Agronomy Update - May 2021

Ollie Berkley - Bartholomews Agronomist

As these cooler nights and dry conditions continue crops are at various stages within their development.  Moisture is still under the soil surface, so cracks are beginning to show.  Although disease pressure is not particularly high at present fungicide treatments may be compressed.

It is still important not to extend the gap beyond 3 weeks between applications of fungicides, especially as yellow rust has been present in crops across the south, this will require monitoring crops as rust can quickly spread throughout the crop.

Robust rates of an SDHI fungicide at T2 is advisable to keep the flag leaf clean as Septoria can be a devastating disease in wheat which will need protecting to gain the most benefit in terms of yield and quality.

In Barley a T2 product should be selected carefully, and if the weather does change to being wet then applications of mepiquat chloride plus/2-chloroethylphosphonic acid (Terpal) may be required thus making sure that the growth stage is correct prior to application depending on a single rate application or a spilt dose.

Oats growth stages vary, and the more advanced crops require a T1 and a T2 to keep crown rust at bay.  As this disease favours higher temperatures, it could become more prevalent as the season progresses.

Spring cereals still have some moisture under the surface allowing them to establish themselves and develop their root structure.  Herbicide application should be considered depending on weed spectrum, growing conditions, and following crops.  Fungicide applications will as always depend on variety and growth stage and careful consideration will need to be taken depending if the current dry weather continues.

The oil seed rape crops flowering is variable with some more advanced than others, so a mid-flowering spray will have to be closely monitored to insure correct timing.

Watch pulse crops for pea and bean weevil and for thrips in peas.  Treat at first sign of damage and repeat, as necessary.  The same applies to linseed and sp osr for flea beetle attack.

Once soil temperatures have risen maize crops may be drilled.  Herbicide product choice is key, depending on whether a pre-emergence product has been applied or if just a post-emergence product has been selected.  Timing of an application will be as important as ever, especially in dry conditions when weeds are more challenging to control and the maize is not competitive in its early stages of development.

If you want to get in touch with our agronomy team, call 01243 755610.

Find out more about what we have to offer in our Agronomy package HERE.