A Farmers Guide to Spring Spraying March 2021

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Amazone sprayers; much more than just a good boom ride

Amazone sprayers are engineered to help you maintain yields, save costs and conserve the environment.

Five decades of experience in crop protection has created a range of lightweight machines with superior strength, renowned reliability and all-round efficiency.

From the intuitive in-house software and spray booms with faultless height guidance right through to individual nozzle selection, CurveControl and AmaSelect Row - Amazone lead the way in crop protection with Amazone booms are designed using aircraft wing features that prevent waste technology resulting in a super light, super strong and help save you money. structure that ensures the nozzle is kept at the exact height above the crop whatever the field contours.

Contact your local dealer or phone us on 01302 755 725

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Precision Guided Weed Equipment Hood and band sprayer

Inter-row

Spot sprayer

In-Row weeder

Tine raiser feature

Baby leaf hoe

Trailed machines

www.garford.com • 01778 342642 • sales@garford.com 78423

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This is the first full year with no chlorothalonil in the fungicide toolbox, and epoxiconazole is on the way out at the end of the summer, too.

Although septoria pressure was much lower than the average for 2020, yellow rust increased – with new, more aggressive races of the pathogen being identified which overcame some of the genetic resistance found in popular varieties such as KWS Firefly.

Hopefully the freezing winter we’ve just experienced might stave off some of the yellow rust pressure this year, but fungicide programmes need to remain strong and diverse, as always, to protect yield and provide effective stewardship of remaining actives.

Weed emergence levels are expected to be high, partly due to the exceptionally wet weather at the end of 2020 and into 2021 which likely affected the residual action of some herbicides.

But one thing is for sure – with the ground now (finally) drying out, it’s high time for the sprayers to leave the shed and return to the field.

Spring spraying news .................................................................................................... 4

07

CurveControl compensation option proves a good investment ................... 7 Water conditioners: Enhancing spring weed control.......................................11 App takes crop walking to new level .....................................................................12 Short window for oilseed rape spring clean........................................................13 Manufacturer updates prove worthwhile ............................................................14 Controlling weeds in spring cereals .......................................................................16 Cereal growers advised to prepare for flush of broad-leaved weeds .........17 Demount sprayers prove the best option for Suffolk spray contractor .....18

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Which has the greater cost – fungicide, or loss of yield? ................................20 Precision sprayer solutions for added application accuracy .........................21 Manufacturer moves into crop care .......................................................................22 Trailed sprayer range is a bestseller ........................................................................23 Next gen self-propelled sprayer brings major updates...................................24 Sprayer combo doubles potential capacity .........................................................24 Change the way you farm ..........................................................................................26

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13 JOHN RHODES A.S. LIMITED

Crop Sprayer Specialists

A publication by Farmers Guide. Parkside, London Road, Ipswich, Suffolk IP2 0SS. Tel: 01473 691888.

Full contact information can be found at www.farmersguide.co.uk. Original articles and advertisements created

by Farmers Guide are copyright and are not to be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the Editor. No responsibility can be accepted by Farmers Guide for the opinions expressed by its contributors.

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ĂŶĚ ƐƟůů going strong!

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SALES SERVICE PARTS TESTING TRAINING

email: info@johnrhodesas.co.uk www.johnrhodesas.co.uk

01386 832728

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Spring spraying news New and improved GPS mapping software

NSTS department operating as normal According to John Rhodes AS Ltd director, Sally Organ: “The past year has not been without its difficulties, what with the Covid-19 pandemic and then the sad and sudden passing of John Rhodes.

“As the new spraying season fast approaches, our focus remains on the continuity of service associated with the John Rhodes AS Ltd brand.

We think this is a fitting legacy to John Rhodes himself.

“Due to the annual NRoSO Update courses being hosted online only at the end of last year, we were unable to catch up in person with many of our customers.

We sincerely hope that things will get back to some normality for the next round in the autumn, as we miss the interaction!”

Still keeping the sprayers spraying is the busy NSTS

department, headed up by Mark Elder (pictured), which remains operational as normal. Mark advocates: “A sprayer in good condition will ensure that no overdosing or underdosing occurs, allowing better coverage and less risk to the environment. Regular nozzle output checks are therefore extremely important!”

John Rhodes AS Ltd stocks a vast range of nozzles by leading manufacturers, at competitive prices. The company can be reached by telephone currently, and its new website, with online shop, will be launching soon. You can also follow the team on Facebook or Instagram for updates. FG

NavGuide is the new, improved and bespoke GPS mapping software for Househam Sprayers. With improved graphics and enhanced features, it incorporates GPS Automatic Section Control (ASC) and AB line tracking with a variety of guidance line settings.

NavGuide has the ability to import a variety of maps (.shp, .shx and .dbf files) from different applications and is capable of collecting an ‘as applied’ map that reflects the rate applied by the sprayer. NavGuide offers the opportunity to export both a Google Earth (KML) file and PDF report that include guidance lines, boundaries and maps of the coverage, so users can be reassured the job has been done

correctly. With an operator-friendly screen, it provides the flexibility for each individual to make it their own, supporting multiple boom lengths, section layouts and the ability to manually override working widths.

Going forward, NavGuide has been introduced as an option on all of our new Air Ride, Harrier and Predator machines and a retrofit solution is available for all machines currently in the field. According to one customer: “It’s simple to use, clean and with the reports gives you peace of mind.

As a contractor, the clear reports are incredibly useful to give back to customers so I can show them all the info they need regarding each field.” FG

Self-propelled sprayer ready for 2021 season Merse Agriculture says the new updated Bargam Grimpeur 4000J is ready for customers to put it through its paces. The Bargam Grimpeur range is a hydrostatic over mechanical drive self-propelled sprayer, and is available just in time for the 2021 season – allowing it to show off its capabilities in a demanding environment. With an improved 230hp Iveco FPT engine coupled to Danfoss hydrostat and drive motor, driving Spicer axles, Merse says it’s sure footed and will keep going where others would fail.

It also features an updated Eco-drive

function and cruise control to reduce fuel usage. With capacities from 1,500–4,350 litres and a wide range of booms from 12–44m booms with various options regarding twin- or tri-fold booms in steel or aluminium.

A wider chassis allows a better ride, while improvements to the hydraulic suspension system increase operator comfort alongside the quieter class 4 cab. These machines can be tailored to individual requirements – with Merse able to supply anything from a basic no-frills sprayer to something packed with all the

latest nozzle technology. If the Grimpeur range isn’t right for you, Merse says Bargam can also provide

a fully hydrostatic machine with exactly the same specification, comfort and productivity. FG

PRODUCTS Flunican 5L & Denican 5L

To control perennial & annual broad-leaved weeds in new & established grassland

Glyfer 20L

Rumo 250g

Containing 360g/L Glyphosate, your one stop shop for total weed control

Water dispersible granule for the control of Pollen Beetle & Caterpillars

Spraying radius of 30 miles for farming, 80 miles for golf, paddocks etc., nationwide delivery

Office: 01480 700230 4

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Mobile: 07909 997601

Total Weedkiller

Insecticide

Monkey 5L

Depitox 500 10L

For the control of diseases in wheat, barley, rye & Sclerotinia in oilseed rape

For control of many broad-leaved weeds including Ragwort

Selective Weedkiller

Email: mike@ukamenity.co.uk

Selective Herbicide

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Location: Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire

Selective Weedkiller

For the control of black grass in cereals

Residual & Foliar Herbicide

We are pesticide wholesalers for both the Agricultural & Amenity sector, offering a professional spraying supply & apply service whereby we provide the required chemical & spray the relevant area. From farms & golf courses to paddocks & large turf areas, we have you covered no matter your need.

Pasturemaster 10L

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www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

05/03/2021 11:10

Main dealer for BARGAM Agriculture Machinery Main Dealer for BARGAM Agriculture Machinery

Merse Agriculture can supply new and used equipment, servicing and spare parts for all types of sprayers

Want to travel when and where other sprayers can’t?

NEW UPDATED GRIMPEUR JR

For a demo of a mechanical drive machine, contact Merse Agriculture for the NEW updated Bargam Grimpeur range Check out the website for more information and the rest of the range

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Tel: 01400 276050 Email: salesteam@househamsprayers.com Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk

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Added to the water in the spray tank before the pesticide, De Sangosse Water Conditioners act sacrificially to form irreversible complexes with cations They lower the pH of the spray solution Have humectant properties Built in anti-foam ensures adequate foam control and minimal time losses due to foaming

Certain herbicide groups in challenging situations can be compromised by hard water; De Sangosse Water conditioners can help mitigate this with a unique propriety blend of complexing agents.

Always discuss the use of water conditioners with your agronomist who can offer clear advice on which herbicides can benefit from the use of a De Sangosse Water Conditioner.

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CurveControl compensation

option prov es a

Buckinghamshire-based Kensham Farms replaced its Amazone Pantera 4001 self-propelled sprayer with the latest 4503+ model last autumn, and specified AmaSelect CurveControl to maintain precise application rates – even during turns.

good inv estmen t

Automatic nozzle adjustment to ensure that spray application rates remain accurate even on headlands and around sweeping curves is proving a successful investment for a large Buckinghamshire arable farm. David Williams reports.

“We have always been aware that there is a significant difference in the efficacy of crop treatments provided by nozzles on the inside of turns compared to those on the outside, due to the relative travel speed difference and the resulting variation in dose rates,” commented Charlie Edgley, who runs family farming partnership Kensham Farms with other members of his family.

Premium crops Approximately 900ha of arable crops are grown on mainly Grade 3 and 4 Chiltern soils, in fields surrounded by woods and game cover. The land is a mix of owned and contract-farmed, and cropping has been continuous cereals for many years, so there is no problem with Take-all. Premium prices are a constant target and wheat is grown for milling and barley for malting. Approximately 780ha of wheat is grown, including for a Warburtons contract through farmerowned cooperative Openfield.

Wheat quality is consistently high, and the farm has achieved the Warburtons Golden Loaf Award.

Grass weeds are an issue, so making the most of opportunities to control populations by cultural and chemical methods is a priority.

Early Pantera In 2012, the farm upgraded from a trailed sprayer to its first selfpropelled. “Growing a large area of milling wheat places high demands on the sprayer,” explained Charlie. “We got on well with the trailed machine but lost the use of the tractor for other tasks, so we looked at self-propelled options. Many of our fields have steep slopes so stability was a priority.

We looked at an Amazone Pantera working on another farm and were

impressed by the ‘walking axle’ chassis design and its boom performance. We placed an order for an early Amazone Pantera 4001 with a 24m boom and individual control of 11 sections, which was supplied by our local main dealer, Oliver Landpower.”

Establishment strategy Having previously ploughed ahead of all crops, the farm moved to reduced cultivation in 2008, and then further reduced its dependence on tillage when it purchased a Dale XL Compact 10m drill in 2019, part-funded by a Chiltern Leader Grant, replacing a succession of 8m drills of various brands. “We have a lot of flints and cultivations are expensive, so we wanted a versatile drill capable of working with reduced pre-cultivation, and which would also allow drilling later in the autumn as part of our grass weed control strategy. We wanted increased work rates too, but without traveling faster so it had to be wider and capable of accurate contour following on our undulating land.

“We tried the standard Dale XL drill but found it slightly long for our tight gateways and narrow lanes, so Dale produced a modified shorter version for us which retained the 5t seed capacity we needed. We also equipped it with an RTK signal receiver which links to the tractor’s autosteer system for automatic sideslip compensation on cross-slopes which works very well.”

For the first season using the 10m drill, the existing 24m tramlines were retained but this wasn’t ideal, especially on the headlands. However, the sprayer was due for updating which provided an opportunity to move to 30m tramlines to suit the 10m drill, and simplify crop establishment.

“Our Pantera 4001 sprayed 42,000ha in its seven years with us and was excellent, but various local dealers heard we were upgrading and requested opportunities to demonstrate their machines,” continued Charlie. “Our steep slopes proved a challenge, and there was nothing to match the Amazone. We ordered the latest Pantera 4503plus featuring many improvements compared to our earlier version.”

One of the most obvious upgrades is a larger 4,720-litre tank, replacing the previous 4,200-litre version. “We have several fields of 44 and 45ha, and whereas we had to deal with part loads previously which meant extra time spent refilling, now these are

completed with one tank.”

The Pantera ‘plus’ option includes high-torque wheel motors which were selected for the slopes. “Previously it took a while to achieve the required working speed when setting off uphill,” commented farm foreman Paul Rogers who shares the sprayer’s operation with Charlie. “The new hubs improve acceleration and it’s easier to maintain constant speeds on undulating terrain.

A disadvantage is that they reduce the maximum speed to 40kph, but as most of our land is in one block and we do relatively little road work, it doesn’t really affect us. Apart from the extra power, the brakes are also uprated with larger discs, and it stops very quickly.” continued over…

Charlie Edgley (left) with farm foreman Paul Rogers and the new Pantera sprayer.

Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk

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The AmaSelect nozzle bodies hold four nozzles which are automatically selected to optimise application as ground speed varies.

The 30m FlexFold booms can also be used at 12 and 24m widths. ContourControl ensures accurate ground contour following and allows positive and negative boom angle adjustment, making the system ideal for the undulating ground at Kensham Farms. …from previous page

Boom performance Despite the new, wider boom, Charlie hadn’t expected significantly higher work rates, due to the undulating terrain. “I thought we would need to travel slower to give the wider boom time to react, and reduce the risk of it striking the ground during turns,” he explained.

“However, its performance is incredible, and we typically spray at 14kph with no problems. Watching the boom adjust to changing terrain and seeing the angle alter to both above and below horizontal is impressive, and it constantly maintains the pre-set nozzle height above the ground.”

Curve compensation Charlie’s concerns regarding inconsistent application rates during turns were increased by the extra width. “We saw the difference in weed control resulting from the relative

speed difference between the inner and outer boom sections during turns with our previous 24m sprayers,” stressed Charlie. “In areas where weeds were more of a problem, I would often increase the rate before starting to turn to ensure effective coverage, but a consequence was higher application rates on the inside of the turn and wasted chemical.

“There were also issues when the ground was slippery, as the reduced travel speed caused the automatic rate control to reduce the spray pressure, and when it became too low the nozzles dribbled. To prevent this and ensure effective ground coverage, I would select an increased overall rate in anticipation.”

To solve these problems, the new sprayer has AmaSelect nozzle bodies which each hold four selectable jets.

These not only switch each of the nozzles on and off independently, but the system also selects the appropriate nozzle or nozzle combination to

maintain the specified application rate as the travel speed varies according to strategies set by the operator.

The sprayer also has HeightSelect, which alters the boom height to suit nozzles as they are selected, and it has SwingStop too – which uses acceleration sensors that are used to reduce boom tip movement to also adjust the nozzle combination on each AmaSelect body to achieve the ideal spray rate during turns.

“My main objective was to apply the correct rate regardless of travel speed or turns, rather than having areas underlapped, overlapped and normal,” said Charlie. “We have the sprayer set up to use two nozzles for pre-emergence treatments at 100-litres/ha for example; including a low-drift Defy Blue 3D and a Yellow.

We tell the control terminal what nozzles are in which positions and the acceptable pressures and spray rates.

Then the system constantly analyses which of the two nozzles should be selected to achieve the specified application rate, based on that nozzle’s position on the boom and its actual travel speed above the ground. It can also combine output from both nozzles for higher spray rates when needed, for example when that nozzle body is on the outside during a turn.

“We could use up to three nozzles in the sequence, but two separately or together achieve the accuracy we need.”

Successful decision Asked whether they would recommend further improvements to the latest Pantera, just three were suggested by Charlie and Paul. These include a larger fuel tank, lift ram protectors – the rams are susceptible to damage caused by flints thrown up by the back wheels, and reduced noise levels at the operator station. On the latest machine, the main spray pump has been relocated from the rear to just above the induction bowl, resulting in increased noise levels during filling. Otherwise, the Pantera is rated excellent, with genuine improvements over the previous version.

“When we bought our first Amazone sprayer we had no previous experience of the brand so it was a huge leap of faith. However, the back-up from the manufacturer and our dealer, Oliver Landpower, has been excellent. The Amazone team is fantastic – parts are delivered the next day and technicians are always happy to advise us by phone. They are always interested in our product feedback, and we were so impressed by the Pantera and the support available that we recently replaced our fertiliser spreader with an Amazone ZG-TS trailed model too.” FG

Proven savings Charlie said that he was previously sceptical at claims that individual nozzle selection could reduce chemical use by five per cent, but since having the system on his Pantera he now accepts that this is accurate. “It’s quite a saving,” he confirmed.

Other options specified for the new sprayer included inverted vertical in-line filters on the spray booms as Charlie felt that the complex nozzle arrangement could be susceptible to dirt and blockages.

The Amazone Pantera 4503+ cab is described as excellent, and the controls are improved over the farm’s previous Pantera 4001. The sprayer was ordered ‘John Deere-ready’ for GPS spray control through a John Deere 4640 terminal, for commonality with the farm’s tractor fleet and combine.

24m Avadex spreading using a Bateman sprayer call with details of your requirements

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FOXTROT EW

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04/03/2021 04/02/2021 09:49 16:52

1 16:52

Water conditioners:

Enhancing spring weed control As growers across the UK look to maximise their contact weed control this spring, having missed opportunities in the autumn to apply residual herbicides, efficacy will be key.

T

his is the advice from ProCam agronomist Mike Thornton (pictured) and he advises that water conditioning with an acidifying agent could provide the solution.

Having worked extensively in areas of hard water in Sussex, Mr Thornton knows only too well the variability that can result from applications where the water pH is sub-optimal. This can lead not only to vastly reduced weed control, but also margins, where competition from aggressive grassweeds like resistant black-grass are the main threat.

“We know that hard water where the pH ranges from 6.5 and above can produce consistently poor results,” he explains. “Cations such as calcium and magnesium aggressively bind to the molecules of active ingredients, which instantly mean reduced activity. This then leads to the variability in control that we so often see.”

Mr Thornton also explains that water quality can vary from farm to farm and that rainwater sources can be totally different to groundwater.

“Groundwater from the chalk aquifers can be exceptionally hard. For contact herbicides such as Atlantis and other graminicides like Falcon and Laser, conditioning the water in the tank first is essential. Our experience here has proven that by decreasing the pH of the spray solution by acidification, improved efficacy of up to 10 per cent can be achieved – and that’s significant.”

Sequestering harmful cations X-Clude from De Sangosse is a proprietary blend of water conditioning and acidifying agents, pH buffers and an anti-foam. It softens the hard water by completely and irreversibly sequestering harmful cations such as calcium and magnesium present in hard water. X-Clude also acidifies the water to pH 4.6, which prevents alkaline hydrolysis, and has a ‘built-in’ humectant and anti-foaming agent.

“Different products will respond in different ways,” continues Mr Thornton. “With the pressures likely to be facing us this spring, anything we can do to improve the way our herbicide programmes respond has to be considered. There are so many

variables, and starting with the best possible water quality is essential.”

Mr Thornton has also been using X-Clude in insecticide programmes, particularly those where pyrethroids and neonicotinoid products are recommended.

“We’ve seen a lot of benefit in conditioning the water prior to applying products for flea beetle control in oilseed rape, and the results are encouraging. Wherever the hardness of the water could be an issue, we are advising our growers to include X-Clude in the tank mix.”

Carefully considered programme For best results, he also advises that the product is always added to the tank first, as per the label instruction and at a maximum concentration of 0.25 per cent of spray volume.

“It’s not a panacea,” he adds, “but small increments like this for relatively little cost, can add up significantly overall and gives the grower confidence that the programme is carefully considered to deliver the best results.”

Mr Thornton is also working with one grower to take the water conditioning approach one stage further, by altering the pH of the water at source.

“By using X-Clude in the primary water source and conditioning in bulk, it saves operator time and error and reduces the chance of inconsistencies occurring,” he says. “We feel that in areas where excessively hard water exists, this approach will also dramatically reduce the pressure on the active ingredients.

“Where herbicide costs constitute the bulk of the expenditure on crops, protecting that investment has to be a priority. Using X-Clude is proving to be a very consistent way of achieving that.”

Accurate dosing Agronomists advise adding water conditioners to water at source and, where possible, avoid adding directly to the spray tank post-filling. Hingerose Limited, based in Kettering, is the UK and Ireland partner for the Dosatron range of water-powered injector units used for accurate dosing of liquid additives proportionately into water.

These units have been employed by livestock, horticultural and agricultural businesses to deliver water conditioners, nutrients and fertilisers, potato fungicides, livestock supplements and medication, for over four decades. Being the original water-powered injector that was developed in the 1970’s, Dosatron now enjoys a dominant market share worldwide.

Hingerose general manager Kris Jessiman says that pre-1970 it was a ‘bucket and chuck it’ mentality when it came to mixing additives into water, and compared to today there was little understanding of the impact poor application was having on performance, spray mixture quality, ease of handling and the environment.

“The livestock industry was the first farming group to use Dosatron for accurate dosing to enhance performance. Horticulturalists soon caught on to the benefits of automatic dosing,” he says. “And then it was the agricultural contractors and sprayer operators that recognised the benefits of pre-dosing water with conditioners to help lower pH and remove the effects of high water hardness. Typically treated water now goes into a holding tank from where it can be transferred to the sprayer on demand.

“Dosatron is driven by water flow so doesn’t need electric power, which makes it very reliable and simple,” says Mr Jessiman. “Depending upon the model being used, dose rates can be set from 0.03–25 per cent, mixing solutions on demand and removing the need for the operator to come into contact or handle potentially aggressive products.

“Dosatron responds directly to the water flow rate passing through it, essentially using directly proportional and accurate dosing to ensure the correct amount of concentrate is applied and mixed with the water supply.”

The specific Dosatron unit recommended

by De Sangosse is the D3RE2, which operates at 10–3,000-litre/hour and administers 0.2–2 per cent product into the water. FG

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App takes crop walking to new level A new version of the Omnia Scout app has recently been launched, making it easier for growers and agronomists to share crop walking information and update field records remotely.

The iOS app is a complete rebuild of the original Omnia Field Scout app, that allows growers to view the various layers of data stored within their Omnia account from an iPhone or iPad, and also update field records with notes, pictures, operational inputs or other information.

Providing there is a data or Wifi connection, the app will automatically sync with the associated Omnia account as soon as information is added, giving instant access to field notes and observations, digital farming manager Lewis McKerrow (right) explains.

It also features an offline function, whereby crop records can be downloaded in advance of going into an area with limited or no data connection, and any changes will be synced as soon as a connection is available.

“It provides a more professional, standardised way of making, recording and sharing crop notes from the field. It is especially important in this current Covid-19 world, where agronomists and farmers aren’t necessarily able to meet face-to-face, so it should help to strengthen these relationships.”

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With increasing scrutiny of all crop inputs, particularly insecticides, the app also provides a digital record to help demonstrate the rationale behind input decisions and potentially allow more targeted treatment of crops.

Location markers can be tagged to any notes or pictures manually or by using the phone’s GPS, allowing that area to be revisited and monitored over time, and targeted management plans to be developed in Omnia if required.

Likewise, users can analyse data, such as satellite biomass imagery or yield maps, in Omnia and highlight specific areas for further investigation and ‘ground-truthing’.

Field information can be accessed and edited in a variety of ways through the app, such as by viewing all diary notes for a particular field, fields, variety or crop type.

“For example, you may find yellow rust present in one variety, so the app allows you to add this as a note to all fields affected,” Mr McKerrow says.

The Omnia Field Scout app is available for iPhone and iPad from the app store. FG

05/03/2021 14:16

Short window for oilseed rape spring clean As spring temperatures begin to creep up, so will the weed burden in arable crops which farmers will need to deal with this season.

For oilseed rape growers, there is a clear priority – to clean up the competitive weeds which steal yield, cause problems at harvest and return seed to the soil.

While there are several compelling reasons for ensuring a robust herbicide programme is in place, keeping the crop looking clean and tidy is also front of mind at this time of year according to Corteva’s oilseed rape herbicide product manager John Sellars.

“Now is the time to clear up those red-faced weeds that germinate late in the winter and in early spring,” he says.

“Poppy, thistles and cleavers have a tendency to appear above the canopy and oilseed rape growers don’t like to see them. They will also be keen to get on top of weeds while they are small, so they don’t compete with the crop or get too large to control.”

Mr Sellars advocates using Corteva’s Korvetto herbicide, which contains Arylex active plus clopyralid. In 2020, growers got their first opportunity to use the new chemistry and see what it was capable of.

“Growers will be familiar with Galera, which has done a good job in this space for many years.

But Korvetto has really taken its place in the herbicide programme – I describe it as a beefed-up version of Galera,” he explains.

“The Arylex active performs in cold and variable conditions which is perfect for the unpredictable nature of spring. It allows more flexibility on application dates which other herbicides can’t at this time of year.”

Timing is important though, as Korvetto has a narrow application window of 1st March to flower buds visible (BBCH50).

Feedback from growers who used the new chemistry last year suggests that Korvetto won’t replace an autumn herbicide programme, but an application is effective on quite large weeds – especially late-germinating autumn weeds, as well as those emerging in early spring.

The recommended rate is 1-litre/ha which delivers the full rate of Arylex (5g/ha). An application puts down 20g more clopyralid than Dow Shield and 40g more than Galera.

“The result is really strong performance on cleavers, fumitory, cranesbill, dead nettle, poppy, sow thistles and creeping thistle,” Mr Sellars says.

In a normal rotation, there are no following crop restrictions. However, should crops fail due to pigeon or flea beetle damage after Korvetto has been applied, the land can be re-drilled with following crops including spring OSR, barley, oats, linseed and maize but not legumes. Straw should not be used for composting.

Korvetto is active at temperatures of 7–8°C upwards and should be applied at a water rate of 150–300-litre/ha with a medium spray quality.

It has a 14m buffer zone. FG

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Manufacturer updates prove worthwhile “Every time I’ve updated my Househam sprayers, the new models have featured genuine improvements over the ones they replaced,” says Ian Leverton, a spraying contractor based in North Lincolnshire. David Williams reports.

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rading as Leverton Agricultural Contracting, Ian Leverton set up his contracting service in 2007 and carries out agricultural spraying within approximately 20 miles of Sausthorpe Road Farm, Partney, where he is based. Most of the spraying is in late spring, then from the start of harvest through the autumn, and for the rest of the year he provides a contract hedge and verge cutting service for farmers and landowners in the same area.

“Most of my customers grow traditional arable crops including cereals, pulses and potatoes,” Ian explained. “Applications used to be

very seasonal, but that has changed in recent years and now there is almost always something to spray when the ground and weather conditions are favourable, mainly because of increased attention to black-grass control.”

Higher capacity Ian’s first sprayer was a 2,000-litre Househam Sprint, which he bought second-hand and operated for three years, before upgrading to a brand new 3,000-litre Househam Air-Ride (AR) 3000. This was kept for two years before being replaced by another new AR3000 in 2013 – this time with heavy-duty wheel motors. In 2016, Ian’s third AR3000 was purchased, then it was traded in last September for an increased capacity 3,500-litre Air-Ride.

“I wanted the larger tank, but without the disadvantages of a longer chassis,” continued Ian. “The 3,500-litre tank is the largest available with the 3.16m wheelbase, and if I had opted for the larger 4,000-litre tank then the 3.61m wheelbase would have been needed. Mine has a very tight 7.0m turning circle, making it ideal for my application.”

Power for slopes

An additional petrol-engine pump is carried and used for washing out the main tank. It was used for filling the tank of Ian’s previous sprayers, but the highoutput Altek 380-litre/min pump fitted to the new AR3500 means that the tank can be full by the time the chemical has been added. Ian said his only criticism of the new AR3500’s design is the air tank position on his machine which means it becomes covered in mud from the wheel. Househam has since rectified this on subsequent machines by relocating the tank to the rear.

The latest AR3500 has also got a more powerful engine – 228hp from a 4-cylinder MTU Stage 5 power unit whereas Ian’s previous model had a 6-cylinder engine producing 170hp.

Ian said the new engine has a lot more torque and maintains a constant 1,600 revs during spraying, even on soft ground and steep slopes. Despite the extra performance, the new sprayer uses no more fuel than the previous model, and the cab is quieter. Optional heavy duty wheel motors are fitted, with semi-mechanical rather than hydraulic drive for extra torque and

they also allow 40kph road speed at reduced engine rpm, saving fuel.

“I have specified the heavy-duty drive option for all my sprayers apart from the original Sprint,” explained Ian. “Much of my work is on slopes, some of which are very steep, and the heavy-duty wheel drive motors provide a lot more torque to the wheels and never stall, making it easier to maintain a constant speed for accurate application.”

Fast filling The new AR3500 has a larger Altek 380-litre/min spray pump, replacing the previous 260-litre/min version. “I usually select a fill rate of 250-litres/min as that gives me time to mix and add the chemical,” commented Ian. “I carry an additional petrol engine-driven centrifugal pump which I relied on to fill my previous sprayers, but now the only reason I keep it with me is for washing out the tank.”

Operator-friendly The cab is similar to those of previous Air-Ride sprayers, but the familiar and dated Househam FieldMaster control system has been replaced by NavGuide – developed in-house and standard now on most Househam models. Ian said it is much easier to use, with an improved display which allows all the main functions to be shown on one page, whereas the previous system involved flicking between ‘pages’ during set-up. However, the biggest improvement is a faster reaction time provided by more powerful processors.

“FieldMaster worked well, but because it used almost 100 per cent of the available processing capacity, there was often a slight lag while it worked out the spray strategy.

“NavGuide is noticeably more powerful and responds instantly

which makes it easier to use, and it also includes additional functions which weren’t available before. These include the ability to create A-B lines to use as start points for the field spray strategy which is something that I find particularly useful as more farmers move to direct-drilling and establish crops without tramlines,” he continued.

Automatic filling is a new option available with NavGuide, although Ian’s sprayer has the standard manual system.

Adaptable but accurate Most of Ian’s customers are on 24m tramlines, but there are also some on 20m so he requires booms which adapt easily to either width. Active automatic boom levelling is an option, but Ian didn’t specify it as the Househam’s standard boom stability is excellent and he finds it easy to manually adjust the 24m booms to compensate for slopes.

The AR3500 has 12-spray sections independently controlled through the NavGuide GPS spray system.

This starts and stops the spraying at each headland, and automatically switches the sections to match the spray width needed. A useful feature is independent control of the two end nozzles for spraying at both 20m and 24m. This allows the outside nozzles to achieve the required overlap between bouts, but they are switched off for the return run when the nozzles are on the ‘inside’ to prevent over-dosing.

“It works well and ensures thorough coverage without wasting chemical or damaging the crops,” said Ian. “In one 36ha field which had been drilled short-ways, it saved approximately the same volume of chemical as required for a full spray bout, so it’s definitely worth having and benefits my customers. This is the second machine I have had equipped with automatic nozzle control and it

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Lincolnshire-based Leverton Agricultural Contracting has recently invested in a new Househam AR3500 24m sprayer – its fifth of the same brand since 2007.

A leading agronomy company

Ian Leverton’s sprayer has Househam’s recently developed NavGuide GPS spray control.

works very well. I wouldn’t be without it now,” he added.

Ride quality All of Ian’s customers are on 72in wheel spacings, so there is no need to adjust the wheel track between farms.

Michelin 600/60R28 XeoBib tyres are fitted, and these are inflated to just 1.0 bar for working and transport. For late season rowcrop work, 320/85R38 tyres and wheels are fitted, and these can be set at 80in centres for sugar beet applications. 1.1m under-axle clearance is standard on the Air-Ride.

Four-wheel steering means that the front and rear wheels follow the same path for reduced crop damage during headland turns, and the rear wheels lock in the straight position when spraying commences, and four-wheel steering reactivates when spraying stops. Above 20kph, the rear wheels lock straight ahead for safety.

Ian said that one of the best features of the Househam sprayer compared to other brands is its excellent ride quality. Chassis load sensors monitor weight distribution and provide information to a central controller which adjusts the pressure of air bags above each wheel. This

ensures that the machine’s weight is equally distributed between the wheels even on slopes, and helps keep the machine level.

“We have used air bags since 2002, and the design has proved very successful,” explained Househam sales representative Barry Harness. “It’s simple and reliable and achieves great stability and a very smooth ride.”

Providing the highest standards of independent agronomic advice to British growers, with the efficient supply of a complete range of agronomic inputs.

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Ideal specification “Although most of my spraying is within a relatively small area there are a range of soil types, and conditions vary considerably. With plenty of steep slopes too, I wanted a sprayer with extra capacity to meet my increasing workload, but without the disadvantages of a bigger and heavier machine and the AR3500 is ideal.

“The back-up from Househam has always been excellent and I believe that part of the company’s success is the team’s ability to listen to customer feedback and react on it to constantly improve the range. I’m really pleased with my new sprayer. Its extra power makes a real difference and the NavGuide control is superb. I thought my previous sprayer was good, but this one is better.” FG

Hutchinsons can provide you with all your crop-growing requirements including: • Crop-protection inputs • Precision agronomy advice • Seed • A comprehensive range of • Fertiliser packaging for the fresh • Crop nutrition guidance food industry.

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www.hlhltd.co.uk Pictured with the new Househam AR3500 sprayer are Househam sales representative Barry Harness (left) and contractor Ian Leverton.

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05/03/2021 12:41

Controlling weeds in spring cereals Winter wheat area has rebounded this season, but spring crops are still vital for rotational control of problem weeds like black-grass and ryegrass.

Preparation is essential for spring crop success because after emergence, you rely on crop competition to control weeds. Effective use of pre-planting and pre-emergence herbicides ensures crops compete well during the crucial early days after germination. Here are some tips to get good control in spring cereals: 1. Control weeds pre-planting Cleaning up land with Roundup (glyphosate) ahead of drilling is a standard job for many farmers, but it is worth reviewing rates, application and timing to get the best control. “I think it’s easy to take glyphosate for granted, but we should remember that it is probably the single most effective product we’ve got,” says spray application specialist David Felce (left) of Midloe Grange and Agrii.

“The price is the same whether you apply it well or not, so it is worth checking that you are doing everything to get the best from it.”

is some compromise, but put as much in your favour as possible.

2. Check weed spectrum and application rates for Roundup “Application rates depend on weed spectrum, but typically there will be a mixture of grass and broad-leaved weeds,” says Mr Felce. “The broad-leaved weeds are likely to be winter hardened after the cold weather, meaning they need 1,080g/ha glyphosate or more to ensure good control.”

5. Seedbed and soil condition Seedbed condition and soil temperature both affect the quality of establishment and performance of any pre-em herbicides.

Seedbed condition is difficult to change at this stage without further cultivation, which will result in further weed germination.

Waiting until soils warm up will promote faster, more even germination, which will improve crop competition.

3. Make sure conditions are right Applying when it is too cold is the biggest risk at this time of year. Cold weather slows down active growth which can prevent translocation into the roots to kill the plant. Higher rates and advanced Roundup formulations can compensate to some extent, but it is best to wait for better conditions.

6. Apply at the true pre-em timing A pre-emergence herbicide such as 0.3-litres/ha Liberator (flufenacet + diflufenican) can provide extra protection from germinating weeds in the weeks just after establishment. It is available to use in spring wheat and spring barley. Apply at the true pre-em timing within 48 hours of drilling to ensure the best performance.

4. Hit the target Droplet size and nozzle choice depend on the size of the target. In general, it is better to use a smaller droplet size against smaller targets, which we typically see in spring, to ensure consistent coverage across the field. Factor in wind conditions and the risk of drift to make the best choice. In any spray application there

7. Consider Roundup in the pre-em tank mix A long period between spraying-off and drilling can allow more weeds to germinate.

Roundup can be safely applied at the true pre-em timing to control any additional weeds in the seedbed. Take care and make sure is it is only applied pre-emergence when there is no crop growth. FG

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Cereal growers advised to prepare for flush of broad-leaved weeds High levels of stubborn broad-leaved weeds are expected to appear in cereal crops this spring. SU herbicides continue to offer reliable protection against these weeds – which growers should tackle before they become a major problem.

A

s spring approaches, cereal crops are generally looking well after receiving robust residual pre-emergence herbicide programmes in the autumn.

This means weed pressure is currently low.

However, as soil temperatures increase, growers are likely to see a flush of weeds – in particular broad-leaved weeds.

“When the soil warms up, weeds such as knotgrass and cleavers start to emerge.

These may be followed by later germinators such as thistles. If these stubborn weeds are left untreated, they could become a serious problem threatening both yield and ease of harvest,” explains agronomist Simon Gould (right), a team manager with Agrii.

Mr Gould reveals that his preferred control strategy for these broad-leaved weeds continues to be the use of Inka SX – an SU (sulfonylurea) herbicide supplied by FMC for use on spring broad-leaved weeds in wheat, barley, oats, rye and triticale crops.

“It’s a very ‘safe’ sulfonylurea, even for oat crops, which are particularly sensitive. With many SUs, you have to be extremely cautious, particularly when tank-mixing, otherwise, you can damage the crop and it will struggle to recover. Inka though, is comparatively benign.”

The agronomist adds that SU herbicides are especially good at tackling a wide range of broadleaved weeds.

“Weed populations shift and change over the years. Today, for example, we’re tackling the likes of wild carrot and chervil, species that we didn’t have to treat 20 years ago. But the beauty of SU herbicides is that if they are used at the right time, at the right dose rate for the target species and with an appropriate mix partner, good levels of control can be achieved.

“For thistle and wild carrot dose rates need to be robust however, and the addition of an adjuvant can help.”

Mr Gould suggests applying Inka SX at T1, unless there is a very early spring. “Normally,

if you’ve applied a robust autumn residual programme, you won’t need to go in before that.

“Although there are some isolated weed populations which have become resistant to the SUs, like poppy and chickweed, these are normally taken out by the residual herbicide,” he says.

The agronomist successfully applies SU herbicides in a tank mix alongside carefully chosen partners.

“There are a whole host of products, including hormone-based herbicides, that can be extremely harsh if they’re not mixed correctly. So, I’d always be cautious and consult your agronomist first.”

He also adds that it is important to rotate modes of action as much as possible to help reduce the risk of resistance build-up.

As spring approaches, growers can look to incorporate SU herbicides into their crop protection programmes as an effective way of tackling tricky broad-leaved weeds.

Tank mixing advice Tank-mixing herbicides is a key component to effective weed control because it can help reduce travelling and spraying time – saving on labour costs and reducing compaction.

Therefore Adam Espir (right), commercial technical manager at FMC, gives his top tips on how to tank mix effectively and successfully.

Three tips for effective tank mixing SU herbicides: 1. Always follow the product labels. “Pay particular attention to compatibility guidance and mixing order to remove the risk of damaging the crop or making the products ineffective,” says Mr Espir.

2. Pay attention to mixing orders. Mr Espir recommends first filling the sprayer with half the required water volume and starting agitation before adding anything else.

“When using granular SU herbicides it’s important to add these to the tank first, before anything else is added,” he shares.

“Make sure they are fully dispersed before any other product is added. Once all the products are in, fill the tank to the required final volume while maintaining constant agitation.”

3. Take your time. “Make sure each product has fully dispersed before adding the next, and don’t allow any undiluted products to come into contact with each other,” explains Mr Espir.

He adds that this is especially important if using granular products and EC liquids as they can block filters if not fully dispersed.

Sprayer hygiene To ensure your tank mix is as effective as possible, Mr Espir recommends carrying out a robust sprayer hygiene routine to help avoid any mishaps.

“The first and most obvious thing is to thoroughly wash out the sprayer, which is especially important between different crop types,” he explains.

“It’s important to do this on the day of use and not leave it to a later date. If you leave it too long, the products can dry in the tank and these residues are much harder to remove. If your sprayer has an intank rinsing mechanism, use this after every use, but remember that this is just a rinse and not a substitute for a full tank clean out.”

Mr Espir also suggests using a spray tank cleaner like All Clear Extra when doing a full clean and moving between crops.

“All Clear Extra is specially formulated liquid sprayer cleaner and although it can be used with other products it is specifically formulated for use with FMC sulfonylurea herbicides.

“I also recommend paying attention to the products you’re using and how they are formulated,” he says.

“By using high quality products that are formulated specifically, such as FMC’s SU SX formulation range, they will be much easier to clean out. This is because they form true solutions in the tank and are easier to wash out,” concludes Mr Espir. FG

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Demount sprayers prove the best option for Suffolk spray contractor

A Suffolk spraying contractor who replaced a standard self-propelled sprayer with his first Landquip demount model four years ago has since added another, and will take delivery of a third, brand-new machine this spring. David Williams reports.

T

rading as Rob Cannell Agri Contracts Ltd and based at Holton, near Halesworth Rob Cannell is a former Farm Sprayer Operator of the Year winner and set up his own contract spraying service in 2011. Rob and his wife Sophie run the business, which specialises in root crop and vegetable applications including approximately 800ha of potatoes, plus 1,300ha of conventional cereal crops and sugar beet. Most of his regular customers are in an area from south Norfolk to south east Suffolk, and a lot of the potato and vegetable applications are carried out close to the Suffolk coast. He applies liquid fertilisers across a much larger area for Omex, and offers an Avadex micro-granule application service, too.

Better option Rob purchased his first Landquip sprayer in 2017. “I used a conventional premium-brand, self-propelled sprayer, but could see the advantages of a Unimogbased demount machine,” he explained. “The Unimog is more like a commercial vehicle with a low-revving engine, mechanical gearbox and 60kph top speed, and powerful disc brakes on all four wheels as well as precise rack and pinion steering.

Landquip is local to us and its sprayers have an excellent reputation, and I was told of a used machine being sold by a Scottish contractor which was based on a Unimog U400. It was seven years

old but in very good condition. It had a 4,000-litre stainless steel tank and 24m heavy-duty aluminium Contractor booms and was just what I needed.”

Successful investment The sprayer quickly impressed with its performance on and off the road and proved much cheaper to operate – requiring far less maintenance and using only half as much fuel as his existing self-propelled machine. “I got on very well with it,” he said. “The Unimog U500 conversion by South Cave Tractors is well proven, and the cab was spacious, quiet and comfortable with good visibility all around.”

The Landquip demount sprayer also performed well, so an additional brand new Landquip sprayer on an S-Trac Unimog conversion was purchased a short while later. This had a larger 5,000-litre tank and a wider 36m boom and was chosen for Omex suspension fertiliser applications. A conventional Unimog was also added to the fleet as a bowser to keep the other three machines supplied.

Reliable and practical “Landquip sprayers are very well designed,” added Rob. “The steel tank is easy to clean and almost indestructible. Filling the sprayer is quick and easy, with user-friendly controls and a very efficient induction bowl. The booms are rugged but extremely stable, with excellent suspension

The induction bowl and external filling controls are practical, easy to use and well designed.

and they fold very fast – twice as quick as the booms on our self-propelled sprayer. Many of the fields we work in have trees, telegraph poles or irrigation equipment to negotiate, so being able to fold the booms quickly and just one side at a time makes our job easier and helps maximise work rates. We work the sprayers hard, but our first Landquip has clocked up more than 12,000 hours since it was new in 2011 and the booms are totally original and have never been repaired.

“The S-Trac has been reliable too, and we know we can always rely on the back-up from South Cave Tractors.”

Rob kept his original self-propelled sprayer to use as a spare machine and also because the sprayer unit can be removed in the autumn and the Avadex applicator fitted in its place.

Rob Cannell S-Trac Landquip sprayer 2021 Based on Unimog U530 ENGINE

300hp, 1,200Nm torque at 1,600–1,700 revs. (Euro 6D)

TRANSMISSION

16 speed, auto/manual with electro-pneumatic shifting Max 60kph

BRAKES

Discs with ABS

HYDRAULIC DRIVE

25 litres/min infinitely variable

GPS AUTO-STEER

Guidance and rate control is through an LH Agro-supplied Topcon X35 terminal

CENTRAL TYRE INFLATION

Even weight distribution helps reduce compaction and deep wheelings and the proven Landquip Contractor heavy-duty aluminium booms travel well and are ruggedly built.

TYRES

620/75R30 Michelin AxioBib VF

DEMOUNT SPRAYER

5,000-litre SS cylindrical tank 24m Contractor heavy-duty boom 450 litres/min, hydraulic driven 6-cyl piston diaphragm pump 13 automatically switched GPS-controlled boom sections 500-litre fresh water tank 25-litre hand wash tank

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Third Landquip

Manufacturer advantage

Growing demand for the specialist spraying service has encouraged Rob to invest in an additional sprayer this year, and he said that a third S-Tracbased Landquip was the obvious choice.

Like his original Landquip, the new machine has a 24m Alu-light aluminium boom, but he has specified a larger 5,000-litre cylindrical tank mounted on a longer 3.6m Unimog chassis, to reduce the frequency of filling and increase productivity. The stainless-steel tank is suitable for suspension fertiliser applications too, ensuring that the new sprayer is capable of a dual role – spraying, and sharing the Omex workload.

“We know from our existing machines that the S-Trac-based Landquip sprayer is excellent, and offers many advantages over conventional self-propelled sprayers for our situation,” Rob continued. “It’s great on the road and extremely safe, and the mechanical transmission is an advantage when working on slopes and if ground conditions are tricky. I don’t think there is anything to match Landquip sprayers for build quality and reliability and the boom suspension is superb. Richard Abbott and the Landquip team provide excellent back-up and if problems do occur then I know that they will be sorted quickly with downtime kept to a minimum.

“The South Cave S-Trac conversion is very successful, and the cab is spacious and comfortable and the ride quality is excellent.

Visibility is good too and it’s a real pleasure to drive.” FG

Bespoke nozzle arrangement The boom comes with variable geometry and tilt, a hydraulic boom lock and independent folding of either side. Control is in 13 sections with sequential section switching.

Bespoke nozzle spacing being trialled on the new sprayer will allow Rob to select only those nozzles which apply to the planted area where crops are in beds. “When applying fertiliser with conventional nozzle spacings the wheelings receive as much as the plants, but they can account for up to 30 per cent of the total ground area,” he explained. “I have had a lot of interest from customers in a system which will apply fertiliser to the tops of the beds, supplying nutrients only where needed which will save costs, and be better for the plants and the environment.”

The new sprayer is equipped with a 450 litres/ min 6-cylinder piston diaphragm pump and high flow boom plumbing, plus full Isobus electronics for GPS automatic section control.

Rob Cannell says his Unimog-based Landquip sprayers are very comfortable, safe and efficient on the road, and extremely economical.

Landquip view “We continue to see strong demand for both self-propelled and demount sprayers,” stressed Landquip managing director Richard Abbott. “The sprayers themselves have similar features and specification, but each has advantages for different situations. Self-propelled machines are usually lighter and available with extra ground clearance, and include features such as adjustable hydraulic VariTrak axle width, but demount sprayers allow the carrier vehicle to be used for alternative tasks.

“Most of our demount sprayers are for South Cave’s S-Trac Unimog conversions, or for mounting on JCB Fastracs. The Fastrac has the advantage that it is a tractor underneath available for all the usual tractor tasks when the demount sprayer is easily and quickly removed. Its shorter load bed can accommodate boom widths up to 36m. The Unimog’s longer load bed allows booms up to 44m to be fitted.

“Both the Unimog and JCB Fastrac offer advantages where there is a lot of travel on public roads.

The Unimog’s mechanical transmission ensures plenty of power for working on slopes, and the S-Trac conversion allows larger wheels to be fitted than standard, ensuring plenty of grip.”

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Which has the greater cost – fungicide, or loss of yield?

There is a clear choice which growers have to make; spend on fungicide, or lose yield and money because of disease.

BASF business development manager, Dr Jon Helliwell says: “Disease needs to be considered as a real cost to the farm business, as it robs profit.

“Intensive ADAS trials with Revystar XE in winter wheat, in what have been low disease years, have shown from a risk management point of view that fungicide-appropriate doses need to be maintained. Moreover, the financial risk of using a dose that is too low is four times greater than the penalty for using a dose that may be deemed too high.”

In winter wheat crops, septoria remains the key driver to profitability, and the focus at T1 and T2.

Dr Helliwell continues: “We may not have certainty about what lies ahead this spraying season, but Revystar XE will bring flexibility to growers’ disease control programmes in application timing, curative power and long-lasting protection, all of which will be essential.”

Richard Budd (pictured), of Stevens Farm (Hawkhurst Ltd) in Kent has been trialling Revystar XE on his farm.

No.1 for Speed and Economy

Unimog mechanical-drive chassis and transmission

Mr Budd is a firm believer that early protection will put the crop in a good place to perform. He achieved strong results from using Revystar XE at T1, connected to its reportedly excellent curative properties which meant all the over-wintered septoria infections were cleaned up. The healthy canopy achieved reduced the chance of infection breaking out further up the crop and, as Revystar XE also gives broad-scale activity against stem-based and other infections, the crop had the opportunity to achieve its full potential.

The loss of two widely used actives, chlorothalonil last year and epoxiconazole this, make it more important than ever to protect the available chemistry.

Dr Helliwell comments: “Revysol continues to be an excellent resistance management partner to SDHIs and other modes of action. Combinations of Revysol (mefentrifluconazole) mixed with Xemium (fluxapyroxad), BASF’s ‘best-in-class’ SDHI, are synergistic – giving a greater level of control that you’d expect from their individual

components. Using this combination of the best tools available will give growers the best line of defence.”

Many growers were caught out last season with unexpectedly high levels of yellow rust infection in their crops.

Dr Helliwell suggests: “Looking ahead, attention to detail and increased monitoring for yellow rust, particularly in high-risk scenarios, is going to be crucial, with a programmed approach the new normal.”

Early signs of this disease are easily missed in the field, as yellow rust starts as small foci which branch out.

Dr Helliwell adds: “With some unpredictability around yellow rust, T0 and T1 timings will be increasingly important – if you don’t get on top of the infection early enough, then it will escape any programme – particularly as we have now lost that most flexible active, epoxiconazole.”

Data from 2020 AHDB fungicide performance trials, which use a single fungicide application in high yellow rust risk scenarios to ascertain differences in fungicide performance, showed the value of Revystar XE within a yellow rust programme, with both components – Revysol and Xemium – contributing to overall control. FG

300 HP Euro 5/6 Mercedes-Benz engine

Integrated Central Tyre Inflation System (CTIS)

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

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Precision sprayer solutions for added application accuracy The need for accurate measuring, recording and application of crop protection chemicals is an essential element of efficient and profitable crop production systems. LH Agro offers a range of solutions.

The ability to apply the right product at the correct dose accurately, efficiently and reliably to working widths up to 48m is dependent on a range of factors including boom height, operating speed, nozzle selection, flow rate and boom section control.

With a fully-integrated range of Topcon sprayer-specific precision farming technologies, LH Agro UK Ltd offers factory and retrofit solutions to help reduce the potential for overlaps, poor application coverage and human error.

One of the most powerful sprayer ECU’s available is the Topcon Apollo EM-40: this fully IP-rated standalone ECU is suitable for use with trailed or even self-propelled sprayers and, because it is fully Isobus-compliant, can be operated via any make or model of Isobus console. The Apollo spray controller can operate up to 200

automatically-operated sections and is able to run multiple variable rate application maps at the same time.

The ability to maintain the correct boom height is essential: not only to ensure full spray coverage, but also to maintain a consistent forward operating speed. Even a few centimetres away from the ideal boom height can significantly detract from the efficacy of crop protection products, resulting in poor levels of weed and disease control and the potential to incur boom damage.

The Norac UC7 boom height control system – which can be factory fitted or installed as a retrofit solution – utilises ultra-sonic height sensors with built-in gyroscopes to accurately control boom height and yaw even when operating across uneven, undulating and steeply sloping ground. Fully Isobus-compliant, the

Norac UC7 system can be used on any sprayer and integrates with the full range of Topcon X-series control consoles.

To take precision farming to the next level, Topcon also offers wireless data transfer and reporting via the Topcon Agriculture Platform (TAP).

TAP allows any connected Topcon display to wirelessly and automatically transfer variable rate files, as applied maps, work reports and telematic data between consoles and the farm office, with no need for user input.

Enabling live application rate adjustments, the Topcon CropSpec canopy scanner automatically measures and assesses key canopy characteristics (green area index and nutrient requirements) to produce an accurate and up-to-date map of how crops are performing. With one of the largest scan footprints currently

available, the CropSpec system uses this mapping data to make onthe-fly rate adjustments to improve fertiliser efficacy by only placing it where it is needed. FG

RELAX...

TOPCON HAS GOT YOU COVERED

NORAC UC7

APOLLO CM-40

BOOM HEIGHT CONTROL ROLL COMPENSATION HEADLAND ASSIST ISOBUS

01480 196 367

UP TO 200 SECTIONS VARIABLE RATE AUTO LINE SWITCHING ISOBUS

sales@lh-agro.co.uk

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Manufacturer moves into crop care

The Kverneland machinery range has been expanded with a full range of mounted and trailed sprayers, currently being rolled out through the dealer network.

Choices in the Kverneland range include tractor-mounted iXter A and iXter B Pro models with the option of additional capacity from an 1,100-litre iXtra front tank. Those seeking greater tank capacities can choose from an extensive line-up of iXtrack trailed models comprising T3, T4 and T6 (pictured) versions.

Buyers can choose from a host of technologies to suit their budgets and requirements, including individual nozzle control, auto section control, iXclean tank washing programs, plus prime and purge functionality, and boom line recirculation.

The iXtrack T3, T4 and T6 trailed models offer tank capacities from 2,600–7,400 litres, with a range of steel and aluminium booms

extending from 18–40m. These include twin-fold aluminium HAS and steel HSS structures from 24–30m, with wider options met using a three-part folding steel boom from 32–40m.

Boom performance comes from a suspended parallelogram rear frame, and working height is managed by a choice of Boom Guide ultrasonic ride height control systems. The pinnacle is Boom Guide Pro Active which uses three levelling sensors on the central boom section, allowing faster reaction to changes in ground terrain, via a central slope correction cylinder.

Wider booms, typically on 24/36m formats, can now be equipped with five ultrasonic sensors, which operate with two outer sensors at the wider

working width, and one outer sensor when operating at 24m. All iXtrack models are fully Isobus compatible. iXspray hardware and software provides the latest in application technology. Intuitive touchscreens with smart electronics allow operators to manage individual nozzle control or boom sections, boom line recirculation, and onetouch boom, spray line and tank cleaning processes.

IsoMatch Grip adds further control, with up to 44 fully customisable functions available from a single joystick, while ErgoDrive headland management allows boom raise/lower and axle steering to be managed by a single button press on the joystick.

Nozzle control includes pneumatic or electric operation, suiting those using GPS for automatic section control and auto start/stop at headlands. Individual nozzle control is available with iXflow E, which also offers remote app control of nozzles when outside the cab.

Tractor-mounted iXter A models offer tank capacities from 800–1,200 litres, with a range of booms spanning 12–21m, while the iXter B Pro is available with 1,000–1,800-litre tank capacities, and booms from 15–30m.

A semi-automatic or fullyautomatic liquid management system available with the iXtra front tank provides a fully-mounted combination boasting 3,000 litres. FG

High pressure recirculation and individual nozzle control

MAXIMUM PRODUCTIVITY & PERFORMANCE KVERNELAND IXTRACK T4

WHEN FARMING MEANS BUSINESS

@KVERNELANDUK

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

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04/03/2021 09:58

Leader 4 trailed sprayer from Team Sprayers.

Trailed sprayer range is a bestseller British-based sprayer manufacturer Team Sprayers offers a closer look at its popular trailed Leader range of sprayers.

Team Sprayers has been manufacturing sprayers at its Ely factory for 40 years, with its agricultural range including both tractor-mounted and trailed sprayers.

The company’s bestselling sprayers are its trailed Leader range, which features both the Leader 3 and Leader 4 sprayers. The Leader 3 comes with boom widths up to 32m, and tanks up to 4,000 litres, whilst the larger Leader 4 sprayer goes up to a 36m boom and tank sizes up to 5,000 litres. Both models feature boom stabilisation and computerised boom switching, with GPS and steering options. They also

feature electro-hydraulics enabling boom-folding combinations, while self-levelling tilt and anti-yaw mechanisms increase boom stability and application accuracy. Variable boom geometry and computerised spray rate control are available as optional extras.

The Leader 4-Series 36 model incorporates a low-folding boom design which, along with the profiled tank gives the sprayer a low centre of gravity and maximises machine stability, either in field or on the road.

All Series 36 machines are supplied with the Mueller Track Guide 3 control system, giving GPS field

mapping, GPS boom section control, automatic boom height and contour levelling, and precise axle steering.

The valve control interface gives the operator complete control of all spray and cleaning functions without leaving the cab with an additional machine-mounted panel to control all mixing and tank fill functions from the machine workstation.

Farmer John Carroll says: “I’ve run Leader 3 sprayers for a number of years and always been very happy with the performance; it’s an excellent sprayer, but I wanted a bigger tank and boom and so I have ordered a Leader 4-Series

The Leader 3 sprayer.

36. I’ve been very impressed with what I have seen so far of the Team Leader range.”

Team managing director Danny Hubbard comments: “Our Leader sprayers have outperformed expectation this year. We feel that being a British-based company gives us an advantage in terms of the lead times and service we can offer our customers. All our sprayers are built to order at our factory in Ely, so we can react quickly to our customers’ needs.” FG

The Arian 2 Mounted Sprayer Exceptional boom stability

The new Arian 2 Sprayer comes in 1200L, 1600L and 1800L tank sizes.

“

The rear folding boom has made a massive difference, it’s so quick and easy to hitch on and off the tractor. It’s a very well built sprayer and the price was reasonable. We’ve been very pleased with it; it’s doing a good job for us.

“

HOWARD WALSHAW, FARMER

For further information, please get in touch.

team-sprayers.com • 01353 661211

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Sprayer combo doubles potential capacity

Next gen self-propelled sprayer brings major updates Agrifac has introduced a new generation of Condor self-propelled sprayers, the Agrifac Condor V. The design has been updated in line with the Condor Endurance II. Major updates include the Stage 5 Cummins engine built into the heart of the machine, as well as a number of improvements in line with Agrifac’s ‘4 e for growers’ concept.

Since its introduction, the Agrifac Condor has been renowned for stability, precision and innovation.

The patented StabiloPlus chassis provides “unparalleled stability in comparison to any other sprayer in the world,” Agrifac says.

GreenFlowPlus ensures continuous pressure using the speciallydesigned pump, so there’s no difference in spraying at any point during operation, and no residual liquid left.

The extremely comfortable

cab features the EcoTronicPlus control system, which is easy to understand and operate, Agrifac says. With options that give wider track width (WideTrackPlus) and higher ground clearance (ClearancePlus), the Condor concept can be used in specific circumstances and for the most diverse crops.

In addition to various possible options and versions, the Condor is ready to spray on plant level, ensuring each individual plant receives the required dosage for its exact needs, thanks to Agrifac innovations such as AiCPlus (location-specific spraying) and DynamicDosePlus (individual dosage per nozzle). These innovations are now available on the Condor V, which is available with 4,000 or 5,000-litre tank options, and booms of up to 48m. FG

With the ability to spray faster and carry more liquid, the Hardi Mega’s performance can rival some trailed and self-propelled machines, the company says, and sets new standards for lift-mounted sprayers. With a sleek, modern design and “unparalleled comfort” for drivers, Hardi reckons it has designed a machine to keep you spraying all day.

With good manoeuvrability and easier driving on side hills, the Mega has proven itself as the trusted lift mounted sprayer for any job, Hardi adds.

Now with the added option of AirRide suspension designed for comfort in the field and on the road, the lower linkage-mounted AirRide suspension is permanently active. This increases the work rate by isolating

shocks from the tractor, providing a more stable platform to spray from and improving boom stability, allowing for increased forward speed.

The Hardi front tank in combination with the Mega doubles potential spraying capacity, whilst allowing tractors to be easily adapted.

Currently demonstrating across the UK as a pair, the combination offers further options for your spray job. Used either as a nurse tank for bringing more water into the field, or combined with the main tank as one functioning unit; it rivals the need for a self-propelled giant, Hardi believes.

The Mega is available with 1,200, 1,500, 1,800 and 2,200-litre tank sizes, with boom widths from 15–28m with different hydraulic features. FG

Introducing the Agrifac Condor V - the new generation of Condor self-propelled.

Built with the grower in mind, the Condor V offers the next step into taking care of the crop at plant level. Armed with our latest proven technologies, the Condor V is guaranteed to help you reap higher yields than ever before.

See this machine in action for yourself. Contact us to book your on-farm demo today.

UK South - James Baker: 07825 261853 UK North - Chris Potter: 07741 312197

Email: info-uk@agrifac.com | www.agrifac.co.uk 24 www.farmersguide.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying

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Change the way you farm

Wireless data transfer solution, AgFiniti, allows farmers to connect all their devices seamlessly under one account and includes a free app, so data can be viewed from anywhere.

A free Ag Leaders AgFiniti account will allow you to download and view background satellite maps on your InCommand display and facilitates remote viewing from Precise Solutions for help and support. A free AgFiniti mobile app for your iPad is also available, so your data can be viewed anytime, anywhere.

For a single user, an AgFiniti

license will allow you to connect your InCommand display to your mobile device or SMS desktop software and all data will flow seamlessly between the two. This means your data will always be securely stored and available to view and use at your convenience.

For the larger user, an AgFiniti account will mean you can connect

all InCommand displays so that they can share information such as field boundaries and guidance lines.

The farm manager is also able to view this data and make informed decisions on the go via their mobile device, desktop or the AgFiniti Mobile (for iPad). The farm manager will be able to track all machines via AgFiniti, as well as see Live Stats such as yield/

application rate and forward speed. If DisplayCast is also being used, then the manager will see Live Maps from the machines that are connected and each machine can share guidance lines, field boundaries and data on the fly.

Perhaps the most important part of AgFiniti is the data itself, Ag Leader says. The company takes no ownership of the data and has no access to the data without permission.

It will always remain the property of the owner and can only be shared if the owner gives permission to do so.

Coupled with the Precise Solutions F1RTK NTRIP and data network that covers the UK, AgFiniti can offer all customers a solution to be connected and to change the way they farm, Ag Leaders explains.

Data was once difficult to use and to manage, but with AgFiniti, a lot of the data processing is done automatically in the background, the company notes. All you have to do is look at it and make informed decisions as needed. For those who really like to crunch data and make analysis of yield, soil types, fertility etc., the Ag Leaders SMS software is still available. FG

MEGA e c n a m r o f r e p l ul f n o ti a r y ope

Eas

N O I T A R T S N O M E D N O !

W K U NO E H T S S O R AC

Available with tank sizes from 1200 up to 2200L, the HARDI MEGA sets new standards for lift-mounted sprayers. Spray faster with more capacity than ever before, with all the guaranteed HARDI benefits that take the effort out of your spraying operations.

MINIMUM DOWNTIME / SUPERB COMFORT / FULL ISOBUS EXPERIENCE Get in touch to book your MEGA demonstration: Peter Wiles (UK South): 07901 856734 / Stephen Dunning (UK North): 07785 707746 Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk 25

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Independent platform helps farmers predict pest and disease risk With farmers now considering disease control and integrated pest management (IPM) programmes, CropMonitor Pro, which was launched last year, could help to take the guesswork out of pest pressure. rise of emerging pesticide resistance in the UK. “What makes CropMonitor Pro different to other decision support solutions on the market is that it uses independent data that’s then validated against extensive datasets.

“Whether you’re a farmer looking to improve the timeliness of your spray programmes, or an agronomist looking for a field-walking support tool, [it] will help you to demonstrate a commitment to responsible crop protection use.”

As farmers face the loss of more key active ingredients, ensuring optimum performance from the remaining chemistry will prove vital.

By pinpointing the most likely risk of disease, farmers will be able to apply products in a way that maximises their efficacy, and therefore maximises return on investment.

This is all without compromising the overall spray programme, as CropMonitor Pro’s primary aim is to encourage best practice and improved resistance management. Users may also see added cost benefits,

Often referred to as the ‘cornerstone of IPM’, monitoring is important in not only assessing pest thresholds and their risk to crop health, but also in ensuring that protection inputs are applied in a timely and effective manner.

Based on a network of more than 30 independent monitoring sites, the CropMonitor Pro decision support system analyses a host of yieldimpacting data, including weather, crop growth stage, disease levels, insect counts and disease spore loads.

This is then combined and translated into field-level risk alerts, supporting the farmer in making timely decisions to combat diseases such as septoria tritici, potato late blight and sclerotinia.

The platform was funded by Innovate UK and developed by Fera for Crop Health and Protection (CHAP), one of the UK’s Agri-Tech Innovation Centres. CHAP CEO, Fraser Black, says: “Developing tools to support the sustainable use of pesticides is critical – not only to improve the bottom-line of our growers, but also to protect our environment and halt the rapid

dependent on disease risk per season.

Should an alert need to be actioned, the platform’s four-day Met Office weather assessment means users are given more notice – particularly useful if further inputs, such as crop protection products, need to be procured.

CHAP commercial director, Linsey Cresswell, explains: “Once registered, users have access to the platform which features a simple traffic light system highlighting crop susceptibility and optimum spray times.

“It is mobile device-compatible, so can be used with smartphones and tablets – ideal for remote access.

“Given the recent challenges of Covid-19, this couldn’t be more pertinent as it allows both farmers and agronomists the ability to monitor crop and potential disease development, whilst adhering to the constraints of social distancing.”

CropMonitor Pro is currently available to support oilseed rape, wheat and potato production for farms across England. For more information, visit www.cropmonitor.co.uk FG

NORAC Boom Height Control Systems available for select manufacturers The Benefits of Boom Height Control

Reduce Operator Stress • Operators no longer have to continuously look at the boom • Allows operator to focus on drive path • Operator can go faster Cover More Acres • Work day and night – sensors do not need light to “see” • Take advantage of low wind conditions at night • Spray faster – no manual boom adjustments Other Benefits/Features • Boom height control systems may offer other features such as Headlands Assist so that the boom can be automatically lifted and lowered at the end of the field • Satisfaction guaranteed Derek Johnston +44 (0) 1228 580372 sales@precise-solutions.co.uk

Cote House, Wetheral Carlise, Cumbria CA4 8HZ

Maintain Proper Spray Tip Height • Increase application efficiency – get the most from your spray • Too low = Streaking • Too High = Drift Issues • Ensures chemical application is not wasted due to improper boom height Protect Sprayer From Damage • Accurate control • Avoid ground strikes • Prevents downtime from repairing bent booms and broken spray nozzels Hybrid Mode™ • An advanced crop sensing feature for in-crop spraying that eliminates the need for the operator to take manual Patented control of the boom in a row crops or adverse situations such as lodged, thin and uneven crop

Precise Solutions www.precise-solutions.co.uk

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

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Feeding the growing global population and protecting the environment...

Controlled Environment Agriculture Using agri-tech solutions to optimise use of crop nutrients, water, energy and space, helping growers increase yields and profits and improve crop quality.

Soil Health Replicating crop production cycles (tillage, drilling, crop development and harvesting) to optimise growing conditions and soil biome development, to improve soil health.

Crop Protection Finding novel strategies and biosolutions to combat reductions in available active substances, optimising timing and application techniques within an Integrated Pest Management programme.

Data Diagnostic Insights Developing digital agronomy solutions to help growers use data to assess and predict risks and benefits, optimising yields, profits and sustainability.

To find out more, contact us at enquiries@chap-solutions.co.uk or visit chap-solutions.co.uk Guide to Spring Spraying www.farmersguide.co.uk 27

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Leeb Stay close to the crop

Leeb LT BoomControl ensures precision spraying close to the crop at speed and over hilly terrain.

Leeb AX Leeb LT Leeb GS Leeb TD

- 3,800 litres, 18m-30m working widths - 4-6,000 litres, 18m-45m working widths - 6-8,000 litres, 18m-45m working widths - 12,000 litres, 18m-45m working widths

POWERED BY

Visit horsch.com, your local HORSCH dealer or call 01733 667895.

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