With the worst virus yellows forecast issued by Rothamsted for 50 years, it will come as a relief to sugar beet growers that emergency authorisation for use of Biscaya (thiacloprid) has been granted.
US corn area is up for debate as prices have moved lower since recent planting and stock data was taken, meaning farmers planting decisions could easily change.
Getting spring barley off to the right start is key for high yields, focusing on establishment and maintaining high tiller numbers.
Potato growers are calling for special assistance after the sudden closure of many fish and chip shops.
The coronavirus outbreak could have longer term implications for people’s shopping habits, supply chains and the Government’s attitude to food security.
A long-awaited dry spell across much of the country over the last fortnight has meant the spring drilling campaign is well underway, as growers make up for lost time stolen by the wet winter.
The thing about being a columnist for a national publication such as Arable Farming is you cannot hide from what you have written in previous months.
As soil begins to dry out and conditions come right, sugar beet drilling has commenced in some parts of the country.