Application of a simple liquid complexing agent could prove beneficial to soils this autumn – and boost crop establishment. “Soil health and fertility have taken a hammering in recent months across much of the country,” says Agrii national fertiliser manager Tom Land. This makes stronger root formation particularly important,... Read more

Across the UK, growers are increasingly worried about tougher-to-control broad-leaved weeds, with groundsel a stand-out example. The arrival of Fundatis, a herbicide approved for use this autumn and effective against a wide range of dicot weeds, including strong activity on groundsel, will therefore be welcomed by many. Increasing issue... Read more

An elite group of six growers have dug into their own pockets to raise the profile of British carrots by launching a national celebration day. British Carrot Day 2025 will take place on Friday, 3 October. Six farm businesses have joined forces to fund the special day – including... Read more

A new initiative to secure the future of the UK potato sector is giving participants a better understanding of the industry. Launched by GB Potatoes in association with the British Potato Trade Association (BPTA), the special programme will support the skills and knowledge development of future growers, leaders and... Read more

A sugar beet seed calculator aims to help growers optimise crop yields and profitability by comparing seed treatments. It’s the latest move in an increasingly competitive UK sugar beet market following a decision allowing growers to purchase seed direct from plant breeders rather than having to purchase through British... Read more

Challenging market conditions mean growers face lower sugar beet prices following last month’s contract agreement. NFU Sugar and British Sugar have agreed a headline one-year fixed price contract at £30/t, for up to 65% of the contract for 2026/27 sugar beet crop. It compares to a price of £33/t... Read more

Lincolnshire grower Tim Lamyman has defied the exceptionally dry season to bring in a record-breaking oilseed rape crop. Known for growing big crops, Mr Lamyman achieved an impressive 7.52t/ha in an 8ha field of September-sown LG Avenger at Worlaby Farm, near Louth – breaking the previous unofficial world record... Read more

• Valuable revenue this season • Consider agronomic benefits • But remember downsides too Arable growers should think carefully when considering whether to bale and remove straw from fields this summer. High prices for wheat and barley straw mean baling could make financial sense for arable farmers with easy... Read more

Yellow water traps are helping growers win the battle against cabbage stem flea beetle in oilseed rape. Flea beetle was not much in evidence in MagicTraps deployed last autumn by farm manager Jake Freestone. Trap counts were low in what was generally a low pressure season for the oilseed... Read more