Anglia Farmer April 2021

April 2021

Anglia

Farmer INCORPORATING ANGLIA MACHINERY

Smart contracts: Guaranteed price provides certainty for beef farmers

News Defra unveils details of farm incentive scheme Arable Forecasts help growers combat sclerotinia Livestock Better fertiliser timings boost silage yields Technology New fund to support farm innovation

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Anglia

OPINION Johann Tasker

Farmer EDITORIAL Editor:

Johann Tasker | T: 07967 634971 E: johann@ruralcity.co.uk

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Pilot scheme gives farmers chance to shape future

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Anglia Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the eastern counties. To be included on the circulation list, a farmer must have a minimum of 70 acres of land, or 50 dairy/beef stock, or 50 breeding sows/250 growing stock, or 15,000 laying hens/broiler chickens. Intensive horticulture units are required to have a minimum of two hectares.

Subscription is £18 a year (including postage). No responsibility can be accepted by the publishers for the opinions expressed by contributors.

If you no longer wish to receive this magazine, please email your name, address and postcode as it appears on the wrapper to jade.soanes@micropress.co.uk © Countrywide Publications 2020 Published by Countrywide Publications, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon Suffolk IP18 6DH T: 01502 725800 Printed by Micropress Ltd, Suffolk.

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A

s previewed in the last issue of Anglia Farmer, the government has now published details of its Sustainable Farming Incentive – the first of three schemes which together will eventually form the forthcoming Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme.

It is important for growers and livestock producers to take an interest in ELMs. It will be introduced as direct payments are phased out – offering farmers an opportunity to recoup at least some of their lost BPS income.

Rather than an annual payment received in return for following some basic rules and filling in an annual claim to the Rural Payments Agency, it is already clear that farmers who join ELMs will have to do much more for their money.

Much of the scheme will involve farmers delivering what Defra has called public goods – public benefits such as a better environment; more wildife and biodiversity; and cleaner air and water. All of that will take time and money.

Contents

For the Sustainable Farming Incentive to deliver these public goods, it is vital that the new scheme attracts as many farmers as possible – otherwise people simply won’t sign up.

To help ensure the scheme is attractive, Defra is giving farmers the opportunity to submit expressions of interest in joining a pilot version of the Sustainable Farming Incentive.

There is already concern that suggested payment rates need to be higher to properly reflect the amount of environmental work farmers are expected to undertake.

Farmers who join the pilot have a chance to rectify this – telling Defra how the scheme and payments should be adjusted – to secure maximum benefit, both financially and environmentally.

We would urge our readers to consider submitting expressions of interest to join the pilot version of the Sustainable Farming Incentive. Details of how to do so are on page 4. As the saying goes, you have to be in it, to win it.

Vol 41 • No 4 • April 2021

News .................................................................... 4

Anglia Machinery ........................................ 49

Arable .................................................................. 8

Technology .................................................... 54

Potatoes .............................................................21

Professional services.................................. 60

Livestock.......................................................... 39

Final Say .......................................................... 62

Grass & Forage ................................................41

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News Defra unveils details of farm incentive scheme • Have your say on design of new scheme • Tailored to individual farm businesses • ‘Most significant change’ for 50 years

F

armers are being invited to submit expressions of interest in a new Defra scheme to reward producers who undertake sustainable agricultural practices.

The Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI) will form the entry level to the government’s forthcoming Environmental Land Management (ELM) scheme. The scheme is being introduced as basic payments are phased out over the next seven years.

Defra says ELMs will see the most significant change to farm management in 50 years. It aims to deliver a renewed agricultural sector, healthy food and farms that are profitable and economically sustainable.

The SFI is the first of three schemes ELMs to be piloted. Information about the other two schemes, Local Nature Recovery and Landscape Recovery, will be published later this year.

Soil health Similar to environmental stewardship, the SFI will support approaches to farming that deliver better biodiversity, including actions to improve soil health, hedgerows and integrated pest management.

This could include, for example, payments to farmers who manage and plant hedgerows to provide yearround food, shelter and breeding cover for birds and insects, or take actions to boost soil organic matter.

Defra secretary George Eustice said the goal was to properly reward farmers for undertaking environmental measures. He added: “The ethos at the heart of our future policy is to support the choices of individual farm enterprises.”

NFU vice president Tom Bradshaw said the union wanted it to be possible for most farms to take up the scheme.

He added: “Every farm business is unique and the scheme needs to be 4 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

structured so that it offers something for every farmer.”

Profitable businesses Mr Bradshaw said the scheme must be engaging for farmers, simple to enter and deliver and operate effectively alongside productive food production.

He added: “Most importantly of all, the scheme needs to enable farmers to run profitable businesses.

“We understand the pilot is very much a work in progress and it is imperative that Defra uses it to work with farmers to test and develop a scheme that works and is accessible to all farm businesses.”

Farmers will need to complete a simple online form to submit expressions of interest in the new scheme.

Successful candidates will then be invited to complete an application to join a pilot agreement from October 2021.

Farmers have until 11 April to submit an expression of interest. For further information about the SFI, visit www.bit. ly/FarmIncentive

“

Farmers need to be able to run profitable businesses

Norfolk farm shop expands as demand soars for local food A Norfolk farmer has invested £250,000 in his farm shop – expanding the business which started in a shed to meet soaring demand for local food during the coronavirus pandemic.

Sam Steggles, of Fielding Cottage, Honingham, opened the 8,000ft farm shop to stock a wider range of local food and drink. It is named

the Goat Shed after the much smaller wooden self-service farm shop it replaces.

Mr Steggles said takings were 25 times higher than a year ago. Thanking customers and staff for their support, he said the pandemic had seen people’s eating habits change and they were taking more interest in local food.

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News

We will crush your vehicles, police tell hare-coursers • Illegal activity is becoming widespread • Police join forces to combat bloodsport • Farm leaders call for stiffer sentences

P

olice have launched a new drive against hare coursers – warning anyone involved in the illegal blood-sport that their vehicles could be seized and crushed.

Suffolk Constabulary said offenders were travelling to the county from across the country to hunt hares with dogs. Thousands of pounds are known to change hands betting on which dog will chase, catch and kill a hare.

Reports of hare coursing have increased in recent years – although 139 incidents were reported in Suffolk for the six months to 31 March 2020, while there have been little more than 80 incidents for the same period this year.

Farmland trespass It is illegal to hunt wild mammals with dogs – and anyone convicted of hare-coursing can be fined up to £5,000 by a magistrates’ court. Legislation also gives police the powers to seize and detain vehicles until the court hearing.

More than 20 police forces have joined together under the banner of Operation Galileo to share information about hare coursers planning to trespass on farmland.

Sergeant Brian Calver, from the Suffolk Rural Crime and Wildlife Team, said offenders were often responsible for damaging crops, property – threatening people who tried to prevent or report hare-coursing.

“Hare coursing is a huge issue for farmers and landowners with many people living in fear of these criminals.

This illegal activity damages property, threatens people’s incomes and subjects people to fear and intimidation.

Violent offenders “Many of those are very unpleasant with violent and unscrupulous backgrounds, many of whom have links to organised criminality. Significant sums of money can change hands in the form of illegal betting and gambling on the outcome.

“The crushed car in the photo – while not used in a hare coursing incident – does aim to demonstrate the consequences if you are caught and

Police have powers to crush vehicles involved in coursing [photo credit: Suffolk Constabulary]

“

Many people live in fear of these criminals

convicted of hare-coursing, so let this be a warning to those who commit this crime.”

Members of the public who witness hare coursing are advised not to approach the participants but to phone police immediately on 999.

Suffolk police and crime commissioner Tim Passmore said the county was particularly vulnerable to hare-coursers due to its brown hare population. He added: “This despicable behaviour will not be tolerated.”

‘Law must be strengthened to deter offenders’ Neighbourhood partnership teams work to tackle rural crime in Suffolk. As well as hare-coursing, they focus on crimes like livestock rustling, metal and oil theft – offering specialist advice to other police officers.

NFU county adviser Charles Hesketh said: “Hare coursing is a serious problem in the countryside, which leaves farmers feeling isolated, desperate and powerless to stop coursers trespassing on their land.”

Mr Hesketh praised police for taking action. But he added: “We want the legislation strengthened to help them tackle hare cours-

ing. This includes amendments to make it easier for the police to seize dogs from coursers.”

Country Land and Business Association regional surveyor Tim Woodward said many landowners had crops damaged and fences, gates and hedges vandalised as hare coursers gained access to fields.

“Strengthened legislation that would allow for tougher punishments for those caught hare coursing would help ensure there is a more effective deterrent to stop this criminal activity from taking place, which is currently widespread across the east of England.”

Red Tractor campaign targets TV viewers

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new TV advert promoting Red Tractor foodstandards is targeting 45m viewers – the scheme’s biggest evet campaign.

The ad is appearing over eight weeks during some of the UK’s most-watched TV shows – supported by a strong presence on digital channels.

Red Tractor says it expects 45m consumers to watch the ad 6 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

before the May Bank Holiday weekend. This would represent a 20% increase in viewers compared to the scheme’s 2020 campaign, it said.

Chief executive Jim Moseley said: “Red Tractor is already the most trusted assurance scheme in the UK, with 76% of shoppers aware of the logo, seeing it as an independent source they can trust. That’s equivalent to 15.5

million shoppers.

“We want to keep growing recognition and understanding of the scheme and the logo, and so the campaign will cover as many of Red Tractor’s sectors as possible” Independent market research shows that 71% of shoppers say their purchasing behaviour is positively influenced by seeing the Red Tractor logo.

The ad follows a shopper on a journey from supermarket to farms and back again to learn how Red Tractor’s high standards are met across a diverse range of sectors.

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Arable ‘Highly accurate’ forecasts help growers combat sclerotinia • Growers informed of infection risk • Forecasts 96% accurate in 2020 • Helps farmers to target fungicides

Sarah Raffan and Nigel Halford with wheat plants at Rothamsted

A

sclerotinia risk alert service has been launched to help oilseed rape growers better target spray programmes.

Based on observed and forecast weather data, the service keeps growers informed of potential sclerotinia infection risk periods.

This helps focus in-field monitoring as oilseed rape enters its critical flowering period.

Launched by the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board, the service features a web page which includes inoculum-pressure data from a limited network of spore traps and information on crop growth stages.

Analysis of last year’s results showed that the sclerotinia forecasts were about 96% accurate, with only around 2% false negatives, says Catherine Harries, who manages disease research at the AHDB.

Encouraging results “Forecasts are never perfect, but we are encouraged by the results. Information on the presence of spores, weather and crop growth stage can really help target sclerotinia sprays.”

Decisions based on sclerotinia inoculum levels and weather-based infection risk resulted in 26% fewer crops needing treatment last season – helping growers to increase margins, according to AHDB-funded research.

Typically, the optimum time for a single spray is just before mid-flowering on the main raceme. Since fungicides have protectant activity, this spray should be applied prior to an infection risk alert.

Persistence of full-dose fungicides is approximately three weeks, says the AHDB. If a spray is made earlier – or if the flowering period is extended – a second spray may be required under conducive infection conditions.

8 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

Scientists apply to grow first UK field of gene-edited wheat Scientists have applied to grow the UK’s first field trial of genetically-edited wheat at Rothamsted Research in Hertfordshire.

Researchers from Rothamsted and Bristol University used genome editing to develop the wheat which has been bred to reduce levels of the cancer-causing compound acrylamide – commonly found in toast.

The scientists are now preparing an application to the UK government to run a field trial of the wheat starting in the autumn. It would be the first such trial of genetically-edited wheat to be carried out anywhere in Europe.

The field trial will be led by Sarah Raffan, who used gene-editing to reduce the amount of asparagine in the wheat. She said: “Low asparagine wheat should lead to lower levels of acryla-

“

Forecasts are never perfect, but the results are encouraging

mide, which is good news for anyone who likes their toast well done.”

The CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technique involves the the deletion or insertion of short sections of DNA – or changes to the DNA sequence – in this instance halting the function of a gene involved in asparagine production.

Gene-editing is is different from genetic modification because it doesn’t involve the introduction of novel, foreign or additional genes.

Scientists say it involves changes similar to those that occur naturally.

Project leader Nigel Halford said the wheat was still experimental. “It is essential we test the wheat in field trials to see how it performs, not only in terms of asparagine concentration but also yield, protein content and other quality and agronomic traits.”

If successful, the wheat could be made available to seed breeders. Prof Halford said it could take up to a decade before very low asparagine wheat started to appear on shop shelves – and then only if the regulatory framework was conducive to its development.

Leaf spot and aphids Meanwhile, the AHDB has updated its light leaf spot forecast after a relatively wet winter showed a large jump in oilseed rape disease risk. This tallies with field reports suggesting light leaf spot infection is most evident on susceptible varieties.

The increase in risk – compared with a preliminary forecast last autumn – is generally larger at locations further away from south-east England. Lower

winter temperatures mean aphids are likely to take flight a little later than average this spring.

The annually updated forecasts, produced by the Rothamsted Research Insect Survey, suggest aphids will fly about two or three weeks later in Scotland and northern England – and up to one week later than average over much of the rest of England.

To access the sclerotinia risk alert service, visit ahdb.org.uk/sclerotinia

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Arable

Promising results from rapid disease detection test • Results help growers get ahead of disease • Test ensures most appropriate response • More growers wanted for on-farm trials

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rapid disease detection test is being offered to more cereal growers following technological advances made by crop protection company Bayer.

Results from the test to evaluate non-visible disease levels can now be turned around in 48 hours – allowing farmers to refine their fungicide strategies and make more timely and cost-effective spraying decisions.

Having trialled the technology with a small group of Forward Farmers in 2020, Bayer has extended its testing procedures so more growers can pilot it on farm. It is also increasing the frequency of testing.

Disease pressure One of those initial farmers is James Faulds of Hill House Farm, Aspall, Suffolk. The test allowed him to refine T2 fungicide rates after delayed drilling and the spring drought checked Septoria pressure last year.

With low levels of Septoria DNA recorded in key yield-bearing leaves, and a reasonable weather forecast, Mr Faulds dropped Ascra (prothioconazole + bixafen + fluopyram) rates from 1.2 l/ha to 1.0 l/ha.

The technology helped reassure Mr Faulds he was taking was the right approach. His instinct told him Septoria pressure was very low and testing at GS32 and GS39 confirmed this.

The latent phase of Septoria means it is a disease which isn’t always visible so reducing fungicide rates in reduced disease pressure situations can be challenging for growers.

“Risk is based on variety, drilling date and particularly the weather – it isn’t a guessing game but it isn’t precise either. The DNA data coming in gave me the confidence it was the right decision.”

Wider benefits Mr Faulds says the results helped shave a little off his spray bill but there are wider benefits too. Better input targeting is good for the environment – and for helping make sure fungicides remain effective for longer.

10 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

“We want to be using the right chemistry at the right place and rate,” he says. “If we expose it unnecessarily it could hasten the onset of resistance.”

This season Bayer has expanded testing to include yellow rust and eyespot. The company’s agronmists ares also increasing the frequency of testing to weekly from March to May. This is particularly helpful for growers who have susceptible varieites in the ground and with yellow rust a greater threat.

“With the climate variability we experience these days, I’m looking to be as alert and reactive as possible,” says Mr Faulds.

“A gap between GS32 to GS39 is a potential problem and might need the contingency of a T1.5. If I’m forced to apply a T1 early or the weather delays flag leaf emergence, test results will aid the decision process.”

The result turnaround is within 48 hours – although more than half the samples Bayer received last year sawresults available within half that time.

This is expected to accelerate further as the technology advances.

Better decisions Bayer’s Ella Crawford says more widespread testing in the field is a little way off but the work highlights the potential of the technology. The jigsaw is far

Rapid disease detection has many benefits, says Ella Crawford.

Below: Test results help growers make better crop management decisions

from complete when it comes to fungicide decision-making, she says.

“Growers know variety susceptibility, drilling date and the weather to date – but what is missing is what is happening inside the plant and the reliability of weather forecasts. Hopefully, rapid disease detection will complete one part of the puzzle.”

This is important because curative options are limited, says Ms Crawford.

“You can have healthy looking leaves on the outside but inside mycelia are spreading through the leaf. By then it is too late as it is beyond the time of optimum fungicide control.

“Fungicides are most effective when used in a protectant scenario so a low test result confirms that situation.

It gives growers the confidence that broad spectrum products like Ascra will deliver optimum protection when used at the right time and rate.”

Ms Crawford agrees with the need for effective anti-resistance strategies.

“When rapid disease detection arrives in-field, it will inform and help farmers justify decision making. It not only helps farmers protect margins but the sustainable use of crop protection.”

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Arable

G

Waxy weeds Ms Symes also points out that dry weather is been another factor contributing to a proliferation of wild oats. “Weeds become really waxy and don’t take up the crop protection products properly – and this is true for wild oats too.”

Growers should adopt an appropriate control strategy as soon as possible, says Ms Symes. The prevalence of this grass weed could continue to increase year on year if small populations are left untreated, she adds.

This is because seeds can remain viable in the soil for up to 20 years. Rogueing – or manually pulling out the weeds – is a straightforward and cost-effective way of nipping small populations of wild oats in the bud.

More severe outbreaks can be cleared up early on with the use of the crop protection product Foxtrot EW –

Younger wild oats are easier to tackle with herbicide.

Photo credit: Blackthorn Arable

rowers are being advised to adopt a thorough control strategy to combat a resurgence in wild oats reported on some farms.

Agronomists say there are several reasons why this fiercely competitive grass weed has become more prevalent – including the recent increase in spring cropping and changing weather conditions.

Spring cereals have largely replaced oilseed rape in areas susceptible to cabbage stem flea beetle and dry weather.

But some replacement crops have most likely been planted on fields with a history of wild oats.

Independent agronomist Sarah Symes says some cultivation systems have created a favourable environment for wild oats to thrive. “Growers who have ploughed a lot in the past tend to get more wild oats than those who use a direct drill, min-till system.”

Photo credit: Blackthorn Arable

Troublesome wild oats return to spring crops

Wild oats in a barley crop (above left). Dry weather and a change towards spring cropping has contributed to a proliferation of wild oats, says Sarah Symes (above right).

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Contact herbicide Foxtrot EW should be used in spring barley when the weeds are at the 3-4 leaf stage, says Ms Symes. “It has to be used on its own – but it’s not harsh on the crop if used under the right conditions, when crops aren’t stressed.”

Foxtrot EW is a contact acting herbicide and is more effective on actively growing plants, says Adam Espir of suppliers FMC. “Getting application timings and rates right will be essential to ensure you don’t have problems later with regrowth,” he adds.

Foxtrot should be applied at a rate of 0.8 litres per hectare in at least 200 litres/ha of water. Larger weeds or more dense populations should be tackled with up to one litre of product in 300 litres/ha of water.

“As spring arrives and weeds start growing, growers should think about treating any problem fields in good time to give their crops the best chance to thrive this season,” says Mr Espir.

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Arable

Impressive results for late maturing maize

A

new late maturing maize variety with strong potential has successfully come through its first commercial year on eastern region farms.

High-yielding Neutrino has good early vigour, standing ability and resistance to lodging. Bred by German company Saaten Union, the variety’s first commercial season follows three years of replicated independent trials in the UK. Last season, Hutchinsons national energy crop and seed manager Peter Brundle placed Neutrino with a small number of experienced eastern region farmers who grow significant areas of maize for biogas production.

“The variety proved that it is up there with the best performing varieties in the late maturing category,” says Mr Brundle.

“Dry matter yield is the most important factor when selecting varieties for biogas production and the initial results and customer feedback certainly seem to confirm Neutrino’s credentials.”

Neutrino yields keep rising until harvest, says Henrietta Wells (far left).

Neutrino is marketed in the UK by Elsoms Seeds, which has developed UK-specific maize varieties for more than 20 years. The company now offers a range of varieties with maturi-

Customer feedback confirms the variety’s credentials, says Peter Brundle (left).

Rising demand Feedback from agronomists – and encouraging trial results – have seen a significant increase in demand for Neutrino this year, says Mr Brundle.

East Anglia is ideal for the variety’s agronomic qualities, he adds.

Originally entered into national list trials in 2018, Neutrino quickly became the highest yielding variety on the list at 21.60t/ha dry matter. It achieves 35% dry matter content at September forage with an average fresh yield of 55-60t/ha.

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ty ratings to suit all farming systems and end markets.

High vigour Elsoms energy and forage crop manager Henrietta Wells says: “It’s a late maturing variety that can be harvested later in the season and its high vigour means it can be drilled early, spreading maize drilling.”

Ms Wells says she is delighted at Neutrino’s early commercial success.

“It has good lodging and brackling resistance – ensuring a safe harvest – and excellent ‘stay green’ scores so yield will keep rising until harvest.

“We have some great material coming through now with new maize varieties like Neutrino being the start of a different way of thinking about getting the highest production from energy crops in the UK.”

Neutrino has good standing ability and resistance to lodging

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Arable

Stay alert to Septoria, wheat growers urged

H

igher levels of Septoria have been confirmed in wheat crops this spring – most likely brought on by earlier drilling.

Active infections of Septoria tritici have been detected even in varieties with good resistance where these were drilled early, according to ProCam. Varieties with resistance ratings below six are particularly vulnerable.

ProCam agronomists say the disease is not just confined to lower, older leaves.

It is also being found on the next layer of younger leaves – which means it could spread higher up the plant when it rains and start damaging yield.

Early drilling Many growers drilled wheat early last autumn with seed left over from the previous year when wet weather made it impossible to get crops in the ground later, says ProCam head of crop production Mike Thornton.

“Good Septoria tritici control from early-season fungicides is set to be particularly important to halt its spread onto higher yield-building leaves – especially now we no longer have the stalwart fungicide, chlorothalonil, against the disease.”

Mr Thornton says specific T0 fungicide options will vary depending on other diseases present. Although some new fungicide chemistry has curative ability, he believes it could increases the risk of resistance.

Timing “There is an argument that says you don’t get a yield increase from controlling Septoria at the early T0 fungicide timing. That’s fine if you can

Tributes paid to Barry Barker Tributes have been paid to Agrii national seed product manager Barry Barker, who died after complications brought on by a chest condition in his battle with motor neurone disease.

Well-known and appreciated across the farming industry, Mr Barker was a stalwart of the Agricultural Industries Confederation seeds committee for many years, where his presence was marked by a well-informed, common sense approach to helping growers.

Mr Barker, of Fornham St Martin, Bury St Edmunds, passed away on Saturday, 20 February 2021, leaving his wife Fiona and children James and Jenni. Friends and colleagues paid their tributes in an online book of condolence.

guarantee you’ll be able to apply later sprays exactly on time. But very often you can’t.”

Mr Thornton says he generally looks to include a multi-site treatment against Septoria of folpet – and potentially an azole if active yellow rust needs controlling, or a strobilurin for protection if yellow rust is a threat.

Keeping on top of Septoria early will help stop it spreading on to upper leaves, says Mike Thornton.

Wealth of knowledge Jim Rennie said: “His knowledge and love for all things seed was clearly apparent as he discussed variety choices with growers. He not only knew the varieties, but was able to deliver [his knowledge] in a manner that kept his audience captivated.”

Hayley Wilcox wrote: “Barry had such a wealth of knowledge but with this was one of the most modest characters you could meet. If you needed to know anything about seed, you could pretty much guarantee Barry would know the answer.”

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Arable

Trials confirm LG Antigua rape offers N-flex trait Plant breeder Limagrain has confirmed that hybrid oilseed rape LG Antigua offers the N-Flex trait – meaning it can use nitrogen more efficiently.

In the field, this means that varieties with the N Flex trait are better able to withstand delayed or sub-optimal nitrogen applications. It makes LG Antigua a four-trait variety encompassing TuYV, pod shatter and RLM7 resistance – and now N-Flex.

Confirmation of the trait follows extensive Limagrain trials over the last few seasons in Europe. The breeder

says it has tested LG Antigua’s performance in optimal and sub-optimal nitrogen conditions.

“Essentially the N-Flex trait means that hybrids containing the trait use each unit of available nitrogen more efficiently than those which don’t,” says Limagrain UK arable marketing manager Will Charlton.

The addition of the N-Flex trait was a good example of Limagrain’s approach to producing hybrid oilseed rape’s that were trait-loaded, said Mr Charlton. Varieties with the N-Flex

trait produced more stable yields year to year, with less in-field yield variability.

High yielding varieties Ambassador and LG Aviron were the first fourtrait loaded varieties, offering genetic resistance to TuYV , pod shatter, RLM7 and the N-Flex trait. LG Antigua now joins this line-up.

“We are carrying out further work in farmer split field trials for the 2020-21 cropping year to evaluate how N-Flex aids spring nitrogen management and secures yields,” said Mr Charlton.

N-flex varieties offer more consistent yields, says Will Charlton

Dates changed for Cereals event This year’s Cereals event will now take place on 30 June and 1 July after organisers decided to hold it after lockdown restrictions are eased.

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Potatoes Robust blight strategy vital to tackle pesticide resistance • Alternative modes of action needed • Fungicide availability is challenge • Integrated approach offers solution

P

esticide resistance and the withdrawal of key chemicals could leave growers with just eight ways to combat potato blight, say scientists.

A robust blight resistance strategy is needed to combat the problem – but success will depend on good planning, alternative modes of action, and the adoption of future technologies, growers have been told.

Managing pesticide resistance in potato crops – including chemistry to target late blight – was explored

by Faye Ritchie from ADAS during a recent seminar hosted by the Crop Health and Protection (CHAP) agritech innovation centre.

Modes of action Pesticide resistant blight strains and legislative changes which have seen key chemicals withdrawn mean growers could be left with just eight viable modes of action against the disease, warned Dr Ritchie.

Alternating between these different modes of action within the spray

“

Take time to devise a plan ahead of the season where possible

Resistant cultivars will have a bigger role in combating blight

How support systems combat blight Decision support systems are becoming an increasingly important way to combat problems like pesticide resistant blight.

CropMonitor Pro is an independent pest and disease risk prediction platform developed by Fera for the Crop Health and Protection (CHAP) agri-tech centre. It analyses yield-impacting data – including weather, crop growth stages, disease levels, insect counts and disease spore loads.

Data from more than 30 monitoring sites is then translated into field-level risk alerts – helping growers make timely decisions to combat diseases such as potato late blight, as well as aphid and slug pressure.

CHAP business development manager Chris Delf (pictured) said: “Attitudes are changprogramme – and using approved tank mixes and co-formulated products – offered the most effective approach to help manage resistance development, she added.

But tactics such as adjusting spray

ing and farmers are looking to more sophisticated decision support tools such as CropMonitor Pro to support wider integrated crop management (IPM) goals.”

Technology could help overcome on-farm problems such as resistance management, said Mr Delf. “Knowing the level of risk and then applying the appropriate products accordingly means we really get the most from those products.”

This was important from a financial perspective. Without mancozeb as a multi-site fungicide, blight spray programmes costs would increase. “Farmers and agronomists will be looking for reassurance that their input investment will be worth it.” timings were less effective.

Dr Ritchie said potato growers were faced with two main challenges when trying to overcome late blight: fungicide availability and changes in the pathogen population. Both these challenges were linked.

Integrated approach “Developing a robust strategy for resistance management based on an integrated approach will also help to overcome the issue of fungicide availability – particularly pertinent given the status of mancozeb.

“The first steps should always be to take time to devise a plan ahead of the season, including non-chemical strategies. This should include controlling potential sources of the pathogen, such as outgrade piles.”

Fungicide tank mixes, co-formulated products and alternating modes of action were an effective use of available chemistry. But other measures – such as resistant cultivars – would increasingly allow greater flexibility and help reduce dose rates.

APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 21

Potatoes

How to get best results against potato cyst nematode

E

xperts have outlined the best way to use the last remaining granular nematicide against potato cyst nematode (PCN) – the crop’s most damaging soil pest.

The government’s refusal to re-authorise oxamyl leaves Nemathorin as the only remaining granular control method. Growers switching to the product should follow guidelines for best results, says Syngenta technical manager Michael Tait.

The same equipment can be used for the application of granules – but must be fitted with Nemathorin specific rotors or cartridges and calibrated to accurately deliver the 30kg/ha application rate for PCN. “Nemathorin cannot be applied in-furrow,” says Mr Tait. Instead, granules should be incorporated evenly to

a depth of 15cm in the soil profile during seedbed preparation, immediately prior to planting.

Consistent depth Incorporation to a consistent depth across all soil types and conditions is important, because Nemathorin is relatively immobile in the soil profile – which helps achieve good levels of control.

“If field conditions change, check the incorporation depth and adjust accordingly,” says Mr Tait.

Growers and agronomists must not desiccate or harvest crops for at least 17 weeks (119 days) after application.

A harvest interval calculator on the Syngenta website means growers can check the earliest potential desiccation

Special cartridges accurately deliver the correct application rate

or lifting date.

When ccurately incorporated into the soil, Nemathorin has consistently shown higher yields through greater PCN control compared to fluopyram liquid nematicide or a combination of liquid and reduced rate granular product.

Higher yields UK crop trials on a commercial Suffolk farm showed a 10% higher yield

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SPot Farm trial examines PCN resistance

from Nemathorin – some 56 t/ha – compared to fluopyram applied in furrow.

Other trials have confirmed higher yields and improved marketable tuber size Effective control of PCN with an integrated approach to crop management is advocated wherever populations are identified by soil sampling.

Managing even low egg counts can help to protect yields of the growing crop, says Mr Tait.

Above left: Field trials have confirmed higher marketable yields, says Michael Tait Above right: Granules should be incorporated evenly during seedbed preparation

Nemathorin minimises the multiplication and build-up of pest numbers, reducing the damage caused by wireworm, along with the free-living nematodes responsible for the transmission of spraing.

“Accurate application of Nemathorin following the protocols of the Nematicide Stewardship Programme will help assure yields are protected in the growing crop and sustainable management of PCN in the long-term.”

Resistance and tolerance to potato cyst nematode will be examined in one of five trials confirmed for the eastern region’s Strategic Potato (SPot) Farm this season.

The trial will take place at James Foskett Farms, near Woodbridge, Suffolk. It is 18 months into a six-year SPot Farm programme.

The farm covers 900ha in the Deben Valley. It includes 230ha of organic cropping and a 5,150t capacity storage unit.

Soils are light, free-draining irrigated Grade 4 sandy loam, while a coastal climate allows for early season production.

Other trials at the SPot Farm will study companion crops and the benefit of adding oils; controlling wireworm without Mocap; spore trapping to combat late blight; and minimising the impact of early crops on soil compaction.

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Potatoes

Crop Systems invests further in Norfolk factory

P

otato storage specialists Crop Systems says it is responding to a major growth in the sector with further investment at its factory at Happisburgh, Norfolk.

The company designs and installs box and bulk potato stores – and has introduced a range of innovations that have set fresh standards for the industry. They include products like the firm’s SmartStor controller and CoolStor glycol fridges.

The SmartStor controller enables storeowners to monitor and manage their stores remotely. It includes a function to help users plan sprouting suppression application sequences for DMN, mint oil and ethylene.

Glycol fridges developed under the CoolStor brand are highly efficient and require less coolant than conventional models, says the company.

Crop Systems managing director Ray Andrews said: “We are investing in strengthening our team, adding valuable expertise, knowledge and experience which will help us serve and support our customers.”

As part of its expansion plans, the

company has also appointed Tony Barnes as sales manager. He comes with more than 25 years’ experience with a selection of leading companies in the potato sector.

Mr Andrews said Mr Barnes’ experience and enthusiasm would add a fresh spark to the form’s growth – and he would become an important and valued part of the team.

Crop Systems Limited moved into its new factory at Happisburgh just two years ago. It has since brought all main manufacturing processes back in-house, including the construction of fridges and louvres.

Tony Barnes has spent over 25 years in the potato sector

Marketing campaign for baked potatoes A six-week marketing campaign is highlighting the versatility and adaptability of baked potatoes to consumers.

The New Packed Lunch initiative from AHDB Potatoes across social media is directing consumers to the Love Potatoes website.

The website includes tips for preparing the jacket potatoes with topping suggestions. AHDB

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Potatoes

Seed potato exporters take action after Brexit devastates business

T

he UK and Brussels are being urged to resolve their differences on seed potato exports – so shipments can resume to and from the European Union.

The EU has refused to accept UK shipments of seed potatoes since January – although EU shipments to the UK can continue until June. Brussels has rejected an equivalence request which would enable full trade to resume in both directions.

Each year, some 30,000t of UK seed potatoes worth some £13m are exported to the EU. The potential loss of that market could see British growers lose a significant part of their income – with some farms under threat.

‘Future at stake’ The Pre Basic Growers Association, which represents UK seed potato growers, wants a ban on imports of seed potatoes from the EU by 1 July unless reciprocal trading arrangements are agreed.

Some 28,000t of EU seed potatoes are imported into the UK annually. Association member and UK seed potato exporter Andrew Skea, of breeders Skea Organics, said UK seed production could offset any shortfall.

“Our export markets have been built up over many years,” said Mr Skea. “Growers face a significant loss of business which would be very difficult to retrieve – for some the future of their businesses is at stake.”

The association comprises more than 40 mainly Scottish seed potato growers who produce early generations of high grade seed potatoes. This pre-basic seed underpins the UK’s seed potato industry.

Defra secretary George Eustice has pledged to continuing raise the issue

Global success for UK seed potatoes

Any shortfall in imports from the EU could be offset by UK production, says grower Andrew Skea

with the EU to ensure that full trade resumes as soon as possible.

But Brussels maintains that the UK is not ‘dynamically aligned’ with the EU so equivalence cannot be granted.

Rapid resolution needed Meanwhile, the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board says seed potato growers need the situation to be rapid resolved. Ideally, this would see the UK gain third country listed status for seed potatoes.

AHDB head of potato export development Patrick Hughes said: “It is now likely that dialogue through official channels will run on for several months, leading to the remaining exports destined for the EU not reaching their destination in time for planting.

Mr Hughes added: “It equally does not provide UK growers with any certainty when making planting decisions, as the likelihood of a resolution in the short to medium term is diminishing by the day.”

“

Loss of business would be very difficult to retrieve

UK seed potatoes are exported to more than 50 countries worldwide – but shipments to the EU are still significant.

Egypt and Morocco still remain the largest buyers, importing a combined 75,000 tonnes in 2018, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. More recent successes have seen GB seed approved in China and Kenya.

China is the world’s largest potato consumer, with a high demand for chips and crisps. The AHDB says the UK has an opportunity to trade 100,000 tonnes of seed potato varieties used to make these processed products.

Access to the Kenyan market was granted after two seasons of trials and performance assessments. Potatoes are Kenya’s second most important food crop after maize, with some 2.5m tonnes of potatoes grown annually.

Many of the EU seed potatoes imported into the UK are produced

by Dutch owned company Agrico UK. New varieties with enhanced properties tend to originate from Dutch seed before they are multiplied in the UK. Agrico UK is a wholly owned subsidiary of Agrico Holland, a farmer-owned cooperative of some 800 growers. It is a specialist developer and supplier of high grade seed potatoes for pre-packers, processors and seed merchants.

Plant treatment gives higher marketable yield Potato crops treated with Allstar fungicide in the furrow emerge more evenly, suggests a trial by Hummingbird Technologies.

BASF launched the fluxapyroxad-based SDHI Rhizoctonia solani treatment for potatoes three years ago. The field trial was conducted last season to measure differences in the emergence of treated crops compared with azoxystrobin.

Allstar-treated potatoes were quicker to emerge, with fewer 26 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

plants in the smallest size category compared to azoxystrobin treated areas. Overall, using azoxystrobi resulted in a wider variation than Allstar.

Sample digs of potatoes showed that 95% of the tuber sizes in Allstar plots were of marketable yield, with a tight range of 93-98%. In azoxystrobin plots, 91% of the crop was of marketable yield, with a wider range of 85-97%.

Allstar gives over 4% more

Using Allstar results in better crops, says Paul Goddard

marketable yield, says BASF potato specialist Paul Goddard. It delivered an additional £257/ha on an average 50t/ha crop with a free buy price of £140/tonne minus the cost of the product.

The trial demonstrated how Allstar preserves skin finish too.

Black dot, common scab, rhizoctonia and silver scurf was assessed across the samples with Allstar showing fewer skin blemishes and lower levels of disease.

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APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 27

Potatoes

UK experts improve quality of potatoes kept in Turkish cave

company’s potato quality equipment on display at Potato Europe.

“Their range of equipment offers solutions for medium-sized companies with limited resources and budget to improve the quality of their products, gain more trust from customers and expand.”

With more than 45 years experience in the industry, Martin Lishman has developed several innovations to help potato producers maximise yields and minimise waste.

Martin Lishman managing director Gavin Lishman says: “When AR Tarim approached us, we were more than happy to share our knowledge and provide the tools to help improve the quality of their produce.

“We have worked with growers and producers all over the world to continuously develop our product range. This hands-on approach allows us into the mindset of our customers, helping us to understand the challenges they face so we can offer a solution.”

• Cave has ideal temperature for storage • Datalogger identifies source of bruising • Early detection of seed tuber problems

U

ing customer expectations.

With little demand for external energy, cool temperatures inside the cave of 4°C in winter and 14°C in summer provide ideal storage conditions – even when it is as hot as 35°C outside. But AR Tarim was still encountering problems.

Cost-effective solutions “We had come across some quality issues,” says AR Tarim managing director Ekrem Suad Sadak, who approached UK storage specialists Martin Lishman after seeing the

“

We were more than happy to share our knowledge

Reducing bruising Potato bruising was a big concern for AR Tarim. To reduce the problem, the Martin Lishman used a potato-shaped

CONSTRUCTION G

P

L

K storage experts are helping farmers in Turkey improve the quality of potato crops stored in a 1000-year-old cave.

Stringent quality control is paramount for AR Tarim – one of Turkey’s major importers and producers of seed potatoes. The company imports up to 8000t of seed potatoes. It also produces 11,000t of seed potatoes locally.

The crop is stored in a cave-based storage facility located in Kayseri, central Turkey. High-quality produce with minimal waste is central to the firm’s goal of being more efficient and exceed-

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‘Deep learning’ optimises harvest An artifical intelligence technique known as deep learning could help growers measure the potential of potato crops – making it easier to decide the best time to harvest.

It follows AHDB-funded work at Harper Adams University by PhD student Joseph Mhango. data logger to identify the location and severity of damage-causing impacts during harvesting and handling.

Adjustments were then made to the machinery, reducing the amount of bruising to the real crop. A sealed HotBox cabinet was used to expose tubers ready for storage to humidity and heat – testing the crop for disease, infections and bruising.

“The TuberLog electronic potato has helped us to reduce mechanical damage – meaning the grading machine no longer causes any tuber bruis-

ing,” says Mr Sadak.

“The harvester works better too because the crop from the field exhibits fewer problems. The Hot Box is now so well-established in our process that it would be unthinkable not to have it.

It is essential for the early detection of seed tuber issues.”

To further help improve the quality of the seed potatoes, a portable SKW500 soil testing kit provides an additional insight into soil conditions – highlighting any requirements for healthy seed growth.

Above left: The cave-based store blends in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape Above right: Temperatures inside the cave are ideal for storing potatoes

Mapping Deep learning is a technique which enables machines to visually detect objects. It is typically used in self-driving cars.

Mr Mhango has used deep learning alongside drone-taken images of crops to map potato stem numbers and their location.

Areas with greater numbers of tubers can then be left more time to bulk, while those with fewer, larger tubers are harvested first.

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Potatoes

Metaldehyde guidelines must be followed, growers told

P

otato growers using metaldehyde slug pellets this spring are being reminded to follow stewardship guidelines and keep the active ingredient out of watercourses.

The reminder comes after water companies reported the worst autumn for the detection of metaldehyde in watercourses since 2017. Wet autumn weather made drinking water catchments particularly vulnerable.

Metaldehyde pellets are being phased out because of environmental concerns. Defra says alternative pesticides containing ferric phosphate provide effective control without the same risks to water and wildlife.

Water companies reported 168 cases of metaldehyde limits being exceeded in abstracted water last autumn. For one company, this meant shutting 14 abstraction facilities for 127 days when they should be filling reservoirs ready for the summer.

Affinity Water catchment manager Alister Leggatt, who represents Water

UK, said: “This issue has had a knockon impact on our ability to provide safe and affordable drinking water to our networks in a number of regions.”

David Cameron, chairman of the Metaldehyde Stewardship Group, said: “Stocks of the slug pellet cannot be sold after the end of February 2021 – but farmers may continue to use up existing stocks until 31 March 2022.

“We’re therefore urging responsible use of pellets right up until the end of the use-up period to help stop metaldehyde reaching watercourses in all areas of the UK – especially in drinking water catchments.”

Metaldehyde slug pellets should only by used as part of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme.

Growers should contact their local water companies for information about any available support.

Soil and stubble management, planting methods, slug trapping and monitoring should all be part of a good slug control programme. If pellets are

Metaldehyde slug pellets are being phased out

needed, growers should abide by all stewardship guidelines.

Mr Cameron said it was important to minimise the risk of metaldehyde reaching watercourses. “It is critical that this continues right up until the use up deadline date of 31 March 2022 to safeguard water quality.”

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Potatoes

Machine Sync system now available for potato harvesters

J

ohn Deere’s Machine Sync system – which enables machines to exchange data on the move – has been extended to more crop unloading operations.

Machine Sync was introduced in 2012 to allow combine operators to guide a tractor and trailer alongside the harvester. The system is now also available for potato harvesters and tractors can take control during other crop unloading operations too.

The technology is especially useful during night-time operations and long working days. It uses global satellite navigation to automatically control the speed and direction of tractors and trailers relative to the harvester.

John Deere says Machine Sync makes harvesting safer and reduces stress for the operators. It also reduc-

The synchronisation system is particularly useful when visibility is limited

es waste during unloading and avoids damage to both machines and crops, even at higher speeds.

The technology is not just applicable to combine harvesters but also to all harvesting processes where crops are continuously loaded into trailers. As a result, John Deere is now offering Machine Sync for use on self-propelled forage harvesters and tractors.

In particular, says John Deere, customers working with trailed elevator machinery harvesting potatoes, carrots and vegetables will benefit from the technology. The system also delivers productivity gains to growers during planting applications.

For operation, Machine Sync requires JDLink telematics, a StarFire satellite receiver and a Gen4 Premium display with automation activation.

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Potatoes

Storage facility maintains crop quality throughout season • Air-flow and pressure remains consistent • Remote monitoring and management • Wet crops dried and cured effectively

A

Shropshire potato grower is reaping the rewards after building his own on-farm store for the crop – rather than sending it direct from field to processor.

Ollie Bright (pictured below), of Montford Farm, Shrewsbury, said he traditionally sent his crop to McCains straight after harvest. But the company persuaded him that storage would be a major advantage – and their advice had turned out to be the right move.

The family grows a range of varieties on sandy loam soils, all irrigated.

Some 2,500 tonnes of Maris Piper are now stored in the new facility, with varieties like Premier, Royal and Maureen being sold from the field.

Mr Bright did his dissertation on potato storage while at Harper Adams University. Visits to two stores built by Norfolk-based Crop Systems helped him decide they were the company to develop and construct his own on-farm potato store.

“We visited two other stores that Crop Systems had built,” explains Mr Bright. “What impressed us most was the quality of the build and equipment.

Everything was correct – right down to the fine details.”

Bulk storage The family decided to build a TaperStor – a bulk store featuring tapering tunnels and ducts which ensure even air-flow and pressure right across the building. Mr Bright checked the airflow with a flow meter.

The store’s design includes a gap between the outer concrete wall and the store’s insulated panels. This gap is managed with fans and heater elements to ensure a consistent temperature to eliminate condensation risks.

A SmartStor controller was installed to monitor and manage 34 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

“

Everything was correct – right down to the fine details

the store remotely. It includes sending automatic alerts if anything malfunctions or CO2 levels, humidity, water vapour or temperatures exceed pre-set levels.

The new store has done all he wanted and more, says Mr Bright. “We had never previously stored potatoes past November. One contractor suggested the new store might be able to store them until May.” The first load of potatoes came into the store during the very wet autumn of 2019. But the store still managed to dry and cure them effectively. The last potatoes were loaded out of the store in July 2020 – and the fry quality was still excellent.

Excellent airflow “We had to blow the potatoes hard to dry them, but the humidification system ensured they stored well,” says Mr Bright. “This year has been much easier. We haven’t had to use the fans nearly as much.

“The fridge and the airflow are both excellent. We only ever have a temperature difference of 0.2-0.3ºC from one end of the store to the other. The humidifier provides free extra cooling and helps maintain the quality of the crop while it is in storage.”

The store brought the

crop down to 8ºC efficiently in the autumn. It later reduced that to 7.5ºC for longer term storage.

Mr Bright credits the SmartStor controller for his crop quality. It offers the ability to fix a different set point for every day during the process, enabling him to programme temperature reduction accurately.

The family decided to avoid CIPC as a sprouting suppressant because – although it was allowed in the first winter – it could remain in concrete for up to 20 years, and they didn’t want to contaminate subsequent crops.

Viable option “The advice we received from merchants and from Crop Systems was to switch to ethylene as this was the only viable option at the time,” says Mr Bright. “We effectively got ahead of the law change.”

This meant the farm business was a year ahead of everyone else in coping with lfie after BIPC. “The 2020 crop was loaded into the store in a couple of weeks and looks fantastic. We are confident that we will be able to store it until July.”

The SmartStor adds an extra level of confidence and peace of mind, says Mr Bright. “Any one of us can check the store whenever we want to and instantly see what is happening. We also receive regular updates.”

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APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 35

Potatoes

Growers must still pay potato levy for coming year

T

he government says potato growers must still pay a levy on the crop for 2021/22 – even though the sector has voted to abolish the statutory payment.

Some 66.4% of voters said the levy should be abolished compared to 33.6% who said it should continue. The overall voter turnout was 64% with 1,196 eligible votes cast. The result measured by levy paid was 63.2% for abolition and 36.8% for retention.

AHDB Chair Nicholas Saphir said: “I’m deeply disappointed. The voting information reported by [pollsters] UK Engage shows that a clear majority of the potato industry feels they are not getting enough value from the current levy set-up.

The call for a vote on the continuation of the statutory levy came late last year. The yes/no ballot started in mid-February – on the basis of one levy payer, one vote. The vote process was administered by independent company UK Engage.

The ballot process means a ballot is held to inform ministers how the industry feels on the value of a statutory levy. Government ministers must now decided whether the vote should be honoured.

Defra minister Victoria Prentis said: “We will now take these results and scrutinise them

closely before making a decision on the future of the Potato levy. In the meantime AHDB will continue to collect levy returns from the industry for the 2021/22 year.”

NFU horticulture and potatoes board chairman Ali Capper said: “This result is a clear signal that the majority of potato growers in England and Wales do not believe their levy is delivering tangible benefits or value for their businesses.

She added: “Elements such as research and development and work on plant protection products, currently delivered by AHDB Potatoes, will remain crucial for businesses, so it is important there is clarity on the future as soon as possible.

“This will ensure businesses are able to prepare how they work on these areas and who with.”

Nicholas Saphir: ‘Deeply disappointed’

Most want levy scrapped – but not all Campaigners against the compulsory AHDB potato levy welcomed what they said was conclusive ‘no’ vote against its continuation.

But other growers fear abolishing the levy will mean the end of valuable research and marketing which benefits the sector.

Lincolnshire potato grower John Bratley said: “Potato growers across the UK have had enough of this expensive compulsory levy body which offers little in return and doesn’t understand the realities of the marketplace.

“This discontent is not new. It has been brewing for years, but this is the first time that growers have been given a way to express their discontent with the system.”

Growers who want the levy abolished are angry that Defra has already said that the 2021/22 levy will be collected while a final decision is made on its future.

Farmers who voted to retain the levy argue that it brings many benefits. Elveden Farms director Andrew Francis said the ‘no’ vote was very disappointing.

Lincolnshire potato manager Tim Allen said he accepted some growers were disillusioned but the void would be difficult to fill.

Advertiser’s announcement

A new smell in the farmyard Biox-M is a natural sprout inhibitor applied in store to potatoes destined for the fresh andprocessing markets.

Farmyards are full of smells and odours, some attractive, some less so. This year finds a new smell in the farmyard – spearmint. Yes, the mint that you might put on your new potatoes in May – and the same spearmint that flavours toothpaste and chewing gum.

Why am I smelling mint in the farmyard?

In 2019, a decision was taken to withdraw approval for chlorpropham/CIPC, used for years to prevent potatoes sprouting in 36 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

store. As a result, potato growers have looked for alternatives to manage the risk of sprouting – and ensure potatoes can be supplied in prime condition to customers all year round.

One option, used by some British growers since 2012, is spearmint oil, sold as Biox-M and in widespread use in the food industry. Naturally occurring spearmint, from which the oil is steam-distilled, is applied as a hot fog into potato stores. The fog swiftly becomes a vapour, preventing the development of potato sprouts.

Spearmint oil vapour is volatile, which is important to deliver the product evenly through the

potato store. It is essential to ensure the vapour remains in the store to deliver optimum efficacy.

For many growers and store keepers, the 2020 crop is the first to which Biox-M has been applied.

This has required a steep learning curve to get the best from an unfamiliar product.

However much care is taken by the store manager though, small amounts of spearmint oil vapour will leak from most stores over time, particularly when ambient air is introduced to the store as part of normal store management of the crop, or in very windy conditions.

This release of small quantities of spearmint oil vapour may

be noticed in the vicinity of potato stores in the days following treatment. Spearmint oil is not persistent in the fabric of buildings and boxes used for potato storage, nor in the wider environment.

It is an essential oil. Spearmint oil is widely used in familiar domestic food products. However, regular use in potato stores is comparatively new, and the faint odour of spearmint is now to be found in an unfamiliar context.

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APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 37

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Livestock Guaranteed price provides certainty for beef farmers • Minimum price contract for beef • Risk-free way to trade livestock • Worth £130m over seven years

L

ivestock producers are being offered a guaranteed minimum price for cattle following the UK launch of the world’s first smart, data-driven beef contract.

Unveiled by livestock management company Breedr, the long-term contract sets a secure price 24 months ahead. Farmers get the benefit if prices rise in the meantime – but there is no penalty if the price falls.

Breedr says the contract will give producers confidence to invest – and help to improve efficiencies throughout the supply chain. It says this will

“

It gives farmers peace of mind to build their businesses

improve the consistency and quality of the end product, while reducing the sector’s carbon footprint.

Trading platform The company has launched a risk-free way to buy and sell livestock, based on lifetime animal data and weights. The Breedr live trading platform means producers can buy and sell through the free app with certainty.

A price guarantee provides certainty in case there is any differential in the weight of weaned calves and stores between farms. Sellers are also ensured payment within 72 hours of collection.

Trades will remain commission-free until later this year.

“As beef producers ourselves, we know how tricky it is to plan ahead with confidence – one batch of bad Advance payments can help smooth cash flow, says Ian Wheal

calves can ruin a farm, as can a downturn in the beef market,” says Breedr founder Ian Wheal.

“But by making better use of data we can buy and sell with transparency, predict growth rates, and know that we’re supplying the processor with what they want – ensuring a secure end market and price.”

Price uplift The contract is worth more than £130m to British beef producers over the next seven years, says Breedr. It offers a 24-month minimum price for any cattle with lifetime data, with producers receiving a proportion of any uplift in price above that.

Rearers can opt to be paid per kilogramme of growth – eliminating the need for capital outlay on youngstock.

Advanced payments are available to smooth cash flow and reduce uncertainty, says Mr Wheal.

“British agriculture is innovating to meet UK and global needs. Being able to plan ahead with certainty finally gives farmers the peace of mind they need to invest and build profitable businesses.”

Farmers using the free app are finishing animals five months earlier than the industry average, with 24% more carcases reaching target specification. Farmers using Breedr are saving 1.8t/head in feed and reducing their carbon footprint by 20%.

Productivity boost AHDB Beef and Lamb chairman Adam Quinney says the innovation is a boost for farm productivity. “We are very supportive of technology that is helping bring certainty, and collaboration between farmer groups in the supply chain.”

The network now has over 2,000 members and 120,000 registered animals across the UK. Mr Wheal says many users are joining forces to create integrated supply chains to further improve efficiencies.

By collating data on genetics, growth rates, health, and carcass grades, producers can identify the most productive breeding lines and management methods, optimising productivity throughout the supply chain.

Mr Wheal says: “This is a true community of forward-thinking farmers, who are sharing their own top tips and forming robust business partnerships.

Together, farmers have the power to drive this positive change.”

APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 39

Livestock

Focus on immunity to protect young lambs this spring

H

igh prices are encouraging sheep producers to protect valuable lambs from preventable disease threats this spring.

Lamb prices trending well ahead of last year and 78p/kg above the five-year average. It makes good sense to protect lambs from a variety of infections, says MSD Animal Health livestock veterinary adviser Kat Baxter-Smith.

Lambs are born with no antibodies to protect them from disease. This means they rely on the passive transfer of immunity from the ewe in her colostrum – but this must take place within the first few hours of life.

Vaccination is strongly advised from three weeks, says Kat BaxterSmith

Even then, lambs can be susceptible to diseases during the coming weeks.

“This passive immunity then starts to wear off after three weeks, leaving many lambs vulnerable to a variety of infections,” says Dr Baxter-Smith.

Losses from clostridial diseases – such as pulpy kidney – or from pastereurellosis are a frequent cause for concern among young lambs during spring and early summer.

Often, neither dams nor their offspring have been vaccinated.

Although it is impossible to control many of the trigger factors – including sudden changes in the weather, Dr Baxter-Smith says vaccination of young lambs from three weeks of age is strongly advised.

Coccidiosis is another key disease in lambs that is often triggered by stressful events, says Dr Baxter-Smith.

This is because any maternally derived immunity – gained from ewe colostrum – starts to wane after four to six weeks of age.

Immunity from ewe colostrum at birth starts to wane after 4-6 weeks

“After this, young lambs become particularly susceptible to the Eimeria parasite oocysts, which, once consumed from the environment, hatch and then invade the intestinal wall. This can then cause diarrhoea, weight loss and slow growth rates.”

If coccidiosis is diagnosed, farmers should ask their animal health product supplier about encouraging immunity with the strategic use of an easy-to-administer, single oral drench alongside sound hygiene practices.

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Grass & Forage Beef and dairy producers are being advised to protect the performance of total mixed rations as the weather becomes warmer.

“Spoilage can be a real risk in the spring and summer months due to higher temperatures,” warns Jacob Lakin from Azelis Animal Nutrition. With feed prices escalating, it is important that cows gain full value from rations, he adds.

“Damaging micro-organisms can significantly reduce the palatability of the TMR and, if this happens, intakes can quickly drop.

Using an effective TMR preserva-

Photo credit: Agriphoto

Protect ration performance as temperatures rise

Cattle are sensitive to spoilage as temperatures rise

tive will help keep the ration fresh and prevent the feed becoming unpalatable.”

As ambient temperatures

rise, yeasts and moulds in forages and other TMR feed products grow more quickly when exposed to oxygen. This spoilage reduces

nutrient value and adversely affects palatability.

Spoilage and reduced palatability can significantly depress livestock performance, production and health. Milk yield and solids may be reduced, particularly when cows are turned out onto lush spring grass, says Mr Lakin.

Adding organic acid blends to the TMR can inhibit growth of moulds and yeasts. This helps to offset any potential unwanted drop in intake and ensure cows extract full nutritional value and performance from the ration.

How better fertiliser timings boost first-cut silage yields • Short intervals bring 30% benefit • Blueprint maximises grass quality • Improved efficiency on top farms

F

irst-cut silage yields can be increased by nearly 30% simply by applying the first nitrogen of the season as two splits in relatively short succession, suggest trials.

The type of nitrogen source – including sulphur and using true granular compounds rather than blends – can also boost Nitrogen fertiliser Use Efficiency (NfUE), according to findings from CF Fertiliser.

“It has to be the focal point for grassland producers moving forward,” says the company’s Mark Garrett (pictured).

“Maximising NfUE ensures as much vital nitrogen goes into plants to stimulate growth – rather than leaving the system where it could cause environmental concerns and economic loss to the farmer.”

The recommendations on application timings are the culmination of four years work. As well as timings, the study examined various intervals between splits to see if these had any major affect on efficiency.

Fertiliser Manual RB209 says farmers should consider split applications if applying more than 80kg N/ha for first-

“

Split applications reduce the risk of nitrogen losses

cut silage. Doing so reduces the chance of losing nitrogen when a single large application is made.

“The traditional RB209 view is that this second application should be made four weeks after the first one and this is something we have followed in the trials,” says Mr Garrett.

“But whenever we have carried this out, we have seen a significant drop off in yield of first cut silage compared to when all the nitrogen is applied as a single application.”

The trial examined the effects of applying 120kg N/ha as a single application; the same amount but with 80kg applied first followed by 40kg four weeks later; and the same split but with only one week between applications.

When cut eight weeks after the first application, the all-in-one approach delivered a yield of 6.83t/ha DM, the four-week interval produced 6.10t/ha and the one week interval yielded 7.86t/ha.

Splitting applications with a four week gap reduced yields gave the lowest yield, says Mr Garrett. But the same split with one week between applications produced 29% more than the four week interval and

Splitting fertiliser applications means more high-quality silage

15% more than the single application.

“The results suggest that you would be far better off applying your first cut nitrogen as two splits with one week between them than either as a single application or two splits with four weeks interval.

“What is really impressive is that simply applying the second application at one week rather than the traditional four weeks added 1.76t/ha DM to first cut yields for the same overall amount of nitrogen applied.”

APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 41

Grass & Forage

Multi-cut silage helps dairy farms weather the effects of drought

Good preservation and consolidation remain key, says Jason Short

• More silage clamped early in season • Less concern over bought feed price • Growers prepared for any eventuality

M

ulti-cut silage could put dairy farms in a stronger position to withstand the effects of drought on reducing grass growth, suggests a survey.

The poll of more than 100 dairy farmers compared the impact of last year’s dry spring and summer on grass silage production. Some 55% of those questioned were taking up to three cuts a year, with 45% using a multi-cut system to take at least four cuts.

Conducted by Ecosyl, the survey set out to test the theory that an earlier start date to silaging with a mul-

ti-cut system means more silage has already been clamped if the weather turns dry later on.

Results revealed that by the end of May 2020, those making multi-cut had indeed made better progress. All had taken at least one cut, with 34% having taken two cuts, and 9% having taken more than two.

This high number of cuts compared with 10% of the conventional silage makers who had yet to start cutting at all by that date. Only 3% had taken two cuts and none had progressed any further.

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made them think more about making multi-cut, yet only 2% of multi-cutters said they could definitely envisage switching back the other way.

“All this suggests multi-cutters were more comfortable with their silage progress when the drought hit last season,” said Mr Short. There was also greater awareness among multi-cutters of methods for maximising silage quantity and quality

All bases covered Although rain eventually returned in time for grass growth to resume in the latter part of last summer, Mr Short said such a turnaround could not be

Less anxiety Ecosyl silage expert Jason Short said: “There also appeared less anxiety about silage quantity among the multi-cut group – with 11% reporting they had made more silage than normal by the end of May, versus only 5% saying this in the conventional group.”

In addition, some 64% of conventional makers expressed concern about the amount of silage they had made by then, suggesting it was not enough. This compared with only 57% of the multi-cut group.

“There was more widespread concern about possible tighter availability or higher prices for bought-in feeds last winter among conventional silage makers, with 78% expressing concern, versus only 57% in the multi-cut group.”

Some 22% of conventional silage makers said recent dry seasons had

“

Farmers were less anxious about silage quality

guaranteed in every dry season. This meant growers should be prepared for any eventuality.

A higher proportion of multi-cut farmers said they were paying more attention to wilting times to reduce infield losses; applying an additive to preserve more dry matter; and improving clamp consolidation, sealing or weighting to reduce losses.

“Attention to detail makes a lot of sense, because recent research by our scientists showed that although multi-cut grass delivered a higher yield over a season than taking three cuts, and was higher in quality, it did benefit from looking after.”

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12/03/2021 17:07 APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 43

Grass & Forage

Test grass throughout the season for high-quality silage Silage timings should be based on grass quality, says Lientjie Colahan

F

armers are being encouraged to test grass before cutting it to determine the best time for quality silage production.

Incremental improvements in silage quality make a considerable difference to feeding efficiency and production margins. But some farmers are missing out on the opportunity to make the best silage possible.

Lientjie Colahan of Lallemand Animal Nutrition, believes this is often due to overlooking the planning part of the process, with producers often timing silage by calendar date rather than grass quality.

“Pre-cut grass testing helps determine when the crop is at the optimal point for cutting to achieve quality forage with the best nutritional value,” says Ms Colahan.

“One of the most important things to observe in pre-cut testing results is the neutral detergent

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fibre (NDF) content. This is the main gauge of plant maturity, giving the best indication of when grass is ready to cut.”

NDF levels can change quickly throughout one season – often in as little as one week, says Ms Colahan.

But there can also be huge variations between years – which is why testing is so important.

“Pre-cut testing should be a key component to the annual silage making programme. It allows farmers to accurately establish when to cut based on the

Save money on winter starch and protein High protein prices are encouraging more farmers to consider making alkalage this harvest.

Conserving whole crop cereals using an ammonia source to create a balanced diet could cut bought-in protein costs by up to a third for some mixed farms, say nutritionists.

The bonus is so significant that some UK dairy and beef producers

are said to be growing more cereal crops on ground traditionally earmarked for maize silage.

“Farmers have been asking whether it’s worth sowing maize this spring,” says Rob Smith from alkalisation specialist FiveF Alka.

“You often gain more dry matter and starch with cereal crops than you do with maize silage,” he adds.

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quality of the grass in the field, not simply on historic cutting dates or visual assessment.”

Ms Colahan says farmers should involve their contractor in the planning process. “Efforts to produce top quality forage will amount to nothing if you are unable to work in tandem,” she adds.

Contractors should be kept informed about proposed forage plans for the year.

Rough estimates of first-cut dates can be updated as pre-cut test results come in to make sure timings align.

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Grass & Forage

Willow leaves ‘reduce emissions from sheep’ Feeding willow leaves to sheep could reduce greenhouse gas emissions, suggests research by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust.

The study involved four groups of six Aberfield-cross lambs. Half were fed 200g each of goat willow leaves daily. Urine tests subsequently confirmed significant reductions in both nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide.

Part-funded by the Woodland Trust, the work also found lower ammonia emissions from willow-fed lambs. Professor Chris Stoate said the results were a preliminary but exciting finding which warranted further investigation.

Defra recently confirmed that agroforestry is eligible for support through the Basic Payment Scheme – including trees planted at wide spacings and intercropped with a cereal or bio-energy crop; and trees on grassland with livestock.

The Committee on Climate Change estimates that agroforestry could result in carbon emissions savings of 5.9 Mt of carbon dioxide per year by 2050, about 13% of total current emissions from the agriculture sector.

Sheep were fed a diet which included 200g of willow leaves

Primed seed boosts fodder beet establishment A limited amount of primed fodder beet seed is available for Limagrain varieties Robbos, Brick, and Tadorne.

The seed has been primed using the Germ’activ system, which encourages faster germination and crop establishment. Primed seed has also been shown to encourage a more uniform crop for fodder beet sown in March and April.

“Fodder beet is at its most vulnerable when seedlings are in their early growth stage and can be affected by pest and disease damage,” says Limagrain’s forage crop director Martin Titley.

Good establishment is key to a high-feed-value fodder beet crop for either lifting or grazing, adds Mr Titley. “The aim is to get the crop to its five-leaf stage as quickly as possible and past the period when the plants are at most risk of damage.”

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F

orage specialists Kelvin Cave tion can then be stored on racks for have launched a silage clamp use the following year. cover which doesn’t need This is the first year Silage Safe weighting – dispensing with the need has been available for the UK grass for tyres or other ballast. silage season – although several farmInstead, the Silage Safe system ers used it for maize silage last auis sealed by a series of straps which tumn. They included Marc Heading, are tightly ratcheted into place. This of A & EG Heading, who grows maize makes one of the most unpopular jobs for anaerobic digestion. at the end of silage-making a potenMr Heading covered a 6m tall clamp tially two-person operation. on his Cambridgeshire farm measurThe straps can also be tightened ing 100m x 30m metres. It is believed during the course of the crop’s stor- to be the largest clamp using the Silage age. This ensures a full and even ten- Safe system anywhere in the world. sion is achieved over the clamp – and Farming around 2,400ha and cuthelps avoid the creation of air spaces ting 320ha of maize last year, Mr Headas the silage settles. ing said: “I was absolutely determined The cover can be installed and re- not to have a clamp covered in disused moved in two-metre sections. This tyres and wanted it to be relatively speeds up the time it takes to feed- easy to manage.” out as well as covering – and avoids Some 14,000t of freshweight maize the need to move weights.

Each secsilage in21:49 the clamp will be used as feedDB_March_Ad_FV02.pdf 1 21/03/2021

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Anglia April 2021

Claydon adds two new rigids – see page 50

Machinery

New John Deere series ‘stronger and smarter’ see page 52

Tyre makers ramp up offers to woo farmers • Better products, longer warranties • More confidence in reliability • Range has more value for money

M

ajor tyre manufacturers are launching new offers to farmers to secure a wider share of the lucrative agricultural market.

Bridgestone has doubled the warranty kength of its range of AG radial drive products to 10 years. It means products such as the VX-Tractor and the VT-Tractor will be accompanied by the extended cover.

Previously, it was from the date of manufacture and for five years, but this has been changed to start from the date the farmer purchases the tyre, meaning farmers will benefit for the full 10 years of ownership.

Bridgestone technical manager Gary Powell said the move was made possible by advances in production technology and new design features – which showed the manufacturer’s confidence in its tyre reliability.

“All this is at no extra cost to the farmer,” he said.

Better productivity Competitor Kleber has launched a new generation of its Topker agricultural tyre range – with improved flexion technology. It says the Kleber Topker IF has better grip, comfort and productivity for 200hp+ tractors.

The new range – comprising five front sizes and six rear sizes – provides farmers and agricultural contractors with a high-quality IF tyre at a great value-for-money price, says Kleber’s customer support manager Gordon Brookes.

Tyres with an IF rating benefit from a sidewall structure which is more flexible – allowing operators to carry more load at the same pressure, or to

Better flexion helps tyres return to their original shape.

run the same load at a lower pressure when compared to standard tyres of the same size.

Meanwhile, all new Fendt 200 and 300 series tractors are now available with Continental TractorMaster tyres.

The tyres feature N.Flex Technology – a heat-treated nylon that helps the rubber return to its original shape after impact and heavy use.

Better productivity Continental agricultural tyre specialist Richard Hutchins says the partnership between the two German manufacturers is another boost to the investment in new technology at the company’s production facility in Lousado, Portugal.

“The bead is as important as the rubber and nylon in a tyre. Our research showed that tyres with a single wire bead can operate at up to 3psi lower. In field operations this increases the footprint area which reduces soil compaction.”

A further technological development is in the wire, or ‘bead’, that helps the tyre hold the rim of the wheel.

Some agricultural tyres use as many as ten individual wires to create one bead which can cause weaknesses at the joins.

The Continental bead is made of a single wire construction wrapped around the circumference of the tyre up to one hundred times creating an

“

The bead is as important as the rubber and nylon

agricultural tyre that holds the rim, even at very low pressure.

Fendt UK marketing manager Charlotte Ellis said: “Tyres are an extremely important part of any tractor and the new technology in Continental’s TractorMaster tyres shows how research and development is helping to drive agricultural efficiencies.”

Väderstad produces 1000th Tempo L drill Swedish machinery manufacturer Väderstad has passed the milestone of producing its 1000th Tempo L high precision planter.

Launched in 2017, the Tempo L hit made global headlines when it set a world drilling record in Hungary the same year – planting 502ha of maize in 24 hours at a speed of more than 12.5mph.

Väderstad says the company’s patented PowerShoot technology enabled the Tempo to deliver unparalleled precision – both in terms of the distance between each seed and uniform planting depth.

“There were minimal deviations in planting depth precision, doubles and skips,” says Mattias Hovnert, the company’s senior vice president for global sales and marketing. “The Tempo L has definitely pushed the limits regarding planting, capacity and precision.”

In total, Väderstad produces some 5500 machines annually. Currently available with 8-24 row units, a new Tempo L 32 goes into production from June 2021.

It will be the biggest Tempo yet with 32 row units and a 12m operating width.

APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 49

Anglia Machinery

Cheffins auctions top £7.5m in first quarter

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uctioneers Cheffins sold more than £7.5m of machinery during the first three months of 2021 at the firm’s Cambridge Machinery Sales site near Ely. With more than 20% of stock sold for export, the most active buyers at the monthly sales came from Ireland, Poland, Sudan, Romania and France – following UK-based dealers and private purchasers.

Each auction during the quarter saw strong results, with January grossing £2m, February £2.7m and March £3m.

Joe Page of Cheffins said: “A lack of stock has been what has characterised results for the first quarter of this year.”

The number of lots was some 25% lower than the same period in 2020 – butlack of availability helped ensured high prices.

Mr Page said: “The appetite for second-hand kit has continued unabated despite both Brexit and the coronavirus outbreak – and export sales have remained healthy to countries both within the EU and further afield.”

The highest grossing lot was a Fendt 936 Profi Plus Vario 4WD tractor which sold for £60,000, followed by a 2015 John Deere 6195R tractor which made £54,000.

The next Cheffins sale takes place on 12 April. For details, visit www.cheffins. co.uk, or call 01353 777767.

Two new rigid drills added to Claydon range

C

laydon has added two new rigid 4m Hybrid models to its range of mounted drills – a seed-only version and one allowing fertiliser applications at the same time.

The M4R is the seed-only version of the 4m rigid drill. It has a 1750-litre capacity hopper, whereas the M4RF features a dual 2100-litre hopper with a 50:50 split, allowing fertiliser to be applied at seeding time.

The M3RF enables growers to apply fertiliser either below the seed on the front leading tine or above the seed on the seeding tine or new low disturbance twin tine. Fertiliser can also be split between the front and seeding tine/twin tine.

Both new Hybrid models come with

the Claydon leading tine and 7” A share as standard. They feature shear bolt stone protection, a rear double toolbar with metal boards and following tines for seedbed levelling and consolidation.

Both new rigid Hybrid drills have GPS speed sensing, electronically driven metering systems and a four-channel drill computer allowing up to two extra applicators for micro granules and slug pellets.

Optional extras include seed/fertiliser blockages sensors, pre-emergence markers and bout markers. A range of seeding share, tine and disc options is offered on both drills, including the new LD Low Disturbance kits.

These comprise a twin tine and single or double cutting disc and can be

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New assistant marketing manager at Opico

quickly swapped with the standard Claydon set-up. This gives the Hybrid range greater flexibility in meeting a range of seeding scenarios with a single drill.

The M4R and M4RF Hybrids have a recommended minimum power requirement of 200hp and are priced at

£43,255 and £54,995 respectively for a standard specification machine.

In addition to a comprehensive range of tractor-mounted and trailed Hybrid drills from 3m to 8m wide, the Claydon Opti-Till product line includes straw harrows from 3m to 15m and the 6m TerraStar light rotary cultivator.

DESIGN ROBUSTNESS VERSATILITY

The new Claydon Hybrid M4RF rigid 4m seed and fertiliser drill in action.

Opico has appointed Harper Adams graduate Katherine Bliss as assistant marketing manager at its Lincolnshire headquarters.

Having grown up on a farm, Ms Bliss joins Opico with a strong agricultural background. Since graduating, she has worked as a trainee land agent for a large estate in Scotland and more recently in event management.

Opico marketing manager Helen Selkin said: “As well as her commercial and event experience, Katherine brings with her practical farming knowledge and an understanding of farming systems.”

Ms Bliss said: “I am thrilled to be joining the Opico team and I am looking forward to developing my marketing communications skills and being part of a company which has strengthened and progressed in the most testing of times.”

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APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 51

Anglia Machinery

Videos highlight unique features on latest Fastrac Farmers and contractors wanting to find out about JCB’s Fastrac 4000 highspeed tractor – including its four-wheel steering system – can now watch a series of special videos.

The videos are informative but brief and to the point. They give an overview of the tractor’s features – and how the touch-screen in the cab can be used to achieve optimum settings for different tasks and applications.

JCB Agriculture managing director John Smith said: “It would take a very long video to explain all the many features of the Fastrac so instead there are 14 short recordings on specific topics.”

Mr Smith says there is no substitute for the detailed operator’s manual or talking to a Fastrac sales engineer, whose main role is to demonstrate and install new machines with customers and dealers.

But he adds: “The videos are easily accessible on an office computer or a mobile device out in the field to support inexperienced and seasonal opera-

The videos cover different aspects of the JCB Fastrac 4220

tors, or to provide a quick reminder on functions that a regular operator may not have used for a while.”

Several recordings relate to the tractor’s hardware – setting up and operating the four-speed PTO, front and rear linkage, auxiliary hydraulics, four-wheel steering and the transmission.

New 9R Series tractors are ‘stronger and smarter’ John Deere’s new 9R Series tractor range features machines that are stronger, more efficient and more intelligent, says the manufacturer.

The range is headed by the flagship 9R 640 and 9RX 640 models. All use the same new and highly fuel-efficient 13.6-litre John Deere engine as the X9 combine – except for the 640hp models which remain powered by a 15-litre Cummins engine.

The six-cylinder John Deere engine with its HPCR fuel injection system is more efficient and quieter too. To transfer engine power to the ground, all models offer additional ballasting that allow a gross weight of 30.4t.

The StarFire 6000 receiver is integrated into the cab roof as standard. So too is the 4600 CommandCenter display, full AEF Isobus compati-

52 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

bility and AutoTrac activation.

John Deere offers a full activation package for maximum automation at an additional price of £1425. This includes turn automation, section control, variable rate control, passive implement guidance, in-field data sharing and row guidance.

Jobs can be pre-scheduled to appear automatically on the cab display when the machine enters the field. The operator can then confirm the operation with a single button click.

Once a job is completed, all data is transferred wirelessly to the operation centre.

For comfort, John Deere’s HydraCushion front axle suspension is available for all 9R Series models. Cab features are the same as those on the new 7R and 8R Series tractors launched at Agritechnica 2019.

The four-wheel steering includes settings for the tightest possible turning circle, so the rear wheels follow in the tracks of those at the front. The tractor can delay rear axle steering before transitioning to four-wheel steer once clear of tramlines.

To watch the videos, visit the JCB Agriculture page on YouTube.

SDF says no to international fairs in 2021 Tractor maker Same Deutz-Fahr says it won’t be attending any international trade fairs this year – focusing instead in other ways to showcase new products.

Protecting people’s health and safety was of crucial importance following the coronavirus pandemic, said the company. This meant SDF would not be attending Agritechnica, EIMA in 2021.

Despite ongoing control measures and the global vaccination campaign, SDF said the future remained uncertain. The company said it had prioritised the safety of its employees, dealers and customers since the pandemic started in 2020.

“Safety has been our priority since the beginning and, accordingly, we took the difficult decision to not participate in international fairs,” says SDF marketing and communication executive director Massimiliano Tripodi.

“We are facing a new era in business relationships where new technologies give us opportunities to get in direct contact with customers overcoming physical distances.”

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The Triton places the seed in maximum 6-inch rows with a 6-inch deep rooting, air and drainage slot running directly beneath every seed. Seed is placed on a ‘seed terrace’ in front of the side-press closing blades.

The side-press blades then move the field back across onto the seed, securing it from slugs and leaving a clear passage for the seedling to get to the surface.

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APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 53

Technology New fund to support innovation and adoption of agri-technology to transform business performance.

Belinda Clarke, director of AgriTechE, said: “The proposed new Farming Investment Fund will – we hope – help de-risk the investment in new technologies which we see is often a barrier to uptake by farmers.”

Ease of access to the fund would be key to its success, said Dr Clarke. She added: “We hope the outcomes will be assessed by meaningful metrics which are relevant to farmers, as well as relatively simple to capture.”

Eligible investment Types of eligible investments could include on-farm water storage infrastructure; robotic or automated technology to improve animal health and welfare; and equipment for the processing of agricultural products.

Photo credit: Agri-TechE

A

government pledge to encourage the adoption of new farming technology by growers and livestock producers has been welcomed by industry leaders.

The Farming Investment Fund will open later this year. It follows the end of the Countryside Productivity Small Grants scheme, which part-funded purchases of farm equipment. That scheme closed in January.

Defra said the investment fund would continue to ensure support remained available for adoption of innovation and productivity improvements.

In this respect, the fund has similar objectives to the scheme it replaces.

“The fund will provide targeted support to businesses so that they can invest in equipment, technology, and infrastructure that will improve their productivity and deliver environmental and other public benefits,” said Defra.

There will be two levels of the Farming Investment Fund: • Farming Equipment and Technology Fund – which will offer small grants to contribute towards the purchase of a list of specified items • Farming Transformation Fund – which will provide larger grants towards the cost of more substantial investments in equipment, technology or infrastructure, with the potential

The scheme must be easy to access, says Belinda Clarke, of Agri-TechE

Previous schemes have helped fund livestock handling systems

Funding will be in addition to increased investment in farmer-led research and development projects to trial and demonstrate the viability of new and existing technologies.

These technologies will be selected to address immediate on-farm productivity challenges. They will also seek to address ways that agriculture can meet targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve net zero.

Example projects could include the trialling new feed additives or demonstrating the integration of autonomous farm machinery.

Sharing weather data means better decisions More farmers are sharing weather data so they can improve decisions when it comes to crop management.

Farmers, agronomists and buying groups have embraced data collaboration – recognising its value in day-to-day farm management and the effective use of crop protection products, according to agri-weather pioneers Sencrop.

The French agri-tech startup has activated 250 private weather networks across Eu-

54 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

rope – with 25 of those networks within the UK – connecting over 9,000 on-farm stations from its total of 15,000.

“During 2020 we doubled the number of ag weather stations in the UK,” says Sencrop UK market co-ordinator Fleur van Luijk. “A quarter of our stations are connected collaboratively within a private network, enabling access to data from other stations.”

Users – whether farmers, advisers, contractors, managers or

anyone else with authorisation – can retrieve all weather data in a secure, ultra-localised manner using a smartphone app or a standard browser.

Armed with this information, farmers can better anticipate weather or disease risks, allocate daily tasks to make the most of appropriate weather windows and ensure best practice when using crop protection products.

Agronomists are using shared data to improve their

recommendations to customers.

Processors and buyers are using it to develop harvest strategies that optimise harvest windows, while maintaining supply volumes.

Nearly one in 10 of the networks include more than 100 farmers or more than 100 stations – with customers configuring networks to suit their own needs. Over half the networks have more than 10 stations, ranging from a few square miles upwards.

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APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 55

FGM Machinery

FGM Machinery currently have 6m Tractor mounted weed wipers available for sale or hire. For use on weed beet, pin rushes and vegetable crops where weed control can be tricky (parsley, carrots,leeks, onions to name a few!)

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Technology

Defra unveils £12m farm innovation competition

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£12m funding competition to develop new farm-focused technology has been launched

by Defra and the UK Research and Innovation agency.

The Farming Innovation Pathways competition aims to make sure leading agricultural research directly benefits farmers – and helps to address the challenges of productivity, sustainability, and quest for net zero emissions in UK agriculture.

Defra says the competition will pave the way for R&D to boost innovation in the agricultural sector. It will build on advancements in areas such as insect farming, sustainable livestock feed, agricultural robotics and autonomous growing systems.

Successful entries will be ideas that address challenges across the agri-food sector, says Defra. These include vision-guided robotic weeding systems and novel food production systems, such as vertical farming.

Defra farm minister Victoria Prentis said: “We want to see farmers manage their businesses in a way that de-

livers profitable food production and the recovery of nature, using the best modern technology available today.

“Promising innovations such as robotics and automation, and novel food production systems have the potential to transform business perfor-

Novel food production has lots of potential, says Defra

mance for our farmers and help them address some of the industry’s greatest challenges.”

Funded through Defra’s Future Farming & Countryside Programme, the competition will bring together farmers, growers and businesses, enabling them to develop novel technological solutions.

Some £5m will be spent on evaluating the potential of early-stage ideas or innovations. This could then lead to further R&D to develop ideas into technically and commercially feasible projects and innovations.

The remaining £7m will be invested in industrial research – developing ideas with high-potential that target challenges affecting farmers, growers and other agribusinesses, or further developing existing solutions.

UKRI challenge director Katrina Hayter said: “Working alongside Defra for this competition will ensure a coordinated approach to support innovation to help drive future green growth and develop a world-leading sustainable agricultural sector.”

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07803 765440 • james@jfhudson.co.uk • www.jfhudson.co.uk APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 57

MACHINERY FOR SALE Kongskilde Vibroflex 6m trailed cultivator with front discs and rear spring flex roller. 2012. Was £12,000.

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Philip Watkins 8 leg 4m trailed combi subsoiler with HD crossboard and double D packer + Opico seeder.

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Dalbo Culti-Lift 800 mounted 8m springtine with front levelling boards and rear cage roller. 2013. Was £12,000. Now £8,500

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For further information please call 07480 540051 www.symagri.co.uk 58 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

Technology

Robot progress ‘stymied by red tape’

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n over zealous approach to regulation is hampering the commercialisation of crop robots across Europe, UK researchers have told German scientists.

The regulation of crop robots was highlighted during an online presentation by James Lowenberg-DeBoer, holder of the Elizabeth Creak Chair in agri-tech applied economics at Harper Adams University.

The use of crop robots has not yet been fully realised – and the right regulatory environment needed to maximise their effect will need careful consideration, he said.

The presentation – to members of the Bavarian State Research Centre for Agriculture – drew on work completed by Harper Adams academics alongside colleagues in the UK, Europe and the USA.

Hands-free farm Agricultural robots face similar regulatory challenges to driverless cars. The technology is more advanced than the legal framework they operate within – posing challenges for lawmakers as

well as regulators.

Professor Lowenberg-DeBoer used the Harper Adams Hands Free Farm model – which uses robots to grow crops without human intervention – to estimate the impact of regulation on the sector.

“Crop robots have the potential to transform UK agriculture and create entrepreneurial opportunities on small and medium sized farms,” he said. “But it needs the right kind of regulation to foster the development and

use of the technology.”

Professor Lowenberg-DeBoer is in the process of preparing the research he presented upon for publication. The session was viewed by researchers and professionals from across Europe.

The British Standards Institute is starting the process of creating a code of practice for autonomous crop equipment in the UK based on some of the findings presented during the session.

This should make it easier to commercialise agricultural robots.

Agri-robots have big potential – if the regulatory framework is right

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Email: info-uk@agrifac.com | www.agrifac.co.uk APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 59

Professional services Budget tax break ‘snubs’ family farm businesses • Concession only for limited companies • Call for measures to boost productivity • Restriction hampers farm investment

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arm businesses run as sole traders and family partnerships have missed out on a major tax break because the concession is restricted to limited companies.

The exclusion of a huge proportion of the rural economy from the new super deduction capital allowance is perverse and discriminatory, says the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers (CAAV).

The 130% super deduction capital allowance announced in last month’s Spring Budget is limited to companies – excluding a substantial part of the economy, says CAAV secretary and adviser Jeremy Moody.

Productivity “At a time when the economy needs more support to invest than ever before, the exclusion of partnerships and sole traders from the super deduction relief is limiting productivity in the rural and agricultural sectors.”

Agricultural productivity has increased by only 0.7% a year since 2000, says Mr Moody. The situation needs remedying – and taking action is easier now the UK has more control outside the EU, he adds.

“Instead, this exclusion is perceived

as a direct and conscious discrimination against all unincorporated businesses by the government – hindering investment and productivity.”

Mr Moody says discrimination against the rural sector is further highlighted by the Help to Grow Digital scheme – also announced in the Budget – which requires a company registration number for a business to express an interest.

Investment Rural and agricultural businesses are often family-run and very few are incorporated. Mr Moody says the need for investment by partnerships and sole traders is just as valid as investment by companies.

The government argues that it is common for capital allowances to be limited to companies. But Mr Moody says this isn’t always the case – including recently abolished enhanced capital allowances energy and water investments.

“The fact that the super deduction will be available for two full years gives greater security for companies planning expenditure. But this still leaves unincorporated businesses without investment confidence.”

Applications open for basic payment scheme Farmers have until 17 May to apply for this year’s basic payment scheme – with the claim window also open for existing Countryside Stewardship and Environmental Stewardship revenue agreements.

All applicants can update their personal and business information by applying through the Rural Payments service, where farmers and their agents can view and transfer their entitlements and land parcels.

60 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

The scheme has been simplified to reduce the burden on farmers. This includes the increased use of warning letters and offers of advice rather than penalties as the default response to a breach of scheme rules.

Rural Payments Agency chief executive Paul Caldwell said: “We will continue our commitment to ensuring timely payments to farmers and land managers but would urge you not to leave things until the last minute.”

The Ceres Rural consultancy will have offices in Norwich (above), Saffron Walden and Oxford

New consultancy delivers independent farm advice A new rural consultancy is offering independent advice to farmers and landowners across East Anglia and the south of England.

Called Ceres Rural, the firm comprises some 20 consultants, advisors and agronomists who have set up their own business after leaving land agents Strutt & Parker.

The new consultancy aim to deliver a bespoke service to new and existing clients.

The partnership encompasses ten rural-based specialisms covering an geographic area spanning from Norfolk to Devon. It will have three main offices – in Norwich, Saffron Walden and Oxford.

Specialisms covered by Ceres Rural include farm management, agronomy, business reviews and benchmarking, grant advice, health and safety consultancy, biodiversity offsetting and environmental management.

Founding partner Ed Hutley says the breadth of experience across the consultancy team will see it deliver a first class service to clients – whether for a single grant application or for a complete business audit and realignment of strategy.

Ceres Rural will also help clients scrutinise and develop plans for their businesses as basic payments are phased out and replaced with the Environmental Land Management Scheme, says Mr Hutley.

“This is a very exciting time – not only for the team involved in the establishment of the business, but also for the rural community,” he says. “Together, our focus will be rising to the challenges and making the most of the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Strutt & Parker says it remains committed to offering a full range of services to its farming and rural clients.

The firm has appointed experienced consultant Jonathan Armitage as its new head of farming.

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APRIL 2021 • ANGLIA FARMER 61

FINAL SAY Fen Tiger

Screen test for farm machinery When it comes to farm machinery, online sales are no substitute for the personal touch, says Fen Tiger

B

uying a new tractor once involved the same age-old routine: a visit to the local dealer, plenty of coffee, a sharp intake of breath, a calculator with only a minus button – and eventually a large discount if paying upfront.

For the past year, it’s a been a very different story. A friendly face-to-face chat with our local machinery rep has been impossible during the coronavirus pandemic – making it hard to walk away with a good deal.

Zoom meetings are not on my bucket list. They may save the local rep travelling time. But I am not interested in buying a tractor from the comfort of my own home – no matter how much time and money it might save.

I prefer the personal touch. Buying anything should be about building a rapport and developing a working relationship. It may be my age, but I have always found it difficult to do that on screen.

It’s not only when buying new. The pandemic has seen online auctions of

62 ANGLIA FARMER • APRIL 2021

secondhand machinery come to the fore.

These sales are great – but I much prefer the atmosphere of a live auction and long for their return.

“

Zoom meetings are not on my bucket list”

Online shopping Times, though, are changing. More and more machines and vehicles can be bought at the click of a button. Volvo says it intends to make only electric cars by 2030. It says they will only be available for sale online. I think agriculture will soon follow suit.

Clothes, food and even houses are also being sold this way. The manufacturer or builder can cut out the middle man and go direct to the consumer. With this in mind, farm machinery dealers owning or leasing bricks and mortar may be a thing of the past.

It used to be that you could only purchase certain brands of tractor from your local dealer. Venturing further afield to another country would see a reduced discount because dealers were restricted to their selling areas. In effect, they controlled each region.

Of course, the major farm machinery manufacturers may keep some premises and retain dealerships. But these may only be used for advice and to store the latest models to showcase individual ranges of machines.

Price comparison After all, when most people who buy a car today use the various online price comparison sites to source the best deal. The market may be smaller but it wouldn’t take much to extend this concept to farm machinery.

As machinery becomes more reliable, farmers are less reliant on local dealers for servicing. Much of it can be done in the field. Service intervals are increasing. And smarter machines automatically contact the engineer remotely.

All this means today’s dealers can tell farmers when faults occur with their machines without leaving the comfort of their office. In some cases these faults are detected before the farmer or operator knows.

That said, there will be downsides if dealers disappear and direct selling becomes the norm. There will be no friendly, no warm banter and no opportunity for either side to haggle. Many friends have been made over a coffee – not by staring at a screen.

As for me, I need help to engage with farming friends and family using modern technology. It certainly shows what is possible. But I prefer the personal touch, a 24mm spanner and a big hammer.

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