The latest arable crop report from the Agricultural Development and Advisory Service (ADAS) reveals that winter drilled crops were in good condition at the end of March.
The weather was mainly dry and mild with below average rainfall, allowing pesticide and fertiliser applications to be made and a start to cultivations ahead of spring drilling.
ADAS is confirming that winter wheat crops were in good condition at the end of March with typical crops at the mid to late tillering stage.
Control of black-grass and broadleaved weeds was good, although some spring germinating weeds were starting to emerge towards the end of the month. Septoria tritici blotch, mildew, yellow and brown rust were all present in crops at low levels. Most crops have received their first nitrogen application, with nitrogen being delayed to very forward crops in order to reduce lodging risk later in the season. Phosphorus, potassium and manganese were applied where needed.
Most winter barley crops were drilled in the optimum September-October window and have established well. Typical crops were at late tillering by the end of March, with more forward crops at early stem elongation. Low levels of Rhynchosporium, net blotch and brown rust were present in crops. Mildew levels were variable. Most crops have received their first nitrogen.
Source - http://www.farminglife.com/
