A new winter wheat variety available now from Cope Seeds promises strong grain quality with lower nitrogen requirements was unveiled at Cereals 2026.
French-bred Chessum is positioned as a practical option for arable farmers looking to improve input efficiency. Varieties capable of delivering reliable performance with lower nitrogen applications attracted significant interest Cereals.
Cope says Chessum combines high Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE), a strong disease package and milling potential, giving growers an opportunity to maintain output while reducing fertiliser use.
The variety combines resistance to yellow rust and septoria with early support from millers – including acceptance by Heygates. Interest is also growing elsewhere in the grain trade, says Cope.
Grower experience
Lincolnshire grower Colin Chappell, who has already grown the variety, says it aligns with his approach to crop management. “Like Nelson winter wheat, you can put in lower amounts of nitrogen and still get a usable crop in terms of protein.”
Cope managing director Gemma Clarke says the variety reflects changing grower priorities. “Growers are scrutinising every input much more carefully, particularly nitrogen,” she said.
Chessum is a variety that offers strong all-round performance while fitting into a more efficient approach to crop management, says Ms Clarke. “That balance is becoming increasingly valuable,” she added.
Portfolio
Chessum is a Cope-exclusive variety from French breeder Lamaire Deffontaines. Other low-input varieties from Cope include Merlin spring oats, Nelson winter wheat, Everlong spring wheat and Evelina spring barley.
The variety is named after England rugby international Ollie Chessum. Visitors to the Cope stand at Cereals were invited to enter a charity rugby-ball challenge, with prizes including free seed and a signed England rugby shirt.
Entry fees were donated to LUTSO (Levelling Up Through Sporting Opportunities) – a Lincolnshire charity that helps disadvantaged children overcome financial barriers to participate in sports.