Farm-saved seed offers cost-cutting potential…
Farm-saved seed offers cost-cutting potential…
Sowing farm-saved cereal seed could bring growers big savings this autumn. Robert Harris examines the practicalities involved
ENQUIRIES for farm-saved cereal seed are up on last year. That reflects the keenness of growers to cut costs as cereal prices remain low, mirroring the situation already seen with oilseed rape (Arable, Aug 22).
"Its difficult to say whether those enquiries will turn into more orders. But we expect to do at least as well as last year," says Charles Goldingham of Glos-based seed treatment firm Goldingham Contracts. Bill Eaton of Oxon-based CYO Seeds anticipates a 15% rise in orders.
Respectable yields of wheat came off in good condition in his area, boosting farmer confidence. "Brigadier has done better than expected, and many growers are now looking to save it again," says Mr Goldingham. Riband and Hereward will also be popular – all three each took about 20% of his market last year. Reaper, Charger and Rialto are also expected to figure well.
Most of his customers dress seed. "We certainly advise it. If there is evidence of fusarium it should be tested. But germination tests can identify the threat, and modern seed dressings, especially Sibutol, are very good at controlling it."
Seed crops on Velcourts farms received two ear sprays to control fusarium where disease pressure was high, says technical director Keith Norman. "Alarm bells start ringing once levels on seed exceed 10-15%, although chemical manufacturers claim you can control up to 30% infection.
Certified seed prices are slipping, but farm saving is still cheaper. If quality is good you could save the cost of a dressing too (inset).
FARM-SAVEDCEREALS
• More fusarium than last year, but levels vary.
• Half NIAB tests under 5% treatment threshold.
• Bunt low.
• Barley dormancy lifting.
• Net blotch common.