Sentinel ‘viable’ in low BCN-infected fields

In more moderate infestations, the difference is likely to be between 25 and 30 per cent, and in lightly-infested areas, up to 15 per cent, says Syngenta.

In uninfected areas, the ‘yield drag’ associated with tolerance traits, is minimal, with NIAB Recommended List data showing Sentinel yielding less than 1 per cent below the mean of control.

The variety comes with rhizomania resistance, joining two other so-called ‘double-tolerant’ varieties on the list.

“If a variety comes with a 5 per cent yield penalty, for example, in uninfected areas, then growers have to be certain 8 to 10 per cent of a field is infected with BCN to make it worthwhile growing a tolerant variety,” says Syngenta UK crop manager for Hilleshog, Richard Powell (pictured).

“But with the penalty reduced to just 1 per cent with Sentinel, the variety becomes a viable proposition if only 1.5 to 2 per cent of the field is infected.”

This makes the choice of whether to grow a BCN-tolerant variety a lot easier for growers, says Mr Powell, who expects the double-tolerant sector of the UK sugar beet market to expand, while conventional varieties reduce in number.

Sentinel also comes with the lowest level of early-sown bolters out of any of the rhizomania resistant varieties, making it suitable for early drilling and capturing the additional yield advantage early drilling can bring.

“Drilling in the first half of March and getting the crop established so the canopy can intercept the available light can make up to a 10 per cent difference in yield,” he added.

Full commercial planting of Sentinel will take place next spring.

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