Cold or wet conditions have limited spraying opporunities, prevented applications of P&K fertiliser etc..... Ploughing/cultivations for spring crops has been possible on light chalks, but most other soils remain too wet to work.
The un-exciting prospects for spring crops mean fallow will be used in the occasional field which has particular weed issues.
Winter cereal crops have come through the cold and snow relatively unscathed, and any untreated crops will no longer need an aphicide. Some frost lift has been seen, but levels do not appear too damaging.
Although we had the best of intentions to apply Atlantis in the autumn to small black-grass plants, this was in many cases not possible. Black-grass is now well tillered, and it is vital to take every step possible to maximise product efficacy.
Samples are currently being taken for soil mineral nitrogen testing in fields where high residual nitrogen levels are predicted/the crop has specifice qualtiy requirements. Results should be viewed as one of the tools available, rather than the definitive answer.
Remember grain nitrogen levels are a useful way of assessing how accurate nitrogen rates have been, and thereby provide guidance for the future. You should have this info. going back for a number of years and it is free!
Given the concerns with declining bee populations etc... a fellow agronomist and myself have arranged for a beekeeper to come and talk to our clients. The aim is for both parties to better understand the other, and ensure that farmer and agronomist minimise any impact they may have on bees whenever possible. I am sure a healthy debate will ensue!
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