Variable values across country The farmland market in England and Wales continues to drift, with buyers and sellers hesitating amid ongoing political and economic uncertainty. Average values for bare agricultural land fell by 2.3% during the second quarter of 2025 to £8,861/acre, suggests the latest Knight Frank farmland index... Read more

Alternative income is vital Nature-friendly farming practices are good for biodiversity – and some crop yields – but often remain unviable without government support, say researchers. A major four-year study across 17 commercial farms has found that agroecological practices can enhance biodiversity and farm output – but high costs... Read more

• Concern over inheritance tax • Some farmers spend savings • Plan to maximise cash ISAs More farmers are seeking pension advice following last autumn’s budget which included plans to impose inheritance tax on farming families. Almost half of all farmers plan to seek financial advice amid mounting concern... Read more

Allocation on a first come, first served basis Farmers are being advised to act quickly following a new round of capital grants worth £150m to growers and livestock producers. The Defra offer funds a range of on-farm projects – from tree planting and flood prevention to improved slurry storage... Read more

• Big implications for UK growers • Challenge for seasonal workers • Cost of recruitment could soar Requiring growers to cover all costs associated with seasonal workers under the Seasonal Worker Scheme would pose a huge challenge, says the NFU. The warning follows a review into the Employer Pays... Read more

• Big increase in farms taking part • 200,000 people visit local farms • Good for getting message across More than 270 farms hosted Open Farm Sunday visits this year – a 20% increase on 2024, say organisers. The nation’s flagship annual event celebrating British farming is seen as... Read more

Rapid technological change and ongoing labour challenges are reshaping the future of the UK’s agriculture and horticulture sectors, says a report. As automation and digitalisation accelerate, the nature of jobs is evolving, shifting demand towards higher-skilled, specialist roles and reducing reliance on low-skilled and seasonal labour, says the study.... Read more

• Plan sooner rather than leaving it later • Help on hand for the best options • Business structure is important Communication, compromise and common sense will be crucial in family discussions to safeguard farming businesses ahead of tax changes, say experts. Michael Horton, of the rural management team... Read more

• More growers rethinking rotation • How change rebuilds soil health • Range of opportunities available Soil health and economic pressures will be discussed at a dedicated Regenerative Agriculture conference at this month’s Cereals event. Hosted by BASE UK and sponsored by sponsored by Tees Law, the conference will... Read more