Changing emergence patterns are prompting advise for farmers to review and revise blackgrass control strategies. Stale seedbeds and delayed drilling have helped reduced blackgrass emergence during September and early October. But the weed is adapting to the control strategy, says Dick Neale, technical manager for agronomy firm Hutchinsons. “We... Read more

Crop science organisation NIAB has appointed Mark Fletcher as its head of agronomy services – a new role within the company. Dr Fletcher will lead NIAB’s team of 20 agronomists and consultants who deliver technical and consultancy services across the country. He previously led Agovista’s northern agronomy team for... Read more

Growers are being advised to optimise the use of farm-saved seed this autumn – with tight supplies of some certified varieties. Farmers looking to secure certified seed for autumn drilling should let their supplier know as soon as possible – if they haven’t already done so, says Stephanie Spiers,... Read more

The search is on for foward-thinking farmers to take part in trials exploring soil health, the potential of pulses and sustainable slug control. The British On-Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN) is inviting farmers to host and run trials on their individual farms. Participants will receive full back-up and support from... Read more

Sugar beet growers will have more flexibility in the seed varieties they choose following a ground-breaking deal with British Sugar. Reforms announced by NFU Sugar and British Sugar mean growers no longer have to purchase seed via the official UK Seed Account. It means growers will have access to... Read more

In-store sprout control for potatoes has become much more complicated and costly since the loss of chlorpropham (CIPC). But a cost-effective option is now available, so long as it is managed correctly: maleic hydrazide – marketed as Fazor by UPL. Field trials and an extensive literature review by potato... Read more

Tickets are now available for a new potato industry event – due to be held on 4-5 September at Nocton, near Lincoln. Called Potato Days UK, the two day event in the one of the country’s major potato growing regions will be hosted by Dyson Farming and organised by... Read more

High slug populations and continued showers during June saw potato growers urged to apply molluscicides before crops reach the  canopy stage. Slug pressure has remained high since last autumn after favourable breeding conditions in September and October. The subsequent mild, wet winter and spring did little to dent slug... Read more