As May draws to a close it certainly feels like we have been blessed with some favourable growing conditions in England this Spring. Crops are looking strong and healthy, with rains arriving just in the nick of time for many growers. Yes disease pressure is starting to build, and of course input costs remain at dizzying heights, but nevertheless the good health of the plants and sustained high grain price is helping to (mostly) offset these concerns. And for many growers in the UK, we are now very much in the midst of the “busy period”.
However, it is important to remember some of the challenges faced over the past year, in particular the much longer delays in getting product delivered on time. So ahead of Autumn and the next growing season it is important to reflect and ensure that some planning happens now, to avoid any last minute panic purchasing. As part of this planning process, we believe nutrient seed treatments should be given serious consideration.
The UK climate is getting warmer and wetter, and certainly more unpredictable. And although the Autumn of 2021 had good drilling conditions for seed, that is certainly not always the case. Applying a nutrient seed treatment helps speedy establishment and improves root biomass, helping the plant overcome abiotic stresses that might be occurring in its environment. And a stronger plant is more able to withstand disease and pest pressure. Net result – yields can be maximised and reach their full potential!
Further commercial benefits of our manganese products are they provide a large loading directly onto the seed, meaning growers can avoid at least one foliar manganese spray, which is often done in challenging conditions. And for as little as £8.50 / hectare, it is pretty inexpensive compared to other inputs that will go on to the growing crop.
So for all growers out there at this busy time, do try and find time to reflect on the upcoming season (not too far) ahead and get your ordering in place. And ensure that you think strongly about the benefits a nutrient seed treatment can offer – there are lots!
We will be running a full digital and print advertising campaign on Kick-Off phosphite-manganese seed treatment this summer, so do keep your eyes out for that!