WHEAT GROWERS should not let fears of crop damage stop them including a growth regulator with T2 fungicides this spring, says BASF.

Increased risk of lodging outweighs any risk of crop scorch – which can be avoided by following best practice, said the firm’s PGR product manager, Matthew Blaken.

“Growers should be aware of the possibility of crop damage, especially from complex tank mixes. But the fact is, it is easy to avoid.

“The precautions are pertinent this season because the flag leaf may be soft when it emerges due to the moist growing conditions. There hasn’t been a hot, dry spell to activate a significant protective build up of wax on the leaf surface.”

Mr Blaken highlights three key steps growers can follow to minimise the risk of crop damage when including a PGR at T2:

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  Avoid using complex tank mixes e.g. containing a herbicide, or more than one emulsifiable concentrate formulation
  
  
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  Use water volumes above 150 litres/ha
  
  
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  Spray in early morning or late evening – especially in periods of high temperatures

Keep track of crop development and disease pressures throughout the season with Crop Watch , brought to you by FWi and FARMERS WEEKLY magazine.