Midland Farmer

EDITORIAL

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Midland Farmer is a controlled circulation magazine published monthly for farmers and growers in the Midlands (Derbyshire, Herefordshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire) or companies supplying goods and services to the sector. To be included on the circulation list, a farmer must have a minimum of 70 acres of land, or 50 dairy/beef stock, or 50 breeding sows/250 growing stock, or 15,000 laying hens/broiler chickens. Intensive horticulture units are required to have a minimum of two hectares.

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OPINION Johann Tasker

Tax threatens fields that feed us

At a time when the government claims to champion a resilient, sustainable food system, its inheritance tax reform proposals risk undermining the very foundation of that vision: Britain’s family farms.

Draft legislation, due to take effect in April 2026, would see a 20% inheritance tax levied on farming assets worth over £1 million. Ministers say the move is aimed at curbing tax avoidance by wealthy individuals buying farmland.

But the policy doesn’t just miss the mark—it hits entirely the wrong target. As the NFU rightly warns, the measure would not deter speculative buyers. Instead, it places long-established farm businesses—many of which have been in families for generations—under financial threat.

Working farmers

These are not absentee landowners seeking tax shelters. They are working farmers whose wealth is bound up in the land, the machinery, and the legacy they intend to pass on.

Strip that away, and you don’t just fracture a family business – you jeopardise a domestic food system already under strain.

There is a credible alternative on the table. The NFU’s proposed ‘clawback’ mechanism would allow the Treasury to recover tax revenue if land

is sold for non-agricultural purposes within a set period. It targets speculative gain without punishing active producers.

So why isn’t the government listening?

Mixed messages

The refusal of Chancellor Rachel Reeves to meet farming representatives to discuss the issue is both baffling and deeply worrying.

Food security is, as the government itself has said, national security. But the mixed messages coming out of Downing Street are stark.

On one hand, government ministers promote the ‘Good Food Cycle’, talking up collaboration and sustainability. On the other, they press ahead with a policy that could uproot the very people delivering that vision.

If this government is serious about building a food system for the future, it must show it is willing to listen now. Agriculture cannot be an afterthought. The backbone of the countryside— our farmers—deserve fair, workable policy. There is still time to rethink this tax. The question is whether ministers have the political will to do so before irreversible damage is done.

Johann Tasker Editor

Inheritance tax won’t achieve government’s goal – NFU

• Tax ‘betrayal’ of farming families

• Government unveils fi nance bill

• Ministers refuse to discuss plan

Industry leaders have again warned that imposing inheritance tax on farming families will fail to achieve the government’s aims.

The NFU issued the warning as the government laid out draft legislation for its finance bill – including plans to levy 20% inheritance tax on farming assets worth more than £1 million from April 2026.

NFU president Tom Bradshaw urged the government to look again at the union’s alternative solution he says would prevent farmers from becoming “collateral damage” from the planned reforms.

farmland to avoid inheritance tax. Neither would it generate as much revenue as it should, he said.

On the other hand, the NFU’s clawback solution would allow the Treasury to raise the revenue it seeks without tearing apart farming families or jeopardising domestic food production, said Mr Bradshaw.

ing the government’s own – had called on Chancellor Rachel Reeves to reverse her plan. So too had county councils, businesses and more than 250,000 members of the public.

‘Clawback solution’

The current policy would fail to achieve the government’s intention to stop wealthy people from buying

F“At the heart of this battle are the elderly farmers who have devoted their entire lives to growing food for the country and supporting their rural communities. They should not become collateral damage.

“Despite our persistent efforts, Chancellor Rachel Reeves still refuses to meet us,” said Mr Bradshaw. “When you undermine farm businesses, you undermine a vital part of our national infrastructure.”

arm minister Daniel Zeichner has unveiled the next stage of the government’s food strategy – including plans for a sustainable supply chain.

The Good Food Cycle aims to encourage healthier diets in a way which works for consumers as well as producers. It includes a 10-point plan drawn up with industry representatives and consumer groups.

Mr Zeichner said: “Food security is national security – we need a resilient food system that can weather any storm while ensuring families across the country can access affordable, healthy food.”

The government’s goal was a food system which would help the businesses that feed our nation to grow and thrive, said Mr Zeichner. This would mean more jobs and stronger local economies, while making it easier for families to eat and feel better.

“To see them face such uncertainty, knowing the legacy they and their families have worked hard for and grown could be ripped away by this tax, is heartbreaking.

“I cannot begin to imagine the fear many must be feeling right now – their homes, their livelihoods and eve-

“We cannot stand by and watch

“To ignore the consequences this tax will bring would be a betrayal of the very people who feed our nation. We cannot stand by and watch the backbone of the countryside be broken when there is a credible alternative being offered.

“This is a moment that demands

Strategy focuses on Good Food Cycle

Tom Bradshaw: farms could be ‘ripped away’ from families The food

and that a thriving, profitable farming industry is critical to delivering this.”

The site itself had a high pressure gas main running through the middle of it which we had to cross a couple of times.

Besides the drainage a new ditch was cut, intake silt traps and new culvert pipes installed.

July was an extremely busy month for us. Around 80 acres of land drainage, numerous irrigation pipe repairs and fixing of domestic water leaks!

The 80 acres had around 300 metres of 9” (225mm) mains with 160mm sub mains and 80mm laterals.

Aerial view of the whole site. The client was eager to start

•

• Planning applications for residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural projects

• Pre-application and general planning advice

• Discharge of conditions

• Objection letters (where justiﬁed)

• Planning appeals

• Permitted development guidance

• Planning appraisals

• Lawful development certiﬁcate applications

• Section 106 negotiations

• Development plan representations

• Speaking at Planning Committee

Yield results

Some 10% of the UK winter barley area was harvested by 9 July, suggests the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. This compares with 7% at the same time last year and a five-year average of 6% complete.

Early-cut winter barley and oilseed rape have yielded reasonably well in places – despite blistering heat and near-total lack of rain during May and June – offering a glimmer of hope after a season that tested nerves and stretched resources.

But that hope is tempered by significant inconsistencies. While some growers report winter barley yielding above the five-year average at 9t/ha, it’s a very different story for others seeing less than 5t/ha on lighter land – with crops typically performing better on heavier clays than on sandier soils.

Oilseed rape

It’s a similar story for winter wheat. But winter oilseed rape appears to be faring surprisingly

lots of ladybirds.”

The biggest challenge for many growers came last month when rain finally arrived but in the form of torrential downpours.

With combines confined to barracks for days on end, farmers went from praying for rain to fearing what would happen next.

Varietal importance

Agronomists point to improved genetics and targeted agronomy as crucial in getting crops over the line – a reminder of how much resilience is now bred into modern varieties in a big to combat climate extremes.

Grain quality is another mixed bag. Hagbergs and proteins in milling wheat have held up, but concerns are rising about sprouting in crops yet to be harvested – and that accounts for the majority on many farms.

Looking ahead, many growers say 2025 will be remembered not as an overall disaster or a success, but for its contrasts. With adjacent fields performing very differently, this harvest is one of extremes rather than one of averages.

Credit offered for crop failure

rowers will be offered a credit of £100 per bag of seed from Bayer for oilseed rape establishment failures

The Dekalb Establishment Scheme for 2025 covers highperformance hybrid oilseed rape varieties DK Excentric,DK Extremus, DK Excited, DK Exstar and clubroot-resistant DMH585.

Bayer campaign manager Richard Phillips says: “Should cabbage stem flea beetle or other oilseed rape crop establishment pressures prove too much this autumn, we will be on hand.”

Growers can claim for total establishment failure of blocks of 6ha or more – either as whole fields or as single uninterrupted blocks within larger fields.

Registration is simple and free , says Mr Phillips. The rules of engagement state that seed must be purchased through a participating seed supplier and crops sown using normal good practice before 20 September 2025.

The closing date for registration is 30 September and claim forms must be completed and submitted via the seed supplier by 31 October. For full details, growers should speak with their seed supplier when purchasing seed.

For those growing an eligible variety, joining the Dekalb Establishment Scheme is a nobrainer, says United Oilseeds seed manager Beckii Gibbs.

“Why wouldn’t you join? You have nothing to lose from taking advantage of the scheme; it’s without doubt a useful tool in managing the risk of oilseed rape establishment failure and it can add a little bit of confidence.”

Growers of specialist HOLL oil variety V367OL should contact their supplier directly for information on the parallel HOLL-specific Establishment Scheme. Claims made under this scheme must be submitted by 15 September 2025.

Philip Allen harvests a 4.38t/ha crop of Pinnacle oilseed rape on 13 July

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Emissions from wheat ‘can be halved’

Carbon emissions from wheat production can be halved, suggest trials by growers supplying grain to Weetabix.

The Lower Carbon Wheat Project was conducted on behalf of the Weetabix Grower’s Group, a collective of over 120 local farmers who grow 75,000 tonnes of wheat annually within 50 miles of the breakfast cereal maker’s mills.

Reducing emissions in wheat production is seen as a critical step in reducing the overall carbon footprint of Weetabix’s largest single ingredient. The trial was undertaken by six farmers from the group.

Results were shared with the rest of the group during a recent farm walk attended by 47 growers and members of the Weetabix team, who worked closely with Map of Ag and European Food and Farming Partnerships.

Host farmer Duncan Farrington said he had achieved a 20% reduction in synthetic nitrogen use in three years by using cover crops, natural manures, and molasses-based biologicals to replenish soil nutrients.

Artifical nitrogen is the largest carbon contributor to greenhouse gas emissions at Mr Farrington’s farm at Hargrave, Northamptonshire. But it is now able to produce wheat with half its usual carbon footprint.

Weetabix Food Company managing

“This lower carbon wheat project is a game-changer, not just for Weetabix but for the wider food industry and the future of sustainable agriculture in the UK. Doing the right thing isn’t just a ‘nice to have’ - it also makes commercial sense.”

A farmer-led approach was vital to the success of the project, said Mr O’Dwyer. Weetabix’s promise to source all its wheat from within 50-miles of its mills was part of the

“Making sure that the pilot scheme reflects the diversity of farming, soil types and climate conditions amongst growers is essential to scale the project

King Charles granted Weetabix a royal warrant earlier this year. The company has now been recognised by three generations of the Royal

It said it remained committed to helping the nation start its day in a

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Later emergence opens new front in blackgrass battle

• Blackgrass now emerging later

• Implications for cultural control

• Spray sequences are important

The later and more protracted emergence of blackgrass is prompting a shift in control strategies.

Continued use of successful management strategies for blackgrass control developed by agronomy company Hutchinsons is starting to lead to a shift in population dynamics, says technical manager Dick Neale.

“Growers have been using the tactics we proposed at our Brampton site of stale seedbeds through September, shallow tillage, sprayed off with glyphosate, delaying drilling until at least 15 October for the past 10 years.

“We are now dealing with a blackgrass population that is 10-fold fewer, so maybe only 40-50 plants compared with 400-500 plants per square meter – but one where those 40-50 plants are emerging between the beginning of October and Christmas.”

In the field

To test that theory, Hutchinsons sprayed small plots of its new blackgrass demonstration site in

Blackgrass emergence is happening later

“You’ll get a much better result

of sequences rather than large single stacks of pre-emergence herbicides.

“We have selected for a population that is emerging in October more than in September – so when you are using stale seedbeds make an effort to observe what is happening.

“If it has rained in September and you know blackgrass should be emerging and it’s not – make a note of that, as it is telling you something.”

plants more apparent in relative terms, but it shouldn’t distract from the vital role of controlling the largest part of the population.”

Blackgrass control has been above average this year, helped by delayed drilling caused by torrential rain in mid-September and then excellent conditions for residual herbicides to work when drilling could proceed in late October and November.

This means the lower effectiveness of stale seedbeds might be less of a problem than in other years. That doesn’t mean not to continue using the technique or glyphosate predrilling, but it could mean that adding glyphosate to pre-emergence sprays is the more effective timing.

Protected emergence

With more protracted blackgrass emergence, Mr Neale suggests residual herbicide sequences are becoming even

“We’ve seen it in our trials for the past five seasons – sequences are outperforming single applications significantly,” he says.

Herbicidal activity from single pre-emergence applications will have degraded and diminished, so any blackgrass emerging more than 30 days after application will be at risk of not being controlled adequately, Mr

Arable

>> Sequencing doesn’t have to mean spending much, if any, more on herbicides, though, he stresses.

“We showed clearly in our trials this year that you can take the same amount of money and by splitting it, you’ll get a much better result than trying to second-guess the exact timing for one application.”

Some products must be used at pre-emergence for crop safety or label approval reasons, while others are more effective and should be prioritised for use at that timing.

“Cinmethylin, for example, is very much a seed and root uptake product, so it needs to pre-emergence of blackgrass to get the best from it.”

Protected emergence

Avadex Factor (tri-allate) and aclonifen must be used pre-emergence of the crop.

In contrast, metribuzin, in combination with flufenacet and diflufenican, and Isoflex (bixlozone) products have a particular strength in controlling blackgrass that is just emerging.

These products are therefore believed to be potentially better

suited to a peri-emergence or early post-emergence second application.

Drilling date and weather should also influence decision-making regarding sequencing, with dry conditions potentially indicating the need to split the pre-emergence spray into two applications.

Earlier drilled crops

“While for 15 October drilling dates I might apply Avadex (Factor) and cinmethylin together at preemergence, for those earlier drilled crops in drier conditions I might sit on the cinmethylin for maybe another 10 days after drilling to wait for wetter and/or cooler weather.”

Weather conditions and farm setup play an important role in determining whether to use the granular Avadex Excel or liquid Avadex Factor formulations of tri-allate, rather than just focusing on which one delivers the most active ingredient, according to Dr Smith.

“Both formulations have different strengths,” he says.

Overall, in trials, Avadex Excel has the edge over the Avadex Factor formulation, says Dr Smith. “But the

Autumn germination peak is becoming less pronounced, says Will Smith

average hides a lot of detail; in some trials, one has the advantage, in others it’s the other.”

For example, in autumn 2023, Avadex Factor performed on par with or better than its competitors in virtually every single trial, primarily due to drilling conditions.

Labour availability

On some farms, Avadex Factor might be the best option, particularly where sprayer capacity and labour availability allow for pre-emergence herbicides within 48 hours of drilling.

Where farmers have access to an Avadex Excel applicator or a reliable local contractor, applications of Avadex Excel may make most sense.

Whichever formulation is used, Avadex has been a consistent base to residual herbicide programmes.

“Every year, we see a 15-20% uplift in blackgrass control where Avadex is used as part of the programme compared with where it isn’t.

“It’s very consistent regardless of the overall control level of the programme, including where newer chemistry such as cinmethylin is used,” says Dr Smith.

ZIEHL FANS

Change in seed purchasing welcomed by sugar beet growers

Britain’s growers have embraced changes to sugar beet seed purchasing arrangements, says global sugar beet breeder SESVanderHave.

Since 2024, farmers can purchase sugar beet seed direct from plant breeders, as well as from British Sugar.

“We launched our campaign to supply growers direct for the 2026 sowing at the 2025 Cereals event,” said Ian Munnery, UK director for SESVanderHave (pictured).

“We have been overwhelmed by the response. The orders exceeded our expectations and more orders have been placed.”

Growers visiting the SESVanderHave stand at Cereals this summer were asked what benefits they believed buying direct from offered. Reasons included decisions based on service, quality and cost.

Advice and back-up scored highly with farmers. Respondents mentioned the "comprehensive support"when

buying direct. They also valued ‘dealing with experienced sugar beet experts and ‘customer support’.

“Such comments endorse the value of the investment we’ve made in people and training,” said Mr Munnery.

Choice and access to the latest varieties were rated highly too – alongside freedom of choice and access to the latest varieties.

Seed quality matters. One long-standing customer noted: “Their seed always germinates and produces a good yield.”

Fresh seed

Buying direct ensures growers receive fresh seed, said Mr Munnery. The varieties we supply for 2026 will be harvested during 2025. And as seed is processed in our facilities growers enjoy more choice on seed treatments and pelleting.”

Economics influence growers’ decisions. Sev-

eral farmers described the SESVanderHave offer as competitive and cost effective.

“These responses confirm that UK sugar beet growers welcome a fresh way to source seed,” said Mr Munnery. “Currently, SESVanderHave is looking to even more improvements in in our breeding pipeline.”

SESVanderHave varieties for 2026 include the recently launched Possum, Pintail, Patridge, Grouse and Snipe which offer early access to the latest, most promising varieties with innovative genetics. These join Antler, Aslan, Hoopoe and Gadwall which all proved successful in 2025, their first commercial year of use.

SESVanderHave has an online webshop where growers can provisionally secure varieties for 2026 before a contract price announcement from British Sugar & NFU Sugar. This can be found at https://eshop.sesvanderhave. com/uk/

Alternatively, the SESVanderHave team is available on 01522 442000 offering growers expert advice on the best variety for particular locations and soil type.

Precision guidance takes hoe to next level

Ainter-row hoeing on an arable farm operating the latest Fendt tractors with VarioGuide RTK.

Accurate to +/-2cm, the system on the 942 Vario is used to direct drill cereal crops in bands with a 6m Claydon Evolution, while that on the 724 Vario guides a 6m Claydon TerraBlade which is steered automatically using the tractor’s front wheels.

binable, band-sown crops.

““VarioGuide RTK takes inter-row hoeing to the next level and this season we used it on over 150ha, with higher output and improved weed control,” says Claydon Drill founder and Wickhambrook farmer Jeff Claydon.

Peace of mind

“Compared with cereals drilled on narrow/conventional row spacings the 17cm banded rows at 32cm centres provided plenty of tolerance and gave us peace of mind that the crop would not be damaged.”

With weeds becoming increasingly resistant to herbicides and little new chemistry on the horizon the TerraBlade provides a low-cost, mechanical method of controlling them in com-

All cereal crops are virtually weed-free

It is popular with farmers wanting to operate more effectively and efficiently, while organic and regenerative farmers also use it to reduce weed burdens and costs.

Keeping the area between the seeded bands clear of weeds during the early stages of crop growth reduces competition for nutrients, light, air and water, so young plants grow strong and healthy.

A relatively dry early April provided ideal conditions for the TerraBlade. Operating 1cm to 2cm deep, the standard 150mm-wide scalping blades sliced through the soil removing weeds between the seeded bands but leaving the crop intact.

Operating at up to 12km/h, depending on field and soil conditions, it averaged 6-7ha/hr, almost double the previous figure, and caused no damage, even at Growth Stage 32, says Mr Claydon.

All cereal crops on the Claydon farm are virtually weed-free, and

the shallow soil mulch created by the blades helped to retain moisture.

Field trials

Trials by a major agronomy company on another farm where grassweeds had become problematic after years of conventional crop establishment measured over 900 blackgrass seeds heads/m2 in an untreated area. Where herbicides were used in combination with a Claydon Straw Harrow and a Claydon TerraBlade researchers recorded just 13/m2, a 98.5% reduction. This gave a yield increase worth £256/ha, which quickly covered the implement’s cost.

Designed to work in direct drilled cereal crops established using Claydon trailed and mounted direct drills, the TerraBlade costs approximately £2000-£2500 per metre, a fraction that of more complex hoes.

Available in widths to match Claydon drills, the TerraBlade’s simple design means that there is little to maintain.

The 6m TerraBlade and Fendt 724 Vario hoe a winter wheat crop.

Inset: The scalping blades operate 1-2cm deep and slice through weed roots.

Clearfield rape ‘perfect’ for following HEAR varieties

Oilseed rape growers moving on from HEAR varieties are being encouraged to consider growing a Clearfield variety instead.

Volunteers rape plants left from HEAR varieties could see high levels of erucic acid in following crops –limiting their marketability, says Sarah Hawthorne of DSV UK.

A Clearfield variety is the perfect opportunity for cleaning up such crops, she adds.

Weed control

“Clearfield technology, based on a combination of Imazamox herbicide and oilseed rape varieties tolerant to it, has proved highly beneficial to oilseed rape growers in recent years offering effective control of pernicious brassica weeds.

“The system has provided reliable control of problem weeds such as charlock, runch and hedge mustard but has also opened up significant management opportunities for many growers in recent years including reducing erucic acid levels at harvest.

“With HEAR varieties becoming increasingly unpopular, growing a Clearfield variety could help reduce unwanted volunteers in following seasons that otherwise would be very difficult to control.”

All three Clearfield varieties on the 2024/25 Recommended List are now from DSV. All offering yields

says Sarah Hawthorne

How water traps can help control flea beetle

Yellow water traps are helping growers win the battle against cabbage stem flea beetle in oilseed rape.

Flea beetle was not much in evidence in MagicTraps deployed last autumn by farm manager Jake Freestone. Trap counts were low in what was generally a low pressure season for the oilseed rape pest in most regions.

Mr Freestone deployed two digital traps, which were part of the United Oilseeds MagicTrap network. They were placed on different soil types and in different areas of Overbury Farm, which sits on the Herefordshire/ Worcestershire border.

Sporadic problem

Flea beetle has been a sporadic problem at Overbury since neonicotinoid seed treatments were banned in 2013. Despite flea beetle challenge, rape has retained its place in the rotation on the

farm, although the area has dropped.

“We’re combining about 1100ha [of arable crops] here and on the farm next door and probably 200ha would traditionally have been rapeseed,” says Mr Freestone.

“I have persevered with it, although for one reason and another the area had slipped back a little this year but that was mainly down to rotation and we’re due to go back up again this year.”

Key aim

With agronomy based on integrated pest management, a key aim is to avoid using synthetic insecticides where possible. No insecticides have been used on the farm since 2018, which uses cultural methods to avoid them.

Land going into rape receives an application of poultry litter after the crop is direct drilled into chopped straw and a decent stubble. Companion

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The magic traps help growers monitor pest pressure

Right: Growing rape is hard – but still possible, says Jake Freestone

Last season’s newcomer DK Excentric is in the variety line-up, alongside Dolphin. A shift in OSR drilling date has also been introduced as part of the farm’s approach to flea beetle management.

Early drilling

“We have started drilling very early, in the first week of August to try and get the rape up and a leaf established before the main flea beetle migration at the end of August,” says Mr Freestone.

“We had pretty good establishment last autumn and flea beetle weren’t really an issue,” he adds. “We did have some winter stem larval damage, but the crops seemed to grow through that.”

Mr Freestone initially placed the MagicTraps in fields with rape stubble and a cover crop, before moving them into new season crops three weeks after drilling.

“My aim was firstly to get used to the technology and secondly, to have a look at what was emerging from previous oilseed rape fields to try and get a gauge on cabbage stem flea pressure, but there wasn’t much pressure at all.”

Setting up and using the two MagicTraps was straightforward, although one consideration was dealing with a patchy mobile phone signal.

“I was trying to find a place in the field where I thought the beetle were likely to land – so in the field margins, and also somewhere we could get a signal as well.

“I found I’d get a signal one day, and then the next day the signal had disappeared,” says Mr Freestone.

“We’ve started drilling very early

“That’s not a particular issue with MagicTrap, it’s a rural issue across the board.”

Insecticide policy

With no insecticides applied on the farm, Mr Freestone says he is not using MagicTrap to inform spraying decisions, instead the benefit comes in the form of saving time on crop walking. It also provides a record of what is happening with flea beetle.

“The fact that MagicTrap is recording a digital footprint means that over time we will hopefully be able to build up a picture of what sort of populations we have, in what fields and in what kind of weather.”

Following the successful rollout of the United Oilseeds MagicTrap network last year, the aim is to continue to build on the current 48trap network, says Peter Collier, United Oilseeds’ area manager for the East Anglia region.

Last year’s results have helped inform MagicTrap field positioning, timing and best practice. With more growers and more traps, wider coverage will mean an even more scientific approach, says Mr Collier.

West Country Concrete Products

Weigh up pros and cons before removing straw

• Valuable revenue this season

• Consider agronomic benefits

• But remember downsides too

Arable growers should think carefully when considering whether to bale and remove straw from fields this summer.

High prices for wheat and barley straw mean baling could make financial sense for arable farmers with easy access to markets. There are good agronomic reasons as well. But downsides should be considered too.

Benefits include aiding direct drilling, reducing slug pressure, and reducing the immobilisation of nitrogen where white straw residues build up, says Rob Jewers, fertiliser and crop nutrition specialist for Hutchinsons.

Such benefits must be weighed against other factors, says Mr Jewers.

Compaction risk

These factors include compaction from increased traffic, any impact that the timely removal of straw will have on establishing following crops, and the impact of lost organic matter on soil health and structure.

Another important consideration is the value of key nutrients removed within the straw, principally phosphate and potash, as outlined by the AHDB Nutrient Management Guide (RB209).

The guide suggests that removing straw associated with

a 10t/ha wheat crop removes 5kg/ha of phosphate and 50kg/ha of potash. Meanwhile, straw from an 8t/ha winter barley crop is worth 4kg/ha of phosphate and 40kg/ha of potash.

“The potash content of straw can vary substantially depending on the amount of water availability during crop maturity and straw baling. It can be worthwhile to determine the nutrient content of representative straw samples by laboratory analysis.”

Replacing nutrients

If growers do decide to bale, Mr Jewers says some of the money made from straw sales should be reinvested back into replacing the nutrition removed.

“Phosphate fertiliser is usually best applied to seedbeds ahead of, or at planting,” he advises. This is often as organic manure applications, or broadcast in traditional fertilisers, such as DAP and TSP.

But microgranular or liquid placement fertilisers are increasingly popular, and can deliver significant benefits to rooting and early crop vigour, says Mr Jewers.

“Placement fertilisers applied in much smaller, concentrated quantities than traditional fertilisers are highly efficient and cost effective.”

Trials at Hutchinsons’ Helix East Anglia farm showed yield responses of 0.8 t/ha and 0.6 t/ha from the placement fertilisers Crystal Green and Primary-P over an untreated control in 2022.

Potassium

Crops usually require large amounts of potassium through the season for optimum growth – potentially more than 300kg/ha in a high yielding crop. But uptake usually peaks during late flowering – before much of the potassium is returned to the soil as crops senesce.

“In order to maintain an adequate supply of potassium through the peak uptake period, the soil needs to be able to store and release exchangeable potassium into the soil solution. A good measure of the soil’s ability to do this is its cation exchange capacity.”

Clay and organic matter content have a significant impact on soil CEC, adds Mr Jewers.

Big bale hay, barley and straw prices (ex farm) 13 July 20225

Source: AHDB / British Hay & Straw Merchants Association

“A soil with over 5% organic matter, or over 5% clay, will lose little K to leaching, whereas a sandy soil with low CEC will see potassium move down the soil profile with excess rainfall.

“Soils with low indices and low CEC should have potassium applied annually. This should be in spring before peak uptake by the plant.”

To fully understand the phosphate and potash requirements of your soils, Mr Jewers recommends carrying out an in-depth soil analysis. Options includes the Gold Healthy Soils test, or Terramap high definition scanning –see healthysoils.co.uk.

Above: Baling and removing straw has advantages and disadvantages

Rob Dewers –soil health and structure

David Calvert / Shutterstock.com

How best to test before new season

• Assess soil acidity in every ﬁeld

• Measure for nutrient availability

• Remember: test for sulphur too

Growers are being reminded to test soil ahead of next season to ensure crops can meet their full potential.

Testing for acidity and nutrient availability could help offset a potential rise in fertiliser costs by ensuring growers apply what is needed in the right place, believes Phil Burrell, plant health business manager for ProCam.

“As one cropping cycle comes to an end, and growers start to get ready to drill next year’s crops, now is the ideal time to test soils, not just for pH, but also for residual reserves of nitrogen, phosphate, potash and sulphur.”

Optimal level

The fundamental factor to get right at this stage in proceedings is to ensure soil pH is as close to 6.5 as possible – the optimal level for the availability of micro and macro nutrients, says Mr Burrell.

“If soil pH falls below 6.5, meaning soils are too acidic, macronutrients such as phosphate, nitrogen and potassium will be locked up in the soil matrix and therefore be less available for uptake by the next crop in the rotation.”

Phosphate availability falls to 52% at pH 6.0, says Mr Burrell, decreasing to 48% at pH 5.5. Similarly, nitrogen and potassium availability fall to approximately 77% at pH 5.5, he adds.

Fertiliser prices

mum pH of 6.0.

“Given the political unrest in the Middle East, and the impact this could have on global fertiliser prices, it makes sense to test and adjust pH now, to ensure those nutrients already in the ground remain available for the next round of crops to utilise.”

There’s no silver bullet when it comes to unlocking crop yield , says Mr Burrell.

But rectifying pH should be on every to-do list, especially as low pH can easily and costeffectively be resolved with lime.

Closely linked

Mr Burrell also urges growers to test for sulphur. “Sulphur and the efficiency of nitrogen are closely linked, with any deficiency in the former resulting in reduced nitrogen use efficiency,” he explains.

Atmospheric sulphur deposition has fallen steadily since the 1970s when acid rain was at its peak, with 95% of soils now deficient. At the same time, only 55% of arable ground routinely receives a treatment of sulphur.

“Many farmers assume the shortfall will be made up by applications of farmyard manure or slurry. But unless these inputs have been tested to assess their nutrient content, it’s impossible to know if soils are receiving sufficient sulphur.”

Three steps for best crops

Growers should employ a three-pronged approach to get the best from crops, says Phil Burrell, from ProCam.

The first is to test soil for acidity and nutrient content on a field-by-field basis in autumn and spring so appropriate adjustments can be made ahead of cropping, he says.

Secondly, growers should also carry out in-season leaf/plant tissue analysis to assess the crop’s ongoing nutritional needs. Finally, they should carry out postharvest grain analysis to highlight any enduring nutrient deficiencies.

“Grain analysis from the 2024 harvest indicated that 60% of wheat crops were deficient in sulphur,” says Mr Burrell.

“This points to a significant shortfall in fertiliser programmes and is a clear indication that growers shouldn’t always assume that a ‘standard’ bag of fertiliser will be appropriate.”

Without enough sulphur, oilseed rape yields fall by an average of 0.5 t/ ha, while wheat yields fall by about

Instead, soils should be tested, and the results scrutinised with the help of a FACTS approved agronomist. They will be able to verify the findings and devise a suitable nutrient programme for each field, says Mr Burrell.

“According to the latest data, almost two-thirds (62%) of UK arable soils are below the optimum pH of 6.5. Likewise, one-in-three grassland soils are below their opti-

0.375t/ha.

To counter this, sulphur and nitrogen should be applied at a ratio of between 5:1 and 3:1 depending

on soil indices.

Soil testing is key to unlocking crop performance, says Phil Burrell.

“Fertiliser spreaders should also be calibrated to ensure what could become an increasingly expensive commodity is applied accurately and in the right quantity.

“Where the relevant machinery is available, variable rate application maps, such as those produced by ProCam’s FieldSense platform, should be used to maximise the yield benefit and margin over input costs.”

Soil Farmer of the Year 2025

Winner announced at Groundswell

Three farmers championing soil health and regenerative practices were recognised in the 2025 Soil Farmer of the Year competition.

Jointly run by the Farm Carbon Toolkit and Innovation for Agriculture, the keenly contested award celebrates farmers across the UK who are leading the way in managing soil as a living resource.

Winner

First place Went to John Joseph, who manages 100ha of sandy loam soils at Trecorras Farm in Herefordshire. Mr Joseph was presented with the award at last month’s Groundswell event.

Judges said Mr Joseph had

reshaped the way soils are understood and managed on his farm. Key practices now include companion crops, a seven-year rotation which incorporates grassland into the arable system, 100% direct drilling and reduced inputs.

Competition judge Jade Prince, a soil specialist at competition cosponsor Hutchinsons, praised the way Mr Joseph had re-evaluated his business over the past decade with clarity of purpose and scalability.

“Every decision on John’s farm has a clear agronomic and economic rationale,” she said. “What stood out was his ability to link soil management to business viability, showing that good soil makes good business sense.”

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Runner-up

Second place went to Jonathan Hodgson, who farms 285ha of clay soils in East Yorkshire. His system centres on strip tillage, companion cropping, cover crops, and integrated livestock, the elimination of seed dressings and insecticides.

“Jonathan’s approach to enterprise stacking was particularly inspiring,” said Ms Prince.

“From growing barley for his own distillery to producing dual-purpose flax and grazing sheep on cover crops, he is building diversity and resilience into both soil and business.”

Third place

Third place was awarded to Andrew Mahon, who manages 800ha of Hanslope clay in Bedfordshire.

Since 2015, Mr Mahon has shifted to a predominantly direct drill system, with shallow discing being used to establish small seeds.

He focuses on addressing localised compaction and increasing biological activity through targeted interventions.

Deborah Crossan, head of soils and natural resources at Innovation

for Agriculture, said Mr Mahon had pioneering on-farm applications of compost extract and biological feed at drilling.

“His attention to soil biology and microbial support is not just progressive, it’s proving highly effective in driving organic matter gains and establishment success.”

Farm walks

Each of the three winning farmers will host on-farm events to share their soil management strategies in action. These farm walks will offer valuable insights for fellow farmers looking to build soil resilience and cut input reliance.

“Seeing these systems on the ground is invaluable,” said Ms Crossan. “They demonstrate how different soil types, farming systems and business models can all benefit from a soil-first approach.”

Details about the farm walks will be announced via the Farm Carbon Toolkit and Innovation for Agriculture websites, newsletters and social media channels in the coming weeks.

Clockwise from left: Soil Farmer of the Year, John Joseph; Jonathan Hodgson, runner-up; and third-placed Andrew Mahon

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‘Exceptional farmer’ wins 2025 sustainability award

ACambridgeshire farmer has scooped a prestigious award for integrating arable production and nature to create a profitable business.

David Felce received the 2025 Rawcliffe Bridge Award for Sustainability at a special ceremony last month. The award was organised by BASF, in partnership with the Andersons Centre, Country Trust and Royal Entomological Society,

The competition was open to any grower implementing outstanding sustainable farming practices. Judges praised Mr Felce for his collaboration, biodiversity income streams and impeccable sustainability mindset.

Exceptional calibre

“The calibre of our finalists was exceptional,” said Alice Johnston, BASF’s agricultural sustainability manager for UK and Ireland.

“Our visit to each business highlighted what’s achievable when a farmer understands their land and how to complement production agriculture with enhancing the wide diversity of flora and fauna that each farm supports.”

Mr Felce won because of his broad delivery on every aspect of sustainable agriculture –

diversity and his full embrace of integrated pest management.”

A good foundation was vital, said Mr Felce. “With so many variables, understanding the basics, and interactions is likely to be key to developing a sustainable farm and countryside for future generations to enjoy.”

Soil health

Judges said Mr Felce had employed cropping to improve soil health, and undertaken farm-wide carbon assessments, prioritising collaboration to benefit all aspects of his business at Midloe Grange Farm, near Huntingdon.

In terms of wildlife, he had widened the range of biodiversity and types of habitats, created large areas of native woodlands, protected watercourses and utilised technology for environmental monitoring.

Judges said they were fascinated by David’s pioneering approach to trading Biodiversity Net Gain credits generating income equivalent to his previous support payments – and his decision to invest in his business by taking delivery of an autonomous AgXeed tractor.

Mr Felce said: “The family and farm has always been at the heart of all we do, and while

Runners-up impress judges

Joint runners up for the award were Andrew Brown from Fairchilds Lodge in Rutland; and Emma and Martin Hamer from Meadowsweet Farm in Oxfordshire.

With a strong focus on wildlife and the environment, Mr Brown’s vow to continuous enhancements has included planting 3,500 native trees - with the help of local schools and scout groups – and the sowing of bird, pollen and nectar seed mixes.

He has also established a 3.5km permissive bridleway for the local community, owl nesting boxes, and the implementation of two-year grass free legume mixes, to help eliminate black-grass and enhance wheat crop potential.

Emma and Martin Hamer run a mixed enterprise. Half the land is arable and the rest is in grass, allowing them to combine a wide rotation while integrating their beef herd, contributing positively to both soil and crop health.

They are passionate about adopting new approaches to improve the business and create a completely circular system. This has included experimenting with bi-croppinggrowing peas or beans with oats - as feed for their livestock.

They regularly conduct bird surveys, have sown wildflowers into grass, installed bird nesting boxes, and have offered space to a local beekeeper to encourage more pollination.

BASF’s Alice Johnston said: “The Rawcliffe Bridge Award for Sustainability was created to celebrate the value and importance that the agricultural and wider rural sector is placing on sustainability on every level.”

Worthy winners: Haley and David Felce (holding plate), flanked by (l-r) Alice Johnston, Gustavo Palerosi Carneiro, Rob Gladwin, Mike Heinz and Joel Johnson – all from BASF.

More than 10,000 visitors attended last month’s Groundswell 2025 event, held on 1-3 July at Lannock Farm, near Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

The sell-out regenerative agriculture festival included over 400 speakers from around the world – among them Prince William and the American “godfather of regenerative agriculture” Gabe Brown.

Visitors heard hearing from handson practitioners about a raft of topics – including mob grazing, birdlife, hedgerow biodiversity, no-till potato growing and a magical foray into a soundscape of soil acoustics in the farm’s woodland.

Content centred on principles of regenerative agriculture – minimising soil disturbance, keeping the soil surface covered, maintaining living roots, maximising crop diversity, reintroducing livestock to the farm.

‘Dirt to Soil’

Keynote speaker Gabe Brown, the American author of the world-famous Dirt to Soil book, shared his journey from conventional to regenerative agriculture, emphasising the importance of mimicking nature.

He highlighted the significant improvements made to his 2,400ha farm, including increasing soil organic matter, reducing erosion, and growing higher yielding crops without synthetic inputs since 2007.

Praising the spirit of the regenerative community he said: “When we regenerate soils, we regenerate people, communities and natural ecosystems. That’s the kind of thinking that we need to scale.

“It’s so exciting to be here at Groundwell and see so many people want to take on this challenge. When we go home and look in the mirror, we have to realise that challenge starts with each and every one of us.

Clockwide from top right: Prince William addresses Groundswell visitors, Groundswell director Alex Cherry, and Gabe Brown

Soil health at heart of Groundswell festival

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“That’s the kind of thinking that we need to scale, not more bureaucratic compliance checklists and subsidies.”

Monumental event

Event director Alex Cherry said:

“It’s been a monumental few days. We are very proud of the whole team for delivering a successful event that brings together thousands of people with a shared mission of building a healthier farming and food system.

“It was incredibly heartening for all of us who have been involved in regenerative farming for many years now to hear Prince William affirming its importance, and making the connections between farming, food and health.

“It feels clear that regen ag is now in the mainstream. Amid the many challenges facing the sector, Groundswell is a wonderfully positive atmosphere, and many people leave the event invigorated with a sense of optimism for the months to come.”

Clockwide from top right: Visitors enjoyed a host of talks; the Duchess of Edinburgh; Prince William

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Buoyant milk year – despite challenging weather

• Good showing for dairy farmers

• Growing momentum for organic

• Big range in performance levels

The last milk year was positive for dairy producers, with continued improvements in cow health and growing momentum in the organic milk sector, according to the latest annual report from Kingshay Dairy Costings.

Although the dreadful weather over the summer of 2024 saw yields from forage drop sharply, the reasonably high milk price and lower feed costs meant margins remained firm.

In fact, given the most favourable milk price: feed price ratio since 2001, the average margin over purchased feed was the strongest for a very long time – the only exception being the spike in milk prices during 2022.

“When it comes to margin over purchased feed (MOPF), we are still seeing large ranges, even within the same production systems, where groups of herds have similar goals,” says Kingshay farm services specialist Emma Puddy.

Performance range

“Housing-focused, all-year-round calving herds had the highest MOPF per cow at £2,937/cow, and the highest was achieved by the low to moderateyielding organic herds at 41.15ppl.”

We are still seeing large ranges

That said, data from 1,064 conventional herds and 98 organic herds, suggests a wide variation between the top and bottom quartile within each production system.

Organic herds made a strong showing years, with the milk price

The report highlights a wide range of performance between farms

EmmaPuddy–a better year for dairy farmers

March 2025. Milk from forage remains a key strength, with 44% of milk derived from forage compared to below 30% for conventional producers.

“It seems milk from forage is still

industry, based on its own trials and investigations.

Given the higher milk prices, the cost of poor health and fertility increased, both on a per-case and per-herd basis. All reported health indicators saw year-on-year improvements.

Mastitis dropped to 24 cases per 100 cows (down by two), and lameness declined from 37 to 34 cases per 100 cows. But fertility saw a bit of a slide –most likely due to poor-quality forage caused by challenging weather.

Comparisons

Calving intervals extended by a day to 394 days, and days to first service crept up by two days to 72. The age of cows at exit is steadily declining, but the proportion of selected versus forced culls has increased again.

“The best way for a farm business to see where they are successful and where they could improve is by putting their figures side-by-side with other producers in similar systems,” says

“We hope that by publishing this report we can help farmers to do exactly that, and to find ways to continue the positive trends.”

The full report can be downloaded at www.kingshay.co.uk.

Hatchery hygiene audits critical to pathogen control

Specialist technical advice is key

Hatchery managers are being encouraged to carry out regular hygiene audits to support their biosecurity protocols.

Hatcheries present unique hygiene challenges compared to other farm settings, operating more like food factories which require significantly higher cleanliness standards, says Rob Hallewell, hatchery hygiene expert at Kersia UK.

“Hatcheries operate on a unique principle where you start with a relatively clean product – the egg –which then hatches and produces all the waste that comes with a living, breathing animal,” he explains.

“This is why the focus on cleanliness is so critical, particularly in areas like transfer, hatching, and processing.”

Clean and dirty

Bacterial pathogens and AI must not gain a foothold inside a hatchery, says Mr Hallewell. Regular hygiene audits are essential for maintaining effective pathogen control and biosecurity in these settings.

“This includes checking the quality of cleaning in areas that have already been cleaned, conducting microbiological testing through total viable count (TVC) swabbing in both clean and dirty areas.”

Producers should verify that products are being applied at the correct strength through titration

checks, adds Mr Hallewell. With heightened AI concerns, hatcheries in affected areas are implementing more stringent disinfection protocols.”When a hatchery is located in an AI zone, they must demonstrate that they meet certain standards of biosecurity set out by Defra and APHA so they can continue to operate.

Eﬀective biosecurity

As part of this designation process, disinfectants will be increased to a general orders rate for application. These are higher than standard rates and are specified by Defra, who also independently test disinfectants for efficacy.

Basic biosecurity measures recommended for all hatcheries include control of vehicle and personnel movements onto site, disinfectant application to wheels and footwear at all points of entry.

Hatcheries present unique hygienechallenges

cleaning methods that can damage surfaces and provide additional harbourage for microorganisms.

Best results

Kersia UK hatchery hygiene expert Rob Hallewell

Understanding the nature of the debris and applying the correct hygiene products with the appropriate equipment will deliver the best results. A partner who can support with specialist technical advice is key.

Good door discipline, segregated clothing and hand washing protocols are important. It’s also important to have a robust hygiene regime including ‘clean as you go’ protocols, and to understand egg flow and airflow to prevent cross-contamination.

Managerial approach

A managerial approach to cleaning is vital for successful disinfection and pathogen control, adds Mr Hallewell. Hatcheries should avoid aggressive

UK pig producers are being encouraged to strengthen contingency plans for African Swine Fever (ASF).

Organised by AHDB in partnership with Livetec Systems and the National Pig Association , a nationwide series of 25 special workshops is being held throughout 2025 to prepare producers for the rising threat of ASF.

“The threat of ASF is real,” says AHDB senior animal health and welfare scientist Miranda Poulson.

“When it strikes, it strikes hard. That’s why preparation is critical – not just for ASF, but for any notiﬁable disease like foot-and-mouth.”

Working alongside veterinary practices across England, the 25 face-to-face sessions are open to all producers. The aim is to help farmers collaborate with their vets to develop bespoke, farm-level contingency plans.

Paul Thompson, clinical director at Garth Vets, who

“It’s about cleaning sensibly rather than destructively, then applying appropriate disinfectants at the correct concentrations,” says Mr Hallewell.

Mr Hallewell acknowledges that aging fabrication presents a significant challenge for many hatcheries – with some older facilities creating pathogen hot spots, which can make cleaning challenging.

A well-trained team is the most important link. “Regular reviews of hatchery hygiene protocols with a specialist will ensure high standards of biosecurity are maintained.”

facilitated the ﬁrst event, said the workshops would help producers identify clinical signs of disease, understand how ASF spreads, and formulate strategic farm-speciﬁc plans.

“Bringing together a diverse mix of producers, from small independents to larger farming operations, there’s something for everyone to take away from these workshops,” he says.

“So far, it seems one of the biggest eye-openers for many has been the importance of safeguarding personal property and homes from movement restrictions – highlighting the need for strategic boundary planning on farms.”

With funding provided through the AHDB levy, the sessions aim to build producer conﬁdence and ensure a swift, coordinated response in the event of an outbreak.

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March

NFU tells Starmer to hold firm on poultry standards

Farmer leader Tom Bradshaw has urged Keir Starmer to hold firm on poultry production standards when negotiating trade deals.

The NFU has written to the Prime Minister calling for the government to continue its balanced approach to trade and to protect UK standards as trade negotiations progress with the Gulf Cooperation Council.

The council imports approximately 85% of its food requirements. This presents opportunities for British farmers, particularly for products such as dairy, lamb and oats.

Health and welfare

But there have been reports that the deal could include uncapped access to the UK’s poultry market for chicken meat. While reports suggest imports would have to meet UK hygiene standards, this rule wouldn’t extend to animal welfare.

Mr Bradshaw said Gulf Cooperation Council standards fell well short of those expected in the UK poultry sector. The

government should stand by pledges made by Sir Keir to protect Britain’s high production standards.

“Balanced and mutually beneficial trade deals can provide a real economic boost, including for farm businesses,” said Mr Bradshaw. “A modern trade deal with the council, if fair and balanced, could offer huge potential for agricultural exporters.

Market access

As always, striking the right balance would depend on the government upholding its commitments to deny greater market access for food imports which have been produced in ways that are illegal here.

This would undermine Britain’s reputation for high animal welfare standards that our producers deliver, and consumers value and rightly expec, said Mr Bradshaw.

“Our poultry sector produces to some of the highest standards in the world. This is vastly different to the council trading bloc which only seems to have basic welfare

the UK, says the NFU

provisions, which fall well short of the robust legislation in place in the UK.

“It’s vital the government takes the same balanced approach it took with the recent India and US trade agreements. This is the next test to see if the government will stand strong and protect the standards our country demands and values.”

‘Planning rules need easing for pig sector ’

Aplanning overhaul is needed to secure a better future for pig production, industry leaders have told the government.

The National Pig Association made the plea in response to Defra’s review of farming profitability. Other recommendations include a clampdown on disease risk, better trade agreements and easier access to labour.

The farm profitability review is being led by former NFU president Baroness Batters. She has promised to provide meaningful recommendations to government, food retailers, processors and manufacturers.”

Pig industry leaders say constraints within the planning system present a perennial challenge for the sectors. Their response to the review argues that planning is a key blocker to unlocking agricultural business potential.

“There needs to be an inherent understanding of the need for and importance of agricultural infrastructure in a viable and environmentally sensitive agricultural busi-

ness, and a mechanism to facilitate this.”

NPA recommendations include a revision of ammonia thresholds by which planning applications are screened according to, which are ‘extremely low and make proportionate agricultural expansion virtually impossible’.

The response also criticises the lack of consistency among local authorities when it comes planning approvals for indoor pig units. Applications are often delayed and/ or rejected due to various concerns including environmental impact, it says.

International trade

The NPA welcomes government assurances that UK food standards are a red line in trade negotiations. But it says differences in environmental and animal welfare standards during production must also be recognised. It also echoes NFU calls for a set of core production standards that would apply to both domestically produced and imported food sold in the UK. “Failure to do so would represent a

betrayal to British farmers,” it says.

The NPA warns that the UK remains poorly protected from biosecurity and disease threats, especially given the prevalence of African Swine Fever in parts of the EU; and the risk of foot and mouth disease, which has been active in Europe this year.

High volumes of illegally imported meat that continue to enter the country, says the NPA. It calls for better border controls for all meat imports and ensure there is sufficient resource available at major entry points including ports, such as Dover – especially from countries where ASF is rife, such as Romania.

Workforce

Labour shortages across the pig industry have been an ongoing post Brexit challenge at a farm and abattoir level. While the use of overseas labour through the Skilled Visa route has been a feasible, albeit expensive, workaround, this looks set to stop.

Recently announced immigration rule changes suggest this route will be unworkable, says the NFU. Reforms remove a number of jobs from the scheme, including farmers, farm managers, butchers, and veterinary nurses, says the NPA.

Baroness Batters is expected to present her findings to the government in the coming months and the government will then respond.

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