 sprays

    May 11th 2007

    John Parry reports on how to keep milling wheat crops free of disease and protect the quality of the grain from a technical briefing at the UK’s largest flour mill on Southampton docks.

  • Brown rust must be at forefront of fungicide efforts

    8 May 2007

    WITH unprecedented levels of brown rust now in evidence in the UK’s wheat crop, growers are being advised to put the disease at the forefront of their T2 fungicide campaign.

  • ‘UK could meet double its biofuel target if planned plants were at full capacity’

    May 4th 2007

    The biofuels market has grown dramatically in recent years as a result of increasing awareness of global warming and its effects, combined with general concerns on security of energy supply. Biofuels are being promoted as a step in helping to tackle these problems, and many countries globally have taken it upon themselves to set objectives and targets for biofuel inclusion in their fuel usage. FG asked HGCA environment economist Helena Athanasiou to outline some of the dynamics affecting ...

  • Branching out into olives

    May 4th 2007

    THINK olive groves and most people look to Italy, Greece or Spain – but all that could be set to change with the planting of the first olive trees in North Wales.

  • Case study: Hammonds End Farm, Hertfordshire

    May 4th 2007

    Hammonds End Farm is a 270-acre farm in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, owned and managed by Howard Roberts.

  • Case study: Lavenham Lodge Farm, Suffolk

    May 4th 2007

    John Pawsey farms 2,430 acres at Lavenham Lodge Farm, 724 acres of which is under farm management contracts. In 1999, 350 acres was converted to organic production.

  • Case study: Rushbrooke farms, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

    May 4th 2007

    Conversion of land at Rushbrooke Farms started in 2000 with 250 hectares of the total 600 hectares.

  • DEMAND for organic animal feed up 30 per cent

    May 4th 2007

    DEMAND for organic animal feed has grown by 30 per cent in the past 18 months, explained Nigel Gossett of Norton Organic Grain.

  • Growing the family business to cater for the market

    May 4th 2007

    BARRY ALSTON takes a look at how Pembrokeshire’s first early potato crops are shaping up.

  • Inspect beet crops for aphids

    May 4th 2007

    SUGAR beet growers are being advised to start inspecting crops that have not been treated with either an insecticidal seed treatment or granules for aphids following the discovery of wingless myzus persicae at near spray threshold levels in a crop in Suffolk.

  • Margins from better-performing OSR crops nearly 40pc greater, national study finds

    May 4th 2007

    BETTER performing oilseed rape crops generated gross margins nearly 40 per cent higher than the average and well over double those earned by their poorer-performing contemporaries last season, according to results from ProCam Agronomy’s latest annual OSR performance study.

  • New canopy complete stage blight fungicide launched

    May 4th 2007

    A new blight fungicide from Syngenta will be available this spring, after going from development to registration in less than eight years.

  • Report claims crop approval processes are biased against GM

    May 4th 2007

    THE approval processes for genetically modified and conventional crops are fundamentally flawed and biased against GM.

  • Rotation design ‘essential’ to success

    May 4th 2007

    ROTATIONS are essential for the organic producer to reduce the weed, pest and disease burdens of the land and are the route to successful organic cropping, explained Andrew Trump of the Organic Arable Marketing Group.

  • UK arable sector could take advantage of organic ‘boom’, says Soil Association

    May 4th 2007

    Is converting to organic arable production worth it? CLEMMIE GLEESON reports from a Soil Association event held at Rushbrooke Farms, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, which aimed to show growers that it is.

  • Club root ‘increasing concern’

    April 27th 2007

    Club root is becoming an increasing concern in winter rape, mainly because of tighter rotations and milder, wetter weather.

  • Controlling disease amid changing blight populations

    April 27th 2007

    WHAT do we actually know about the dramatic rise of A2 blight genotypes and will current strategies need to be adapted?

  • Exceptional year has raised the threat from brown rust

    April 27th 2007

    WHEAT growers are being warned to monitor crops carefully for brown rust after an unexpected number of reports of the disease early in the season.

  • Guidance on N for bioethanol crops

    April 27th 2007

    NO specific fertiliser adjustments are merited for crops grown for the bioethanol market compared to the feed market, according to research commissioned by the HGCA.

  • Higher prices for peas and beans

    April 27th 2007

    A REDUCTION in pea and bean plantings this season has now resulted in a shortage of the crop and higher prices for growers, according to the Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO) this week.

  • Mealy aphids putting OSR crops under early pressure

    April 27th 2007

    MEALY aphids, not normally seen until flowering is all but over, are being found in rape crops in the southern half of Britain.

  • NEWS IN BRIEF

    April 27th 2007

    Model assesses sclerotinia risk

  • OSR at risk from N application delays due to dry spring

    April 27th 2007

    DELAYING application of nitrogen to oilseed rape could result in a yield penalty this year because of the dry spring weather, according to agronomy group TAG.

  • Bill Clark to join Rothamsted Research

    24 April 2007

    LEADING plant pathologist Bill Clark has been appointed as the new head of the BBSRC sugar beet research station Broom’s Barn.

  • High temperatures lead to a brown rust epidemic

    23 April 2007

    WHEAT growers are being urged to monitor crops carefully for brown rust after an unusually high number of reports of the disease early in the season.

  • Research findings for the bioethanol and feed markets

    23 April 2007

    NO specific fertiliser adjustments are merited for crops grown for the bioethanol market compared to the feed market, according to research commissioned by HGCA.

  • Agriculture and climate change

    April 20th 2007

    Agriculture has been, at times reluctantly, thrust to the front of the climate change debate. In a series of four articles, David Burrows looks at the impact of agriculture on our climate and the solutions to mitigate it. He begins with a focus on methane and nitrous oxide – potent greenhouse gases that we understand little about</s>.

  • Bayer to take back unused Temik stocks

    April 20th 2007

    STOCKS of Temik (aldicarb) still held on farms by potato, carrot and parsnip growers can now be returned.

  • Delay to wheat intake at Trafford Park

    April 20th 2007

    WHEAT intake into the new starch and glucose manufacturing plant at Trafford Park, Manchester, will begin from this harvest, says Frontier Agriculture trading director Jon Duffy.

  • Limit the gap between T1 and T2 to overcome the threat from yellow rust

    April 20th 2007

    HEAVY dews and sunny days are favouring yellow rust development in wheats and catching a number of growers by surprise.

  • Spreader calibration benefits all

    April 20th 2007

    IMPROVED crop yield and environmental benefits can be achieved through regular fertiliser spreader calibration, a survey of Dorset farmers has revealed.

  • Two unsprayed rows mitigate effect of GMHT sugar beet on bird populations

    April 20th 2007

    LEAVING two rows of sugar beet in every 100 unsprayed would mitigate any adverse effects of genetically-modified herbicide-tolerant sugar beet on food for farmland birds, according to research conducted at Broom’s Barn.

  • Temik stocks can be returned

    17 April 2007

    STOCKS of Temik (aldicarb) still held on farms by potato, carrot and parsnip growers can now be returned.

  • Growers urged to monitor cereal crop bases

    16 April 2007

    BE sure to monitor the state of cereal crop bases and take necessary action to fend off disease and lodging pressure at this month’s major T1 spray timing, growers are being urged.

  • Muck and Maize special

    13 April 2007

    MAIZE fields are a great place to use your muck but do not waste this valuable resource by ignoring the nutrients it contains or applying it at the wrong time.

  • Avoiding soil erosion is vital when growing maize

    April 13th 2007

    TO maximise the benefits of manure phosphate the focus has to be on keeping the soil in the field, said Mr Richardson.

  • Breaking new ground in Shropshire

    April 13th 2007

    CRIMPED maize is being promoted as a potential new break crop for arable farmers in north Shropshire and south Cheshire while adding a useful addition to the feeds available to the area’s dairy farmers.

  • Choose the right variety and the right sowing time

    April 13th 2007

    DESPITE the large part maize silage plays in feeding the UK dairy herd, reliability of performance and the implications for ration formulation remain a low priority for many when choosing varieties.

  • Conservation meets commercial farming

    April 13th 2007

    The Lincolnshire Fens are normally associated with intensive arable and vegetable production, but in the heart of Deeping Fen, Nicholas Watts is proving that commercial farming can go hand in hand with wildlife conservation.

  • Plastic fantastic?

    April 13th 2007

    “IT’S like moving your fields over to France,” says Sam Shine of Ireland-based manufacturing company, Samco.

  • Plastic gives an average 30 per cent yield boost for maize

    April 13th 2007

    MAIZE production in the UK has long been the preserve of growers based in the south west of England and along southern stretches of the country across to Kent, where warmer climes have suited a crop originally bred to thrive in the higher temperatures found on mainland Europe and in the US.

  • Potato growers urged to ‘adopt a school’

    April 13th 2007

    LINKING farmers and schools to educate children about potato production is the key aim of the ‘Adopt a School’ initiative being launched this month by the British Potato Council.

  • Timing is everything with muck spreading

    April 13th 2007

    MAIZE fields are a great place to use your muck but do not waste this valuable resource by ignoring the nutrients it contains or applying it at the wrong time.

  • Tougher controls expected on nitrogen fertiliser use

    April 13th 2007

    AN EU Commission report on member states’ implementation of the Nitrates Directive has concluded that significant progress is being made, but considerable work will be required in order to fully achieve the objectives of the directive with regard to water quality.

  • Black stem rust’s spread could be a future concern

    12 April 2007

    A VIRULENT strain of black stem rust fungus which is spreading in wheat crops across Africa and into Asia is not of immediate concern to British growers, but may become a problem in the future.

  • Economics of willow needs to improve

    12 April 2007

    RISING energy prices and growing government support have encouraged farmers to look closely at alternative non-food and biomass crops in recent years.

  • Increased disease and pest risk in advanced OSR crops

    12 April 2007

    OILSEED rape growers are being advised that crops racing towards flowering and then checked by cold weather will need careful management to avoid excessive losses to pests and diseases.

  • NIAB publishes the 2007 Organic Vegetable Handbook

    12 April 2007

    The Organic Vegetable Handbook 2007 is now available from the NIAB.

  • CLA centenary survey

    10 April 2007

    CLA is inviting Farmers Guardian readers to take a few moments to fill in its centenary questionnaire.

  • ‘User-friendly’ review of National Register of Sprayer Operators

    April 6th 2007

    THE widely-criticised National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) scheme is to be reviewed over the next few months with the aim of delivering a more user-friendly version for farmers by the autumn.

  • BPC says potato plantings progressing well nationally

    April 6th 2007

    IMPROVING soil conditions have resulted in good progress being made with potato planting, according to the British Potato Council this week.

  • Cereal Disease Control

    April 6th 2007

    FARMERS Guardian has the latest news on cereal disease development and management.

  • Cherokee approved for higher dose rate

    April 6th 2007

    A NEW, higher dose rate has been approved in the UK for the cereal fungicide Cherokee (chlorothalonil+cyproconazole+propiconazole).

  • Crops looking pretty good in south

    April 6th 2007

    WINTER WHEAT

  • Disease levels lower after dry spell

    April 6th 2007

    With the majority of cereal crops now at growth stages 30 to 31 and with T0 sprays either having gone on, or currently being applied, JOANNA BAKER asks two agronomists how crops are looking, what levels of disease are around and what products are being considered for the T1 timing.

  • EU barley production up

    April 6th 2007

    EU-25 barley production is expected to rise 4.5 million tonnes to 58.8Mt in 2007/08, according to Strategie Grains, driven by a rise in plantings and improved yields. Spring barley plantings are seen up 1.4 per cent to 8.5Mha.The largest increase in spring areas is expected in France and the UK while Denmark and Germany expect spring plantings to fall.

  • Farmers praised for helping the VI meet its targets

    April 6th 2007

    FARMERS supporting the Voluntary Initiative (VI) have received double praise this week for their role in improving biodiversity and meeting most of the targets set by the initiative’s organisers last year.

  • Fungicide-induced host defence is of benefit against other pathogens

    April 6th 2007

    AS part of its R&D strategy, BASF has sought to understand the non-fungicidal effects and benefits of plant fungicides since the introduction of its first strobilurin, kresoxim-methyl.

  • Joules chlorothalonil withdrawn after formulation discrepancies

    April 6th 2007

    THE fungicide Joules has been withdrawn following a Pesticides Safety Directorate investigation into the supply of chlorothalonil products.

  • Keep on top of mildew

    April 6th 2007

    EARLY preventative mildew control in cereals will pay dividends this season, according to Dow AgroSciences.

  • Lodging may indicate eyespot infection

    April 6th 2007

    Do not neglect eyespot in first wheat – doing so could lose yield. And don’t dismiss lodging as purely seasonal – it could indicate a severe eyespot infection.

  • N rates spring 2007

    April 6th 2007

    Sandy or shallow soils with no over-winter crop cover.

  • New co-form well suited to T0 and T1

    April 6th 2007

    NEW chlorothalonil+ epoxiconazole+metrafenone co-formulation Ceando is well placed for use at T0 and T1 this season, according to Velcourt technical director Keith Norman.

  • Newest UK plant turns rapeseed oil into ‘green fuel’

    April 6th 2007

    Biofuel company Greenergy has started production at its new biodiesel plant at Immingham. CLEMMIE GLEESON went to visit.

  • PSD publishes details for the withdrawal of trifluralin

    April 6th 2007

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) has published details of herbicides containing trifluralin that are to be withdrawn following the EU’s Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health vote last month for the non-inclusion of the active ingredient on Annex 1.

  • Research at IGER looks at ryegrass as a renewable chemical source for the future

    April 6th 2007

    GRASSLAND could soon be the source of a range of chemicals used in plastics, coatings and cosmetics, according to a team of scientists based in Wales.

  • Six new sugar beet varieties

    April 6th 2007

    SIX new sugar beet varieties join the NIAB Recommended List for the first time for 2008 taking the total number of varieties available for selection up to 22.

  • Soil nitrogen levels drop – but only to average season levels

    April 6th 2007

    LAST autumn’s high soil nitrogen levels have reduced significantly over the winter but only to levels typical of an average season, according to ADAS.

  • Timing is vital to achieve good levels of cavity spot control

    April 6th 2007

    CARROT growers can achieve good levels of cavity spot control with SL567A (metalaxyl-M), but application timing is crucial to get the best results.

  • Trial results show benefits for septoria control and yield

    April 6th 2007

    USING a prothioconazole+ chlorothalonil mix at T1 had a useful additional effect on septoria control last year, and had a neutral effect on eyespot performance.

  • Triazoles still the backbone

    April 6th 2007

    THE field performance of triazoles has received considerable attention recently.

  • Fungicides

    April 6th 2007

    Need to check a cereal fungicide active ingredient, latest use date or LERAP? Supplied by BCPC, we have listings which cover winter and spring wheat and barley, oats, rye and triticale.

  • Potato planting going well

    4 April 2007

    IMPROVING soil conditions have resulted in good progress being made with potato planting, according to the British Potato Council.

  • Spray pressure mounts on early wheats

    4 April 2007

    FOR the second year running growers are facing up to the prospects of high spring spray costs to keep over-proud crops on course.

  • Scientists use grassland for £1 million project

    4 April 2007

    GRASSLAND could soon be the source of a range of chemicals used in plastics, coatings and cosmetics, according to a team of scientists based in Wales.

  • New additions join NIAB Recommended List

    4 April 2007

    SIX new sugar beet varieties join the NIAB Recommended List for the first time for 2008 taking the total number of varieties available for selection up to 22.

  • Joules withdrawn from market

    4 April 2007

    THE fungicide Joules has been withdrawn following a Pesticides Safety Directorate investigation into the supply of chlorothalonil products.

  • Brands have made explaining what’s on offer much simpler

    March 30th 2007

    EXPORTS of wheat have been boosted by the development of the uks and ukp brands, according to grain merchant Frontier Agriculture, who have been using the brands since their introduction in 2004.

  • Defra implements EU scab tolerance

    March 30th 2007

    DEFRA has announced that the EC minimum tolerance for common scab is to apply to all pre-basic, basic and certified grades of seed potatoes in England and Wales.

  • Fewer options and increased costs

    March 30th 2007

    LOSS of either isoproturon (IPU) or trifluralin is disappointing but loss of the two active ingredients together raises questions over the continuing availability of alternative herbicide options available to growers.

  • First-timer lands Lioness OSR prize

    March 30th 2007

    YORKSHIRE farmer David Massey is the winner of the DLF Trifolium/Farmers Guardian competition to find the highest oil content achieved for the variety Lioness last harvest.

  • Herbicides to be withdrawn

    March 30th 2007

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) has published details of herbicides containing trifluralin that are to be withdrawn following the EU’s vote last month for the non-inclusion of the active ingredient on Annex 1.

  • Ideal weather gets sugar beet

    March 30th 2007

    WITH warm and sunny spring-like weather and near ideal soil conditions in the first half of the month beet drilling got off to a flying start.

  • Maltsters aim to increase their exports

    March 30th 2007

    HGCA, in conjunction with Greencore Malt, hosted a delegation of brewers from the Caribbean to further the export opportunities for UK malt.

  • Mosaic virus symptoms strong

    March 30th 2007

    BARLEY mosaic virus symptoms in non-resistant varieties are the strongest seen for many years, according to Nickerson.  Now is a good time for growers to check their winter barley fields for mosaic virus infection, says Paul Fenwick of the company’s plant pathology team.

  • new rules on IPU and trifluralin in the UK

    March 30th 2007

    IPU – what has happened?: The Pesticides Safety Directorate has announced that the advertisement, sale, supply and use of all products containing IPU, including mixture products, is to be phased out in the UK by June 30, 2009. All existing approvals have been amended with immediate effect to restrict the maximum application rate to 1.5kg/ha (1,500g of AI per hectare) during the withdrawal period.

  • Opening up new markets for UK wheat

    March 30th 2007

    BRITISH wheats are suitable for international bread making and can be used for a variety of world breads. That was the message from the HGCA’s British Cereal Exports team to millers and bakers from around the world when they visited the UK recently to attend a Bread Baking Workshop in Gloucestershire. JOANNA BAKER asked the HGCA how the visit helps the UK wheat export market, which has an average availability of 2.5 to 3 million tonnes a year.

  • Safeguarding water for farming in the future

    March 30th 2007

    Irrigated agriculture and horticulture brings around £10 million per year into the local economy of east Suffolk. Alison Lea profiles a group that works to safeguard water for farmers.

  • Sclerotinia disease monitoring for 2007 goes live

    March 30th 2007

    THIS season’s sclerotinia germination monitoring service for oilseed rape went live on Monday at www.totaloilseedcare.co.uk.

  • Trifluralin exclusion bad news for black grass management

    March 30th 2007

    THE EU vote to exclude the herbicide active ingredient trifluralin from Annex 1 is bad news for farmers and will create a major challenge for effective grass weed control on UK farms, according to James Knight of Dow AgroSciences.

  • Voluntary IPU compliance will prevent compulsion

    March 30th 2007

    THE chairman of the Voluntary Initiative’s water sub-groups has called on farmers and advisors to redouble their efforts in support of the best practice measures promoted by the industry-wide initiative following the Pesticides Safety Directorate announcement on isoproturon.

  • ‘Best practice’ on pesticides

    March 23rd 2007

    THE Crop Protection Association (CPA) has published new best practice advice on keeping pesticide residues out of water.

  • ‘UK cereal growers are sitting on a septoria time bomb’

    March 23rd 2007

    UK cereal growers are sitting on a septoria time bomb. The efficacy of T0 sprays will be absolutely critical to controlling the disease this year, according to ProCam technical director Dr David Ellerton.

  • ‘Wake-up’ call on OSR crop management

    March 23rd 2007

    WHILE the UK’s top arable producers made serious progress in terms of production and profit with winter wheat last year, oilseed rape is standing still and has been doing so for many years, according to ProCam agronomist Nick Myers.

  • Agchem dose rates must be adhered to, ‘Maintaining, testing and calibrating sprayers is important’

    March 23rd 2007

    Cereal producers in the Coquet Catchment project in Northumberland were updated on effective pesticide applications at a meeting and demonstration at Morwick Farm, Acklington earlier this month. The project is part of a national Catchment Sensitive Farming initiative that aims to help growers get the most out of spraying, cultivations and fertiliser and manure spreading. By helping producers farm more efficiently the initiative also aims to help improve water quality in the River Coquet ...

  • Brome guidance available on-line

    March 23rd 2007

    CLEAR, up-to-date guidance on effective brome control is now available in the latest on-line training tool provided by the Weed Focus initiative from Bayer CropScience. 

  • Consider spring barley as high performing forage crop – NIAB

    March 23rd 2007

    LIVESTOCK and mixed farmers wanting a high performing forage crop for planting this spring should consider spring barley, suggests research carried out by NIAB.

  • End of the road for IPU in June 2009

    March 23rd 2007

    USE of the herbicide isoproturon (IPU) is to be phased out in the UK following a recommendation by the government’s Advisory Committee on Pesticides (ACP) that its movement into surface watercourses presents an unacceptable risk to aquatic life and that exposure to IPU ‘cannot be satisfactorily’ managed.

  • Milling wheat study examines yield benefit against nitrogen input cost

    March 23rd 2007

    AN HGCA-funded project to help growers determine whether growing milling wheat is right for them has investigated the agronomic and economic effects of nitrogen applications on Group 1 and 2 wheats.

  • NFU to survey arable farmers over central grain storage

    March 23rd 2007

    THE NFU is to conduct a survey of arable farmers in the north east to gauge interest in central storage for grain.

  • Remember late applications in OSR nitrogen calculations

    March 23rd 2007

    OILSEED rape growers making spring nitrogen calculations need to remember the potential of late season fertiliser applications to increase yields, advises Rod Burke of Syngenta.

  • Silver scurf could cause storage and skin quality issues

    March 23rd 2007

    Seed stocks carrying silver scurf infection this season could lead to reduced skin quality and create storage problems for the ware crop at harvest.

  • Split OSR sprays advised

    March 23rd 2007

    WITH some oilseed rape crops close to yellow bud stage, ADAS plant pathologist Dr Peter Gladders is recommending that some crops may benefit from split light leaf spot and plant growth regulator sprays.

  • Top arable producers’ winter wheat margins up over 50pc

    March 23rd 2007

    THE UK’s top arable producers increased winter wheat margins by over 50 per cent last year, but it was not just down to higher cereal prices, according to ProCam’s 4cast analysis of crop production for 2006.

  • Watch for pollen beetle activity

    March 23rd 2007

    MILD winter weather and highly advanced oilseed rape crops mean pollen beetle could attack early this year and beetles are already reported to be actively feeding on early flowering primrose and other wild flowers.

  • Aldicarb use revoked after EU ruling on MRLs

    March 16th 2007

    AUTHORISATIONS for the use of the soil-applied carbamate nematicide and insecticide aldicarb on potatoes, carrots and parsnips have been revoked with immediate effect.

  • Asian miscanthus grasses could assist UK biomass

    March 16th 2007

    SCIENTISTS in West Wales have been successful in collecting novel types of the giant miscanthus grass from China, Taiwan and Japan in order to boost the development of biomass from energy crops.

  • Balance must be struck between the crop and supermarket demands

    March 16th 2007

    BALANCING water shortages and the affects of global warming with the need to irrigate potato crops for today’s supermarket and consumer demands was tackled by experts talking to Northumberland and Borders producers.

  • Biofuel: ‘A steamroller about to hit’

    March 16th 2007

    THE predicted demands of the biofuel market for oil and starch crops from 2010 is ‘like a steamroller about to hit us’, according to James Woolway, sales director, Opico

  • Check for bugs before grain is moved, growers urged

    March 16th 2007

    WITH load rejections for bug infestations in cereals becoming more common as the weather gets warmer, one merchant is urging growers to check grain stores before grain is moved.

  • Co-operating to manage water at peak demand

    March 16th 2007

    A NNAAG/BPC-organised workshop at Berwick-upon-Tweed sought to help growers gain a better understanding of irrigation efficiency and licensing.

  • Cut flower trials aim to reverse sales trend

    March 16th 2007

    FLOWER growers in Lincolnshire and elsewhere in the UK are to benefit from a new initiative funded by Leader+ and Defra. Although sales of cut flowers have gone up dramatically in the last 10 years, a large proportion of flowers being sold are imported. The UK’s first Cut Flower Trials Centre at Kirton, Lincolnshire, will be leading the way in reversing this trend.

  • Defra may cut organic trials funding, says Soil Association

    March 16th 2007

    DEFRA funding for organic vegetable and potato trials is due to be discontinued at the end of March, the Soil Association is warning.

  • Improvement needed with OSR agronomy

    March 16th 2007

    OILSEED rape growers need to improve establishment methods, reduce seed rates and get out of their current mind-set was the challenge from Masstock agronomist Phillip Marr.

  • Knowledge of how soil holds water is a win-win situation

    March 16th 2007

    IF potato producers don’t understand how their soil is holding and releasing water then they will not be able to irrigate with the right amount at the right time and they will over or under irrigate, says Cranfield University agro hydrologist Tim Hess.

  • Managing your set-aside

    March 16th 2007

    FARMERS and landowners with insurance set-aside could fall foul of management restrictions on the land for the first time this year, warns rural consultant Fisher German.

  • Placing faith in a green revolution

    March 16th 2007

    Having taken the plunge last spring in planting energy crops, the Heybrooks have put their faith in the burgeoning green sector but, with local end users in short supply, have they taken too big a risk?

  • Septoria tritici is main threat

    March 16th 2007

    THE latest information on foliar disease control in wheat is now available on a new HGCA Topic Sheet.

  • Understanding the local market needs

    March 16th 2007

    A SERIES of marketing workshops organised by HGCA and supported by Farmers Guardian aims to help growers of combinable crops to get ahead in understanding the particular requirements of their local markets.

  • Wheat area rises across UK

    March 16th 2007

    DEFRA and SEERAD December 2006 survey figures show the English wheat area at 1.72 million hectares, 5 per cent higher than in December 2005.

  • Call for more information on local biofuels crops

    March 9th 2007

    Lincolnshire farmers are interested in the idea of growing crops for biofuels, but feel they do not yet have enough information about the environmental benefits or the longer-term prospects.

  • Commitment needed on local renewable energy

    March 9th 2007

    ‘German farmers lead the way’, a Farmers Guardian headline shouted out recently. It turns out our northern European neighbours are powering ahead on bio-energy investment with 15 per cent planning to, or already putting money into biogas production.

  • Dow fighting the counterfeiters with new patented technology

    March 9th 2007

    Agrochemical manufacturer Dow AgroSciences is employing patented technology in the fight against counterfeit products and provide traceability of its products from manufacture to farm.

  • February finish for beet campaign

    March 9th 2007

    The 2007/08 sugar beet campaign will start earlier and last longer this year but should finish in February.

  • Improvement opportunities for OSR growers

    March 9th 2007

    UK oilseed rape growers have a new champion in their efforts to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the crop.

  • Irrigation demand to rise dramatically

    March 9th 2007

    The demand for irrigation will increase by 20 per cent by 2020, a leading climate change expert has warned.

  • Maize biogas production is a UK reality

    March 9th 2007

    BIOGAS production from maize is becoming a reality in the UK, delegates heard from grower Owen Yeatman during the Maize Growers Association’s recent Maize Conference at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire.

  • Mild winter results in high leatherjacket levels in Scotland

    March 9th 2007

    Leatherjacket population levels in grassland in Scotland are high for the fourth year in a row.

  • New project to build soil fertility

    March 9th 2007

    HDRA Garden Organic is leading a new Defra-funded project to help growers improve the ways in which they build soil fertility.

  • Norfolk neighbours scoop the Tesco long service award

    March 9th 2007

    Neighbouring west Norfolk farmers, operating a joint venture supplying potatoes to Tesco, have been awarded this year’s Grower Long Service Award in recognition of the first class service and quality of their produce.

  • OSR nitrogen rates may need adjusting

    March 9th 2007

    Oilseed rape growers should be wary of low soil mineral nitrogen levels this spring, and adjust nitrogen rates accordingly so that yields are not compromised, according to crop nutrition expert Mike Slater of Terra.

  • Planning this season’s PGR programmes with minimal chlormequat residues in mind

    March 9th 2007

    Do not underestimate the value of later plant growth regulator treatments when planning this season’s PGR programmes for winter wheat, growers are being advised.

  • Wheat-for-ethanol growers’ conditional contracts warning

    March 9th 2007

    Grain traders, Gleadell Agriculture, have warned farmers of the danger of conditional contracts for ethanol production.

  • World oilseed area set to overtake wheat

    March 9th 2007

    The discrepancy in rapeseed yield between the UK and our continental counterparts cannot be attributed to climatic differences alone, according to Grainfarmers oilseeds and business development director, Andrew Barnard.

  • Norfolk farmers scoop Tesco long service award

    6 March 2007

    TWO neighbouring West Norfolk farmers, operating a joint venture supplying potatoes to Tesco, have been awarded this year’s Grower Long Service Award in recognition of the first class service and quality of their produce.

  • Contracts warning

    6 March 2007

    GRAIN traders, Gleadell Agriculture have warned farmers of the danger of conditional contracts for ethanol production.

  • Potato planting delayed

    6 March 2007

    THE wet weather continues to delay potato planting. Total planting up to March 2 is estimated at 1080 hectares, compared with 1760 ha in 2006, says the British Potato Council.

  • Beet safety net overproduction ‘not necessary’

    March 2nd 2007

    OVERPRODUCTION is no longer a necessary ‘safety net’ when growing sugar beet, says NFU sugar board vice-chairman William Martin.

  • Biofuel bonanza in the balance

    March 2nd 2007

    In the second article in FG’s ‘Farming for Energy’ series John Parry asks whether time is running out for the UK’s fledgling biofuels industry to be up and running to meet the EU’s 2010 deadline for a 5 per cent incorporation level in all transport fuels.

  • Daffodil bulbs could become a cash crop, say researchers

    March 2nd 2007

    ONE of Britain’s best-loved flowers could be put to work to provide a drug treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, say scientists in a new report and give farmers an opportunity to diversify .

  • Inspect your at risk crops

    March 2nd 2007

    LEATHERJACKET populations are ‘high’ or ‘very high’ and at risk crops should be inspected now, growers are being advised.

  • Low N levels prompt soil test demand

    March 2nd 2007

    EARLY reports of low soil mineral nitrogen levels have prompted an increase in demand for soil testing this spring.

  • Making sure winter wheat crops meet growers’ expectations

    March 2nd 2007

    WITH six out of every 10 winter wheat fields drilled last autumn planted to a Nickerson variety, the company is under pressure to ensure that harvest 2007 crops meet growers’ expectations.

  • Split field trial results show

    March 2nd 2007

    WITH mixtures of triazoles and chlorothalonil offering more consistent control of septoria than straight triazoles, there is a case for looking beyond leading triazoles prothioconazole (PTZ) and epoxiconazole (EPX) at the T0 and T1 fungicide timings this season, says Syngenta.

  • Talks over beet contracts flex

    March 2nd 2007

    IMPROVING the flexibility of sugar beet contracts is an essential part of ongoing negotiations between the NFU and British Sugar, said NFU sugar board vice-chairman William Martin at this week’s union conference.

  • The industry’s major players joining a race against time:

    March 2nd 2007

    GREENERGY FUELS

  • This is a year for T0 fungicide sprays

    March 2nd 2007

    IF ever there was a year for T0 fungicide sprays, this year is it, according to a leading agronomist.

  • Warm January raises virus yellows threat

    March 2nd 2007

    THE warmest January in 90 years and temperatures at least 2degC above average since Christmas means the virus yellows forecast for sugar beet in is showing high levels of virus, where no pest measurement measures are used, even if crops are drilled early.

  • An educated choice to plant miscanthus means brothers help to cut CO2 emissions

    February 23rd 2007

    THE miscanthus crop planted two years ago by Tom and John Nash will be harvested for the first time this spring.

  • Constant investment meets buyers’ needs

    February 23rd 2007

    While representing a small part of overall investment in the family business, grant aid to purchase new and more modern vegetable packing equipment enabled the owners of Windle Hall Farm, St Helens, to meet the latest market requirements.

  • Energy markets are ‘starting to wake up’

    February 23rd 2007

    WHILE there has been a lot of talk, and very little action, when it comes to kick-starting the UK biofuels industry in recent years, energy markets are beginning to wake up to where they have to be if they are to attract supply commitments from UK growers.

  • Farm wildlife: If you’ve got it, why not flaunt it?

    February 23rd 2007

    THE plight of farmland birds has been high up the political agenda for many years, and although some species are showing signs of recovery, others are still struggling.

  • Farming for Energy

    February 23rd 2007

    There’s been much talk about the potential for farmers to profit from bioenergy and biofuel but what about action? In the first of a series of articles in which Farmers Guardian aims to get behind the scenes of the UK’s fledgling bioenergy industry, John Parry talks to Biomass Task Force leader Sir Ben Gill about a biomass project underway in North Yorkshire.

  • Farming on Merseyside

    February 23rd 2007

    It is easy to think of Merseyside as a major urban conurbation but the area also takes in a thriving agricultural industry, as NEIL RYDER found out.

  • Free-living nematode worry

    February 23rd 2007

    FREE-living nematode levels in soil are high this year, potato growers are being warned.

  • Fungicide spend should not just be determined by higher wheat prices

    February 23rd 2007

    INCREASED wheat prices should not be the influencing factor for what growers spend on their fungicide programme this spring; the basic principles of investing based on the disease spectrum present and the likely incremental returns still hold true.

  • Hold back the N for OSR

    February 23rd 2007

    WITH some big oilseed rape crops coming through the winter this year don’t be tempted to apply nitrogen early. Indeed, delaying nitrogen on anything but the most backward crops is likely to improve yields and the bigger the crop in February the greater the benefit seems to be.

  • Myerscough College’s ‘green’ fuel conference

    February 23rd 2007

    MYERSCOUGH College in Lancashire is to host a bioenergy conference aimed at directing the motoring industry towards a sustainable future using biofuels and renewable technologies.

  • New web canopy management tool for OSR

    February 23rd 2007

    BASF and ADAS have launched a new web-based tool to help oilseed rape growers accurately assess the need for nitrogen and growth regulation and hence manage their oilseed canopy more effectively.

  • Potato best practice training

    February 23rd 2007

    THE Bayer AgroSciences stewardship team is on the road again in the run up to 2007 plantings bringing best practice training to all potato growing areas.

  • Pressures will increase on competitor potato producers

    February 23rd 2007

    FRENCH and Dutch potato producers are able to produce to and sustain lower costs than those in the UK, according to a report published by the British Potato Council.

  • Reducing the costs returned to farmers with central storage

    February 23rd 2007

    MORE, high capacity intake, processing, storage and outloading facilities that are food integrated and safe are required in the arable sector.

  • Spring Herbicides

    February 23rd 2007

    Farmers Guardian has joined forces with crop protection specialists BCPC to bring readers a comprehensive, free guide to herbicide products available for use this spring.

  • Time for a hard look at your spending

    February 23rd 2007

    KNOW how much energy you use and what it costs was the main message from ADAS mechanisation and energy consultant, Philip Metcalf. Speaking at the Hertfordshire meeting, Mr Metcalf urged growers to understand their current energy use and efficiency, and to change their existing practices if it resulted in a saving.

  • Variety mix may give yield benefits

    February 23rd 2007

    SOWING a mix of varieties for cereal production always increases the general resilience of the crop, and may well offer benefits in reduced incidence of disease and slightly better yields, according to the Scottish Crop Research Institute’s Adrian Newton.

  • Wet weather to blame for potato planting hold-ups

    February 23rd 2007

    HEAVY rain in many parts of the south ruled out any attempts to continue potato planting last week.

  • ‘Weed control good, but many crops too forward’

    February 16th 2007

    Shropshire

  • Azoles still have major role in disease control

    February 16th 2007

    LATEST information on fungicide dose response curves is now available on the HGCA website.

  • Crops need more protection as mild spring is predicted

    February 16th 2007

    WITH the mildest winter on record so far and predictions for a mild spring to come, crops need as much protection from yield robbing disease as possible, and that means incorporating a T0 spray on lush forward crops to protect against early disease and the possibilities of a delayed T1, agronomists are advising.

  • E. chrysanthemi threat increasing

    February 16th 2007

    POTATO growers are being urged to consider their planting options carefully amid concerns that the incidence of the bacterial disease erwinia chrysanthemi (echr) is increasing.

  • Fighting rhynchosporium threat

    February 16th 2007

    WITH seed-borne infection now known to be significant, the activity of triazole fungicides against the disease slipping, and questions being raised over disease resistance ratings in winter barley, the rhynchosporium threat to UK barley crops is on the increase.

  • Focus on controlling herbicide tolerance

    February 16th 2007

    HOW farmers might deal with volunteer weeds that are herbicide tolerant, was the focus of a new report from Defra, which aims to give a better understanding of the potential impact of GM herbicide-tolerant crops on farming practices and the environment.

  • Making a success of a joint farming venture

    February 16th 2007

    An English Farming & Food Partnerships (EFFP)/Joint Venture Farming Group seminar – ‘A Profitable Farming Future’, focused on collaborative farming in the arable sector. Farmers Guardian reports from Claas UK’s Saxham HQ in Suffolk.

  • Modern cereal systems ‘aid brome spread’

    February 16th 2007

    INSUFFICIENT brome control on many farms is allowing the arable weed to gain from the high pressure, high intensity cereal systems of today, according to leading advisers.

  • More cereals susceptible to mildew

    February 16th 2007

    INDUSTRY experts have raised concerns about increasing varietal susceptibility to powdery mildew in cereal crops.

  • People ‘are more important than numbers’ in a syndicate

    February 16th 2007

    THE biggest benefit of a farming syndicate over a typical farm business is that you have always got good management in a syndicate.

  • Plan spring spraying to get maximum benefits

    February 16th 2007

    THE shift back towards use of Atlantis (iodosulfuron+mesosulfuron) in the autumn, combined with new Pesticide Safety Directorate restrictions on the use of sulphonylurea (SU) and ACCase herbicides means spring spray programmes need careful planning if they are to achieve optimum weed control, growers are advised.

  • Spotlight on H2O: Winter savings can bring added value

    February 16th 2007

    ‘Save Water Save Money’ was the theme of an on-farm event at ADAS Gleadthorpe in Nottinghamshire. It was one of a series of events organised by J.H. Walters, in conjunction with Natural England and the Environment Agency.

  • Spring Spraying - Infection risk greater after very mild winter

    February 16th 2007

    Cereal crops are largely very forward this season after what has been one of the mildest winters on record. JOANNA BAKER asks some regional agronomists what weed and disease issues there are so far this year and how they should be managed.

  • Stop/start irrigation balance is so vital

    February 16th 2007

    EFFICIENT use of water for irrigation is vital in producing crops that consumers would want to buy, said Denis Buckley, potato specialist for The Arable Group.

  • To fungicide sprays ‘beneficial’ with high disease levels

    February 16th 2007

    Lincolnshire / Yorkshire

  • Trust current best practice for keeping A2 potato blight at bay, but stay alert – BPC

    February 16th 2007

    ALTHOUGH the prevalence of the newer A2 potato blight genotypes has risen in the UK blight population, latest findings suggest that the number of different genotypes is stable, safeguarding current strategies for tackling the disease.

  • Usage and efficiency must improve by 10pc, says irrigation expert

    February 16th 2007

    FARMERS should be aiming for a 10 per cent improvement in water usage and efficiency, according to irrigation expert Bill Basford.

  • Beet campaign’s remarkable results

    9 February 2007

    THIS weekend only one of British Sugar’s six existing factories remains open for deliveries as the remnants of the highly successful season roll over the weighbridges at the doomed York factory.

  • Attention to detail can cut spraying problems

    February 9th 2007

    AT a time when spraying is under close scrutiny – both for environmental and health reasons – advice to increase speeds and reduce water volumes might appear misguided.

  • Crop research spotlight

    February 9th 2007

    CROP research aiming to improve cereal disease resistance, yield and grain quality was showcased at an event at the John Innes Centre, Norwich.

  • Geneticist appointed interim IGER director

    February 9th 2007

    A GENETICIST with more than 30 years’ experience of plant breeding has been named as interim director of the Aberystwyth-based Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research (IGER), writes BARRY ALSTON.

  • HGCA info on CD Rom

    February 9th 2007

    THE Home-Grown Cereals Authority (HGCA) has combined all of its technical information on cereals and oilseeds from Recommended Lists to the Wheat Disease Encyclopaedia on a ‘Crop Oracle’ CD Rom.

  • Improved prices create opportunities

    February 9th 2007

    THERE would be real opportunities over coming years for existing arable farmers, especially young people just entering the industry, said SAC crop consultant Keith Dawson.

  • New barley disease option

    February 9th 2007

    A NEW formulation of cyprodinil available this spring will provide barley growers with a further fungicide option for control of the key barley diseases.

  • Plant growth regulator ‘safer and more flexible’

    February 9th 2007

    NEW plant growth regulator introductions are relatively few and far between but ten years after the launch of Moddus there is a new option available to cereal growers this spring in the form of Canopy from BASF. Key advantages over existing products are said to include improved crop safety and application timing flexibility.

  • Ramularia correlation puzzles scientists

    February 9th 2007

    RESEARCH on ramularia underway at the John Innes Centre has established that the spring barley variety Chariot has some resistance to the disease at the adult plant stage.

  • System is based on rotation – but with flexibility

    February 9th 2007

    Crop management and the prospects for arable farming came under a scrutiny at a Northumberland arable workshop organised by SAC and funded by Natural England. One of a series of linked events, it was hosted by Blagdon Farms, which acted as a case study. NEIL RYDER reports.

  • Beet support system launched for new season

    February 2nd 2007

    THE British Beet Research Organisation has re-released its Post-Emergence Herbicide Decision Support System for the coming season.

  • Biomass: Cheaper glasshouse heating

    February 2nd 2007

    HEATING glasshouses with biomass fuel was the theme of a seminar organised by the Rural Energy Trust, in conjunction with the NFU, give local growers an opportunity to find out more about renewable energy and to meet local energy producers.

  • Case of brown rot is reported in the Netherlands

    February 2nd 2007

    THE first case of brown rot this season has been reported in the Netherlands. According to the British Potato Council, the Dutch plant research service discovered a case of the disease in a seed batch of the variety Bintje in the east of the country.The origin of the seed has not been confirmed as yet.Checks on other batches from the same stock have been carried out but did not detect any further suspect cases.

  • Copper in cereals is important

    February 2nd 2007

    MICONUTRIENTS such as copper may be needed in quantities as small as a few grammes per hectare, but adequate supplies are essential if crop yield and quality are not to suffer.

  • Effects of restrictions

    February 2nd 2007

    RESTRICTIONS on abstraction in order to protect Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) are likely to affect more farmers and growers than restrictions relating to Habitats Directive sites.

  • Handle oilseed crops with care to maximise the yield

    February 2nd 2007

    WITH oilseed rape crops exceptionally lush after a mild winter, growers are being advised to manage crop canopies with care to optimise yield.

  • Meters must be changed on applicators

    February 2nd 2007

    FOLLOWING revocation of the use of Temik (aldicarb) on potatoes, growers switching to Nemathorin (fosthiazate) to tackle potato cyst nematode and wireworm need to change the metering mechanisms on their nematicide applicators.

  • New energy crops growers held up by grants scheme

    February 2nd 2007

    FARMERS keen to start growing short rotation coppice and miscanthus to meet the increasing demand for biomass for energy are being thwarted by the delay in setting up a new Energy Crops Scheme to deliver the grants required to get the crops established.

  • NEWS IN BRIEF

    February 2nd 2007

    PSD’s approval

  • Rhubarb crop affected by a mild winter

    February 2nd 2007

    A MILD winter, following last year’s hot summer, is affecting Yorkshire’s forced rhubarb crop.

  • Seizing the spring barley opportunity

    February 2nd 2007

    EXTRAORDINARY weather patterns across Europe have fuelled malting barley prices recently.

  • Top producer in the money

    February 2nd 2007

    DLF Trifolium are hoping to track down oilseed rape growers who have produced a crop of Lioness, Barrel or Celebration with an oil content of 50 per cent or more.There’s a prize of £500 up for grabs.However, you must be able to provide evidence to: Mike Mann of DLF on 0797 9503148, or mmann@dlf.co.uk

  • Trickle irrigation is slow to filter through

    February 2nd 2007

    TRICKLE irrigation will not be brought within the water abstraction licensing regulation until 2008 and only then following an industry consultation.

  • Wheat surplus ‘could be wiped out’ by delays

    February 2nd 2007

    THE UK’s 3 million-tonnes surplus wheat production now going for export will be wiped out by the demand from the six proposed bioethanol plants currently looking for finance to start construction in time to come on stream in 2008 and 2009.

  • Defy ready for potato crops

    January 26th 2007

    POTATO growers will have a new residual herbicide to choose from when tackling weeds this spring with the launch of Defy from Syngenta last week.

  • FWAG Forum

    January 26th 2007

    Woodland birds need help too

  • Prosulfocarb tackles core weeds spectrum

    January 26th 2007

    A STRAIGHT application of four litres per hectare of prosulfocarb (Defy) will control the core spectrum of potato weeds, including cleavers, chickweed, speedwells and black nightshade at pre-weed emergence, says Syngenta.

  • Soil quality improved by organic compost

    January 26th 2007

    WITH issues relating to soil management coming under ever-increasing focus through cross compliance in the UK, in addition to the EU Soil Thematic Study launched last September, growers should look at the option of applying composted material to their land.

  • Switch gives growers options

    January 26th 2007

    PEA and bean growers have a new option for disease control this season following approval for the use of Switch on vining peas and fresh green beans.

  • Update to Green Book

    January 26th 2007

    LATEST editions of The UK Pesticide Guide and The e-UK Pesticide Guide offer farmers and growers, particularly those growing minor crops, the latest and most comprehensive information on specific off-label approvals (SOLAs) in one publication, says BCPC.

  • Low protein wheats are best for biofuel

    18 January 2007

    Agronomy researchers from Cambridge Arable Technologies (CAT) shared their 2006 trials results with members at the organisation’s winter conference. CLEMMIE PEROWNE reports.

  • New varieties ‘have much to offer’

    18 January 2007

    The prospects and problems facing the arable sector in Scotland in the coming year were examined in a series of HGCA funded, SAC run workshops. NEIL RYDER talked to some of the SAC team involved.

  • Static yields down to OSR management

    18 January 2007

    ADAS scientists Dr Pete Berry and John Spink have ‘pulled the oilseed rape plant apart’ to determine why yields have remained static in the UK at around 3tonnes/hectare for the past 20 years.

  • Financial boost for research projects

    18 January 2007

    THE BBSRC has made more than £13million of funding available for the benefit of the UK’s farmers and consumers through no fewer than 18 crop science projects.

  • Market demanding residue-free potatoes

    18 January 2007

    UK potato growers can produce crops free of any agrochemical residues and many are already doing so, according to a leading agronomist. Some growers are already taking steps to highlight the fact that their produce is pesticide-free.

  • ‘Planned selling could get growers top margins’

    January 12th 2007

    TOO many growers are failing to gain top margins from spring crops simply because they rely on movement at harvest rather than planned selling, according to a leading merchant.

  • Action Plan for NVZ’s in Scotland could come into effect much sooner

    January 12th 2007

    AMENDMENTS to the Scottish Executive’s Action Plan for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones, which affect 14 per cent of the Scottish land area, will come into effect six months after they are agreed.

  • Consultation begins shortly

    January 12th 2007

    THE consultation on proposed amendments to the England and Wales Action Programme for Nitrate Vulnerable Zones is expected to open this month, AICC agronomist Andrew Watson told the conference.

  • Finding a sensible combinable crop rotation as Allscott closes its doors

    January 12th 2007

    British Sugar’s announcement to cease production at its Allscott factory near Telford, Shropshire, from mid-February has meant growers in the area have had to think on their feet about what to grow instead of sugar beet. JOANNA BAKER asked one such grower what his views and cropping plans for the future were.

  • Strict rules but production unaffected

    January 12th 2007

    IN Denmark the introduction of NVZs had resulted in strict rules relating to livestock stocking rates, manure storage capacity on farm and manure spreading, said Kent Myllerup Jensen of the Danish Agricultural Advisory Service.

  • Tackling the challenges of climate change

    January 12th 2007

    HELPING landowners adapt to climate change is the aim of six pilot projects costing £1.5m over the next three years.

  • The invasion of the river bank snatchers

    January 12th 2007

    A GIANT alien plant is invading river banks on the lower River Usk in south east Wales and creating such a growing problem for farmers, landowners, walkers and fishermen that a special task force has been set up.

  • Most Scots could not imagine life without potatoes – especially home-grown varieties

    11 January 2007

    SCOTS’ love of potatoes has grown after many had tried the low carbohydrate Atkins diet, according to research conducted by by Border-based potato supplier Greenvale AP.

  • New Crop Opportunities

    11 January 2007

    FIND out more about the potential for finding new uses for traditional crops and discovering profitable opportunities for growing alternative crops at a one-day seminar and mini exhibition on new crop opportunities to be held on Thursday, February 1 at the East of England Showground, Peterborough.

  • Association of Independent Crop Consultants annual conference

    11 January 2007

    Farming’s prospects under NVZs and the Water Framework Directive were on the agenda during the first day of the Association of Independent Crop Consultants annual conference at Meriden in the West Midlands. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Alternative crops - are they for you?

    10 January 2007

    Your chance to get the facts on marketing, agronomy and finance for growing alternative crops – register now.

  • Keeping abreast of new developments

    8 January 2007

    New Crop Opportunities conference is on Thursday, February 1, 2007, 10.30am-3.45pm.

  • Sugar yields are unusually holding up

    January 5th 2007

    THE end of the 2006/07 sugar beet processing campaign is in sight and the first of British Sugar’s six existing factories is due to close its weighbridges in the third week of January.

  • Passion for parsnips

    4 January 2007

    STAFFORDSHIRE farming, packing and produce marketing company R&RW Bartlett appeared on the BBC’s Gardeners World Christmas special to talk about the nation’s favourite Christmas vegetable, the parsnip.

  • Triazole reliance is a concern

    4 January 2007

    CONTINUING reliance on triazole fungicide chemistry is a cause for concern, says leading plant pathologist Bill Clark.

  • Use genetic resistance with fungicides

    4 January 2007

    NOT enough has been done in the past to incorporate septoria resistance into winter wheat varieties. Now the only route forward is to utilise the genetic resistance that is available in conjunction with fungicides.

  • Help is available to identify and control diseases

    4 January 2007

    A NEW HGCA wheat disease encyclopaedia has been launched to help growers identify and control wheat diseases.

  • Wheat growth advanced but no cause for concern

    4 January 2007

    GROWTH stages of wheat crops are well ahead of normal for this time of year, but there is no cause for concern.

  • Data needed to re-register

    December 29th 2006

    AGROCHEMICAL companies will be required to supply new data on triazole efficacy as products come up for re-registration under the EU approvals process.

  • Earlier maturing pea is truly revolutionary

    December 29th 2006

    A NEW pea that matures much earlier than traditional varieties, is revolutionary, according to one expert.

  • Implications not clear on mutation

    December 29th 2006

    New mechanisms of fungicide resistance are providing challenges in the laboratory and the field. HGCA gathered together scientists, regulators, advisers and farmers in Northampton at the end of the year to share the latest news and views on resistance development. TERESA RUSH reports.

  • Peas and beans market opportunity

    December 29th 2006

    MAKE money out of peas and beans by targeting human consumption markets. That is the advice of Frank Curtis, director of arable marketing at seed company Nickersons.

  • Septoria increases due to various factors

    December 29th 2006

    EARLIER sowing dates and climate change are driving increases in the incidence of septoria tritici, according to a leading cereal disease expert.

  • You have to know who your pulses are for

    December 29th 2006

    GROWING peas and beans can be a profitable business but growers have got to know for whom they are growing. What is more the agronomic benefits of pulses mean they are more valuable to farmers than the gross margin figures imply.

  • ‘Plenty of scope to improve farm business profits’

    December 22nd 2006

    WITH over half of UK farms generating less output than the value of their total inputs there is still huge scope in many businesses to improve profit, farm business consultant Sebastian Graff-Baker of Andersons told the HGCA rotations workshop.

  • Mixed picture as EU cereals delayed by adverse weather

    December 22nd 2006

    TENTATIVE early estimates suggest a mixed picture for this autumn's EU cereal and oilseed plantings, reflecting higher prices in recent months as well as delays in planting as a result of adverse weather conditions at sowing time.

  • New Crop Opportunities seminar

    December 22nd 2006

    A ONE-DAY seminar on ‘New Crop Opportunities’ will look at the agronomic and financial considerations of new crops and marketing opportunities.

  • No new Diabrotica beetle outbreaks, survey reveals

    December 22nd 2006

    NO beetles were found in the 2006 diabrotoca survey, Defra has announced.

  • Shorter crop rotations could lead to higher levels of take-all and club root, says leading agronomist

    December 22nd 2006

    TAKE-ALL and club root will be among the diseases likely to benefit from shorter rotations, according to a leading agronomist.

  • Temik withdrawn on some crops

    December 22nd 2006

    THE insecticide and nematicide Temik 10G has been withdrawn from sale in the UK following a decision by the European Commission that current European residue levels of its active ingredient aldicarb should be reduced to the limit of determination in potatoes, carrots and parsnips.

  • Six new varieties join Lists

    December 15th 2006

    Six new spring cereal varieties join the Recommended Lists for 2007/08, bringing yield and quality improvements. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Newcomers raise winter barley standards

    8 December 2006

    THERE are six new additions to the HGCA Recommended List for winter barley, with the newcomers setting new yield standards in all categories.

  • Five winter wheats join RL varieties

    8 December 2006

    A sign of better times or the result of a sustained plant breeding effort? Twenty-two new cereal and oilseed rape varieties joined the Recommended Lists for 2007/08, double the number that were approved last year. Whatever your point of view, the end result is that growers will have more options available to them next autumn. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Brochan and Tardis winter oats offer different yields and quality

    December 8th 2006

    WINTER oat varieties Broch-an and Tardis join the Recommended List for 2007/08 offering distinct differences in yield and quality.

  • Exciting barley varieties make Scottish list

    December 8th 2006

    THE SAC cereal Recommended List for 2007 brings details of some exciting new barley varieties – but there is little to say of new winter wheat varieties for next season.

  • Three restored OSR hybrids fail to knock Lioness off the top spot for yield

    December 8th 2006

    Three new winter oilseed rape varieties join the Recommended List for 2007/08.

  • Five newcomers on the peas recommended list

    December 1st 2006

    The 2007 Recommended Lists for field peas and beans were revealed at pulse specialists Dunns at Long Sutton, Lincolnshire. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Fuego and Ben make full list

    December 1st 2006

    SPRING beans may be the most widely grown pulse crop at present but here were no new varieties added to the Recommended List for 2007 and there is no new material progressing through the RL trials system.

  • NEWS IN BRIEF

    December 1st 2006

    Improvement in resistance leads to cost savings

  • Only one new winter bean

    December 1st 2006

    JUST one new variety joins the Recommended List of winter beans for 2007, taking the number of varieties to five.

  • Profits can be made due to the undersupply of pulses

    December 1st 2006

    PEAS and beans have fallen out of favour in recent seasons as a result of disappointing yields, quality and price rises for other crops.

  • Keeping water clean

    24 November 2006

    KEEPING water clean was the theme behind a seminar, held at Thornton Curtis, North Lincolnshire, to advise farmers of help and information available under the Environment Sensitive Farming initiative.

  • ‘Sensible standards on green issues make financial sense’

    November 24th 2006

    YORKSHIRE East Riding and North Lincolnshire is one of the 40 priority catchments identified as being affected by diffuse water pollution.

  • Bringing benefits and savings

    November 24th 2006

    ENVIRONMENTAL issues are not going to go away and farmers must find the best way of dealing with them to their financial benefit, or at least to reduce any financial disadvantage.

  • Cereal quality on the increase as Great Britain brings in another good harvest

    November 24th 2006

    THE final 2006 HGCA Cereals Quality Survey results confirm an improvement in quality over recent seasons.

  • Higher cereal prices here to stay

    November 24th 2006

    THE future is bright, Keith Dawson, SAC’s principal crop consultant, told farmers in North Yorkshire at a meeting held at Andrew and Paul Nutt’s Carr House Farm, East Heslerton.

  • Benchmarking benefit

    November 17th 2006

    THE finances of seed production were explored by Jay Wootton from Farm Business consultants Andersons.Growers need to be more disciplined in their approach to the market if they are to improve returns, he advised.Mr Wootton has been working closely with the BPC to develop new benchmarking software that is helping seed and ware growers identify cost and income streams with their business.

  • Canadian trip is no fantasy

    November 17th 2006

    THREE South Yorkshire farmers have earned themselves a trip to Canada as a result of winning The Fantasy Farming League, sponsored by the New York Bagel Company.

  • Cereal pesticide residues awareness guides

    November 17th 2006

    CEREAL growers’ awareness of pesticide residues needs to be improved if the consumer preference for reducing residues further than the current safe levels is to be realised.

  • Concerns over quality

    November 17th 2006

    A LACK of consistency is hampering British seed growers’ ability to improve on-farm returns, according to Branston field director David Nelson.

  • Conditions favourable for phoma in OSR

    November 17th 2006

    TWO sprays may be required for effective control of phoma in oilseed rape this autumn, growers are being advised.

  • Contracted tonnage to decide beet payment

    November 17th 2006

    SUGAR beet growers will shortly be receiving a letter from the Rural Payments Agency (RPA) outlining the contracted tonnage for 2005/06 on which their additional sugar support payments will be based.

  • Hosking all the questions to grow a growing concern

    November 17th 2006

    With daffodils, green vegetables, sheep and cereals as well as 16 full-time members of staff and up to 60 migrant workers, there is never a dull moment for brothers James and Jeremy Hosking, as DAVID BURROWS found out.

  • Opportunity opens up for potato seed growers

    November 17th 2006

    THERE are bright prospects for Britain’s seed potato growers, but the industry will fall apart unless it can grasp a more focused, co-ordinated and disciplined approach to supplying the market.

  • Returning farmed wetland back to a wildlife habitat

    November 17th 2006

    It is hoped that an ambitious plan to re-create a wetlands environment on a Herefordshire farm will encourage the return of long-departed wildlife, such as lapwing, curlew, snipe, dragonflies, marsh marigold, frogs and toads. David Jones reports from a FWAG open day.

  • Rotational focus at winter workshops

    16 November 2006

    THE HGCA has planned a series of half-day ‘Winter Workshops’ for December and January focusing on the importance of rotations as growers try to adapt to an ever-changing industry.

  • Compacting plastic bag waste to make cost savings

    10 November 2006

    THE new Bag Boxer from Techneat Engineering will enable farmers to reduce the volume of plastic fertiliser and seed bags by a factor of up to 10:1 and significantly cut the cost of transport and storage, says the company.

  • Family combining tradition with new innovative ventures

    November 10th 2006

    The agricultural industry has changed dramatically in recent years, creating a need for farmers to do the same. One Somerset farming family’s ability to move with the times was instrumental in their winning the inaugural Farming Family of the Year Award, sponsored by Mole Valley Farmers.

  • Handbook provides latest updates on field scale spraying

    November 10th 2006

    THE BCPC (British Crop Production Council) has revised and fully updated its sprayer operator books.

  • Season length prompts review of beet fertiliser

    November 10th 2006

    FERTILISER use in sugar beet needs to be reviewed in the light of potentially longer growing seasons and the need to improve leaf quality.

  • Herbicides e-training pack

    7 November 2006

  • Rotting potato tubers found after a sudden change in storage conditions

    3 November 2006

    ROTTING tubers are already being found in some ambient potato stores, despite earlier suggestions that rots were not likely to be a problem this season, growers are being warned.

  • Storage fears as temperatures hold

    3 November 2006

    THE long, hot summer and warmest autumn on record are creating some difficulties with storage conditions for potatoes, as temperatures in-store remain several degrees higher than the norm for the time of year.

  • BCPC Conference

    November 3rd 2006

    The BCPC Crop Science and Technology Conference took a wide-ranging theme – global aspects of crop production, crop protection and food supply – this year. John Parry reports from Glasgow.

  • Database to manage markets and agronomy requirements

    November 3rd 2006

    AN on-line farm management aid was launched at the event.

  • Discovering the options for work under an organic ELS

    November 3rd 2006

    DALBY Hall Organic Farm, on the south-eastern edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, was the venue for a recent farm walk organised by ADAS on behalf of Natural England.

  • Shedding the plough for non-inversion tillage

    November 3rd 2006

    “WE’RE locked into non-inversion tillage now, I can’t see us ever going back to the plough.”

  • ‘Re-think herbicide timings on OSR and winter wheat’

    October 27th 2006

    CONTINUING unseasonal weather means that winter wheat and oilseed rape growers may need to rethink their timings for the application of herbicides to control black-grass.

  • EU strategy to protect soil from nutrient loss and erosion

    October 27th 2006

    THE massive and increasing annual loss of soil and nutrients from agricultural land caused by cultivation and cropping techniques is to be tackled by a new EU-wide strategy on soil protection.

  • Faster developing varieties ‘better for winter wheats’

    October 27th 2006

    WINTER wheat growers looking to plant up ground between now and Christmas need to switch to faster developing varieties that catch up in the spring and do not delay harvest.

  • Pesticide restrictions under new legislation

    October 27th 2006

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate has published a list of active substances and products effected by the new regulations imposing restrictions on the use of ACCase and ALS inhibitor grass weed herbicides.

  • Restrictions ‘could hit crops without significant rainfall’

    October 27th 2006

    The UK Irrigation Association (UKIA) held a technical briefing in Peterborough where water shortages came high up on the day’s agenda. ALISON LEA reports.

  • Sharing information between irrigators would provide a united voice in droughts

    October 27th 2006

    NORTH Norfolk irrigator Tim Papworth stressed the value of grouping with other farmland irrigators in the area to provide a united voice and a better contact point for liaison with the Environment Agency.

  • Technology helps cut water usage for crop irrigation

    October 27th 2006

    DESPITE the rapidly worsening drought, a combination of good luck and good management enabled Tim Papworth to irrigate his potatoes to the full requirement of the crop this year.

  • Watch nitrogen applications on second cereals

    October 27th 2006

    BE sure to get nitrogen timings correct for hybrid barley versus conventional winter barley when growing in a second cereal situation, farmers are being advised.

  • A re-think on autumn weed control

    October 20th 2006

    AUTUMN weed control programmes may need to be reconsidered as a result of the warm, wet weather conditions, agronomists are advising.

  • CIF - delivering the strategy

    October 20th 2006

    THE Cereals Industry Forum (CIF) has become one of five main organisations involved in the delivery of Defra’s Sustainable Farming and Food Strategy, said CIF chairman, Prof Christopher Ritson. The other main organisations involved are the English Farming and Food Partnerships, the Red Meat Industry Forum, the Food Chain Centre and Assured Food Standards.

  • Estimated fall in cereals and OSR output no surprise

    October 20th 2006

    PRELIMINARY estimates of a fall in the Scottish cereals and oilseed rape harvest come as no surprise, according to NFU Scotland.

  • HGCA OUTLOOK CONFERENCE

    October 20th 2006

    There were calls at the HGCA Outlook conference in London for the EU’s set-aside and intervention policies to be dismantled. Teresa Rush reports.

  • Investors eye agricultural commodities

    October 20th 2006

    INVESTORS are paying increasing attention to agricultural commodities, attracted by their price volatility and the perception that they are undervalued.

  • Phoma attack on OSR causes concern

    October 20th 2006

    PHOMA has attacked oilseed rape crops at its earliest timing since 1999, disease experts are warning.

  • Research solves the mystery of white thistle

    October 20th 2006

    QUERIES about the appearance of white thistles have been occupying the minds of H L Hutchinson’s technical support staff in recent weeks but a little research has solved the mystery, according to the company’s technical support manager Ian Black.

  • Vast database will provide consumer information for the cereals sector

    October 20th 2006

    UNITED Kingdom cereal and rapeseed producers now have access to a vast database of consumer information, courtesy of a new initiative funded by HGCA.

  • What are sugar beet growers’ plans for the future?

    October 20th 2006

    The trading window for sugar beet quota trading closed on October 6. John Parry talked to growers and advisers in the York and Alscott factory regions about their plans for the future.

  • Agronomy changes ‘not needed’ for hybrid barley

    October 13th 2006

    RESEARCH into the effects of crop husbandry on the yields of hybrid winter barley has concluded that specific changes are not required to agronomy for hybrid barley compared with conventional varieties. The work also concluded that second wheat crops may still be more profitable than hybrid winter barley crops, depending on yield.

  • Ammonia nitrate ‘still best option’

    October 13th 2006

    AMMONIUM nitrate remains the best nitrogen fertiliser option for UK farmers, according to research published by Defra.

  • Diquat optimism for potato growers

    October 13th 2006

    POTATO growers can achieve faster stem desiccation and skin set with diquat following flail operations, compared to the slower acting carfentrazone-ethyl Spotlight Plus, especially in dull weather conditions with later season applications.

  • Growers are warned of BWYV infection

    October 13th 2006

    OILSEED rape growers need to be aware of the threat to crops posed by aphids carrying beet western yellows virus, according to Syngenta technical manager Iain Hamilton.

  • Latest CQS results continue to show good quality

    October 13th 2006

    LATEST HGCA cereal quality survey results suggest that Group 3 wheats suffered most in terms of quality as a result of the wet weather in August.

  • Letterston and District poughing match - Competitors are undaunted

    October 13th 2006

    A HEAVY shower and claps of thunder failed to deter the enthusiasm of the competitors who entered the nine classes at the Letterston and District ploughing match on a steadily sloping barley stubble site at Pantycoch Farm, Castlemorris, North Pembrokeshire.

  • Maize monitor: countdown to harvest 2006

    October 13th 2006

    ULTRA early varieties are now being reported as fit for harvest as far north as Cumbria, but later maturing varieties – particularly in marginal areas – may still require time in the field.

  • Malting barley chemicals listed

    October 13th 2006

    THE British Beer and Pub Association, in conjunction with Brewing Research International, have released the latest version of the list of agrochemicals approved for use on malting barley. • Go to www.ukmalt.com to view the list.

  • NFU Cymru group calls for Assembly support

    October 13th 2006

    NFU Cymru has set up its first combinable crops working group – with its first action being to call for more positive Welsh Assembly support.

  • Northern Ireland Vintage Tractor Ploughing Championship - Jackie’s vintage performance

    October 13th 2006

    THE Northern Ireland Vintage Tractor Ploughing championships at Limavady, Co Londonderry, was won by Jackie Moore, of Bangor, Co Down, who was also placed first in the senior class.

  • Record numbers of new rhizomania cases are reported

    October 13th 2006

    A RECORD number of suspected new outbreaks of rhizomania are now showing up in sugar beet crops across East Anglia.

  • Slug control: ‘Worms are a farmer’s friend’

    October 13th 2006

    ARABLE farmers should ensure their autumn slug control programme, as well as their cultivations strategy, takes good care of earthworm populations, according to Alastair Leake from the Game Conservancy Trust.

  • Surrey County Ploughing Match

    October 13th 2006

    THE soil was perfect for Surrey County Ploughing Match at Loseley Park, Guildford, with an early thunderstorm giving way to autumn sunshine.

  • Training focuses on much safer usage of pesticides

    October 13th 2006

    NATIONAL agronomy and crop protection specialist Agrovista UK Limited, has announced that it will, for the fourth year in a row, be running winter training courses in support of the National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) and the Voluntary Initiative.

  • High level talks on Yorkshire beet

    October 6th 2006

    MIKE Blacker, ex-chairman of the NFU sugar board chairman, meets Prime Minister Tony Blair next week to discuss the future for the crop and the county after the closure of the York sugar factory next year.

  • Beware of thorn apple menace

    September 29th 2006

    FARMERS are being warned to be on the look out for thorn apple – a ‘strange looking’ poisonous weed that has thrived in this season’s weather conditions and is particularly prevalent in East Anglia, according to Kite consultant Ben Watts. 

  • Biofuel bliss or futuristic fantasy?

    September 29th 2006

    More than 200 delegates from the farming industry attended an HGCA workshop last week looking at the latest developments in biofuel policy and production. CLEMMIE PEROWNE reports.

  • Early harvesting enabled capture of milling quality

    September 29th 2006

    SPECIFIC weights proved to be the stumbling block for certain quality wheat varieties this harvest.

  • Further fall in barley plantings

    September 29th 2006

    WEATHER conditions this summer compromised the yield and quality of malting barley crops, particularly those in the eastern counties.

  • Grainfarmers harvest review

    September 29th 2006

    It’s the time of year when the agricultural trading and supply companies take a look back at the harvest and a look forward to plantings for the coming season. TERESA RUSH reports from the Grainfarmers harvest review and new season outlook.

  • Hawk nozzle boosts Defy’s performance

    September 29th 2006

    WINTER wheat and winter barley growers looking to boost application of the new pre-emergence herbicide prosulfocarb (Defy) against black-grass can do so using 40 degree angled Hawk nozzles, but alternating them forward and backward facing along the spray boom, trials by Syngenta suggest.

  • High risk of frit fly and leatherjackets

    September 29th 2006

    NEWLY-sown winter cereals and grass re-seeds following grassland may be at higher risk of frit fly and leatherjacket damage after the hot summer.

  • Little good news for pulses

    September 29th 2006

    THERE was not much in the way of good news on pulse crops at the Grainfarmers harvest review.

  • New measures aimed at whole pesticide life cycle

    September 29th 2006

    TWO new pieces of legislation proposed by the EU will affect the way pesticides are used and soils are managed on UK farms.

  • Paying more than lip-service to the value of wheat straw

    September 29th 2006

    WHEAT straw could soon be used as the raw material for lipstick manufacture.

  • Potato yields are patchy

    September 29th 2006

    POTATO crops are showing huge yield variations this season, according to the British Potato Council.

  • Second SOLA cd is ready

    September 29th 2006

    HGCA and HDC have issued a second SOLA CD for the minor use of pesticides with a third due in the near future.

  • Spray courses for operators

    September 29th 2006

    CONTINUOUS professional development for those on the National Register of Sprayer Operators (NRoSO) will continue this winter in a series of roadshows entitled: ‘On Target’. 

  • The return of the turnip sawfly could provide headaches for OSR growers

    September 29th 2006

    A RELATIVELY uncommon pest of brassica crops is affecting oilseed rape crops across the country.

  • Variable OSR yields make final results disappointing

    September 29th 2006

    OILSEED rape yields this season were generally disappointing and no better than average.

  • ‘Atlantis+Hawk could offer advantages in some situations’

    September 22nd 2006

    There are a number of situations were an Atlantis+Hawk mix will offer advantages over existing options, according to Bedfordshire-based TAG agronomist David Parish.

  • ‘Rare’ pit rot found in salad potato crop

    September 22nd 2006

    A POTATO grower has suffered an outbreak of the rare disease pit rot in one of his crops. The condition is usually associated with crops stored in straw and earth-covered clamps or pies, rather than in the field itself.

  • ‘Some seed treatments could delay crop emergence’

    September 22nd 2006

    Watch out for delayed crop emergence with certain combinations of seed treatment and pre-emergence herbicide, cereal growers are being advised.

  • Autumn spraying decisions

    September 22nd 2006

    Black-grass control is a numbers game according to Bob Mills of Frontier, and a grower’s philosophy should be to hit difficult situations with the best options available and an end goal of minimising head counts.

  • Biscaya approval ‘for more robust resistance strategies’

    September 22nd 2006

    The aphicide Biscaya (thiacloprid) has been granted a Specific Off-Label Approval (SOLA) for control of aphids in a range of brassica crops, following an application by the Horticulture Development Council (HDC).

  • Black-grass must be the priority

    September 22nd 2006

    BLACK-GRASS control must continue to be a priority for cereal growers and should, in many situations, take precedence over disease control, according to Agrovista’s Craig Morgan.

  • Consistency pays in wheat recipe

    September 22nd 2006

    BISCUIT wheats have progressively given way to out-and-out feed varieties at Manor Farm, Wood Enderby, on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds, as grower Jim Scholey has sought to improve margins while minimising hassle with the greatest possible reliability.

  • Control black-grass in autumn, rather than waiting until spring

    September 22nd 2006

    Aim to control black-grass this autumn, rather than leaving it until next spring.

  • Danes’ rapid response to resistance

    September 22nd 2006

    THE development of fungicide resistance has had a major impact in Denmark on fungicide recommendations in cereal crops, Dr Lise Jorgensen of the Danish Institute of Agricultural Sciences told the meeting.

  • Irish study shows increased sensitivity

    September 22nd 2006

    THE sensitivity of epoxiconazole (Opus) against septoria has increased but that of some older triazoles has decreased, according to survey data from the Republic of Ireland.

  • Low doses dont increase risk

    September 22nd 2006

    LOW doses of fungicide do not increase the risk of resistance developing, scientists at SAC have concluded.

  • Microdiesel is advance for biofuels

    September 22nd 2006

    A BREAKTHROUGH in the production of biofuels has been developed by scientists in Germany according to research published in the September 2006 issue of Microbiology, which describes how specially engineered bacteria could be used to make fuel completely from food crops.

  • Price cut opens up mix choices

    September 22nd 2006

    Cheaper Hawk (clodinafop+trifluralin) this autumn opens up the possibility of an Atlantis+Hawk tank mix for black-grass control.

  • Record levels of OSR disease in last year’s crop

    September 22nd 2006

    Last year saw some of the highest levels of diseased oilseed rape crops on record due to a combination of over-focusing on crop canopy manipulation and a heavy carryover of disease from the previous year’s crop.

  • Treatment will protect beet seed from aphids

    September 22nd 2006

    ACCORDING to the latest results of trials at Broom’s Barn, a new seed treatment combination for sugar beet has achieved almost total control of virus spread from beet plants inoculated with virus infected aphids. The trials have demonstrated that CruiserForce (thiamethoxam+tefluthrin) performs equally well at both early and late virus inoculation timing, six and 10 weeks after drilling.

  • ‘Work together to fight resistance’

    September 15th 2006

    The delegate list for the Association of Applied Biologist’s ‘Fungicide resistance: Are we winning the battle but losing the war?’ conference in Edinburgh was something of a ‘who’s who’ of disease resistance experts. Teresa Rush reports on the key messages.

  • August deluge improves the situation as Newark factory prepares to open

    September 15th 2006

    SUGAR beet yields are set to be a lot higher than was originally thought possible after last month’s deluge allowed the crop to develop healthy green foliage.

  • Food poisoning bugs ‘quickly destroyed’

    September 15th 2006

    FOOD poisoning bugs in sewage sludge, which is spread on fields, are destroyed so quickly that they pose practically no risk, said researchers presenting at the Society for General Microbiology’s 159th meeting, in York on Wednesday.

  • FWAG forum

    September 15th 2006

    Farmers are accustomed to the sight of finches, buntings and other birds rising from game crops on a shoot day. Now these crops may be sown as options within Environmental Stewardship to improve winter food resources and help conserve declining farmland birds.

  • Good establishment is the key to profitable sugar beet, says specialist

    September 15th 2006

    GOOD establishment is the key to profitable sugar beet production following the widespread changes in the way sugar beet is grown, according to leading sugar beet specialist Mike May of Broom’s Barn.

  • Herbicides not winning the black-grass battle

    September 15th 2006

    CHEMICAL methods alone are no longer sufficient to keep black-grass under control, according to Dr Stephen Moss, of Rothamsted Research.

  • NIAB to evaluate biomass for Defra

    September 15th 2006

    NIAB has been contracted by Defra to carry out a research project looking at variety evaluation with biomass crops.

  • Strong performance

    September 15th 2006

    FINAL results from the HGCA winter wheat Recommended List trials around the UK have provided a clearer picture on both crop yields and quality, this week.

  • Survey is optimistic on future rape yields

    September 15th 2006

    OILSEED rape growers are optimistic about the rape yields that they can achieve, according to a recent survey of growers conducted on behalf of BASF. But they need to adopt a more technical and professional approach to the management of this crop if these higher yield aspirations are to be achieved.

  • Watch the quality

    September 15th 2006

    GROWERS looking to farm-save seed from crops that are late and may be affected by the weather are being advised to make sure that they are of a good enough quality for the job.

  • Ways of halting triazole performance slide

    September 15th 2006

    THE best way of halting the slide in performance of triazoles against rhynchosporium is to stop growing winter barley.

  • Winter wheat sowing guide from Nickerson

    September 15th 2006

    WITH the company’s wheat varieties now accounting for about 50 per cent of the UK crop, seed breeders Nickerson have released a ‘sowing guide to winter wheat’ showing the best time to sow each variety in their wheat portfolio.

  • Yield loss but beet claws its way back

    September 15th 2006

    THERE is no doubt that some yield potential of the sugar beet crop was lost in the heatwave but it is now clawing itself back, says British Sugar’s Phil Inskip.

  • Zebedee valuable Group 3 addition – Rank Hovis

    September 15th 2006

    RECOMMENDED list candidate winter wheat variety Zebedee has performed over and above specification this season, according to Rank Hovis head of wheat procurement, Gary Sharkey.

  • Add value and halt decline

    September 8th 2006

    From local delicatessens to foreign hotels, Tiptree’s products are so reassuringly familiar it could be easy to underestimate the efforts that underlie that enviable position. Tia Rund finds out about one of the country’s oldest and most successful farm diversifications.

  • ‘No excuses’ for black-grass control delay

    September 8th 2006

    THIS season’s first attack on difficult black-grass must be a well-timed pre-emergence spray – don’t use the pressures of a busy work period as an excuse for a delay.

  • ‘Protect OSR seedlings with pellets’

    September 8th 2006

    SLUG pellet sales have surged, according to major UK distributors, following the recent wet weather. As oilseed rape emerges in moist seedbeds, growers have been advised to use quality pellets to protect delicate seedlings.

  • A ‘significant improvement’ in harvested wheat quality

    September 8th 2006

    FIRST results from this season’s HGCA Cereal Quality Survey suggest that early harvested wheat samples show very good quality with an increase in wheat hagbergs and protein content from 2005.

  • Climate ‘could cause long term soil damage’

    September 8th 2006

    HIGH temperatures and continuing drought may cause long-term damage to soils, according to scientists from Germany’s GSF Research Centre for Environment and Health, who are engaged in a long-term study to investigate the ability of soils to degrade the herbicide isoproturon.

  • Competition for early crops

    September 8th 2006

    IDEAL drilling conditions for oilseed rape mean that some early-drilled crops are up already, but they are facing intense competition from volunteer cereals.

  • Farmers ‘should follow water-saving advice’

    September 8th 2006

    FARMERS irrigating crops in hot dry weather conditions should try to limit their water usage in the same way that consumers are being told to do, according to the chair of the Consumer Council for Water in the eastern region, which covers the area from the Thames to the Humber.

  • High risk of yellow rust bridging gap between old and new crops

    September 8th 2006

    THERE is an increased risk of yellow rust using the ‘green bridge’ between old crop and new this autumn, according to Mike Jeffes, of Dalgety.

  • No deliberate releases of GM organisms

    September 8th 2006

    THERE were no deliberate releases of genetically modified organisms in England or Wales In the period April 1 2005 to March 30 2006, according to the GM Inspectorate in its sixth annual report.

  • Pollution ‘timebomb’ on groundwater supply

    September 8th 2006

    NITRATES and phosphorous from agricultural chemicals and fertilisers are contaminating groundwater and many rivers in the UK, and will continue to do so for the next 70 to 80 years, even if tight restrictions are put in place now.

  • Reglone application before flailing could save potato growers £7 per hectare

    September 8th 2006

    AN application of Reglone (diquat) a week before planned flail operations will significantly increase the speed of flailing, achieve cleaner haulm removal, reduce the risk of vascular browning tuber damage, and could save potato growers an average £7/ha in costs.

  • Trials highlight feed wheat N tolerances

    September 8th 2006

    SOME feed wheats are markedly more tolerant of variations in drilling date and nitrogen application than others, according to the first winter wheat systems trials conducted by Cambridge Arable Technologies at its Great Wilbraham site near Cambridge this season.

  • Winter wheat sowing guide

    September 8th 2006

    PLANT breeders Nickerson have released a ‘sowing guide to winter wheat’ showing the best time to sow each variety in their wheat portfolio.

  • Yield success of new OSR variety

    September 8th 2006

    YIELDS of the new high oleic, low linoleic (HOLL) spring oilseed rape variety Nex 170, grown for the first time in the UK this year, have surpassed all expectations, according to United Oilseeds.

  • BPC Potato Storage 2007 Conference Booking Form

    4 September 2006

  • Performance of new blight fungicide looks ‘very impressive’ after international trials

    1 September 2006

    POTATO growers had the first opportunity to see the performance of a new blight fungicide, mandipropamid, at Syngenta’s Whittlesford trials site in Cambridgeshire last week.

  • ‘No worrying trends’ as List varieties perform as expected

    September 1st 2006

    NONE of the winter wheat varieties in the HGCA Recommended List trials have had a bad year, according to trials technical manager, Bill Handley.

  • Agrovista acquires Hebrides

    September 1st 2006

    AGRONOMY and crop protections specialists Agrovista UK have acquired the new winter wheat variety Hebrides from CPB Twyford, a full sister variety to Oakley.

  • Cereal seed approval

    September 1st 2006

    THE majority of Bayer CropScience’s new generation of cereal seed treatments have received PSD approval for use on a wider range of crops.

  • Further work imminent to find a better skin finish

    September 1st 2006

    FURTHER work to help potato growers achieve better skin finish could be on the cards following a British Potato Council-funded review of the research in this area.

  • Growers get early start to sugar beet campaign

    September 1st 2006

    SUGAR beet growers in the Newark factory area have welcomed British Sugar’s decision to open the factory earlier than last year. The 2006 campaign will begin on September 18, six days before last year’s September 24 start.

  • Not all couch is common variety – warning

    September 1st 2006

    FARMERS across the country are failing to get on top of couch grass problems because it’s not the weed they think it is.

  • Reappraise mycotoxin risks with changeable weather

    September 1st 2006

    WITH rainfall affecting harvest in many areas and changeable weather prospects for the next fortnight, there is a need to reappraise the mycotoxin risks this harvest, according to HGCA.

  • Sainsbury’s back bumblebee scheme

    September 1st 2006

    SUPERMARKET giant Sainsbury’s has given its support to Operation Bumblebee, the Syngenta initiative designed to boost UK bumblebee numbers.

  • Bigger spraying window for trifluralin

    August 25th 2006

    GROWERS can now apply Alpha Trifluralin 48EC (trifluralin) right through to the end of tillering in cereals.

  • Croda applies for approval to use refined echium oil

    August 25th 2006

    THE Food Standards Agency has received an application to use refined echium oil as a novel food ingredient.

  • Deal with slugs and get OSR off to a good start

    August 25th 2006

    NO oilseed rape plant will be safe from slug attack this season, according to one agronomist.

  • Europe-wide yield reductions

    August 25th 2006

    REDUCED yields and secondary growth could affect the productivity of continental European potato crops, according to the latest information from the British Potato Council.

  • Good results for red wheat but more growers needed

    August 25th 2006

    RED wheat crops are producing good results this harvest, according to Hampshire-based Premium Crops.

  • Harvest progress remains very slow

    August 25th 2006

    UNSETTLED weather continued to hamper harvest across many regions of the UK this week, increasing quality fears for those crops remaining in the field.

  • HGCA publish the facts on growing wheat for biofuel

    August 25th 2006

    WITH wheat likely to become a major biofuel crop in the UK, HGCA has published a new project progress sheet focusing on the agronomic issues in growing for this market.

  • No panic for wheat yields yet

    August 25th 2006

    THE acreage of wheat harvested varies within and between counties, agronomists are reporting. In Lincolnshire, the amount of wheat cut varied greatly from the north to the south of the county, said northern region manager, David Robinson, TAG (The Arable Group).

  • Potato crop quality has been hit

    August 25th 2006

    NUMEROUS quality problems are being encountered in potato crops this season, says the British Potato Council.

  • Reduce black-grass numbers pre-drilling

    August 25th 2006

    BLACK-GRASS seeds have a low dormancy this autumn, which will give growers the opportunity to decrease numbers in the crop by allowing maximum germination and spraying off prior to drilling.

  • Small amounts of glyphosate will damage potato seed crop

    August 25th 2006

    CARE should be taken when spraying glyphosate near seed potato crops, growers were being advised at the Potatoes in Practice event at Gourdie Farm, Invergowrie, Dundee.

  • Trials to find new fungicide for controlling skin spot

    17 August 2006

    WITH the withdrawal of the most effective fungicide for controlling potato skin spot possibly imminent, what options are open to growers?

  • Rapeseed meal solution to controlling common scab

    17 August 2006

    CONTROLLING common scab without the use of water by using products such as rapeseed meal is the focus of one field trial being run by SAC.

  • Ambrosia, Gladiator and Einstein set the pace in harvest results

    August 18th 2006

    A THIRD of the HGCA Recommended List winter wheat plots have now been harvested, with yields so far slightly down on average.

  • DFF to become a standalone

    August 18th 2006

    THE herbicide diflufenican (DFF) will be available for the first time in the UK as a stand-alone product this autumn, opening up opportunities for pre-emergence applications and lower weed control costs, according to its supplier.

  • Extra skills required at planting stage

    August 18th 2006

    ARE your staff trained to ensure any additional applications of products are carried out effectively at potato planting?

  • Arable crops survey plea

    August 11th 2006

    THE National Farmers’ Union is urging people to complete its Arable Crops Harvest Survey, launched this week. The annual report on combinable crops is the first source of recognised data on production in the UK and is published around a month before Defra’s official statistics.

  • Disappointing year for OSR RL candidates

    August 11th 2006

    CANDIDATE oilseed rape varieties have performed disappointingly in trials so far this season, while overall oilseed rape yields appear to be down, according to HGCA Recommended List manager, Jim McVittie.

  • Later crops better than early ones

    August 11th 2006

    WIDE variability of yield and quality of earliest-harvested combinable crops has given way to generally pleasing results from those still being harvested relatively later on heavier land and further north in an exceptionally early season.

  • Trials show promise as barley yields rise

    August 11th 2006

    WITH virtually all the winter barley results from the HGCA Recommended List trials now in, yields are up by 0.4 tonnes per hectare over the five-year average and candidate varieties look promising.

  • A seed treatment to counter wheat infection

    August 4th 2006

    USE of a clothianidin-based seed treatment on wheat could reduce the risk of barley yellow dwarf virus infection (BYDV) on autumn-drilled crops in addition to increased control of a variety of other pests.

  • Autumn vegetable crisis could be legacy of recent soaring temperatures

    August 4th 2006

    THE hot weather in recent weeks has caused major problems for vining pea growers in Lincolnshire and the Fens, and could result in shortages of other vegetables later in the year.

  • Bean crop wiped out by freak summer hailstorm

    August 4th 2006

    A FREAK summer hailstorm has destroyed a Lincolnshire bean crop.

  • Black-grass spreads into new regions

    August 4th 2006

    BLACK-GRASS is spreading steadily into areas of the country where there were previously no problems, according to a recent BASF survey of UK agronomists.

  • Computers replace beet hand digging

    August 4th 2006

    COMPUTER modelling has replaced hand-dug sampling as a means of obtaining early indicators of the likely performance of the UK sugar beet crop.

  • Concern over yield targets amid drought

    August 4th 2006

    WITH sugar beet growers being urged to hit a 70 tonnes per hectare yield target, the impact of the mid-summer drought is causing concern.

  • Crops cope better with dry weather conditions

    August 4th 2006

    MODERN sugar beet varieties and improved cultivation techniques have enabled crops to cope better than expected with this summer’s drought, experts are suggesting.

  • Dont overlook soil management

    August 4th 2006

    EVEN though combines are rolling, do not forget soil management to protect your full Single Payment, growers are being advised.

  • Drought could worsen take-alls effects

    August 4th 2006

    TAKE-ALL disease levels at HGCA Recommended List second cereal trial sites have been noticeably lower than last year, but losses from the disease are expected to be considerably higher in the face of much increased levels of summer drought stress.

  • Energy and environment to lead the way for the future

    August 4th 2006

    Russell Toothill is well known in farming circles for his work with renewable energy crops, but has recently made a name for himself as an environmental guardian as well. ANGELA CALVERT went to find out more. Pictures: John Eveson

  • Greenpeace mark GM maize

    August 4th 2006

    GREENPEACE activists entered a field of GM maize in the south of France last week and carved a giant crop circle with an ‘X’ in the maize, marking the field as a contamination zone.

  • How weed mapping can improve your control programmes

    August 4th 2006

    WEED control strategies can be greatly improved by methodically mapping the position of weed populations, according to East Anglian agronomist Brian Ross of Frontier Agriculture.

  • Most wheats for UK’s millers ‘legally compliant’

    August 4th 2006

    RESULTS from an HGCA project to monitor the safety and quality of milling wheat indicate that most of the wheat accepted by UK millers was legally compliant and safe for use.

  • Risks of not treating seed

    August 4th 2006

    Opting not to use a seed treatment is a decision that can only be taken for a single year and has to be based on rigorous disease testing of seed. The following year a seed treatment is more likely to be needed as seed-borne diseases start to build up.

  • Tough times for potato harvest

    August 4th 2006

    SLOW progress is being made with potato harvesting in comparison with recent seasons, says the British Potato council.

  • Treatment technology for better sowing

    August 4th 2006

    A BRAND new seed treatment technology, claimed to offers benefits to both farmers and treaters in terms of less dust, better flowability, and potentially improved efficacy, is being launched by Syngenta across a number of its seed treatment products.

  • Water and nutrient supply on demand

    August 4th 2006

    VEGETABLE and salad crop growers using ‘fertigation’ – combined irrigation and fertiliser application – could soon have a system that only applies water when needed, and checks the weather forecast to make sure it isn’t going to rain.

  • Drought tolerance important factor in OSR choice

    July 28th 2006

    WITH June rainfall across England just 38 per cent of the long-term average and mean temperatures for the month nearly 2 per cent higher than the average of the past 30 years, drought tolerance should be an increasingly important factor in oilseed rape variety selection this autumn.

  • Every seed counts

    July 28th 2006

    Lower seed rates deliver benefits such as improving canopy management and ensuring the crop is not too thick or lush with larger ears. Reduced sowing rates, especially when combined with early drilling, means every seed must grow to achieve the optimum target plant population. Any failure in seed establishment means significant yield loss.

  • Go soft for alcohol, says breeder

    July 28th 2006

    GROWERS signing up to bio-ethanol contracts should be choosing wheats with high alcohol extraction rates.

  • Keep an eye on crops as pest infestations increase

    July 28th 2006

    POTATO and sugar beet growers in Lincolnshire have been warned that recent hot weather conditions have increased the risk of pest infestations in their crops.

  • More demand makes herbage seed enterprise attractive

    July 28th 2006

    GROWING demand for high quality home-bred grass varieties, together with greater price stability are making a herbage seed enterprise more attractive, according to British Seed Houses.

  • New Hybrids

    July 28th 2006

    Growers should re-evaluate hybrids in a serious way

  • Oilseed Rape

    July 28th 2006

    TIME of flowering, the place for hybrids, the implications of growing more oilseed rape in the rotation, club root and high oleic/low linolenic (HOLL) varieties were among the subjects touched on by NIAB oilseeds specialist Simon Kightley as he guided growers around the plots at NIAB’s Cambridge headquarters trials ground.

  • OSR Development

    July 28th 2006

    Monitoring pinpoints varieties best suited to early or late sowing

  • Potato crops hit by high temperatures

    July 28th 2006

    THE hot weather is continuing to have a negative effect on crops across the country.

  • Protection decisions – before the crop goes in the ground

    July 28th 2006

    CROP protection decisions must be made not once the crop goes into the ground, but before.

  • Recommended List candidate varieties 2006 – strengths and weaknesses

    July 28th 2006

    (Gross output figures should not be interpreted as official HGCA data)

  • Reconsider dual-purpose barley role

    July 28th 2006

    CEREAL growers still growing a dual-purpose malting or feed winter barley, but who regularly do not achieve a malting premium, should consider doing a fresh income calculation versus modern high-yielding feed barley, a leading plant breeder is urging.

  • Single OSR break not sufficient for take-all safeguard

    July 28th 2006

    A SINGLE year of oilseed rape may not be a sufficient break to adequately safeguard first wheats from take-all, trials at Masstock Arable’s SMART Farm in Wellington, Somerset, have revealed.

  • Weather helps 10pc rise in barley yield

    July 28th 2006

    WINTER barley yields are generally higher than the five-year mean according to early indications from this summer’s HGCA trials around the country.

  • Winter Wheat

    July 28th 2006

    THE 2006 candidate winter wheat varieties offered some good disease resistance and yield characteristics, although much depended on their performance this harvest, said NIAB’s Clare Leaman.

  • Dry weather watch during the harvest

    July 21st 2006

    PRACTICALLY all the winter barley should have been harvested by this weekend, grain traders were predicting at the beginning of the week.

  • Energy efficiency key to home-grown produce

    July 21st 2006

    ‘Insecticide-free food: British salads leading the way’ was the theme of an Association of Applied Biologists (AAB) conference held in Peterborough. Bruce Knight reports.

  • Integrating historic strip farming

    July 21st 2006

    Farmers in North Lincolnshire had the opportunity to see how a historically unique farming project is working to save the heritage of the Isle of Axholme. Angela Calvert reports.

  • Know your seed-borne diseases

    July 21st 2006

    In the coming weeks our Sow 4 Success columns, produced in conjunction with AIC, aim to provide topical and relevant information on getting the best out of seed inputs. The series kicks off with seed-borne disease.

  • Planes to help assess crops fertiliser needs

    July 21st 2006

    FARMERS of the future will be able to use small remote-controlled aircraft to gather detailed knowledge about the state of their crops, according to a team of scientists based in Wales.

  • Second wheats disappointing

    July 21st 2006

    SECOND wheat yields look set to be disappointing this year, but first wheats could deliver bumper yields.

  • A quicker way to breed pure lines

    July 14th 2006

    A COMBINATION of bio-technology and conventional selection techniques are the way forward for wheat breeding, according to Advanta wheat breeder John Barrett.

  • Assessing yellowing viruses impact

    July 14th 2006

    TRIALS at Broom’s Barn are assessing the impact of yellowing viruses on rhizomania-resistant sugar beet varieties.

  • Co-formulas offer greater flexibility

    July 14th 2006

    TRIALS comparing the performance of simple, cheap phenmedipham and more expensive co-formulated products have demonstrated that straight phenmedipham can give good control of weeds if they are small and herbicide timing is optimal.

  • False economy to cut pre-emergence dose

    July 14th 2006

    Do not be tempted to cut the dose of a pre-emergence herbicide against black-grass to trim costs. Efficacy will be lost, which puts more pressure on the post-emergence treatment, and you could end up spending more than you save.

  • False economy to cut pre-emergence dose

    July 14th 2006

    DO not be tempted to cut the dose of a pre-emergence herbicide against black-grass to trim costs. Efficacy will be lost, which puts more pressure on the post-emergence treatment, and you could end up spending more than you save.

  • Farm acts now to secure a valuable future resource

    July 14th 2006

    Changing weather patterns and increasing demand from other sectors mean that water is an increasingly scarce resource for growers across the country. Teresa Rush visited a Cambridgeshire farming company that, with the help of Defra funding, is taking action now to protect its water supplies for the future.

  • Fungicide offers a 5pc yield payback

    July 14th 2006

    With beet factory closure announcements still fresh in the mind, TERESA RUSH reports back from the BBRO on its latest technical advice on growing the crop this season.

  • Metamitron resistance in Belgium

    July 14th 2006

    WEED experts at Broom’s Barn are keeping an eye on the activity of the herbicide metamitron on fat hen.

  • Nickerson and Advanta wheat merger gives 46pc market share

    July 14th 2006

    THE merging of the Nickerson and Advanta wheat breeding programmes has given the new company a 46 per cent share of the UK winter wheat market, based on 2006 seed certification figures.

  • Research into beet drought tol

    July 14th 2006

    DROUGHT and irrigation research at Broom’s Barn this season is seeking to identify breeder’s lines showing superior drought tolerance and water use efficiency.

  • Restrictions unlikely to affect UK beet growers

    July 14th 2006

    EXPECTED restrictions on the use of the herbicide ethofumesate are unlikely to affect UK sugar beet growers.

  • Tests highlight difficulties in leaving uncompetitive weeds

    July 14th 2006

    EXPERIMENTS to determine whether leaving uncompetitive weeds could significantly improve the biodiversity of sugar beet crops have demonstrated that there are difficulties involved in such an approach.

  • Comprehensive revision of fertiliser use guidelines

    July 7th 2006

    DEFRA is undertaking a comprehensive revision of its current guidelines for fertiliser use. The revised fertiliser recommendation system is due to be published in early 2008, although this is subject to the length and timing of the research.

  • Farming hand-in-glove with wildlife and conservation

    July 7th 2006

    Already involved with Countryside Stewardship Schemes, Simon Henderson is looking at ELS and largely HLS schemes for his Northumberland arable farm. Philip Bull of ADAS used the farm to illustrate farming practices that could score highly in an HLS application. The open day was held in conjunction with the Rural Development Service. NEIL RYDER joined them.

  • New oilseed rape herbicide gains approval

    July 7th 2006

    A NEW residual and contact herbicide has received approval for use in oilseed rape in the coming season.

  • Sharp decline in green aphids in sugar beet crops

    July 7th 2006

    LOW flying aerial aphid activity has declined sharply this year, with fewer than normal green aphids seen in sugar beet crops.

  • Smarter approach to potato protection

    July 7th 2006

    POTATO seed growers have been urged to make use of the British Potato Council aphid-monitoring service to bring a smarter approach to protecting the crop from Potato Virus Y (PVY) and help maintain the high health status of the British seed crop.

  • ‘Don’t forget second wheats’

    June 30th 2006

    BUOYANT prices mean that more oilseed rape in the rotation is likely to result in overall gross margin improvements next season.

  • ‘Take a zero tolerance approach to weed beet’

    June 30th 2006

    A ZERO tolerance to weed beet should be high on any sugar beet grower’s agenda this season even as the distractions of sugar reform rumble on.

  • An increased slug risk for potato crops

    June 30th 2006

    POTATO growers are being alerted to an increased risk of slug damage to crops following high levels of slug activity.

  • Atlantis sprays ‘hit by cold spring weather’

    June 30th 2006

    COOL conditions this spring have impaired the performance of the herbicide Atlantis (iodosulfuron+mesosulfuron) on some farms, according to a leading agronomist.

  • Less use offers better protection

    June 30th 2006

    INDEPENDENT product testing confirms that potato crops are best protected with a few well-timed applications of methiocarb slug pellets, according to Bayer CropScience.

  • More rain needed to boost yield

    June 30th 2006

    MOST early covered potato crops have been cleared and open ground crops are starting to put on weight, particularly fast bulking Premiere with dry matters and size acceptable for chipping.

  • PSD cracks down on retailer

    June 30th 2006

    THE Pesticides Safety Directorate (PSD) has recently taken enforcement action against a horticultural retailer in the north west of England for the unlawful sale, supply and advertisement of pesticide products.

  • Review of methods to stop novel gene spread

    June 30th 2006

    DEFRA has published a review that considers possible methods for containing the spread of novel genes in GM crop plants.

  • Spar‘Sparser canopies for profitable rape yield’

    June 30th 2006

    SPARSER oilseed rape canopies are required if yields and profitability are to be improved.

  • Survey reveals rise in A2 potato blight strain

    June 30th 2006

    A SURVEY by the Sarvari Research Trust (SRT) has shown that the number of sites at which the A2 mating type of phytophthora infestans (late blight) was detected has risen.

  • Traps cut pesticide levels

    June 30th 2006

    THE use of pheromone traps in cereals has cut the level of unnecessary pesticide treatments for orange wheat blossom midge (OWBM) control this season, according to ADAS.

  • Norfolk beet factory gets green light for hi-tech biofuel

    23 June 2006

    THE UK is set to become a global leader in biofuels with the announcement that British Sugar, BP and DuPont have teamed up to produce a ‘next generation’ fuel – biobutanol.

  • Cereals 2006 Machinery

    June 23rd 2006

    A vast array of new machines had their paint drying in the Lincolnshire sun at this year’s Cereals event. There was a good mix of cultivation and drilling tackle while the emphasis in the sprayer arena was on monster size tanks and field spanning booms. ANDY COLLINGS and MERVYN BAILEY report.

  • Cereals 2006 Machinery continued

    June 23rd 2006

    Citan range joins Amazone

  • Cereals 2006 Machinery continued 3

    June 23rd 2006

    Sumo Trio with auto-reset

  • Cereals 2006 Machinery continued 4

    June 23rd 2006

    Kvernelands revised drill

  • Cereals 2006 Report

    June 23rd 2006

    More than 600,000 tonnes of biodiesel may be produced in the UK by this time next year if targets are met; and at this year’s Cereals event at Nocton, Lincolnshire, there were plenty of companies displaying plans for both the biofuels and other non-food crops sector. JOANNA BAKER takes a look at just some of the options for farmers considering these new emerging markets.

  • No problem for Vaderstads Rapid drill

    22 June 2006

    COMPOSTED garden waste spread on the soil surface and a growing cover crop of phacelia were no problem for a Vaderstad Rapid drill at the ‘What’s new in arable farming’ demonstration area.

  • Opus shines at both T1 and T2

    22 June 2006

    IN A similar performance-stretching test on fungicides applied at either T1-only to assess preventative powers, or at T2-only to assess post-infection curative ability, Opus (epoxiconazole) shone at both timings.

  • Pro's and Con's are laid bare

    22 June 2006

    JOHN PARRY reports from Velcourt’s ‘What’s new in arable farming’ site at the Cereals event.

  • Zanzibar is at the forefront in trying to beat rhizomania

    22 June 2006

    THE 515 red blobs on the map of East Anglia showing the rhizomania outbreaks confirmed since the first case 20 years ago will be duplicated in Lincolnshire within 10 years and in Yorkshire and West Midlands soon after.

  • Encyclopaedia for cereals industry

    22 June 2006

    AN “encyclopaedia for the cereals industry” was launched at the Cereals event.

  • Legislation biteson mycotoxin risks

    22 June 2006

    IN less than two weeks time, new EU legislation will come into force setting legal limits for mycotoxins affecting the ears of grain for human consumption.

  • SMI guide on managing establishment

    22 June 2006

    GROWERS struggling to find a balance between ploughing and min till will find insight in an updated version of ‘A Guide To Managing Crop Establishment produced by the Soil Management Initiative (SMI).

  • Two new projects are promised funding

    22 June 2006

    FUNDING worth £1.4 million for research into reducing farming’s ‘environmental footprint’ and to set up a new agronomy centre was announced at Cereals.

  • Look before you leap warning

    22 June 2006

    DO potential new crops add value to the business? That is the key question growers should ask themselves when they are considering growing alternative crops, according to agri-business consultant, Richard Marriage, British Crop Production Council (BCPC).

  • Greenergy's biodiesel capacity to double

    22 June 2006

    FURTHER increases in oilseed rape contract tonnages were announced by biofuels supplier, Greenergy Fuels, at the event, following a year of growth in the biofuels sector.

  • Cost-effective way to track the life cycle of your crops

    22 June 2006

    CARBON efficiency on farms can be measured accurately and easily, according to recent trials conducted by the HGCA, as part of its work on the development of carbon assurance for biofuels.

  • Bioethanol's Somerset base

    22 June 2006

    PLANS for the first wheat bioethanol plant to be built in the UK are now well underway, with supply contracts being offered by Wessex Grain.

  • ADAS rosemaund annual open day

    June 16th 2006

    West Midlands arable farmers could catch up with developments in pest and disease control at the ADAS Rosemaund annual open day in Herefordshire. David Jones reports.

  • Bean sowing densities to be re-evaluated

    June 16th 2006

    THE development of higher yielding winter beans has made it necessary to re-evaluate the optimum sowing density. Plant population studies at PGRO will update current recommendations. “The current recommendation is 18 plants/ sq.m in the spring but all the work to establish this figure was done with older varieties,’’ said PGRO technical officer Paul Armitage.

  • British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) Open Day

    June 16th 2006

    The latest advice on achieving the sugar beet industry’s target yield of 70 tonnes/hectare was on offer at a British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) Open Day at Great Melton, Norfolk. Edward Long reports.

  • Cereals 2006

    June 16th 2006

    Cereals, a must-see event for UK arable farmers, got underway at Nocton, Lincolnshire, this week. Here, FG reporters provide key stories from the first day. More in next week’s Farmers Guardian.

  • Choose high yielding seeds for next season

    June 16th 2006

    SUGAR BEET varieties have the in-built genetic potential to deliver super-high sugar yields, and growers are being advised to select the latest highest yielding types when orderings seed for next season.

  • Disease control for yield

    June 16th 2006

    AS potential yields increase, there is an increasing need to control diseases such as powdery mildew, rust and ramularia. British Sugar is now advising all growers to use triazole or strobilurin fungicide in late July or early August as there is a five per cent yield benefit – even in the absence of disease – and some of the latest varieties have poor levels of resistance to powdery mildew, the most damaging of the foliar disease trio.

  • Early warning for brassicas

    June 16th 2006

    MONITORING of disease levels for the Brassica Alert service has started across Lincolnshire, providing growers with immediate early warning via mobile phone text message.

  • Environmental schemes arent just for the benefit of the wildlife

    June 16th 2006

    THE benefits and range of options for farmers interested in Defra’s new Environmental Stewardship Scheme, particularly Higher Level Stewardship (HLS), were outlined to Cumbrian farmers at a recent farm walk in Wigton.

  • Examining precision drilling

    June 16th 2006

    RESEARCH under way at PGRO is seeking to quantify the benefits of precision drilling of vining peas.

  • Fungicide comparison results

    June 16th 2006

    A SERIES of trials being undertaken by ADAS plant pathologist Dr Peter Gladders at Rosemaund aims to compare the four main oilseed rape fungicides against the crop’s three main diseases.

  • Growers angry over EU minimum beet price

    June 16th 2006

    ANGRY sugar beet growers warned they would not produce beet for the EU minimum price being recommended by British Sugar, at a ‘Future of Beet Growing in the UK’ seminar on the NFU stand on the first day of the event.

  • Home-grown rape seed bound for UK biodiesel plants?

    June 16th 2006

    THE use of home-grown rape seed over alternative feedstock in bio-diesel plants – currently under construction in the UK – will depend on several factors for and against their use, according to HGCA economist Michael Archer.

  • Lower disease levels in later crops

    June 16th 2006

    THE winter bean crop is a crop of two halves in terms of disease, according to PGRO technical director Dr Anthony Biddle.

  • NFU launches a vision for combinable crops sector

    June 16th 2006

    THE NFU has launched a proposal document for a ‘vision for the combinable crops sector’.

  • PGRO Members Day

    June 16th 2006

    From new pulse varieties, to developmental drilling techniques and the latest herbicide options – there was a wealth of information on offer at the PGRO Members’ Day at Thornhaugh, near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire.

  • Pulse alternatives to peas and beans

    June 16th 2006

    NEW pulse crops are on the menu for UK growers.

  • Reap the benefits of tramlining without compromising yields

    June 16th 2006

    BY switching to a tramlining system, beet growers could gain worthwhile benefits without compromising yields.

  • Site ideal for barley trial

    June 16th 2006

    ADAS Rosemaund’s location, in what is traditionally one of the wetter parts of the country, normally demands a more vigorous approach to keeping disease out of crops.

  • Spring and winter high yield barleys approved for brewing are a step forward in yield

    June 16th 2006

    TWO barley varieties that provide a step forward in yield have now been granted official industry approval for brewing.

  • Virus threat

    June 16th 2006

    ALTHOUGH over 80 per cent of the UK beet crop was drilled with insecticide-treated seed, aphid-transmitted virus yellows remains the biggest disease threat to untreated crops.

  • New sprayer nozzle gives better canopy penetration

    9 June 2006

    A NEW Syngenta potato sprayer nozzle, designed specifically to improve performance of mid-season blight and crop desiccation applications, is now available for growers and contractors.

  • Still plenty to achieve over the next two years

    9 June 2006

    THE NFU’s vision for the combinable crops sector is to be launched at next week’s Cereals 2006 event. Farmers Guardian arable editor Teresa Rush met up with Arthur Hill (right), the recently re-elected chairman of the NFU’s combinable crops board to hear more about the board’s plans for the next two years.

  • High rate of botrytis spread in rape

    9 June 2006

    BOTRYTIS is taking hold in oilseed rape crops at unusually high levels this season, according to ADAS oilseed rape disease specialist, Dr Peter Gladders.

  • Supermarkets ‘interested’ in commercial apricot crop

    8 June 2006

    BEING the UK’s only apricot farm has its benefits as well as its pitfalls. On the positive side, the notoriety has generated great publicity for Highland Court Farm, near Canterbury, Kent.

  • EU minimum beet price is not acceptable

    8 June 2006

    GROWERS will not, and cannot, produce sugar beet for the EU minimum beet price and that message must be broadcast far and wide, said the NFU this week.

  • ‘Clear role for crop on farms’

    8 June 2006

    WINTER barley still has a very clear role on arable farms, both in the north and across the rest of the country, with rotational arguments for the crop now increasing.

  • Winter barley hybrids launched for autumn

    8 June 2006

    The value of winter barley in crop rotations and the launch of two new hybrid barley varieties were the focus of a technical briefing held by Syngenta Seeds at JSR Farms, Driffield, East Yorkshire.

  • Farmland birds under threat from predators

    2 June 2006

    OUTDATED assumptions about farming practices are threatening targets set by agri-environment schemes to reverse declines in farmland birds.

  • Jersey wages right Royal battle as belated blight measures bite

    2 June 2006

    WITH planting of Jersey Royals from January through to March and lifting from the first week of April, blight programmes this season are well under way on the island. It is not unusual to see blight arriving in March on Jersey, but like everywhere else this has been a late season.

  • Project focuses on under-performing oilseed rape yields

    2 June 2006

    OILSEED rape growers are to be offered a package of agronomic and marketing advice in an attempt to raise the yields and returns of ‘an under-performing UK crop’ ahead of the predicted need to double the area to meet biofuel requirements by 2010.

  • New way to defy grass weeds in winter wheat and winter barley

    2 June 2006

    A NEW pre-emergence grass weed killer for use in winter wheat and winter barley, that is claimed will prove to be the most significant new herbicide for several years, has been launched by Syngenta.

  • Spring crop plantings down 10-15pc

    2 June 2006

    SPRING crop plantings are down by between 10 to 15 per cent this season compared with last year, according to Barry Barker, national seed business manager, Dalgety.

  • ‘Erratic’ growth rate means record yields are ‘unlikely’

    May 26th 2006

    Yorkshire

  • ‘Pleasurable’ oats is growing market

    May 26th 2006

    HISTORICALLY oats have suffered in the shadow of wheat and barley as a crop totally exposed to the vagaries of a commodity market with no intervention.

  • Crops look great as disease pressure low

    May 26th 2006

    Cambridgeshire

  • Insecticidal seed treatment for use in wheat

    May 26th 2006

    A NEW generation of insecticidal seed treatments will provide control of autumn aphid vectors of BYDV, slugs and wireworm.

  • Wheat mostly disease free as rain arrives at the right time

    May 26th 2006

    Kent to Cornwall

  • Yellow rust alert to Scottish wheat growers

    May 26th 2006

    SEVERAL cases of yellow rust have been identified in winter wheat crops in Fife so far this season with Scottish growers now being warned to be vigilant for the disease.

  • Zero tolerance approach to blight control is key

    May 26th 2006

    TAKING a zero tolerance approach to controlling blight in outgrade piles is key this season. That is the message from British Potato Council (BPC) agronomist, Mark Prentice, as the ‘Fight Against Blight 2006’ campaign gathers pace.

  • Early maturing OSR varieties 7 days ahead

    May 19th 2006

    SOME modern oilseed rape varieties mature seven days earlier than most and up to two weeks ahead of others, according to the latest evidence from Masstock’s national Best of British Oilseeds initiative.

  • Einstein extends second wheat lead

    May 19th 2006

    WINTER wheat variety Einstein has extended its lead as the most widely grown second wheat in the country over the past year, according to best available analysis of the market.

  • Full support package for Splendor

    May 19th 2006

    THE Splendor HOLL package on offer to growers is priced at £45/ha and includes seed, seed treatments, delivery, production advice and identity preservation.

  • High risk of damage from leatherjackets

    May 19th 2006

    LEATHERJACKET damage to arable crops, especially sugar beet, is showing up with increasing frequency across the eastern counties, and growers can expect damage to continue until June.

  • HOLL varieties offer health benefits

    May 19th 2006

    HIGH oleic, low linolenic (HOLL) oilseed rape varieties could account for up to 10 per cent of the UK rapeseed area within the next two to three years.

  • Longer lasting beet protection

    May 19th 2006

    A NEW sugar beet fungicide available this season provides longer lasting control of key foliar diseases, its manufacturer claims.

  • Move away from concept of OSR as a break crop

    May 19th 2006

    ADM, Monsanto, Grainfarmers, Glencore and Masstock have come together to launch grower contracts for the UK’s first high oleic, low linolenic (HOLL) oilseed rape variety. Teresa Rush reports from the launch of Splendor and the Vistive brand at ADM’s Erith crushing plant at Erith.

  • Mycotoxin moves for next season

    May 19th 2006

    IT is too late to do anything to minimise mycotoxin levels on grain this season but a raft of non-chemical measures can be implemented in an integrated husbandry/chemical crop management strategy for next season.

  • Poor locale can put premiums at risk

    May 19th 2006

    SITE selection is a key factor for any grower considering a crop of (HOLL) oilseed rape.

  • Reliability and flexibility key to choice of winter wheat variety

    May 19th 2006

    RELIABILITY and agronomic flexibility should be key criteria in winter wheat variety choice for the coming season.

  • Treat virus warnings with care

    May 19th 2006

    SEED potato growers should treat virus risk warnings, based on results of aphid catches in water traps, with care.

  • A healthier oil attracts interest from all parties

    May 12th 2006

    THE opportunity to be involved in developing a healthier oil from UK-grown oilseed rape is attracting interest from both growers and oil users.

  • Aiming to set a new standard

    May 12th 2006

    A NEW standard in stem canker resistance, together with high yields and no agronomic weaknesses. That is what the breeder is promising of its Recommended List candidate oilseed rape variety, Excel.

  • An optimum approach to maximise potential

    May 12th 2006

    ADOPTING an optimum biomass approach to oilseed rape this coming season will enable growers to maximise their crop’s output potential in terms of gross income according to one seed company.

  • Dont cut inputs on late drilled beet crops

    May 12th 2006

    SUGAR beet growers in Lincolnshire and Yorkshire have been warned not to cut back on inputs such as fungicides when the crop was drilled late.

  • Good establisment is the key to oilseed growing

    May 12th 2006

    ‘GOOD establishment is key to successful oilseed rape growing’ is the opinion of Mike Jeffes, trials manager for Dalgety Masstock at Throws Farm in Essex.

  • Herbicide SOLA for use on maize under plastic

    May 12th 2006

    A NEW use for the maize herbicide Calaris (mesotrione+ terbuthylazine will help push back the physical boundaries for the crop in marginal areas, and enable growers in less favourable areas to benefit from higher yielding, high-dry matter varieties, it is claimed.

  • Hybrids set to become the crop of choice

    May 12th 2006

    HYBRID oilseed rapes will be favoured over conventionally-bred varieties by growers within just a few years, predicts Dalgety Masstock seed director Barry Barker.

  • Looking clean as most forward crops have been flowering

    May 12th 2006

    WINTER oilseed rape crops are looking generally clean but variable so far this season, according to arable consultant, Andrew Wells, The Arable Group.

  • Oats are not a no-input crop

    May 12th 2006

    GROWERS with oats in the rotation risk not achieving specific weights if input requirements are ignored, according to Lancashire agronomist John Cairns.

  • Prioritise spraying set-aside can wait

    May 12th 2006

    DO not worry about set-aside spraying. Prioritise your foliar fungicides, PGRs and herbicides in this spring’s particularly tight spraying window. Your set-aside can easily wait for its treatment. Indeed, it will probably be all the better for the delay.

  • The first meaningful supplies after a tough spring season

    May 12th 2006

    WEATHERWISE it has been one of the hardest spring growing seasons for some years – but the first meaningful supplies of Pembrokeshire early potatoes should be heading for the supermarket shelves in time for the weekend trade.

  • Be guided by trends of market

    May 5th 2006

    FARMERS looking to break out of the current restrictive environment of agricultural commodity production should be looking at market trends rather than watching what their colleagues were doing, the audience was told.

  • Bread wheat N efficiency

    May 5th 2006

    CONSIDERABLE differences have been identified in the efficiency with which the five currently Recommended bread wheats appear to utilise fertiliser nitrogen in the latest series of Masstock Arable Group Co-ordinated Growing Systems trials.

  • BYDV hits winter wheat

    May 5th 2006

    Small, discrete patches of BYDV have appeared in winter wheat and barley crops in Yorkshire and the East Midlands

  • Cutting costs? Think again with Group 1

    May 5th 2006

    WHEAT growers contemplating cutting costs and reducing final nitrogen applications on wheats are being advised to think again – particularly on Group 1 varieties.

  • Farmers hold key to biodiesel market

    May 5th 2006

    BIODIESEL production capacity is rising so rapidly in the UK that oilseed rape production will soon be the limiting factor, leading to price rises to farmers.

  • Sclerotinia on the increase in May

    May 5th 2006

    SCLEROTINIA activity in oilseed rape has increased considerably during the last week and is likely to keep increasing during early May, growers are advised.

  • Well-timed fungicide will control disease

    May 5th 2006

    CONDITIONS have been perfect for cereal disease development but disease will be controllable as long as fungicide applications are properly timed.

  • Regulation roll out: Quarterly update

    May 5th 2006

    In January we gave you a summary of new regulations and legislation expected to affect arable farms over the next year. Alison Lea updates the calendar.

  • 2006 show promises to be bigger and better than ever

    April 28th 2006

    This year, it is the turn of the South West to host the Grassland UK event, and organisers are promising that the show on Wednesday, May 10 will be bigger and better than ever.

  • British Grassland Society seminars

    April 28th 2006

    This year’s Grassland UK event will feature an exciting line-up of seminars, organised by the British Grassland Society, to appeal to both visiting farmers and contractors. The series of six seminars will kick off at 10.40am and each will run for 20 minutes, with time at the end for questions.

  • Brown rust more likely than yellow

    April 28th 2006

    WHEAT growers may escape serious yellow rust problems this year, but a lot depends on the weather from now onwards.

  • Convenience and waste cutting with Roundup herbicide

    April 28th 2006

    A NEW Roundup herbicide available this season offers improvements in convenience and reduced packaging in comparison to existing products, claims its distributor.

  • Eyespot could hit 1990s levels, warns pathologist

    April 28th 2006

    EYESPOT could cause the levels of damage seen in the 1990s this year, warned SAC pathologist Fiona Burnett at a technical briefing in Suffolk.

  • Greater lodging risk with warmer weather

    April 28th 2006

    DO not get caught out by heightened cereal lodging risks with the return to rapid crop growth brought on by warmer weather, growers are being advised. Until now, relatively little plant growth regulator (PGR) has been applied to cereals, so some high-risk crops are still largely unprotected, says Syngenta technical expert Rod Burke.

  • Planning ahead helps save time in preparing for the big event

    April 28th 2006

    PREPARATIONS for Grassland UK 2006 have been underway for some time, with tenant farmer Mark Dunford priming the land at Bridge Farm in readiness.

  • Top tips for big bale quality

    April 28th 2006

    More than 20 per cent of grass ensiled in the coming weeks will be wrapped as big bales and it is vital the whole process is done effectively.

  • Triazole trials

    21 April 2006

    Label changes for triazole fungicides used to control septoria tritici seem likely following an announcement by the Pesticides Safety Directorate that it has commissioned trials to investigate the efficacy of UK-approved triazoles against the disease.

  • GAI rating spray check

    April 21st 2006

    To get the most out of the pre-flowering spray, first check the green area index (GAI) ratings of oilseed rape crops.

  • Scottish rape yields higher but variable

    April 21st 2006

    Winter oilseed rape yields in Scotland are potentially higher than south of the border as a result of the longer day length, longer grain filling period, and the cool moist conditions – but yields tend to be more variable.

  • Two-year limit on own use parallel imports removed

    April 21st 2006

    Safeguards in place for the approval of own-use parallel imports are sufficient to allow for the two-year limit on the period of approvals to be removed, the Pesticides Safety Directorate has announced.

  • Plus points from ELS management plans

    April 21st 2006

    Score points for your own benefit by opting for management plans in Entry Level Stewardship. Alison Lea reports.

  • Defra probe into brown rot outbreak proves inconclusive

    April 14th 2006

    DEFRA’S Plant Health division has completed its investigations into possible causes of the brown rot outbreak on a Nottinghamshire farm.

  • Generic tralkoxydim herbicide gets UK approval

    April 14th 2006

    FOLLOWING PSD approval, Alpha Tralkoxydim 250SC has become the first generic tralkoxydim herbicide to be marketed in the UK.

  • Scots urged not to give up on spring barley after cold start

    April 14th 2006

    DO not forsake spring barley just because cold, wet weather has delayed drilling, Scottish growers are being urged.

  • Yield boost of 20pc for grower who takes barley feed crops seriously

    April 14th 2006

    WINTER barley destined for feed is not always considered worth spending a lot on, but David Williams' motto of, “if a crop needs something it gets it” paid dividends last year.

  • Be flexible for a tough spring

    April 7th 2006

    Wheat growers across the country will have to plan their spring spraying with particular care, and as much tank-mixing flexibility as possible, this season if they are to avoid problems from what promises to be one of the most difficult springs of recent years.

  • Check for leaf spot now in year of high infection

    April 7th 2006

    Now is the time to check for light leaf spot infection in winter oilseed rape crops and, according to Dr Neal Evans of Rothamsted Research, the risk of infection this year is much higher than the last two years.

  • High risk of wheat eyespot

    April 7th 2006

    The risk of eyespot infections in winter wheat crops is high this season, plant pathologists are predicting.

  • Three-week extension on Atlantis after cold spell

    April 7th 2006

    Cereal growers under pressure to control grass weeds following the delayed start to the spring season have been granted a three-week usage extension on the herbicide Atlantis (iodosulfuron+mesosulfuron), say Bayer CropScience.

  • Green light for a hard red spring wheat that can pull its own weight

    March 31st 2006

    Originally sent from Scotland to settlers on the US and Canadian Prairies, North American red spring wheat could be making a comeback for growers in the UK. With excellent grain quality and high proteins, one variety being grown on these shores has been described as a ‘baker’s delight’. Edward Long discovers more.

  • Never been an easier time to get into agriculture

    March 31st 2006

    There had never been an easier time to get into agriculture and, in particular, to look at alternatives, said Pat Tomlinson, HSBC’s deputy head of agriculture.

  • New mildewicide aims to tackle high disease levels

    March 31st 2006

    Makhteshim Agan has launched a new mildewicide under its Alpha branded range of generic products.

  • Non-food crops are a vital source of new income

    March 31st 2006

    Non-food crops offered significant opportunities for new income streams for farmers and rural development as a whole, said Dr Jeremy Tomkinson, chief executive of the National Non-Food Crops Centre in York.

  • Renewable targets good news for farmers

    March 31st 2006

    Regulatory pressure for more renewable fuels offered a key advantage for arable farmers, said Alastair Dickie, HGCA crop marketing director.

  • New beet herbicide for pre- and post-emergence

    March 24th 2006

    A new sugar and fodder beet herbicide from Makhteshim Agan contains two ready-formulated residuals with different modes of action.

  • Root density link to OSR yield

    March 24th 2006

    New work on optimising winter oilseed rape root systems carried out by ADAS has demonstrated that the density of the root system is linked closely to yield.

  • Save your soils do your SPR

    March 24th 2006

    Farmers will come across references to soil protection throughout the cross-compliance handbook. No less than three elements of the Annex IV list – the framework for GAEC – are about soil, organic matter, structure and erosion.

  • Soil Protection Review in practice at Loddington

    March 24th 2006

    1 History of point source pollution from soil washing down sloping field, onto the road, where it washes down the sealed tarmac surface and into the brook.

  • Stem browning hits early sown OSR

    March 24th 2006

    Stem browning and hollowing problems being seen in some winter oilseed rape crops are believed to be associated mainly with early sown crops.

  • The cross-compliance challenge

    March 24th 2006

    Cross-compliance is a challenge farmers have had to cope with for the past 16 months. Alistair Driver and Alison Lea outline what is new in 2006 and where farmers have been falling down so far.

  • Wireworm threatens potato crop yields

    March 24th 2006

    Thousands of tonnes of potatoes coming out of stores are being discarded from premium pre-pack grade because of the effects of wireworm.

  • Making the most of ELS - Exploring all the options

    March 24th 2006

    Over the past eight months we have explored the practicalities and pitfalls of the most popular of Entry Level Stewardship options for arable farmers with advisors from the Rural Development Service (RDS) and Masstock Arable Group. In this final article in our exclusive series, Geoff Howe of RDS and Masstock national environmental adviser, David Wild recap the main recommendations, bringing them together in a handy ELS checklist.

  • Cost effective option in low to moderate disease situations

    March 17th 2006

    No significant yield differences were observed between Cherokee (cyproconazole+propiconazole+chlorothalonil) and an equivalent dose of Opus+Bravo (epoxiconazole+chlorothalonil) in The Arable Group (TAG) trials last season.

  • Fungicide curbs cost of disease control

    March 17th 2006

    A new fungicide available for use in cereals this spring will bring no great advances in disease control but will reduce its cost, claims its manufacturer.

  • Organic veg market continues to grow

    March 17th 2006

    The UK organic vegetable market grew by 13 per cent during the 2004-2005 season, according to a study by organic organisation, HDRA.

  • Agency demands more efficiency from irrigators

    March 10th 2006

    The Environment Agency may not be able to legally enforce efficient irrigation, but it will look for evidence of conscious effort to use water efficiently when abstraction licence renewal comes around.

  • Delaying T1 spray can be beneficial

    March 10th 2006

    Slightly delaying the T1 spray timing on winter wheat can be beneficial, according to Dr Judith Turner, principal plant pathologist, Central Science Laboratory, York.

  • Fungicide help for carrot growers

    March 10th 2006

    A new fungicide for carrot growers has been approved ready for this season, to provide improved control of alternaria and powdery mildew. Amistar Top combines the well-proven disease prevention of azoxystrobin, with the curative and protectant properties of difenoconazole.

  • Potato planting, a skilled job on-farm

    March 10th 2006

    Specialist trainer David Turner believes planting potatoes and applying inputs correctly is one of the most skilled jobs on the farm.

  • Seed treatments for rhizoctonia can make significant contribution to marketable yield of crops

    March 10th 2006

    Bayer's Jane Heatherington told participants that the effects of rhizoctonia are not just cosmetic and seed treatments can make an equally significant contribution to marketable yield in crops for processing.

  • Spot seed key to calibrate applicator

    March 10th 2006

    If you have not got your spot speed – or selected level of throughput – you cannot calibrate your applicator.

  • Vary calibration with potentiometer

    March 10th 2006

    When applying powder product on the planter, calibration is varied by adjusting a small potentiometer inside the control box, said David Turner.

  • Bolting resistant varieties for early sugar beet drilling

    March 3rd 2006

    Sugar beet drilling could start in the second half of next week, if conditions are suitable and seedbeds are prepared properly with the minimum of cultivation passes.

  • Farmers urged to complete soil protection review

    March 3rd 2006

    Completing a Soil Protection Review is an hour well spent, according to Phil Jarvis, farm manager of the Game Conservancy Trust’s farm, Loddington, Leicestershire.

  • Record yield likely and better on way

    March 3rd 2006

    The average yield from 2005 sugar beet crop is likely to end up at just over 60 tonnes per hectare of adjusted beet, which would be a record yield.

  • Winter cereal crops at heightened risk

    March 3rd 2006

    Winter cereal crops face a heightened lodging risk this season, one of the UK's leading experts on the topic is warning.

  • Cleavers treatment is getting earlier

    February 24th 2006

    Cereal growers and advisers are treating cleavers up to six weeks earlier than five years ago thanks to an increased understanding of weed biology and improved herbicides.

  • Cross-compliance advice in NVZs is firmed up

    February 24th 2006

    The Environment Agency has firmed up its advice on cross-compliance requirements in Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs), farmers attending the Procam conference at Tattersalls in Newmarket, Suffolk, were told.

  • Herbicide to target most maize weeds

    February 24th 2006

    A new maize herbicide for the 2006 season covers the broad-spectrum of weeds found in most UK maize crops.

  • Wheat bulb fly egg hatch is taking off

    February 24th 2006

    After the recent cold snap wheat bulb fly egg hatch in eastern England is taking off again as the weather and soil temperatures warm up again, warns Dow AgroSciences’ PestWatch service.

  • Agronomy lessons to be learned

    February 17th 2006

    There are agronomy lessons to be learned from CPB Twyford winter wheat strip trials that deliver yields of at least 2 tonnes per hectare above the UK mean.

  • Dealing with variations in OSR harvest

    February 17th 2006

    No two growing years will be alike, and the level of disease in OSR crops will vary with varying conditions. In recognition of this, an HGCA-funded ADAS project set out to establish the best way of dealing with this variation.

  • EU legislation to extend the MRL controls on crops

    February 17th 2006

    Amendments to EU legislation governing pesticide maximum residue levels have been voted through with the result that MRL controls will be extended on a range of crops including cereals, potatoes and sugar beet.

  • More options for blight and aphids

    February 17th 2006

    Two new products from Bayer CropScience will extend options for blight and aphid control in potato crops this season.

  • Oilseed rape canopies and pod density closely linked to yields and seed numbers

    February 17th 2006

    Sparser stem and pod canopies in oilseed rape produces higher yields, ADAS trials have confirmed.

  • Ploughing aids root depth over min-till

    February 17th 2006

    Early results of a project looking at rooting depth in oilseed rape indicated that as much as half the UK crop has a sub optimal rooting system.

  • Making the most of ELS - No chicken feed

    February 17th 2006

    Experienced Rural Development Service (RDS) adviser, Geoff Howe and Ludlow-based, Masstock Arable Group agronomist, Paul Doyle of Prince, Doyle & Jenkins provide practical advice on Wild Bird Seed Mixtures (EF2) in the eighth in our series of monthly ELS Options management guides.

  • Chlorpropham contamination

    February 10th 2006

    – but wheat unlikely to have come from British grower

  • Industry-led UK grain risk assessment project offers ongoing monitoring

    February 10th 2006

    A new UK-wide project, announced this week to co-ordinate the monitoring of grain and grain-derived co-products for potential contaminants aims to give the UK grain chain a strong foundation for meeting its due diligence requirements.

  • Less cause for concern over green seed at moment in OSR HGCA

    February 10th 2006

    Green seed is not presently a cause for concern for UK oilseed rape growers, an HGCA-funded study has shown.

  • Numerous factors affecting lack of oilseed rape improvements

    February 10th 2006

    A combination of major and minor factors is contributing to the lack of yield improvement from farm oilseed rape crops.

  • Optimising yields through careful crop management

    February 10th 2006

    Management techniques to optimise rapeseed yields must include careful variety selection and targeted management of fertiliser inputs and crop canopies, growers at the workshop were advised.

  • Shorter rotations helping to restrict oilseed rape yields

    February 10th 2006

    Shorter rotations, fungicide resistance and crop safety limitations are all limiting oilseed rape yields to some extent, growers at the workshop were told.

  • British Sugar confident that beet harvests will meet future target yields

    February 3rd 2006

    Achieving the British Sugar aim of 70 tonnes of beet to the hectare is possible, and would allow UK growers to remain viable under the proposed new regime, according to Robin Limb.

  • DIY bioheat hailed as the way forward many potential fuels

    February 3rd 2006

    Farmers looking for profitable uses for biomass should look first to heating their own homes and farms, and supplying heat to local users, rather than selling the raw materials to bigger users, a Lincolnshire seminar was told.

  • Universities to share expertise with wider community on environmental technologies

    February 3rd 2006

    Irrigators and those looking for commercial benefit from farm waste and non-food crops will be among those set to benefit from new efforts by universities in the east of England to share their knowledge.

  • New legal DON limits

    January 27th 2006

    HGCA’s 2006 cereals workshops are taking the theme ‘Managing cereals in challenging times’. Teresa Rush reports from the Woodbridge, Suffolk event.

  • Persistence pays for spraing control

    January 27th 2006

    Nematicide application and persistence are vital for the best levels of reduction of spraing, according Dr Pat Haydock, leading nematologist at Harper Adams University College.

  • Wheat at peril of yellow rust

    January 27th 2006

    Disease experts expect yellow rust strains to combine with the result that a proportion of UK winter wheat acreage will be at risk from the disease, based on current planting patterns.

  • Harvest conditions result in potential for record result

    January 20th 2006

    With the end of the beet campaign in sight weighbridges at the region’s sugar beet counties factories are due to shut in about a month’s time.

  • Launch of new spring herbicide

    January 20th 2006

    With heavy brome infestations principally in mind, Bayer CropScience has launched a new spring herbicide, which contains a reformulation of Atlantis’ actives.

  • Realising the potential of oilseed rape top of the agenda at HGCA workshop

    January 20th 2006

    Managing the oilseed rape crop to maximise margins will be just one of the topics on the agenda when SAC oilseeds and industrial crop specialist, Dr Elaine Booth, addresses Scottish farmers at the HGCA winter workshop ‘Growing oilseed rape: realising the potential’ at the Thainstone House Hotel, Aberdeen on February 1.

  • Making the most of ELS - Stubble trouble?

    January 20th 2006

    In the seventh of our monthly ELS Options guides, Rural Development Service (RDS) adviser Geoff Howe and Bedfordshire-based Masstock Arable Group specialist Martin Harwood of Dalgety examine Over-wintered Stubbles (EF6).

  • Regulation roll out

    January 20th 2006

    Arable Farming's snapshot of important deadlines and dates for the introduction of new regulations in 2006. Pin it on the office noticeboard! And look out for our quarterly updates throughout this year.

  • Making the most of the drilling window

    January 13th 2006

    Fertilisers and Spring Cultivation

  • Seeking solutions to the increased costs resulting from rising nitrogen prices

    January 13th 2006

    Fertilisers and Spring Cultivation

  • Soil protection looming over UK farmers

    January 13th 2006

    Fertilisers and Spring Cultivation

  • VI welcomes drop in pesticide levels

    January 13th 2006

    The Voluntary Initiative has welcomed Environment Agency figures released just before Christmas that show a 19 per cent reduction in the number of surface water samples containing pesticides at levels of more than the 0.1 parts per billion standard for drinking water.

  • Environmentally active farmers can benefit from VI new FWAG study

    January 6th 2006

    Even farmers who are already keen to improve the environmental aspects of their land can benefit from applying the Voluntary Initiative’s recommended best practice, according to research conducted by the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG).

  • Strip subsidy out of contract

    January 6th 2006

    Arable businesses are being advised to strip the subsidy out of contract farming agreements and calculate returns on a crop-by-crop basis.

  • Testing is here to stay... and targets are achievable

    January 6th 2006

    With target deadlines rapidly approaching, Dominic Kilburn gets an update on one of the key elements of the Voluntary Initiative – the National Sprayer Testing Scheme.

  • Tests improve performance

    January 6th 2006

    One thing is for sure, says Agrispray director Michael Monk, there are a lot less sprayer breakdowns in the field following the onset of sprayer testing.

  • Compost proves beneficial to arable soils

    December 30th 2005

    An Essex-based project investigating the use of compost to improve arable soils has identified significant positive benefits in terms of soil organic matter and moisture content.

  • Double award success for root veg firm

    December 30th 2005

    One of the UK’s leading producers of root vegetable crops has scooped two prestigious awards for environmental achievements.

  • PAN UKs List of Lists

    December 30th 2005

    The Pesticide Action Network UK (PAN UK) has updated and fully revised its ‘List of Lists’.

  • Straightforward advice on soil

    December 30th 2005

    A new guide to soil management from SAC aims to provide farmers, crofters and agricultural contractors with straightforward guidance on a range of soil issues.

  • EU Sugar reform

    December 16th 2005

    A HOUSE of Lords committee charged with an inquiry into EU sugar reform has expressed concern over the ‘disparity’ between measures to help EU growers and those in some of the world's poorest countries.

  • Growers demand more information on sugar reform

    December 16th 2005

    LINCONSHIRE sugar beet growers are demanding to know more about the EU sugar regime reform to allow them to decide what role, if any, the crop will play in their future rotations.

  • Heated discussions at beef producers meeting

    December 16th 2005

    BEEF producers from Lincolnshire and other parts of the East Midlands had what was described as 'heated discussions' with representatives of the NFU and the English Beef and Lamb Executive (EBLEX).

  • Hemel Hempstead oil depot fire

    December 16th 2005

    FARMERS have been reassured their produce is safe from contamination following the Hemel Hempstead oil depot fire.

  • Making the most of ELS - Planning for better crop performance

    December 16th 2005

    Soil and Crop Protection Management Plans (EM1 and EM4) come under the scrutiny of experienced Rural Development Service (RDS) adviser, Geoff Howe and Lincolnshire-based, Masstock Arable Group agronomist, Steve Portas of Dalgety in the sixth of our monthly guides to ELS options.

  • New weapons in war against potato blight

    December 9th 2005

    POTATO growers can look forward to a wider choice of blight fungicides next season with the addition of two new active ingredients to the current armoury.

  • UK blight control shake-up needed to combat new strain

    December 9th 2005

    BLIGHT control prog-rammes in the UK will have to undergo a major shake-up to have any chance of controlling the aggressive new strain of the disease now appearing with greater frequency in mainland Europe.

  • Wildlife friendly slug killer could have organic use

    December 9th 2005

    A NEW slug killer that is harmless to all other types of wildlife and is being considered by the Soil Association as acceptable for use on organic farms was launched for agricultural crops at British Potato 2005.

  • Approval for new Axial

    December 2nd 2005

    Options for wild oat and rye-grass control will be extended next spring following the approval of a new herbicide active ingredient for use in wheat and barley.

  • Diversifying into salad dressing rich in omega 3

    December 2nd 2005

    A Suffolk farmer whose premium quality rapeseed cooking oil has proved a hit with delis, farm shops and supermarkets is sowing a novel crop destined to be marketed as vinaigrette.

  • New spring bean varieties absent from Recommended List five new pea varieties

    December 2nd 2005

    Five new pea varieties, no new spring bean varieties, and one new winter bean have been selected to join the PGRO/NIAB 2005/06 Recommended List, announced last week.

  • Quality and quantity pays off for winning team in PGRO Pea Crop Challenge

    December 2nd 2005

    Quality and quantity paid off for agronomists competing in the PGRO Pea Crop Challenge this year, with the winning team of pea specialists from Syngenta growing the most profitable crop – with a margin of £430/hectare.

  • New spring barley variety is just the tipple for maltsters

    November 25th 2005

    Spring malting barley variety NFC Tipple, which joined the Recommended List this year, will be a bigger seller than Optic – which currently accounts for nearly 80 per cent of spring malting barley puchases by variety, at 400,000 tonnes.

  • Potato varieties get stores Finest label

    November 25th 2005

    The first potato varieties to be chosen by Tesco for inclusion in its premium ‘Finest’ product range start appearing in store this week.

  • Tipple poses no problems

    November 25th 2005

    “We are an old-fashioned lot, and don’t like change for change’s sake, but we like Tipple as it produces no processing problems. We especially like the good grain size. Disposal of screenings is becoming a real problem for us,’’ said Richard Wheeler, of Tuckers Maltings, in Newton Abbot.

  • Achieving WFD requires major change in land use

    November 18th 2005

    Britain will only meet targets set out in the Water Framework Directive (WFD) if there is a fundamental change in land use and land management practices.

  • Brussels sprouts receive Christmas boost

    November 18th 2005

    Brussels sprouts are back on the menu for far more households this season.

  • Energy crop growers urged to look out for new SPS advice

    November 18th 2005

    Growers of permanent crops for non-food uses in England have been urged to pay close attention to updated information being sent out to Single Payment Scheme (SPS) applicants.

  • Spreading the news that environmental measures are worth it

    November 18th 2005

    An estimated 14 per cent loss of farmed area to the combined effects of set-aside, cross-compliance, entry-level and stewardship is worthwhile in terms of income and environmental benefits, according to one Lincolnshire farmer.

  • Waste disposal measures to impact significantly on agricultural industries

    November 18th 2005

    New agricultural waste regulations likely to be introduced early in 2006 will apply the EU Waste Framework Directive controls to agricultural waste, which is estimated at 500,000 tonnes a year or 0.125 per cent of all industrial wastes.

  • Making the most of ELS - Planning for Extra Value

    November 18th 2005

    Experienced Rural Development Service (RDS) adviser, Geoff Howe and West Country-based, Masstock Arable Group agronomist, Kevin Ashford of Agrownomics turn their attention to Nutrient and Manure Management Plans (EM2 and EM3) in the fifth of our practical monthly ELS guides.

  • Concern over cost of buffer strips to farming industry

    November 11th 2005

    The estimated cost of buffer strips to the industry as a whole might be around £1.6 million, according to report author and secretary to the Commission, Tom Eddy.

  • Fuel crops must be as good as food

    November 11th 2005

    The yield and quality of oilseed rape in the UK needs to be raised if its potential for use in a one million tonne a year biodiesel market (based on 5 per cent inclusion rate) is to be maximised.

  • Sugar tonnage up on last year

    November 11th 2005

    British Sugar estimates that an average adjusted tonnage of 66-67t/ha could be on the cards from the nation’s 145,000ha crop at the end of the campaign.

  • Commercial sweetcorn reaps success

    October 28th 2005

    Commercially growing sweetcorn for human consumption in the North of England has proved successful for one Yorkshire grower this autumn.

  • Reviving the fortunes of the humble bumblebee

    October 28th 2005

    The fortunes of the humble bumblebee are set to be revived with the establishment of over 1,000 hectares of new habitat under a new initiative led by Syngenta.

  • BPC reports lower potato yields but better storage quality

    October 21st 2005

    Potato yields are down on last season but storage quality is better, according to the British Potato Council’s (BPC) GB 2005 crop and yield regional report.

  • Heavy grass weed hits yields

    October 21st 2005

    New trials results from Masstock have highlighted the dramatic effect of heavy grass weed infestations on cereal yields.

  • Industry supports Safe Haven ring rot exclusion

    October 21st 2005

    The British Potato Council (BPC) has reported strong interest from both seed and ware growers for a new Safe Haven Certification Scheme designed to exclude potato ring rot.

  • Making the most of ELS - Headland Options

    October 21st 2005

    In the fourth in our series of monthly ELS management guides, experienced Rural Development Service (RDS) adviser, Geoff Howe and East Midlands-based Masstock Arable Group agronomist, Jim Ferguson of AgSouth look into Conservation Headlands (EF9 and EF10).

  • Dont jump the gun when applying herbicides to OSR

    October 14th 2005

    Do not be tempted to apply residual herbicides to oilseed rape crops just yet, growers are being warned.

  • Fuel and fertiliser costs tip balance spring barley way

    October 14th 2005

    Think twice before continuing to drill winter wheat as we head towards the end of the year, growers are being urged.

  • Trials offer ergot option

    October 14th 2005

    Treating cereal seed containing ergot with a triticonazole + prochloraz seed treatment can prevent ergot germination and help reduce the spread of inoculum by contaminated seed, according to final results from NIAB trials.

  • Unseasonably mild weather helps veg pests and diseases

    October 14th 2005

    Mild, damp weather in the past couple of weeks has encouraged pests and diseases on south Lincolnshire vegetable crops, according to ADAS vegetable specialist Nigel MacDonald.

  • Ee by gum its Yorkshire sweetcorn

    October 7th 2005

    Fresh produce grower and marketeer Greyfriars has successfully harvested its first commercial crop of Yorkshire-grown sweetcorn for Morrisons.

  • Late wheats should be faster growing and early maturing

    October 7th 2005

    Growers looking to late drill wheats after root or vegetable crops should plant faster growing, early maturing varieties with premium potential, according to James Wallace, director of JE and VM Dalton.

  • Market standard rapeseed storage will result in heavy mite infestations

    October 7th 2005

    Heavy mite infestations will occur throughout the grain bulk if rapeseed is stored at the market standard of 9 per cent, according to a new report from HGCA.

  • Side effects take centre stage in future of storage

    October 7th 2005

    The indirect effects of storage pests, issues such as pesticide residues and legislation will all continue to drive the development of grain storage practices on UK farms in the future, according to crop storage expert Dean Cook of the Central Science Laboratory.

  • Study to solve mystery of how soil works

    October 7th 2005

    Scientists at the University of Abertay, Dundee, are taking part in a £1 million project to investigate soil.

  • Avoid lifting too much beet, too soon, says British Sugar

    September 30th 2005

    After opening their weighbridges just over a week ago the region’s four sugar factories are building up to their maximum daily slice to cope with what looks like another huge beet crop.

  • Industry complying with GM deliberate release regulations

    September 30th 2005

    In its fifth report covering the period April 1 2004 to March 31 2005, the GM Inspectorate based at CSL reports that industry is meeting regulations controlling the deliberate release of GMOs.

  • Record oilseed rape harvest justifies autumn fungicide use

    September 30th 2005

    Record yields from oilseed rape crops in parts of the West Midlands have underlined the wisdom of adhering to full autumn fungicide programmes as a means of keeping crops clean through the winter, according to one agronomist.

  • Trapping reveals high risk to young crops

    September 30th 2005

    Slugs are on the move and causing severe damage to young autumn-sown crops, according to specialists who are setting traps as part of a new campaign.

  • Wheat price blip but it remains close to bottom

    September 30th 2005

    Wheat prices have increased by about £1.50 over the past 10 days, but are still only around £2/tonne off the bottom of the market.

  • Bayer puts podcast on hi-tech menu

    September 23rd 2005

    Advice, ideas and the latest news and views will be available in a radically different way this autumn, as Bayer CropScience launches a new, free service on its website – the ‘podcast’.

  • Guidelines for ragwort disposal and prevention

    September 23rd 2005

    New guidelines for controlling ragwort offer help and advice on how to dispose of the weed correctly and stop its re-growth.

  • High growth rates make some weeds a control priority

    September 23rd 2005

    While the Government has set arable agriculture the task of balancing weed control with wider biodiversity benefits there are certain species that will continue to require a prophylactic approach to control.

  • Making the most of ELS - Marginal decisions

    September 23rd 2005

    Experienced Rural Development Service (RDS) adviser, Geoff Howe and Norfolk-based, Masstock Arable Group agronomist, William Ridgwell of Dalgety put the spotlight on Buffer Strips (EE1, EE2 and EE3) and Field Corner Management (EF1) in the third of our monthly ELS management guides.

  • New race of brown rust affecting crops

    September 16th 2005

    Among all the cereal diseases brown rust has been particularly visible this year in the HGCA wheat trials around the country, according to Recommended List manager, Jim McVittie.

  • Ragwort control under pressure

    September 16th 2005

    Cross-compliance and entry level environmental rules are making it harder to control ragwort, according to one South Lincolnshire farmer.

  • Tackle Black-grass now

    September 16th 2005

    Cereal growers across the country should be taking advantage of the single best out-of-crop black-grass control opportunity for at least five years by ensuring the most effective stale seedbed or stubble treatment this autumn, according to Bob Mills of Frontier Agriculture.

  • Gearing up for huge beet crop

    9th September 2005

    As the slide into autumn gathers pace, thoughts are turning to the rapidly approaching beet lifting campaign. With factories gearing up for a start in the third week of the month, beet harvesters will soon be greased up and prepared for action.

  • Hybrid barley comes out on top in trials

    9th September 2005

    Growing high yielding hybrid barley could give a better return per hectare than winter wheat when both are grown as a first cereal, trial plots by one agronomy company suggest.

  • Slugs set to be a major pest problem this year

    9th September 2005

    Slugs have already destroyed some new oilseed rape crops and growers are being warned that the pest is set to pose a major problem this year.

  • New arable demonstration to focus on winter wheat

    September 2nd 2005

    A new arable demonstration site is being established in South Yorkshire in a joint venture between The Arable Group and agricultural training organisation Lantra, with the help of Objective 1 funding.

  • Pressure on OSR weed control

    September 2nd 2005

    Increased herbicide resistance and use of min-till have combined to place greater pressure on weed control options in oilseed rape.

  • VI progress on commercial arable farm

    September 2nd 2005

    Members of the Voluntary Initiative Implementation Group have met to observe first-hand how the individual components of VI are working in practice on a commercial arable farm.

  • Be on the lookout for cercospera

    August 26th 2005

    Cercospera leaf spot is likely to show up in sugar beet crops at this time of year if conditions warm up, says Broom’s Barn.

  • Gout fly control in winter wheat explored

    August 26th 2005

    A new topic sheet from the HGCA investigates the need for, and the efficacy of, gout fly control in winter wheat.

  • Tank-mixing offers alternative after reduction of IPU

    August 26th 2005

    Tank-mixing herbicides could boost weed control where a cut in isoproturon rates has been advised following its detection in water courses.

  • Effects of soil compaction

    August 19th 2005

    FG reports from this year’s BPC-sponsored Potatoes in Practice event near Dundee where visitors saw the latest R&D and technology via growing plots, practical demonstrations and seminars covering many aspects of potato production.

  • Next years yield a hit or miss affair

    August 19th 2005

    Growers looking to plant home saved rape could struggle to achieve optimum plant populations and end up compromising next year’s yields on the day they drill.

  • Optimising drilling days pay dividends with high yields

    August 19th 2005

    Overworking the soil is counterproductive and a too finer seedbed is not the answer, says one Norfolk grower, who turned to minimum tillage ten years ago to reduce costs and increase the window of opportunity for autumn cultivations.

  • Suitably managed soil can prove a profitable asset

    August 19th 2005

    Are you confident that you are managing your soils in a sustainable manner?

  • Making the most of ELS - Land of milk and honey

    August 19th 2005

    In the second of our monthly ELS Options management guides, experienced Rural Development Service (RDS) adviser, Geoff Howe and Wiltshire-based, Masstock Arable Group agronomist, Jim Hynes of Cleanacres look into the practicalities and pitfalls of Pollen and Nectar Flower Mixtures (EF4).

  • Higher trial yields from six-row winter barleys

    12 August 2005

    Six-row winter barleys are producing higher yields this season than they have done in previous years in the HGCA Recommended List trials run by CEL (Crop Evaluation Limited).

  • Target site resistance found in black-grass

    12 August 2005

    TARGET site resistance to sulfonylurea herbicides is almost certainly present in UK black-grass populations, according to a leading scientist.

  • Pre-flail burn off reduces tuber rots

    August 5th 2005

    Desiccation before flailing could improve tuber quality by reducing the risk of vascular browning and stem end rot in vigorously-growing potato crops, according to Syngenta.

  • Second wheat yields crucial for crops to remain viable

    August 5th 2005

    Second wheat yields of eight tonnes per hectare or more are essential if the crop is to remain a viable proposition for most UK growers, according to UAP technical director Chris Bean.

  • Take-all tracking highlights disease development pattern

    August 5th 2005

    Take-all reached damaging levels at nine out of the 10 HGCA Recommended List second cereal trial sites this season, according to the first-ever monitoring of the disease in these trials.

  • Decision due in autumn

    July 29th 2005

    A decision on the RTFO will be made in the autumn said minister of state for the Department of Transport Dr Stephen Ladyman.

  • GMO superweed dangers dismissed as minimal risk

    July 29th 2005

    Herbicide tolerant weeds have been discovered on land used in field-scale evaluations (FSE) of genetically modified oilseed rape.

  • Greater awareness and kind weather minimises outbreak

    July 29th 2005

    Orange wheat blossom midge activity was lower this summer than in 2004 as a result of the dry and cool conditions in mid-May. When more generalised rainfall arrived in late may followed by higher temperatures in June the majority of winter wheat crops were already passed the critical growth stage, according to Elsoms Seeds.

  • Key to arable success

    July 29th 2005

    Biofuels offer arable farming the chance to go back to where it belongs as the protector as the environment, said HGCA director of crop marketing Alastair Dickie.

  • Large carbon reduction

    July 29th 2005

    A road Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) which made it compulsory for fuel manufacturers to include five per cent biofuel in their petrol or diesel would deliver carbon savings equivalent to taking one million cars off the road.

  • Le Mans proves efficiency

    July 29th 2005

    Combined cross-industry promotional efforts of biofuels could offer real benefits.

  • Success of biofuels relying on marketing and demand

    July 29th 2005

    Marketing the personal benefits of using biofuels is the only way to encourage the public to buy them, said Andrew Owen, founder and chief executive of biofuel manufacturer Greenergy.

  • Amazing Maize Maze

    July 22nd 2005

    Yorkshire farmer, Tom Pearcy has created what is believed to be the largest maize maze in the world using 1.5 million plants in the shape of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

  • Conclusions from trials of Aqueel and Tied Ridger

    July 22nd 2005

    Potato trials conducted by the British Potato Council at Harper Adams aim to establish the effects on soils of using a Simba Aqueel and the Briggs Tied Ridger on a sloping sandy site.

  • Monitoring to limit damage to potatoes during harvesting

    July 22nd 2005

    Harvesting potatoes with the minimum damage possible, by using the correct harvester settings, is key to quality.

  • Planning soil management at early stage is advisable

    July 22nd 2005

    Soil erosion, structure and organic content are three key areas all growers must consider as part of cross compliance, according to Dr Vic Jordan, chief executive, UK Soil Management Initiative.

  • To crop or not to crop, that is the question facing farmers

    July 22nd 2005

    With harvest under way, many arable farmers have still not decided their cropping programme for next year. But HSBC bank’s senior agriculture manager John Barker suggests the decision making process should ignore historic thinking and use a clean sheet of paper.

  • Be generous with strip widths is buffer advice

    July 15th 2005

    One of the key questions being asked by the farmers attending the recent series of cross-compliance workshops and farm walks was what to do first as the deadlines for implementation draw closer, says Dr Bob Bulmer, Hutchinsons’s environmental services manager, who conducted the events on behalf of Momenta.

  • BPC aims to take the sting out of bruising

    July 15th 2005

    The British Potato Council is introducing a handbook as part of an initiative aimed at reducing bruising and helping growers to save part of the £200 per hectare losses.

  • Growers sharpen attitudes as black-grass remains primary threat

    July 15th 2005

    Greater awareness of the limited pipeline of new herbicide products has sharpened growers’ attitude towards managing and controlling grass-weed resistance.

  • Third of aphids are MACE resistant

    July 15th 2005

    Up to a third of M. persicae aphids caught in the eastern counties are proving to be MACE resistant strains uncontrollable with dimethyl-carbamates, pirimicarb and triazamate.

  • Making the most of ELS - Planning Your ELS Options

    July 15th 2005

    You’ve decided roughly what Entry Level Stewardship Options you’re going for. You’re working out how best to make the ELS points add-up. Or you’re still making-up your mind whether to join the scheme and when.

  • Focus is on early maturity for wheat

    July 8th 2005

    With many northern growers caught out by the wet harvest last year, straw strength and early maturity are the two key factors many will now be considering when looking at which wheat varieties to grow this autumn, says independent variety consultant, Richard Fenwick.

  • More time needed to sort out wheat varieties

    July 8th 2005

    Two unusual years in succession and relatively disease free conditions so far this year means that host farmer David Read will be waiting for more information before he decides which new wheat varieties to go for in the next couple of harvests.

  • OSR expert predicts the big six varieties

    July 8th 2005

    In the oilseed rape plots, NIAB OSR expert Simon Kightley drew attention to aborted pods at the very tip on most varieties.

  • Three Group 1 choices this autumn

    July 8th 2005

    Plot tours at ProCam’s recent field day at NIAB Cambridge gave growers an opportunity to review varieties for this autumn’s drilling.

  • Arable profits? Look at return, risk and rotation

    July 1st 2005

    There are currently no fortunes to be made from growing arable crops, and that trend is set to continue for several years with cereal prices likely to remain at close to current levels.

  • Beet the support cuts

    July 1st 2005

    East Anglian growers are urged to join huge protest rally in Brussels

  • EU Sugar Reform Proposals

    July 1st 2005

    Proposals

  • Grave concerns over price cuts and beet sustainability

    July 1st 2005

    Sugar beet growers around the UK have expressed grave concern at the high level of price cuts proposed in the EU sugar reforms, announced last week.

  • Growers are warned of resistant aphids

    July 1st 2005

    Aphids with the MACE resistance mechanism are occurring all over the eastern counties, which may result in failure of pirimicarb or triazamate sprays growers are being warned.

  • High temperatures puts crops at risk

    July 1st 2005

    The recent high temperatures have favoured some cereal diseases and virtually stopped others. Furthermore, the extreme temperatures and lack of rainfall are putting crops in the east under stress, says ADAS pathologist Bill Clark.

  • Isolated blight outbreaks on the increase

    July 1st 2005

    A swing towards warmer, humid weather has increased the risk of potato blight infection in some regions, according to the British Potato Council (BPC). Several new outbreaks across Great Britain have been reported since mid-June.

  • Monstrous sugar reforms are going too far, too fast

    July 1st 2005

    Sugar beet has served Britain’s farmers well. There are currently about 7,000 domestic producers, the bulk of them, about 60 per cent, in East Anglia, with the rest dotted about the North and Midlands.

  • Plan ahead to avoid oilseed rape harvest problems

    July 1st 2005

    Tall, thick oilseed rape crops must be managed with great care and attention if a repeat of the difficulties and delays that proved so costly for many last year is to be avoided.

  • Soil survey reveals hidden secrets

    July 1st 2005

    Undetected imbalances in their soils could be costing South Wales farmers significant amounts in lost crops yield and reduced quality.

  • Still necessary to take steps to counter threat from Ergot

    June 10th 2005

    Incidence of ergot in certified wheat seed samples was just 1 per cent last year, down from 5 per cent of the previous year, but it could rise again if conditions favour the fungus, according to NIAB pathologist Bruce Napier.

  • Action against resistance

    May 27th 2005

    Herbicide resistance develops three times as fast in a non-inversion tillage situation than in annually ploughed fields, according to TAG’s Jim Orson.

  • GAEC to cause over concern topsoil

    May 27th 2005

    Showing that you are keeping land in ‘Good Agricultural and Environmental Condition’ (GAEC) for SPS cross-compliance, is currently concerning many farmers.

  • Game and wildlife trials provide valuable information

    May 27th 2005

    Years of game and wildlife crop type trials at Loddington provided valuable information for ELS and Higher Stewardship schemes in which farmers are paid for growing small areas of cover.

  • Mill House becomes latest LEAF demonstration farm

    May 27th 2005

    A west Cumbria farm has become the latest LEAF demonstration farm.

  • Min-till: Not plain sailing but the benefits are worth it

    May 27th 2005

    Over 350 farmers attended a joint LEAF/GCT Field Day at Loddington – one of LEAF’s designated ‘Innovation Centres’. Alison Lea picks out key points made by speakers on a tour of the farm.

  • Best of British baking at Cereals

    May 20th 2005

    Alongside Group 1 favourite Malacca, master baker John Haynes (pictured, at Cereals last year), is proving the versatility of Group 2 wheat Cordiale in breadmaking grists, by baking a range of breads on the CPB Twyford stand at Cereals 2005.

  • Cereals 2005 Preview

    May 20th 2005

    Rectory Farm, Guilden Morden, Cambridgeshire - Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 June, 2005

  • Pesticides crucial to food production future

    May 20th 2005

    How important are pesticides in the food chain? That was the question addressed by farmers, food processors, academics and the agrochemical industry during a seminar at the Rothamsted Research Centre in Hertfordshire.

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