A Farmers Guide to Spring Spraying March 2019

A Farmers Guide to

SPRING SPR YING March 2019

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Pat Thornton, participant in the Real Results project.

Collaboration for small farm is a result BASF’s Real Results project has given participating growers the chance to “challenge the norms” on their farms in order to achieve greater profit.

Here, Heather Briggs talks to a small-scale Nottinghamshire farmer as to what he has gained from being part of the project to date.

Farming 140ha at low Melwood Farm, in North Lincolnshire leaves no wriggle-room for risk, says farmer Pat Thornton, who is participating in the BASF Real Results project. Understanding and controlling the cost base the farm is working from is crucial to the success of his operation.

“By the end of April, as we approach T1 for our wheat crops, we may have already committed 60 per cent of the costs of producing it, so we want to minimise the financial risk of further investments,” says Mr Thornton.

“We are always looking for something that is better than best practice.”

The project, established in 2017, comprises a network of 50 Real Results farms, with input from ADAS and BASF. Data collected from on-farm trials is used to determine the performance in areas such as wheat fungicide programmes, herbicides, and oilseed rape. These are then compared against the farm standard.

The aim is to reduce the variability that is commonplace in farm scale agronomy trials.

As Mr Thornton needs to optimise the use of every acre of his farm, he signed up to the Real Results to help evaluate whether he is investing wisely and using the best available product.

In addition, by providing a safe

learning environment, he finds the trials to be even more useful.

“As a small-scale arable farmer, we are not always able to be early adopters of technology.

“The Real Results project has given us the opportunity to try things out and compare them against our current practices.

“By collecting on-farm data, it helps create belief in what is behind the sales brochures.”

Knowledge share As participation also means he is a demonstration farm, sharing information with other growers, he pays even greater attention to detail.

“BASF is keen on farmer collaboration,

and this way of learning seems to suit arable growers very well.

“When you are a demonstration farm, people value your opinion, so you have to make sure you earn it.”

He admires the way BASF is encouraging farmer collaboration, and how the company is open to comparing its products at farm-scale with others on the market by bringing in specialists from ADAS. “Last year was not a high-pressure disease year, and the results are what they were in reality.”

In addition, the work has sparked an element of competitiveness.

“We have been entered into the Yield Enhancement Network (YEN) scheme run by ADAS, which always makes you try just that bit harder to be better than ‘good’ and achieve the best you can, as you do not want to be the one at the bottom of the list.”

Investment in good chemistry and getting continued over...

FARM FACTS Low Melwood Farm: Soil: Crops: Farm machinery: Pat Thornton:

140ha in North Lincolnshire, situated in the Trent River valley.

Heavy clay loam.

Winter wheat, winter oilseed rape, spring barley, and spring wheat. Cover crops planted between winter and spring crops.

New Holland tractors, 24m trailed sprayer.

Brought up on the family farm, he is an agronomist in addition to running his own farming activities. BASIS and FACTS qualified, Mr Thornton has worked with ADAS, NIAB TAG and AHDB where he had responsibility for establishing and overseeing monitor farms. He also works as a consultant.

Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk

3

...from previous page

the application timing right is not a price-based decision but aimed more at maximising return on investment through yield, and his work with the Real Results team has reinforced that in his mind.

Moreover, he says, by going the extra mile, it may make the difference between making a profit or a loss.

A difficult year As for many growers, 2018 was a difficult year for Mr Thornton, with a lack of rainfall creating drought conditions across the farm.

“Disease pressure was low but we still monitored crops closely to keep disease out.”

Efforts were individually tailored to the unique conditions and crop potential, with traditional

fungicide timings slightly stretched on more disease resistant varieties.

“As a small farm, we do our own agronomy, have our own equipment, and can get round all the crops in less than a day and a half, so a ‘just in time’ strategy works well for us.”

If he sees a wide application window and, disease pressure allows, he tends to hold spraying back so he gains credit further down the line.

It may not be feasible for larger enterprises, he concedes.

When choosing the varieties to grow on his farm, disease tolerance and resistance already play an important role.

“We are looking for healthy crops throughout the whole rotation producing good quality grain rather than chasing the last percentage of yield

from susceptible varieties.”

Despite the problems of the unusual weather in 2018 there were some positives; harvest was completed early, he had no grain drying costs and despite lower yields quality was good, so he was able to make the most of improved grain prices.

“It is swings and roundabouts. The need to optimise every acre of land really focuses the mind and there are great opportunities to benefit from the Real Results project.

“For example, we learn from one another in areas such as soil health, agronomy and how to get the most from a range of on farm technology.

“As you get to know your group better, and build confidence, they allow you a window to see into their businesses, and this can be a massive benefit.”

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Challenging the norms to increase profits 2019 will be the third year of the Real Results project which helps forward-thinking growers challenge the norms to achieve better profits, according to BASF farmer focus manager Colin MountfordSmith (right).

Split-field trials will again be established using ADAS Agronomics to analyse thousands of data points to help understand the subtle differences which can help drive yield improvements.

“The aim of using Agronomics is to remove variation normally present in this type of field-scale trials, so the farmer has

real results, with statistics applied, from their own farm using their own equipment,” says Mr Mountford-Smith.

“We will be looking to demonstrate BASF’s chemistry against our competitors, as well as challenging spray timings and fine-tuning agronomic inputs.”

Independent agronomy firm ADAS plays a crucial role in collecting data, as its Agronomics system helps participants address farm-specific questions using precision farming technologies and remote sensing, he adds.

“Data that is built up about the field and

satellite imagery, is used to highlight where performance is good – or not so good.

“We do not cherry-pick the results. At the end of the season the farmers receive their data and all the trials are presented at the Real Results Conference – warts and all.”

The project is constantly evolving, and this year BASF has asked the growers what they want to test. As a result, there will be a mixture of different trials in 2019 looking at potential scenarios, for example the loss of existing products and new active substances entering the market.

“It may be that we need to think about T0, T1 and T2 differently; for example strengthening T1 and losing T0.”

Participating farmers are encouraged to pay attention to detail, such as growth stage at application, but as the trials are on-farm, everything is sprayed using the farmers’ own kit.

“We offer no steer on spraying, and they do what they normally do. However, that said, most of them are already using drift reducing technology to get the most from their fungicides.

“To me, the real essence of Real Results is BASF working closely with progressive growers, and the growers learning from each other. Attention to detail is key and every 1 per cent improvement counts.”

BASF’s ‘Real Road Trip’ team.

Applicators are key to successful use of liquid fertilisers Liquid fertilisers are more convenient than solids as they allow farmers to use much wider booms more easily, saving them time and minimising wheel damage. Liquids can also be applied accurately, right up to the field border, reducing waste and helping compliance with NVZ guidelines, as well as ensuring consistency of application, and eliminating field margin contamination, says BFS Fertiliser Services.

The accuracy in applying liquid fertilisers comes from the applicator. Dribble Bars from BFS allow fertiliser to be applied with 4

precision, whatever the boom height or width, through four equally-spaced openings, with application rates pre-set to one of 11 different flow rates. These rates can be easily altered in the field with a simple adjustment, and without removing the dribble bar, says the company.

If farmers want variable rate application, they can use the BFS Autostreamer and change the flow rate from the sprayer control box inside their cab. Or, if they prefer the flexibility of using a multiple nozzle holder, the BFS 5 Star nozzle gives a greater range of rates than any other fertiliser jet available.

www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

Dribble bars and Autostreamers ensure that crop contact is reduced, minimising the risk of scorch damage; always provided, of course, that, after periods of high wind, farmers allow crops sufficient recovery time before spraying.

Applicators are available from BFS Fertiliser Services, along with the firm’s liquid fertilisers which can be specifically tailored to meet individual crop nutrition requirements.

The BFS liquid range includes NitroSulph, a bespoke concentrated nitrogen product containing sulphur, which is an easy way to apply much needed SO3.

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One of three new Amazone sprayers selected by Yorkshire based MH Poskitt Ltd for its vegetable and arable farming business is the UX5201 trailed machine, which is already proving popular with the farm manager and its main user.

Investing in a new high specification trailed sprayer is proving worthwhile for a large Yorkshire-based farming company. David Williams saw it in action.

From its Kellington headquarters, MH Poskitt Ltd specialises in producing carrots and other root vegetables for most leading supermarkets. But the cropping also includes wheat, barley, oilseed rape, maize, sugar beet and grass. “Maintaining a varied rotation provides a seven-year break between carrot crops, and we need the straw for the carrot beds,” explained farm manager Richard Watson.

“We farm in excess of 2,800ha in the Yorkshire area across 6 main blocks of land and we look after the soils carefully while growing profitable crops.

We also farm in other counties and Scotland to maintain supply.”

The range of crops means a heavy workload for the farm’s sprayers, especially since changing to liquid fertiliser from granules for most applications three years ago. At that time an Amazone Pantera 4502 self-propelled sprayer was purchased to work alongside two other self-propelled machines and an Amazone UX4200 trailed sprayer also joined the mixed fleet.

This season has seen a move from 24m to 36m tramline widths. “Our aim was to increase efficiency and work-rates, but we had reservations about going wider,” commented Richard. “However, we then calculated how much additional cropping area we would gain. It’s not as significant for smaller farm areas and cereal crops, but when high value vegetables are part of the equation, it’s a no-brainer.”

4503 sprayers were delivered in early March, the first of their type in the UK. As well as offering higher work rates with their wider booms, all are equipped with Amazone’s latest boom height and stability control systems. AmaSelect nozzle bodies have also been specified which automatically select and switch between four different sized nozzles on the move, to maintain an ideal droplet size regardless of travel speed.

The trailed sprayer is mainly for fertiliser application, and is already impressing Richard, and its main user Roger Venton. “It’s unbelievably good,” he explains. “The previous sprayer was reliable and performed well and during the time I used it there was just one break-down when a sensor failed.

That’s impressive considering it worked up to 18 hours per day during the busiest periods and that during the 2 years I had my last tractor it clocked up 2,600 hours, almost all applying fertiliser and most through the Amazone sprayer.”

Amazone launched its latest UX01 trailed sprayers in 2017 with first deliveries in 2018 and the range includes design improvements making it more operator-friendly and increasing accuracy and productivity.

Tank and chassis improvements include a smoother underside reducing damage to taller crops and improved active steering. “The previous sprayer had rear axle steering but the new model is significantly improved, and the sprayer wheels

High-spec fleet

The new 36m booms fold tightly without front or rear overhang. “They are superb,” explains operator Roger Venton. “If the tractor fits through a gap then the sprayer and folded booms will too, and with no front overhang the cab is protected and the tractor remains free of dripped chemical or fertiliser.”

The first of the fleet of three new 36m sprayers arrived in November – a larger 5,600-litre Amazone UX5201 Super trailed machine replacing the previous UX4200, and two of the latest Pantera 6

2

Double the work-rate with even greater accuracy angle up to 28º, and follow the tractor tracks perfectly during headland turns,” comments Roger.

“We have a few side slopes and a sensor detects any side slipping by the sprayer, and corrects it by steering uphill. It works really well.”

The new sprayer has hydraulic-driven twin pumps capable of up to 700-litres/min, with automatic speed regulation for travel, fill and field modes, replacing the previous PTO version.

“It’s significantly reducing fuel cost as the tractor automatically adjusts the hydraulic oil flow to achieve the pump speed necessary,” says Roger.

“It’s quieter too as there is no need to maintain a constant high engine speed. I think it’s safer to continued over...

www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

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AmaSelect nozzle bodies provide automatic switching between up to four nozzles to maintain optimum droplet size across a wide range of working speeds.

All have led lights allowing the user to monitor performance when ambient light is reduced.

...from previous page

work around and there is less maintenance with no shaft to lubricate.”

Added convenience The new sprayer was specified with Comfort-Pack plus, which Roger says simplifies the filling process.

A second control terminal at the operator station allows the user to select filling programmes and save profiles for different liquids. A single 7-way pressure tap helps prevent selection errors and allows multiple functions such as simultaneous filling of the clean water and main tanks.

“It can be filled using 3in suction hose in just 8 minutes,” explains Roger, “but by setting an automatic pause to the filling process when the tank is 30 per cent full, I don’t need to worry that the tank will be full before I finish adding chemical through the induction bowl. When I am ready I just touch the screen again to continue filling the main tank. It automatically adds a fine spray reducing foaming and uses water from the clean water tank to rinse the induction bowl. Selecting whichever profile is appropriate for the application means no extra programming is needed other than setting the tank volume required.

“The sprayer-mounted touch-screen saves me climbing in and out of the cab to check progress or make adjustments and, because the screen is designed to work with gloved hands, there is no need for me to remove my hand protection at any time,” he adds.

Automatic tank and plumbing cleaning to three levels of intensity from a boom flush to a basic or intensive tank clean can also be selected. “It’s handy that the touch-screen continuously displays the clean water tank volume so you always know what is available and whether a top-up is needed,” points out Roger.

even over bumpy ground where the tractor and sprayer are rocking from side to side. The boom just remains a constant height above the crop and even during headland turns it remains level.

SwingStop is another feature which improves spray accuracy and stability. Speed sensors at the boom ends monitor acceleration and when yaw occurs on uneven ground or during headland turns, a pair of hydraulic rams apply pressure to counteract the movement, preventing the boom from swinging, improving ride quality and helping maintain correct application rates.

The AmaSelect automatic nozzle switching is also proving worthwhile, according to Roger.

“Previously where operating conditions varied I would either have to set the travel speed to match the nozzle, or get out of the cab and swap 48 nozzles,” he explains. “But now I just set the operating parameters on the tractor’s touchscreen and I can vary my speed while the application rate and droplet size is maintained. We use it for liquid fertilisers as well as pesticides and it’s proving successful. I can see when the nozzles switchover on the screen in the cab and by watching the spray pattern, and the system lets me travel at the optimum speed for the conditions.

“It’s a pricey option but I quickly realised how much time it saves me through not having to get in and out of the cab to swap the nozzles manually. It will pay for itself very quickly.”

Also fitted are boundary nozzles at the boom ends, preventing overlap at the field edges. “At the field edges these are selected automatically and the system allows me to specify which standard nozzle they should be paired with,” adds Roger.

All sprayer control is by the Isobus-linked AmaPilot+ joystick, with settings and machine management through the John Deere standard touch-screen.

Although the new sprayer has a significantly larger tank and 12m additional boom width, increased performance over the previous sprayer is credited as much to the boom’s performance. “I typically achieve twice the sprayed area in a day, and even when applying 1,200–1,500-litres/ha I can cover 120ha on good-sized fields.

“The kind weather has made it an easy start to the year but even when it’s busy later on, being able to achieve these high work rates will make my task considerably easier,” he adds.

Justified decision “Buying three new premium quality sprayers this year was a big investment but previous experience of Amazone and our supplying dealer Moore Farm Services was a big factor for us,” says Richard. “Good reliability is essential but everything breaks down occasionally so back-up is also critical and we know we can rely on the dealer and on Amazone Ltd. Going to one brand simplifies several aspects of operation, and with both new self-propelled sprayers and the trailed model all sharing identical booms and plumbing, we can justify keeping expensive spares such as the AmaSelect nozzle bodies on the farm, ready to fit if needed.

“I’m very pleased with our decision and believe we have three perfect machines for our business.”

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Doubled work-rates Although the boom width has been increased by 12m, much faster travel speeds are made possible by the active suspension. ContourControl active boom guidance uses six boom-mounted ultrasound sensors to measure height above the crop, and each side of the boom adjusts independently above and below horizontal to achieve perfect contour following. “Watching the boom from the cab, it continues to amaze me how well it rides, 8

With the new sprayer are operator Roger Venton (left) and farm manager Richard Watson.

www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

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Spring Spraying Mar 19.indd 10

05/03/2019 12:01

Top tips to stay on target With the spring fungicide season about to get underway, Dominic Kilburn seeks expert advice to maximise product efficacy and disease control, while minimising spray drift.

It’s not the first thing you might consider when setting up the sprayer ahead of a busy spring fungicide schedule, but check its tyre pressures (or the tractor’s if a mounted sprayer), says Syngenta eastern counties application specialist, Harry Fordham (right). Tyres act as a shock absorber for spray booms when the pressure is set correctly for the job in hand, otherwise they can negatively effect boom height and therefore drift levels and application accuracy, he comments.

“This sounds like a basic idea, but we advise growers to put a cable tie on the end of each boom just to give the operator visual guidance of boom height and movement above the crop.

“It’s critical that boom height is 50cm above the target – nozzles are designed to work at this height,” he stresses.

“Boom height is the biggest controllable factor

for spray drift – if you double the height of the boom it can result in 10 times the level of drift,” he adds.

T0 thought Mr Fordham suggests that 3D nozzles angled alternatively forward and backwards along the full length of the boom provide the best coverage at T0. “Essentially, a protective T0 programme will be chlorothalonil (as in Bravo) and an azole, or a strob mix (as in Amistar Opti), so overall coverage is key to keep disease out. These angled nozzles achieve the best coverage across the leaves when the crop is relatively prostrate.”

At T1 and T2 its time to change to drift reduction, Amistar-type nozzles, points out Mr Fordham.

“Because they are air induction nozzles, they can offer 3* LERAP-rated drift reduction. They generally give you slightly larger droplets – less speed, more momentum – because of their weight. And therefore they are less prone to drift.

“Air induction means that you get a good mix of air and chemical formulation in the droplet itself.

The air gives a ‘shock absorber’ affect, cushioning the droplet when it hits the leaf, producing a splashing

and covering effect – resulting in the chemical being less likely to run off the leaf.”

This ‘splashing and covering’ has an added advantage at T2 when the flag leaf is the main target, says Mr Fordham. Because the droplet is bigger and has more momentum, chemical can also hit leaves 2 and 3, which can act as a firebreak to preventing disease moving up the plant.

“At T3, it’s back to alternate facing 3D nozzles with a need to cover the upright target that is the ear, to protect the grains against fusarium,” he says.

While boom height is the most important factor in reducing spray drift, forward speed comes a close second, he points out. “The message regarding reducing sprayer speed for more effective application is getting through, for sure. And a speed of 12kph or less is where operators need to be – this keeps the booms at the right height while at the same time reducing air turbulence behind the sprayer – both factors in helping to reduce overall drift.”

With a final word on water volumes, Mr Fordham says that Syngenta trials have consistently demonstrated that, for all fungicide timings, 100-litres/ha is the most effective rate. “You won’t lose control if volumes are a little higher, but we haven’t seen any advantage in doing so,” he concludes.

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Preventing cross-compliance errors “When I took over management of Swinbrook Farms I found all the records were manually inputted,” says Tony Hogsbjerg, who started managing the Oxfordshire farm in 2008. “I really wanted to increase the accuracy of our records, but spend less time entering data.”

The farm includes 1,000ha of arable land, producing wheat, barley, oilseed rape, spring linseed and stubble turnips. It runs a mixed fleet of machinery and lies within an NVZ zone.

Streamlined data transfer between in-cab devices, speedier data entry and easier cross compliance were high on his list of priorities. Based on these requirements, he chose Gatekeeper.

“The software is easy to operate. It’s very flexible and all the information I need is in once place, along

with cross compliance and NVZ checks.”

He was also keen to take more control of his crop management. Field mapping information from SOYL is imported into Gatekeeper, but he was keen not to rely on a third party to create application plans.

However, taking more control over crop management comes with additional risks. This is one of the reasons Mr Hogsbjerg used Sentinel Active, a decision support tool for pesticide applications and an add-on module for Gatekeeper.

“I find Sentinel Active invaluable when planning ahead. The software will flag any potential issues arising from the planned chemical mix before I’ve even ordered the stock.”

Frequently changing regulation impacts both products and active ingredients. It is vital for farmers

to be in the know to avoid using products illegally.

However, the pace and complexity of regulatory change is sometimes hard to follow.

“The devil is in the detail,” agrees Martyn Cox, an agronomist who also consults on the Sentinel pesticide database. “Some products can only be used on a certain crop, at certain times, within a buffer zone. This is a big part of product choice that farmers might overlook, which can be enough to get you into trouble.”

Breaching rules on pesticide and fertiliser pplications are among the most common reasons for cross compliance penalties. Though crop management software like Gatekeeper is by no means essential, it can make the compliance process easier, quicker and more accurate.

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Weeding or spraying – bespoke solutions Whatever a grower’s requirements for target application or mechanical weeding equipment, Garford Farm Machinery provides a bespoke solution, says the company.

Garford offers machines ranging from small, manually guided systems up to 18m trailed machines with Robocrop precision guided high speed systems.

The manufacturer can add various features to a machine whether it is for target application of fungicides or fertiliser (liquid or granular) being able to accurately place the substance where it needs to be for crop establishment, direct for plant up-take. It can supply rigid, hydraulic folding or trailed frames up to 18m working width, in front-or rear-mounted versions to meet individual

farm requirements.

The Garford High Speed System can work as close as 8-10 mm from share to crop stem and a travel speed with the guidance system of 1215kph, making an 8hr day very productive. For those working through the night, lights can be fitted to the camera pole to work just as effectively as during day time operations.

The tine raiser feature uses GPS on the tractor and is compatible with Isobus which enables efficient headland management on diagonals in fields. Using the link from GPS to the tine raiser machine, each wheel unit can be independently and automatically lifted to avoid over-lapping and crop damage when approaching a diagonal.

Mechanical weeding also improves aeration

Garford Farm Machinery RGH Tine Raiser.

and nutrient up-take, achieving a healthy growing crop improving both quality and yield, says Garford.

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Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk 11

New fungicide on track for first use next year

The 2018 Inatreq trial, Northants.

A diminishing chemistry toolbox is at the forefront of most growers’ minds. Brand new active ingredients don’t arrive every day, so news that a new cereal fungicide to tackle septoria is on track for first sales in 2020 will be welcomed with open arms by growers.

Inatreq from Corteva Agriscience, the agriculture division of Dow DuPont, is set to arrive at a time when azoles continue to decline in efficacy against septoria and SDHI insensitivity is expected to increase.

“Inatreq shows no cross-resistance to any of the existing cereal fungicide chemistries, including azoles, strobilurins or SDHIs, so will be an essential new tool in an anti-resistance strategy,” says Corteva’s field technical manager Stuart Jackson.

The new molecule is derived from a natural compound and converted to Inatreq through a chemical modification step post fermentation.

This enhances its stability and performance in the field resulting in a rapid distribution across the leaf for exceptional coverage.

The bulk of applications are expected be at the T2 timing, and depending on the rate used crops will be protected for 4–6 weeks.

Inatreq’s curative properties will also tackle latent septoria present in the crop.

Extensive demonstrations have been taking place for many years across the UK and for the past two years a handful of growers have been working with the new product in 1ha field trials.

Pending registration, the UK should be the first country in Europe to have access to the new fungicide.

Grower thoughts Andrew Mahon (right), farm manager at 840ha Glebe Farm on the Bromborough Estate near Wellingborough in Northamptonshire, is one of those select growers.

The heavy clay farm typically grows wheat, barley, oats, beans and OSR and has a conservation agriculture mindset. The farm’s 5-year wheat average is 9.8t/ha.

While his trials have taken place in two very different years in terms of weather events, neither has so far provided a tough septoria test.

What he has seen, though, is that Inatreq has so far matched or out-performed his farm standard.

“We used Inatreq in 2017 which was set to be quite a high disease pressure year but it tailed off in June when the weather dried up.

“We actually tried three other products against the Inatreq trial and it performed very well, we were happy with it. In the 1ha trial against the farm standard it marginally outperformed it on yield.”

Last year will be remembered as a tale of two extremes; a wet, cold, almost non-existent spring was followed by seemingly endless sunshine.

“It’s the first time I can remember soil temperatures dropping after Easter,” Andrew comments.

“We had 30mm rain on 26th May then nothing for 7 weeks. We were halfway through our wheat harvest on 26th July. We normally start on 6th August.”

Yields took a hit as a result, but for a second consecutive year septoria wasn’t a major factor.

“The disease spectrum shifted after the rain,” he says. “Septoria was there early in the season but not through June. I suspected there was latent septoria in the crop so the Inatreq may have delivered some

12 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

Corteva’s field technical manager Stuart Jackson.

curative action because we didn’t see the disease again.

“We can say the Inatreq did what was required but wasn’t severely tested by the conditions. Across the farm yields were about 15 per cent down because the early season weather meant we lost tillers, which was then followed by the extended dry weather. That had a bigger effect on yield than disease last year.”

Andrew will continue to trial the product in 2019 at the T2 timing.

“No farmer wants a high disease pressure year but they are the conditions that will demonstrate the properties of the product for me,” he adds.

He thinks new fungicides are much needed as a tool for growers. “The loss of actives and the lack of new ones is a real concern. What’s happening to glyphosate was a wake-up call; what we consider a relatively benign tool is being challenged with no scientific base.

“It’s also good to see a product with preventative and curative properties – there is very little, if anything, on the market with any curative activity.

“Resistance management is also very important. We have to steward what we have.

There are reports of SDHI resistance. If we lost them we’d not have a lot left to throw at septoria.”

Andrew says he’s looking for value for money and good efficacy from any fungicide. “It has to work. We are running a sustainable business so our spend on inputs has to deliver results,” he concludes.

Corteva says it hopes for Inatreq to gain approval from CRD in good time to allow first sales in 2020.

■

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om

An innovative weed-wiper which applies chemical to target weeds using a rotating brush is proving successful in the fight against black-grass at Castlethorpe Estate, Lincs.

Brushing aside resistant black-grass For many years weed-wipers have offered a solution for those needing to remove tall weeds from grazed pastures. But now their use on arable farms is increasing. David Williams reports.

Because weed-wipers apply chemical to target plants by direct contact, they offer several advantages over hydraulic nozzle spray applications. Travelling just above the crop allows taller target species to be treated, while avoiding contact with plants below, and the technique often avoids the need for costly selective herbicides, allowing cheaper broad-action alternatives such as glyphosate to be used.

Revolutionary design Logic’s Contact 2000 weed-wiper was launched in the year 2000, with a revolving mixed-fibre brush to apply chemical to target plants. Nylon fibres scrape the leaves damaging the protective wax coating while absorbent fibres store and transmit chemical to the leaves. Chemical is supplied to the brush by a shielded hydraulic spray boom, and programmable pulse frequency and duration allows fine adjustment of rates to suit weed population and density, while preventing dripping onto the crop.

“Contact weed-wipers were designed for ATV use, with a maximum 2.5m working width,” explained Logic MH Ltd regional sales manager Samuel Griffin. “They offer superb results for general grassland weed management as well as in difficult operating environments. Their ability to kill almost 100 per cent of target weeds without

contaminating the crop below means they are extremely popular with farmers, estate managers and environmental organisations for use in sensitive areas.”

Increased herbicide resistance in problem weeds such as black-grass has led to interest from arable growers for Logic’s product, but although results in arable crops are excellent, the narrow working width and trailed design had limitations for large field-scale use in growing crops. In 2017, following several years of on-farm trials, a new wider, linkage-mounted version was launched.

The CTM600W has a 6m working width and the rotating brush is powered by the tractor’s hydraulic circuits, also used to fold and unfold the brushes for transport. Chemical is stored in a 270-litre tank and fed to the brush by a 12-volt, 9-litres/min electric pump allowing easy regulation from the cab.

“It’s ideal for applying glyphosate to patches of black-grass in cereal crops during the active growing period of late spring when there is adequate height differential between the main crop and the weed,” added Sam. “Killing blackgrass at this stage prevents viable seed return and will minimise spread of seeds and plants during and after harvest. Alternative means of applying a broad-spectrum herbicide such as a hydraulic nozzle sprayer post crop-emergence would also

mean sacrificing the crop, so apart from hand rogueing there isn’t another effective solution.”

Large-scale arable user Brigg, north Lincolnshire-based WH Strawson (Farms) Limited farm manager Luke Hargrave looks after approximately 1,000ha of arable crops on the Castlethorpe Estate.

Crops include winter wheat, oilseed rape, winter barley, spring barley, sugar beet and maize grown on a mix of soils including Wold land, sand and peat. “Our land is well drained otherwise we would be under water,” explains Luke. “We have a Drainage Board facility on the farm and a network of dykes, but even with the excellent drainage black-grass has become a major problem.”

Most crop establishment is preceded by mintill cultivations with ploughing used within the rotation approximately one year in four. The farm is engaged in environmental schemes including over winter stubbles and two-year fixed fallow.

Zero-tolerance “Historically the land has been looked after well, avoiding traditional wheat, rape rotations. It’s partly why we brought maize in to the cropping to provide an additional spring crop,” he adds.

“We have some very heavy land so we are careful about what we do, and with chemical-resistant black-grass appearing more often we have adopted a zero-tolerance regime to keep on top of it.” continued over...

Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk 15

Powered by the tractor’s hydraulics, the rotating brush has a mix of nylon and absorbent bristles to ensure maximum chemical take-up by target plants. Farm manager Luke Hargrave says 85–95 per cent of blackgrass is killed following a single pass.

...from previous page

The zero-tolerance policy has included spraying off growing crops with glyphosate then mowing affected areas. “If the seeds are there we are wasting our time. We use Avadex and other chemistry where possible to keep on top of it, but have no issues in sacrificing crops where needed.”

With black-grass often out-growing arable crops, a traditional chemical-filled tube and wicktype weed-wiper was purchased. “We hadn’t a clue what we were applying in terms of chemical volume and it wasn’t particularly effective,” he said. “We often ended up spraying off crops anyway.”

Successful solution Luke looked at Logic’s tractor-mounted Contact weed-wiper and was impressed by the design.

He took delivery in May 2018 and put it straight

to work. “It’s superb,” he comments. “The effective brush design ensures maximum herbicide take-up by the weeds and hydraulic nozzle application to the brush makes it fully controllable. It kills 85–95 per cent of any blackgrass in a single pass, with minimal chemical used.”

The Contact is mounted on a John Deere 6155R and a minor modification involved adapting the frame to lift higher, as taller wheat varieties could be caught by the brush. “We wait until black-grass is just above the wheat with enough leaf exposed to guarantee positive contact, but before seeds are viable,” explains Luke.

Treatment areas range from patches to whole fields and the farm’s RTK network ensures accurate coverage. The 6m working width means additional wheelings are created where treatments have to be made, but benefits far outweigh additional costs according to Luke.

“We calculated the additional crop area run over by the tractor on rowcrop wheels, and it’s minimal compared to the risk of blackgrass maturing and spreading its seeds, or sacrificing affected crop areas by spraying it off by conventional sprayer,” he points out. “If the infestation is really bad we still spray off the crop and weeds and accept the loss, but having the Contact weed-wiper usually avoids this.”

Environmentally sound Using the Contact fits in well with the farm’s environmental policies, significantly reducing chemical use. “We comply with label dilution rates and the on-board 270-litre tank lasts more than a day. It doesn’t drip, we can accurately match the application rate to suit the weed population and know exactly what we are putting on.”

The weed-wiper is used in all crops, including sugar beet and on grassland which is part of the estate’s environmental stewardship scheme.

“Results on stewardship land are amazing,” continues Luke. “We always consult Natural England before undertaking applications and with its advice are left with almost weed-free grass, and the wiper even takes out self setters.

“The main operator enjoys using it and finds it easy to set up. It folds quickly for transport and travels well on the road,” he adds. “The tractor runs at tick-over most of the time so fuel use is negligible, and having it has given us another opportunity to tackle our biggest weed problem effectively with minimal chemical use while saving the crop.”

Industry interest The increased interest and accurate application has encouraged pesticide manufacturer Nufarm UK Ltd to work with Logic, to gain label approval for additional actives for use with Logic’s Contact weed-wiper. Tests on grass weeds along with trials on soft rush, bracken and thistles have demonstrated the effective application technique and Nufarm believes that superior control for black-grass is likely too.

■

TARGETED WEED CONTROL WITH

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The Contact 2000 range is the most advanced and efficient weed wiper system available, targeting taller weeds - ideal for grass and arable crops.

Unique brush applicator combs through foliage ensuring effective chemical transfer in one pass.

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Grassland model with height controlling wheels and hydraulics set to ‘float’.

Arable model working in perfect row crop conditions, controlling volunteers in these vegetable beds.

2.5m wide trailed grassland model for use with an ATV or UTV etc.

Any target weed growing above the host crop can be treated with glyphosate or selective chemical. The combing action of the contra-rotating brush transfers chemical onto the underside of the leaf and stem of the plant where it is more readily absorbed, achieving an excellent kill rate.

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Working here fully suspended for cereal work, in this case controlling blackgrass, where great results have been achieved. This is one example of targeted weed control using a fraction of conventional chemical rates.

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A typical situation where blackgrass is being treated as it stands a few centimetres above the crop.

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AG19-02L Logic builds high standards of safety and reliability into its products. For example all towed products benefit from a swivel hitch built into the drawbar. Where fitted, low ground pressure wheels and tyres all have bead-lock rims.

These essential features are included without compromise to improve customer safety. Always ensure the vehicle you intend to use with Logic products is suitable for the task. Due to continuous development Logic Manufacturing Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without notice.

16 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

Rate reduction is a risky business It’s easy to be seduced by the desire to reduce fungicide rates in wheat – and even more so after last season’s dry weather led to lower yield responses from fungicides than usual. However, is it worth taking the risk?

On paper as a target, reducing fungicide rates appears to have merit; input costs are relatively easy to reduce and if done without reducing yields will help optimise winter wheat returns in a challenging financial climate.

But perhaps it is not quite as easy a target as it first appears. That’s certainly the view of two well-known agronomists, who question the wisdom of cutting recommended rates.

For Richard Cromie (right) of Crop Management Partners it’s about risk management. “Until we get guaranteed weather predictions you never know what lies ahead. What you might save on reducing azole and/or SDHI rates has no comparison to what you might lose if the gap between T1 and T2 gets stretched and septoria takes hold. We don’t have the curative options these days – even with excellent products like Ascra (bixafen + prothioconazole + fluopyram).”

Another reason is the need to protect SDHI fungicides from resistance development. Despite single azole applications showing limited septoria activity he wants azole rates maintained within mixtures. “Trials with straight azole doses have shown low levels of control, but it is what they do for SDHIs that is important.

“Clearly the best way to reduce SDHI selection pressure is not to use them, but that is impractical. We shouldn’t over expose SDHIs, so azole rate and mixture with multi-site remain vitally important,” he warns.

Azole choice Despite falls in primary azole performance his choices are still prothioconazole and epoxiconazole, and it doesn’t really alter their use.

“When it comes to septoria the gap has widened and Proline (prothioconazole) is clearly the better product. But epoxiconazole still has a place when

used with an SDHI, especially for the control of rusts.”

He feels Proline + CTL still has a role at T1 providing disease pressure is low, but warns there’s no room for margin. “You need a late drilled variety with respectable resistance, to have kept disease in check at the T0, and the resource to adhere to recommended growth stage timings at T1 and T2.”

Looking further ahead should CTL restrictions be applied, it worries him. He says that many heed the advice to only use fungicides in mixtures. “Variety resistance will become even more important as will drilling date. Drilling will probably have to start in mid-October regardless of black-grass threat,” he suggests.

In his view farming will move to a holistic approach with a shift from yield to resilience.

This will be based on preserving soil and plant health and with that aim the company is developing an initiative for its client base. “The move to the era of public goods means that to stay still many growers will have to find £200/ ha. Every aspect of crop management will have to be that bit better, especially the ability of the plant itself to withstand disease and pest threats, and stress periods such as drought and excessive temperatures,” he says.

Similar concerns Ruairi Hollins (right) from Prime Agriculture has similar concerns over reduced fungicide doses.

He is more likely to select SDHIs at T1 and T2 simply due to the risk of the T1 and T2 gap being stretched. “An azole + SDHI mix is the best option for disease control at T1, but even when combined with a more resilient variety there’s still no guarantee that you’ll remain

in a protective situation. Also, farmers want to see the highest return for their money, and in most years that is when two SDHIs are used in a programme,” he notes.

He points to how aggressive septoria can be.

“This is a disease that responds quickly. You only need a spell of wet and humid weather at the right time and it soon picks up. It is so important to stay in a protective position with the disease.”

He too will be basing key fungicide timings around primary azoles prothioconazole and epoxiconazole, and like Mr Cromie feels prothioconazole has the edge when it comes to septoria.

He prefers to alternate the two at T1 and T2, but also SDHIs too. “We have a number of prothioconazole options now, and it is a popular choice with its activity on fusaria and the stembased complex. But we have to think seriously about how we protect our current chemistry.

With any programme it will be important to ensure we maintain activity over the full range of septoria strains circulating in the field,” he warns.

Safeguarding Bayer’s Jack Hill agrees that azole rate is vital in safeguarding SDHIs. He points out that having two SDHIs in Ascra (prothioconazole + bixafen + fluopyram) is built around protecting the azole.

Clearly bixafen + fluopyram are potent SDHIs but they both rely on strong support from the azole component, which is why rate is so important.

“We should also remember that although septoria is often the key target, rusts, fusaria and the stem-base complex could be additional considerations at T1 and T2.

Prothioconazole remains the most effective septoria azole and has retained its broad spectrum activity. It still has a key role in any disease control strategy,” he concludes.

■

Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk 17

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18 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

Spring Spraying Mar 19.indd 18

05/03/2019 12:20

Training and back-up key with sprayer technology Increasing spraying capacity while taking advantage of the latest technology to boost accuracy and make for easier application, have been the main benefits enjoyed by HA Harris Farms which purchased a Chafer Sentry trailed sprayer. But the Sherborne, Dorset business has also appreciated the excellent back-up offered by application specialist Chafer and its dealer Redlynch while getting to know the new machine.

“We had some issues with parts and service on a previous sprayer and were nervous of the challenges of a new machine, to the extent that we requested an extended warranty,” admits Tim Harris, “But thanks to the help from Chafer’s Ben Bryant who set up the machine, trained us and continues to offer support and Steve Blunden from Redlynch, our first season with the Chafer Sentry has gone very smoothly.”

HA Harris Farms had made the decision to trade up from a 3,200-litre, 24m trailed machine to a 5,000-litre, 30m Chafer Sentry, and took delivery of the new sprayer in February 2018.

“We have 510ha to spray in four locations, including contract work,” Mr Harris explains.

“Winter wheat is the main crop, plus oilseed rape, spring wheat, spring barley and spring beans, and 60ha of maize, and the soils are variable from stone brash to heavy clay. While the terrain is mainly flat, there is one hilly area on a medium clay loam, and the land can get very wet.”

Greater capacity Matching to the farm’s 5,000-litre bowser was the main reason for the jump in tank capacity, he comments. “The bowser means that we can travel to outlying farms and be independent and had already increased output; but with 5,000-litres capacity on the sprayer, a large field can be completed with one fill at the optimum water rate, without sending a bowser.

“Weight can be an issue in some places, but we don’t have to run the sprayer full if the conditions don’t suit – putting in half, a third or a

With a 5,000-litre capacity on the sprayer, a large field can be completed with one fill at the optimum water rate, without sending a bowser.

Boom control technology was also an important aspect of the brief.

quarter of a load reduces weight so that we can get on.”

Operator Jerry Babey adds that the Sentry’s clever tank design means that its width rather than height offers the extra capacity, so remains stable on the road and on sloping land.

Boom width also went up, to 30m, to fit in with the 6m drill and 10m combine header. “It seemed like the natural size and with RTK on all the machines we can match up the tramlines so they are easier to manage. We also specified folding to 24m for those farms that are still on narrower tramlines,” explains Mr Harris.

“It has definitely increased capacity, although the number of small fields means a lot of folding and unfolding so we don’t achieve the workrates that some operations might – we would average 220ha/day.”

Contour boom levelling Boom control technology was also an important aspect of the brief, with the G-Series tri-fold boom chosen, equipped with Chafer’s Contour boom levelling system. A new feature for the farm is sub-zero geometry, offering the ability to dip below the horizontal when spraying along the top of a hill; Mr Harris comments that the boom is very stable, allowing forward speed to be consistent for accuracy.

GPS auto-shut off offers 13 sections of varying width, which can be shut off on angled headlands and to avoid overlaps.

“In addition to the greater accuracy, auto shut-off also reduces operator fatigue and allows you to concentrate on spraying. Over an intensive few days’ spraying, you really notice the difference,” says Mr Harris, adding that even if the RTK signal goes down, he can switch back to 30cm accuracy and it is still an improvement over the previous system.

“We were keen to increase accuracy, and this system also uses air shut-off so it’s a more instant reaction – it’s a good feature.”

Boom lights have also been specified and Mr Babey comments that they provide an excellent view of the nozzles when working at night; there is also the option to extend the boom to 36m in the future if required.

Manual valves were chosen over an electronic system for simplicity, and Mr Harris says that with Chafer’s intuitive layout, hydraulically driven pump and user-friendly

induction hopper, filling is quick and easy.

“You can put a 5-way T1 mix in without needing to shut off the water, and we also find the washout procedure effective and straightforward.”

Steering axle With the extra weight in mind, larger wheels have been specified, with 420mm tyres on the narrow wheels and 650mm for reduced ground pressure work.

The Sentry also has a steering axle, which Mr Babey comments makes for easier turning in gateways, compared to a steering chassis on its predecessor, which only worked with the booms out.

Control is via a Muller 800 Touch screen, an option which allows Mr Harris to record applications with a high level of accuracy, documenting precisely when a particular part of the field was sprayed and with what.

“It’s taken a bit of getting used to compared with our previous controllers. But it was well worth specifying a more sophisticated system which links to the farm office PC, allowing me to upload the fields so Jerry can go into the screen and get the recommendation.

“We can document applications showing sensitive areas such as rivers or footpaths, or highlight tramlines where we have trialled a particular treatment, and then overlay that detail on a yield map – it’s a management tool.”

He adds that the touch screen is clear and intuitive and the joystick offers multiple functions.

“We can also easily swap it between our two tractors, for example if one is on narrow tyres in the spring.”

Mr Harris concludes that while they had specific requirements for the sprayer and the specification took some time to put together, Chafer has been unwavering in its commitment to build a sprayer to meet their needs.

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Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk 19

New model offers “extreme capacity and endurance” Comfort, simplicity and quality were the key aims when Agrifac developed its new Condor Endurance II. The sprayer has been divided into different zones. The front part of the sprayer, around and below the cab, is the only area used for filling, whether it is using the induction hopper or filling the main tank, water tank, diesel or AdBlue, it is all done in the same area. The centre of the sprayer contains tanks and storage. The back of the sprayer is where the pump systems and electronics are located for easy maintenance.

The wiring loom and the hoses are on separate sides of the machine to reduce risk of a short circuit. The specific mounting process of hydraulic hoses makes the

wheel assembly narrower for better protection of the crop. The new LED light package is set up for both illumination when driving at high speeds, and to see around the sprayer.

The turning mudguards follow the wheels while steering, while the suspended cab offers improved comfort, an ergonomic environment and features an all-round view.

The Condor Endurance II is equipped with the new EcoTronicPlus II system. This features a new, fully integrated armrest and a joystick.

The Condor Endurance II.

There is one screen in the cab for both spraying and GPS. Not only can it be used to operate the machine, but also for GPS section operation, road navigation and route planning.

The Endurance II is available in track widths from 190-460cm. All models have track width adjustment of 100cm. This, combined with the increased clearance of 138cm, makes the Endurance even more versatile, says Agrifac. Its maximum clearance is due to the new design of the chassis, as well as the possibility to mount tyres with a diameter of up to 230cm. Despite the height and width of the tyres, the turning circle is still the same. The benefit of a higher clearance and tight turning radius is less crop damage at the spray tracks and therefore higher yields.

The Condor Endurance II has the same strong basic characteristics as its predecessor, such as the StabiloPlus system, tank capacity of 8,000-litres and booms from 24–55m with the added advantage of operating at speeds of up to 60kph.

■

Business expands as demand increases for British sprayers Cambridgeshire-based Team Sprayers is planning expansion to meet the increase in demand from the agricultural and groundcare market.

Team, which has been manufacturing sprayers in the city of Ely since 1981, produces both mounted and trailed sprayers in its agricultural range, which includes three mounted models: The Arian 2, the Sigma and a front mounted sprayer and three trailed sprayers under the Leader name. It also produces a range of potato applicator systems designed for use on planter and in store. Both the Arian 2 and the Leader 4 have had a number of improvements

over recent years with strong emphasis on machine stability and boom ride.

The Arian 2 features a new rotationally moulded plastic tank and comes in sizes up to 1,800 litres. It has a two-stage control valve operation system designed to keep wastage to a minimum while optimising the sprayer functions. The Arian is available with a range of boom widths up to 24m, all built in steel tubular sections with a three dimensional structure.

The Leader 4 was re-designed with a profiled tank and a low-folding boom design which combine for a low centre of gravity to maximise machine stability. This is supported by axle air

The Team Arian 2 sprayer.

20 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

suspension with load sensing valve and a new steering axle, fitted as standard. A Muller Basic terminal in the tractor cab displays all functions.

It is available with 3,000-, 4,000- and 5,000-litre tanks and boom options from 21–32m, the wider formats being triple folding. There has been the addition of a new heavy-duty PTO pump and air compressor combination for boom recirculation and immediate application readiness.

Managing director Danny Hubbard said: “We have seen an increase in demand over the past year, hence the plans to increase our production.

The plans for expansion are well under way; it’s a very exciting time for the company.”

■

Nozzle choice for spring targets Now is the time for sprayer operators to check they have the correct nozzles ready for action, says Hypro.

With liquid fertiliser to apply, tidying up grass weeds, broad-leaved weeds, stem base and foliar fungicides as well as PGRs to apply, using the right nozzle type, spraying pressure and water volume will ensure that each target is reached and covered. Where the spraying window needs to be stretched, the risk of spray drift must also be minimised.

The ULD05, has 90 per cent drift reduction from 2–8 bar pressure.

As a general rule, larger droplets with more velocity are more likely to reach the target they are directed at, and medium droplets are more likely to give better spray retention and coverage. In a field situation the optimum is likely to be somewhere in between.

Placing liquid fertiliser requires steady streams that distribute evenly but avoid blockage. Hypro’s compact 6-stream ESI nozzle used at a 50cm height achieves this, and with 9 sizes that can cope with rates from 20-1,000-litres/ha.

Hitting small grass weeds can be a challenge.

The 3D nozzle narrows the range of medium droplets to keep droplet numbers up. For this target, 3 bar and 150-litres/ha plus is best when oriented alternately facing forward and back.

Getting to the base of cereals requires a straight down spray. Guardian Air nozzles have a rear incline that compensates for the forward sprayer motion to deliver the ideal placement when used at 3 bar and 100-litres/ha. While at 1.5 bar with up to 75 per cent drift reduction it also helps maximise the spraying window when there is a lot of spraying to be done.

Getting OSR fungicides into the canopy requires an inclined spray angle. Using 2-3 bar and 100-litres/ha will achieve good results with

HYPRO®

RIGHT CHEMICAL RIGHT TIME RIGHT NOZZLE

The 3D nozzle used in alternating directions is suitable for small grass weeds and oilseed rape fungicides.

Shown in Hypro’s new easy fit Snaplock cap.

either a 3D nozzle or, to widen the spraying window a little, a Guardian Air Twin nozzle.

In poorer spraying conditions, or alongside sensitive targets, the highest level of drift reduction is required. The Hypro ULD 05 nozzle, sprayed at 200-litres/ha to maintain droplet number has a 90 per cent JKI rating for drift reduction from 2 through to 8 bar.

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01954 260097 info@hypro-eu.com www.hypro.pentair.com

The Leeb PT 280 from Horsch features an 8,000-litre tank.

Inset: All of the Horsch Leeb sprayers feature the BoomControl system designed to keep the boom steady and at the correct height above the crop.

Boom technology at the heart of sprayer range Close-nozzle spacing, pneumatic nozzle control and advanced cleaning systems are available across all Horsch sprayers but at the heart of its sprayer innovation is its award-winning BoomControl system.

The BoomControl design keeps the boom steady and as close to the crop as possible. Horsch research has shown that distance from the crop is the key factor in reducing drift and increasing crop penetration, allowing farmers to make the most of valuable herbicides and pesticides.

The Leeb PT 280 is the UK’s best-selling 8,000-litre self-propelled sprayer and features a stainless-steel tank making it ideal for liquid fertiliser, just like its trailed sibling, the Leeb GS. The Leeb LT introduces plastic tanks but retains much of the Leeb GS high specification, while the

new Leeb AX features a 3,800-litre tank making it an ideal mid-market solution.

Other features of the PT 280 include the hydrostatically stepless-hydroshift gear unit and mechanical axis drive for better traction on hilly terrain and 50kph on the road. The patented boom suspension is hydraulically dampened to provide smooth boom control. Boom widths of 21-42m are available and working height ranges from 0.3-2.5m.

The Leeb GS is available with a 6,000-, 7,000or 8,000-litre stainless steel tank that allows for easy and quick cleaning. Equipped with Horsch software and easy-to-handle Isobus compatible electronics, it is available in three guises; entry-level ECO model equipped with a piston diaphragm pump, the CCS model features the

automatic internal Continuous Cleaning System, while the CCS Pro model is equipped with an electronic system.

The Leeb 4 LT, 5 LT and 6 LT trailed sprayers feature plastic tanks with 4,000-, 5,000- and 6,000-litre capacities respectively. The LT is equipped with Load Sensing hydraulics to assist the hydraulic systems of the tractor. The underbody is completely smooth for plant protection with a ground clearance of 85cm and a hydraulic support for the parking leg is standard equipment.

The Leeb 4 AX comes equipped with Horsch’s BoomControl Eco system with up to 30m booms and 50cm nozzle spacing. The 3,800-litre plastic spraying tank is complemented by a 400-litre fresh water tank and is designed for easy cleaning. ■

Finance friendly precision farming kit Topcon Agriculture distributor LH Agro, has announced that it is offering 2 years 0% finance on a range of equipment including Topcon’s automatic steering systems and crop sensors.

The Topcon X35 console.

The 0% finance deal is available on a selection of Topcon equipment including the X-series range of consoles, the AES-35 automatic steering wheel and AGI-4 GNSS receiver, and the CropSpec crop canopy sensors.

“In response to customer feedback, we are launching our 0% finance deal across a wide variety of Topcon equipment to make it easier for current users and new adopters of precision farming equipment to upgrade to the very latest technologies,” explains LH Agro MD Richard Reed.

“The 0% scheme not only makes the latest precision farming equipment affordable for farmers who are kitting out new machinery, but also for those who have an existing machine they want to retro-fit to make it auto-steer compatible, or a sprayer or spreader which they want to upgrade to include section control and variable rate application.”

The Topcon X-series range consists of several

22 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

Isobus-compatible implement control consoles, from the range-topping X35 (12.1in screen) to the entry level X14 (4.3in screen), all of which use a fullcolour touchscreen to operate multiple implement functions including crop sensing, section control, variable rate control, auto-steering and autoheadland turning.

The Topcon AES-35 electric steering wheel and Topcon AGI-4 receiver deliver high-accuracy automatic guidance in a retrofittable package which is compatible for almost any non-steer ready tractor or self-propelled sprayer.

Topcon’s cab-mounted CropSpec canopy sensors provide an accurate, real-time assessment of the crop’s current condition and nutrient requirements and enables nutrient applications to be adjusted on-the-go.

To qualify for the finance scheme, all orders have to be placed before 1st May 2019, concludes LH Agro.

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JOHN RHODES A.S. LIMITED

email: info@johnrhodesas.co.uk

64467

SALES SERVICE PARTS TESTING TRAINING

www.johnrhodesas.co.uk

01386 832728

The Chafer Interceptor.

MAXIMUM PRODUCTIVITY & EFFICIENCY. Efficient packaging of premium components ensure the new Interceptor offers growers massive spraying output, normally associated with much larger machines. A 240hp Deutz Tier IV Final engine is coupled to an intelligent Bosch Rexroth CVT transmission system to ensure power, economy and maximum efficiency on the road and in the field.

For more information call Chafer Machinery on 01427 838341, or visit www.cropsprayers.com

LH Agro quarter page.qxp_Layout 1 14/02/2019 12:19 Page 2 64395

G Affordable Precision N I T S E T R SPRAYE 0% finance on a range of Topcon On site

precision agriculture systems

to National Standards

X35 & AGI-4

Precision auto-guidance kit for steer-ready machines

BOOK YOUR TEST NOW

X25, AES-35 & AGI-4

Retrofit guidance kit for non-steer-ready machines For more product information:

www.lh-agro.co.uk

AGRIKEL CROP SPRAYERS 01953 450279 • info@agrikel.com • Norfolk • www.agrikel.com

01480 496367

CropSpec

Cab mounted on-the-go crop canopy sensors

For more finance information contact the Peregrine sales desk:

01904 405299

This promotion is for business purposes in the UK only (excluding Northern Ireland) for new equipment with a minimum balance to finance of £5,000. The order must be placed before 1st May 2019 and the promotion is subject to credit acceptance and any qualifications in government or company policy. VAT – Hire Purchase: Full VAT on signing. Lease: VAT payable on each rental as it falls due. VAT charged at the current UK rate at time of acceptance. Administration fees are payable on all transactions including interest free agreements. LH Agro Finance is a trading style of Peregrine Asset Finance Ltd, registered in England number: 4208223 and whose registered address is 3 Maple House, Wykeham Road, Northminster Business Park, Upper Poppleton, York, North Yorkshire, YO26 6QW. Peregrine Asset Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority number FRN649227, Peregrine Finance offers financial facilities to UK businesses only through a number of authorised funders, a list of which is available on request.

Sancroft Agri Services es Ltd

64094

NSTS Testing, Service & Repairs on all makes of crop sprayers

CALL NOEW R for WINT G SERVICIN

We are newly appointed dealers for sprayers

Contact Nick Hambling Sancroft Agri Services Ltd

Please contact us with any enquiries on FARMGEM plus all your other crop sprayer requirements

Frogs Hall, Wilby, Eye, Suffolk IP21 5LF mobile: 07748 644975 email: sancroftagri@hotmail.co.uk

24 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

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Business benefits from flexible spraying solutions

When looking for an ultra-low ground pressure spraying solution, Howton Cropcare chose an Agribuggy A280 to sit alongside its Multidrive M420.

Howton Cropcare is a steadily expanding spray contracting business, though its Cornish location has, to an extent, dictated the firm’s choice of machine size to handle a 12,500ha workload.

“We don’t have the luxury of large fields and generous access,” explains director and sprayer operator Dave Allen. “Our average field size is just 4ha, and combined with a working radius of 30 miles, it puts pressure on being timely.”

Based at Howton Farm, Saltash, Dave and co-directors Will Doidge and John Moss, have been pushing the spray business forward, and with it, the self-propelled fleet. The purchase of the Agribuggy will make the most of its spraying opportunities. While a second M420 may have been an obvious choice for the team, it wasn’t going to give them a competitive advantage.

“Many smaller farms with 20 or 30 acres of cereals do have limited yard space and awkward field access,” he says. “So having a smaller, lighter and more agile machine offers a huge benefit for them and also for us.”

The team chose the Agribuggy A280 with a 2,700-litre tank and 24m boom. Its arrival created a role for a full-time sprayer operator, which has been filled by experienced operator Andrew Gillbard.

“With an unladen weight of just 5t compared with the Multidrive’s 9.5t, the Buggy suits smaller acreages and less well-drained land,” says Andrew. The Agribuggy’s lower overall height and narrower chassis means it can negotiate narrow lanes with over-grown hedgerows and low trees, he adds.

But just as important was the ability to say ‘yes’ to additional work where they couldn’t – or wouldn’t – send the Multidrive.

Continued to grow Since its arrival, the contract spraying business has continued to grow, and there is comfortably enough application work for both self-propelled sprayers, says Dave. Spare capacity remains available too, which should help the business to continue moving forward.

“We’ve also picked up some amenity work with the Buggy too, and that includes spraying an increasing number of sports pitches, due to its very low ground pressure,” he says.

Both sprayers use mechanical drivelines instead of the widely accepted and more commonplace hydrostatic drives.

The firm also favours a mechanical driveline for its ability to hold a useful turn of speed on steeper slopes.

Specification includes auto steering, 5-cylinder spray pump offering 335-litres/min output, TeeJet control system, stainless steel induction hopper and a variable geometry boom with 15 automatically controlled sections across its 24m width.

Andrew Gillbard is pleased with the Agribuggy. Traction is impressive, and the Buggy’s light weight means the sprayer is likely

The Howton Cropcare team includes Dave Allen (left), agronomist Will Doidge (centre), plus operator Andrew Gillbard.

to keep going when others have to stop, he says.

“It has enough horsepower, and with a locking centre differential the traction is impressive, which is important given some of the steeper slopes that we have to spray,” says Andrew. “Disc brakes are reassuringly good too, and it doesn’t seem to drink its way through diesel. What more could you want?”

With 800 hours now on its clock, the team remains convinced of its flexible, two-machine approach to spray and fertiliser applications.

“As a two-man, two-sprayer system, we can go in different directions and still have capacity to spare,” adds Dave. “Having invested in a lightweight, ultra-low ground pressure machine, we’ve found that we can also extend our working window, perhaps getting on wetter ground much sooner, and staying on it much later.”

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The Agribuggy means Howton Cropcare is able to get on wetter ground much sooner, and stay on it much later, increasing its spray windows.

Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk 25

The Trimble GFX-750 display in-cab.

One-stop shop for precision farming Farmers are now able to access all their precision farming needs in one place – regardless of the brands in their machinery fleet – following the introduction of Trimble’s Vantage network in the UK. The new network will give customers a one-stop shop for all their precision farming requirements.

“Vantage dealers have a deep understanding of all precision agriculture and machinery brands, and the ability to work with farmers as a trusted adviser,” says Trimble regional sales manager, Séverine Brisset. “As such, they can provide integrated, endto-end solutions inclusive of hardware, software, positioning services and data for each operation’s needs.”

Cambridgeshire-based AS Communications

is the first UK dealer to obtain Vantage status, offering customers a hub for precision technology and advice that works across its entire machinery fleet.

“Through Vantage we can bring a holistic approach to the concept of precision agriculture,” explains Séverine. “By integrating all the technology at work on a farm – including hardware from other brands in the market – we can link software, services, data management and the machine. It’s a big change for our customers.”

AS Communications celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2019 and will be rebranding as

Vantage England & Wales. General manager David Bowman said: “We have relocated to substantially better premises and are appointing key staff to allow for that expansion. Becoming a Vantage dealer is a major part of that growth – it’s a direct recognition of the journey we’re taking.”

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booms from 15–30m.

The UF 1602 features a specifically shaped, polyurethane tank providing a low centre of gravity. The smooth tank walls allow effective interior and exterior cleaning.

The sprayer’s SmartCenter operating centre is positioned behind a large hinged door on the left hand side of the machine. A new 60-litre induction bowl is also located there. Its conical shape and the high suction capacity ensure quick, trouble-free and complete emptying. Granules can be introduced without any problem thanks to the mixing nozzle, positioned in the suction

aperture, and the high capacity rinse ring.

The UF 1602 offers the optional Comfort-Pack which comes complete with automatic fill-stop of both the suction hose filling and, if fitted, the bowser fill port. During application, agitation within the tank regulates automatically, depending on the tank level. As the fill level decreases, the agitation capacity reduces down to a complete shut-off.

It is possible to increase the capacity of the UF C 1602 by 1,000 litres with the addition of a FT 1001 front tank. With FlowControl+, the front tank is M completely integrated into the operation of the rear Y mounted 1602.

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New mounted sprayer A new 1,700-litre mounted sprayer has been launched

by Amazone.

The Isobuscompatible UF 1602 can be equipped with the company’s Super-S2 The new Amazone mounted sprayer UF 1602

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"The new features on our Agrifac Condor are a real step forward compared to other machines on the market!"

At Agrifac we think precision farming is not precise enough. To make the next step, we need care at plant level, armed with the latest technologies. Taking care of every plant's individual needs instead of the needs of a whole field, resulting in higher yields.

Looking to change your machine this year? Book a Demonstration and test the Agrifac features for yourself. Contact us now!

Telephone: 01354 660 552 Email: info-uk@agrifac.com

www.agrifac.co.uk

26 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

ELATUS Era ™

POWERFUL, CONSISTENT, COMPLETE The latent period for Septoria tritici is 14-28 days at around 350 day degrees. By the time you see infection on the leaf the damage has already been done.

Don’t rely on reduced curativity – protect your winter wheat with a robust SDHI spray of ELATUS™ Era at T2 timing to prevent yield and quality loss.

Find out more at elatus-era.syngenta.co.uk

Syngenta UK Ltd. Registered in England No. 849037. CPC4, Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE Tel: 01223 883400 Fax: 01223 882195 Email: customer.services@syngenta.com Web: www.syngenta.co.uk ELATUS™ Era is a trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. ELATUS Era (MAPP 17889) contains benzovindiflupyr and prothioconazole. Use plant protection products safely. Always read the label and product information before use. For further product information including warning phrases and symbols refer to www.syngenta.co.uk ©Syngenta AG February 2019. GQ10287.

Spring Spraying Mar 19.indd 27

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FMC - Farmers Guide Ad - Ally Max - 210 x 297 - W 3mm Bleed.pdf

1

17/12/2018

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ALLY® MAX SX®

“If you want the best, you have to choose the best” 1. Unique SX® formulation C

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2. Best technical support from BASIS qualified field team 3. Broad spectrum weed control

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ALLY® MAX SX® Herbicide

• Broadest tank mix compatibilities supported with the widest range of approved ALS tank mixes and sequences • Consistent quality, reliability and traceability • Faster, safer washout

USE PLANT PROTECTION PRODUCTS SAFELY. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND PRODUCT INFORMATION BEFORE USE. UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, TRADEMARKS WITH ® OR ™ ARE TRADEMARKS OF FMC. ALLY® MAX SX® CONTAINS - 143 G/KG METSULFURON-METHYL AND 143 G/KG TRIBENURON-METHYL

Spring Spraying Mar 19.indd 28

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