Small changes in soil health can have big impact on arable productivity – with nutrition a key driver, say researchers. Even a small deviation away from a target pH of around 6.5 can have a significant impact on soil biology, nitrogen utilisation, uptake of key nutrients and the emission... Read more

Exceptionally wet weather this autumn means time is running out for growers still unable to drill winter-sown cereals. Winter wheat can be drilled until January. But leaving it too late  can result in reduced germination and plant populations. This is due to lack of warmth and suboptimal moisture levels... Read more

The chemical toolbox is only part of the story for successful ryegrass management, says Rob Adamson (pictured above).  “Success is judged on the number of grass ears and subsequent seed return in the summer,” he adds. Preventing any ryegrass weeds that successfully establish from tillering too heavily is essential... Read more

A stacked and sequenced spray programme applied accurately in favourable conditions can help combat resistant ryegrass, says an agronomist. Rob Adamson of Procam says a careful balance of cultural controls, herbicide choice and adequate soil moisture will help growers get on top of the troublesome weed – despite increasing... Read more

Slug populations have increased significantly after a wet summer, says Dick Neale, of agronomy company Hutchinsons. Continued moist conditions this autumn have been in stark contrast to the past two years which were both much drier and lower risk. “Continuous growth, breeding and egg laying, along with rapid volunteer... Read more

Challenging conditions for oilseed rape are making it increasingly important to maintain the momentum of established crops this autumn. Crop nutrition expert say growers should pay special attention to foliar nutrition – and in particular boron – to ensure oilseed rape is sufficiently robust ahead of winter months and... Read more

A new online tool makes it easier to create Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plans – and receive payments under the Sustainable Farming Incentive. The free IPM Planning Tool covers all the main arable and outdoor horticultural crops. It offers easy access to information about proven methods available for controlling... Read more