Bruchid beetle has badly affected bean crops in the southern half of England, but those in the North and Scotland should be better off.
Salvador Potter, chief executive of the Processors and Growers Research Organisation, said crops in the South had up to 50% infestation, with an average of 20-30% damage.
“The hot June and July really played into the beetles’ hands.” Typically, growers sprayed when temperatures first reached 20°C for two consecutive days, and again seven to 10 days later.
“But we had a long period of hot weather, so the crop was susceptible for a long time. Some growers sprayed three times, but you can’t use Hallmark more than twice.”
Both winter and spring crops had been susceptible, due to the later flowering and podding of winter beans, which coincided with the beetles’ egg laying, he said.
But cooler weather further north meant later crops should be better quality. “We think the incidence will be worst in the early crops in the South.”
Rain over harvest meant many peas were suffering from bleaching, he added. “Anyone with good quality pea and bean samples should make a decent premium.”