IN BRIEF
IN BRIEF
uGROWERS seem set to gain better aphid attack predictions as the first of several new pest and disease warning schemes, says the HGCA. Data and interpretation of the BBSRC funded Rothamsted Insect Survey will be made available to growers and advisors by fax or e-mail if suitable sponsors for such a service can be found. "We are optimistic we can get something going," says IACR-Rothamsted researcher Richard Harrington.
uPOROUS pavements containing biological filters are being investigated as a way to cut pesticide pollution from farmyards. The hydrocarbon industry uses them to deal with chemicals spills, says ADASs Andrée Carter. In one area 40% of IPU pollution has been traced to farmyard splashes, drips and rinsing water.
uA NEW parsnip variety, Panache, is the first of a range of Elsoms hybrids intended to complement standard open-pollinated types New White Skin and top pre-packer Arrow. It has good flesh structure, sweet fresh taste and is ideal for Oct-Feb production, says the firms Nick Sandall.
uWINTER oat variety Millennium has been added to the 2000 Recommended List after further work showed its yellow husk should have no influence on market acceptability. The IGER/WPBS-bred variety becomes Provisionally Recommended for General Use after a decision was deferred last November.
uGREEN waste compost could supply all or most of the nutrients for a good crop of sugar beet but not potatoes, according to a trials report by Enventure Research on behalf of Suffolk Waste Disposal Company.