BEET GROWERS across the country have been warned to maintain vigilance as warm, dry weather conditions will increase the risk of powdery mildew in sugar beet crops.

The warning from the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO) follows the predictions made earlier this year that more than half the national crop is likely to be infected by the disease by the end of August.

The increased risk this season is largely due to few ground frosts in February and March, as well as the more favourable weather conditions of recent days.

“The risk of powdery mildew was high even before this latest spell of favourable weather,” said BASF‘s Matthew Blaken.

“So growers will be well advised to prepare now for what could be an early onset of disease this season.”

The BBRO warned that signs of the disease will be appearing on farms in major growing regions such as East Anglia, Lincolnshire and the Midlands before the end of July.

Early action will be vital in maximizing the yield potential of the crop.

For example, Mr Blaken recommends an application of Opera at 1.0 l/ha at the first sign of disease.