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Intelligent C olontr t: +44 (0)1790 752771 The e: [email protected] Vegetable Farmer, www.tongengineering.com Your Magazine. Is YOUR company providing products or Please complete the coupon below and send with a services to the UK cheque/postal order payable to A.C.T. Publishing to: Vegetable Industry? The Vegetable Farmer If so, make sure you are A.C.T. Publishing, ‘FREEPOST’ TN2289 included in the new Maidstone, Kent ME14 1BR (NO STAMP REQUIRED) 2017 NAME: ______FARM NAME: ______ADDRESS: ______Vegetable ______Yearbook & Buyers Guide ______Post Code: ______Don’t forget to return your entry form Tel:______BEFORE FRIDAY 3RD MARCH Email:______or call Sophia Wright on: Approx acreage:______01622 695656 FEBRUARY 2017 or email: Overseas subscription rates (Payments in sterling please) Air Mail: Europe £50 • Middle East/USA/Canada/Far East £60 [email protected] • Australia/New Zealand £70 FEBRUARY 2017.qxp_VEG FARMER TEMPLATE 26/01/2017 15:26 Page 3

3 LION HOUSE, CHURCH STREET, MAIDSTONE, KENT ME14 1EN OPINION Many growers are busy enough Tel: 01622 695656 Fax: 01622 663733 running their main growing business to have much time to e-mail: [email protected] Web address: www.hortnews.co.uk devote to lobbying or industry promotion. Some also find time to work on a second business, such as a diversification enterprise, or act as agronomists or consultants, adding to SUBSCRIPTION RATES Although every effort is made their workload. to ensure the accuracy and TWELVE ISSUES One the other hand, there are those individuals who seem to Inland UK £36 readability of material Air Mail:Europe £45 published, the publishers and be able to contribute to every committee and initiative which Middle East their agents can accept no comes along, often working tirelessly not only for the benefit USA/Canada/Far East £55 responsibility for claims and Australia/New Zealand £65 opinions expressed by of their own business, but for the industry as a whole. Adrian contributors, manufacturers or Tatum’s profile of Sarah Dawson in this issue provides a Printed by Buxton Press Ltd ISSN 0960-863X advertisers. picture of one such person. The Vegetable Farmer is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation. We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed Over the last ten years or so, Sarah has been one of the most to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have high profile and outspoken supporters of British horticulture. not met those standards and want to make a complaint, please write to As the article points out, while she is no longer chair of the the editor at the address above. If you would like more information about NFU Board for Horticulture, Mrs Dawson is still an active IPSO or the Editors’ Code, visit: www.ipso.co.uk member of it and is working on a number of other key issues for the sector, as well as working on the family farm and CONTENTS being involved in a number of other industry initiatives. Her successors as Board chair, Guy Poskitt and the current Farmer confidence high...... 4 incumbent Ali Capper, are both equally passionate and Anti-microbial workshop...... 6 eloquent in their defence of our industry and equally forthright in their views. Horticulture is fortunate to be able Fiona Fell to stand down...... 8 to utilise their support.

2017 vegetable trends...... 9 It is easy to be focused on your own business. The Managing Director of a very large produce grower once told me that he Sarah Dawson interview...... 12 was pleased that they kept to themselves and did not attend

Managing sulphur...... 14 meetings and conferences. However, their main supermarket customer had just reduced their business volume. Such a story Improving IPM...... 16 shows that even the largest players in our industry are relatively small fish. SPot Farm East results...... 19 As an industry we will only get solutions to the big issues we Agromek machinery review...... 22 face, such as labour, production costs and access to technology, by presenting a united front. We may not always New Bejo salad lines...... 24 agree with everything said by those who represent us. But it Agri-Tech East...... 26 is only by finding the time to engage with organisations such as the NFU, the grower associations, AHDB and others, that LEAF five year strategy...... 27 we are able to influence them.

Resource efficiency...... 28 At times representing your industry can be a thankless and difficult task, and is certainly not one that everyone would Classified...... 30 envy. This makes it all the more important to support those Buyers Guide...... 31 people who do so on our behalf.

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•NEWS• 4 Plan control strategy now to block out early aphids Brassica growers need to be by which time it could be too Aphid (Myzus persicae) – which and plant supply phasing, to planning their aphid control late to utilise the latest Cruiser is the primary vector of TuYV in assure timely application.” strategy to prevent virus 70WS treatment at planting, to brassicas and has transmission far earlier in the protect crops through early shown widespread season, to take advantage of growth and their highest risk resistance to foliar new technologies and mitigate period for virus transmission. pyrethroid the impact of challenges for Crop monitoring has shown treatments over foliar application results, that TuYV is extremely common recent years,” said according to Syngenta Technical in oilseed rape - with up to 85% Simon. Manager, Simon Jackson. of crops infected - and creates “Growers should A key speaker at the Brassica & an active inoculum for spread to be talking to their Leafy Salads Conference last all vegetable brassicas. Early plant raisers about month, Simon highlighted that infection into planted out crops treatment options another milder than average can result in the most serious at the same time as winter had increased the risk of yield losses and quality variety selection A Myzus persicae colony. early infection of Turnip yellows downgrade, as well as the cause virus (TuYV) for young planted of internal disorders, such as brassica and salad crops in 2017. Cigar burn and Tipburn in stored Farmer confidence higher “Historically, when aphids crops. emerge earlier in the season the “The use of Cruiser 70WS with for coming year numbers continue to remain precision Phyto-Drip technology higher, as the population has at sowing assures early control A new survey by the NFU has regulation and legislation (53% longer to build,” he warned. of aphids, typically for the first revealed an increase in farmer negative). Simon pointed out that aphid eight weeks,” reported Simon. confidence in the dairy and Mr Raymond commented: forecasts would not typically be “Crucially, it gives complete livestock sectors over the last “The NFU has made it clear that available until later in the spring, control of feeding Peach Potato year, but confidence has fallen in for farming to have a profitable the horticulture and poultry and productive future we need sectors. The NFU says there are reassurance on key issues New head for Crop serious concerns about labour resulting from Brexit; such as shortages in the future and the access to a competent and increase of the National Living reliable workforce and the best Protection Association Wage. possible access to the Single Former BBC Environment such a wealth of expertise and Members told the NFU, as part Market. Correspondent Sarah knowledge as the Association’s of its seventh annual farmer “British farming is the bedrock Mukherjee, currently Director of Chief Executive. As the crop confidence survey, they of the UK’s largest Environment at Water UK, has protection sector continues to anticipated positive effects on manufacturing sector – food and been appointed as the new face significant political and their business from the drink. The sector is worth £108 Chief Executive of the Crop regulatory pressures, which will consumption levels of British billion to the nation’s economy Protection Association. only be magnified by the produce (58%) and output and employs some 3.9 million She will take over from Nick process of Brexit, Sarah’s prices (46%). However, farmers people. We urge Government, von Westenholz, who will be experience working with senior feel that input prices will have retailers and the public to back moving to the NFU as Director civil servants, politicians and the most widespread negative British farming so we can of EU Exit and International regulators will be hugely impact for the coming year continue to produce high quality Trade in the New Year. Sarah valuable.” (74% negative), followed by produce for the nation.” will take up the role on the “Sarah has an excellent track 13th March 2017. record in communicating often School children barely eating Commenting on the very complex ideas to both appointment, CPA Chairman, specialist and non-specialist one of five-a-day Gary Mills-Thomas said; “I am audiences, and I believe she will A quarter of secondary school age children eat less than one delighted that we have been bring strong leadership and a portion of veg a day, according to a recent survey by the Food able to appoint someone with fresh approach to the Foundation. The claim came in its November Veg Facts briefing opportunities and challenges which also highlighted issues such as the increasing reliance on that our industry currently fresh produce and the need for labour to harvest UK vegetables. faces.” Anna Taylor, from the Food Foundation, told the Sunday Times; Sarah said of her “We are facing a massive diet-related crisis among our young appointment; “I am delighted people. They are eating the same level of veg as in the 1970s. The to be taking up such a crucial five-a-day campaign has had no impact. post at such a pivotal time for “The combination of higher food prices and pressure on UK the industry. We need to horticulture production, in a situation where our children are balance the needs of the already eating much too little veg, threatens to make our children’s environment and sustainable diets even worse than they already are.” farming with the requirement Laura Sandys, former MP and Chair of the Food Foundation to feed a growing population, added; “Our food system makes it too hard for us to eat enough and I very much look forward veg. 5 A Day is a great consumer awareness campaign but it has to taking on these issues next had no impact on our consumption of veg, which has gone down year.” in recent years. Veg needs a major facelift with the best brains in Sarah Mukherjee. (Courtesy CPA). advertising needed to make it a super desirable treat.”

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•NEWS• 6 Workshop to highlight benefits of bubble technology to clean fruit and vegetable crops Fine bubble technology could potentially reducing the use of Dean says: “Bubble technology fine bubble technology is also help fresh fruit and vegetable chemical disinfectants. has been used in Japan for a relatively cheap. Growers can growers ensure clean crops, Horticultural growers number of years and is just purchase specially designed Chemical Engineer Dean Burfoot throughout Scotland make beginning to catch on here. nozzles and combine them with will tell attendees at a free concerted efforts to ensure their Washing surfaces or produce existing kit to aerate their water antimicrobial workshop produce is free of contaminants using water with fine bubbles supply. organised by AHDB Horticulture which could damage human destroys 90% more The event will be held at the in Fife. health. This often involves using microorganisms than using Vine Conference Centre, The technology was first disinfectants called biocides to water alone. Creating bubbles in Dunfermline, Fife. The workshop studied as a means of reducing kill off microorganisms in water can also disinfect the will take place on 15 or 16 the amount of water used in irrigation and produce wash water itself as the agitation February, the final date cleaning through the addition of waters and to disinfect produces free radicals which act dependent on registration air. Adding tiny bubbles also equipment and surfaces. as cleaners. The technology has numbers. Delegates who can causes a natural scrubbing Biocides kill bacteria such as E. also been seen to improve plant attend either day should register action as they move around. coli 0517 before produce is sold. growth and this is thought to be for both days. To book growers However at the workshop Dean However chlorine-based biocides due to increasing the oxygen should visit: will stress the bubbles’ ability to can lead to chemical compounds and nitrogen content of the horticulture.ahdb.org.uk/events; reduce the volume of microbes known as chlorate or perchlorate water.” booking will close on 6th found on fresh produce, being left on produce. As well as being effective, the February. John Barker Fruit and veg should replace John Barker, who has died at the age of 77, farmed vegetables and salads at Rivernook Farm, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey. The son feed wheat, says Professor of the late Bill Barker of W.A. Barker Ltd, John farmed alongside his father, finally taking over Rivernook when his father retired in 1981. British farmers should stop growing feed wheat on some of the W.A. Barker always specialised in producing high-quality salad country’s most productive land and grow more vegetables. That is the crops for the London markets, especially Covent Garden. However, view of Professor Tim Lang from City University, who was speaking at the company never really embraced the trend towards supermarket the Nottingham Farming Conference. trading. To diversify, John opened a farm shop in the 1990’s and He says much of Britain’s best farmland is wasted growing feed for further diversification was seen to be the key to survival. livestock and should be growing fruit and vegetables for human Next, he opened a car boot sale which grew to be the one of the consumption. The change in lowland farming is needed to address the biggest and best in the south of England. In addition, he put down country’s future food needs: “At the moment 61% of our food is large areas to grass which served both as a park-and-ride for the home-produced, but within that only 15% of the fruit we eat and 55% Hampton Court Flower Show and an area where exhibitors brought of the vegetables are grown here – and that for a level of consumption caravans and parked on the farm for the duration of the Flower which, we are being told, should be doubled for health reasons. Show. “Why are we producing animals on land that should be growing fruit As urbanisation further encroached, the farm was put up for sale. and vegetables? Meat production consumes 50% of the grain we grow. After completion, John - That is bonkers, a misuse of land and a misuse of infrastructure and together with his wife, resources”. Shirley - decided in Yet we have the resources to change that, he suggests: “We have 2015, to go and live in thousands of native apple varieties, yet the vast majority of those we America to be nearer eat are imported, and their respective families. hundreds of native However, he never lost varieties of pear, yet his interest in farming, two thirds of those we and especially in farm eat are imported”. machinery. He even had He suggests meat his favourite tractor sent production should be over to America where confined to land that he intended to take part is not suited to in agricultural shows. growing crops; that John was a modest livestock should be man who possessed mainly grass-fed and immense personal the current charm, a characteristic concentration on which endeared him to producing volume many friends, especially being replaced by a growers in the Thames “less meat but better” Professor Tim Lang from City University. Valley. He leaves a basis. wife, Shirley and his He accepted that this would be a difficult message for a Midlands extended family of audience, many of whom were exactly the kind of lowland farmers three sons, two who grew feed wheat or reared livestock. But he encouraged them daughters and seven to go home and think about planting an orchard, or consider John Barker. grandchildren. growing vegetables.

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•NEWS• 7 Pace win LAMMA Innovation Award Pace Mechanical Handling used to pack a range of won the Crop production products such as potato, equipment award, The Loven vegetable and animal feeds. Cup, at the annual LAMMA The machine is robustly Innovation Awards. The constructed from mild steel and awards, sponsored by Firma is 100% manufactured in Foreign Exchange, seek to Lincolnshire. highlight the progressive nature The award was presented to of the machinery, equipment Pace’s Managing Director, and service sectors of the Nicholas Cesare, at a packed agricultural supply award ceremony on the first industry both locally and day of the show. nationally. The Judges said they were impressed by Pace’s Orion CBC (complete bag control) fully automatic bag control and stitching system, which provided an extremely stable arrangement to enable reliable performance. The automatic stitching machine grabs and sews filled sacks with repeated accuracy, producing the same finish to every bag. The machine’s electric motors contain encoded measuring devices, making the machine fully adjustable via a 10-inch Pace Mechanical Handling’s touch screen. Managing Director, Nicholas Cesare The Orion can handle various with The Loven Cup, awarded at sizes of paper, polypropylene LAMMA for the company’s Orion CBC fully automatic bag control and and most other sack materials stitching system. Preva Produce goes into administration Preva Produce, based at (subject to contract) for the Foulsham in Norfolk have gone 29,000 sq ft packing facility at into administration. Growing, Snetterton which has been sourcing & supplying a range closed since November last of high quality potatoes to year. Unfortunately, 20 of the customers across the UK and company’s 31 staff had to be Europe, the administrators, made redundant. Price Bailey, said that the Preva was formed in 2001 to company had suffered produce salad, pre-pack, “significant cash flow pressures chipping and crisping which led to difficult trading potatoes. The company’s most conditions in recent months”. recent accounts for the year The administrators were ended 31st December 2014 looking at the possibility of showed a pre-tax profit of selling parts of the business, £407,669 on a turnover of having already agreed a deal £11.62 million.

Preva’s potato store at Foulsham, Norfolk

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•NEWS• 8 Fiona Fell to stand down as AHDB Potato Chair After three years in office, from a farming family in a main AHDB Board Member deliver benefits to levy payers. Fiona Fell has announced she Worcestershire, will complete and also as Chair of the AHDB Enhancing the exchange of will stand down as an AHDB her term of office in March Potato Sector Board. knowledge between growers Board Member and Chair of 2017. Defra will now start the and scientists via the Strategic the AHDB Potato Sector Board Fiona said: “It is a real search for another strong Potato (SPot) Farms, and at the end of her term in privilege to have had the leader who, first and foremost, winning external funding to office. Fiona, who is based in opportunity to develop the will be an AHDB board further modernise the facilities Northumberland and comes potential of AHDB and to lead member helping the at Sutton Bridge Crop Storage the Potato Sector organisation achieve its vision Research are recent Board. I to build a world class food and achievements. appreciate the farming industry inspired by, “We are mindful of how hard work and and competing with the best. essential it is to value the commitment that That person will also need to reputation of our crops and the Potato Board be able to champion the produce, so are harnessing members and all potato sector as the new chair experience across AHDB and the staff have put of the AHDB Potato Sector the industry to advocate all in, particularly Board. that is great about GB over the last 18 Fiona added: “For my potatoes and potato months during successor this is an exciting products.” the AHDB time, as an AHDB board Fiona, who trained and restructure.” member, making a real impact; worked as a vet for a number Fiona has delivering a fresh strategy at a of years, is currently on the completed nine time when agriculture, Board of CIEL (Centre for years with AHDB, horticulture and the food Innovation Excellence in six as an industry need AHDB to assist Livestock) and the Advisory independent in meeting the challenges of a Board of Newcastle member of the changing market both University’s School of Potato Sector domestically and in terms of Agriculture, Food and Rural Board, including export opportunities. Development. She also holds acting as interim “It has been very satisfying several positions in the Fiona Fell. chair, and three as seeing new ways of working to charitable sector.

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•NEWS• •VEGETABLE TRENDS• 9 Improving potato quality and WHAT DOES 2017 yield with microbial inputs HAVE IN STORE A potentially important part least 2 trillion spores per of the professional grower’s treatment. FOR VEGETABLES? plant production programme is “The microbes have a the use of beneficial microbes symbiotic, or mutually and microbial biostimulants, beneficial, relationship with Emily Scaife looks at predicted trends for the next 12 which are likely to become potato plants. They make months that could see demand for certain vegetables increasingly employed within phosphorus more available skyrocket. field grown vegetables, as through solubilising this farmers look for alternative essential nutrient, which can ways to boost yields and quality often be less available than it hink back to this time last with a more limited ‘toolbox’. needs to be, and this helps start year. Could we ever have According to Lallemand Plant young plants off well and TTpredicted that courgetti Care (LPC), one microbial encourages continual root would gain a cult following or bionutrition product that is growth in older plants. that juicing would prove it was seeing impressive trial results in Furthermore, the product more than a passing fad? The potato crops is Rise™ P, which increases the bioavailability of current generation is always is marketed by ICL and sold by trace elements - especially iron - looking for the ‘next big thing’ their distributors. “Rise P was which also helps improve plant and, luckily for the vegetable trialled in one location on growth and health as well as industry, its attention has turned potatoes by Nelson County Ltd, the production of certain plant squarely to the ground. and was seen to improve the hormones that are crucial for The Waitress Food and Drink Waitrose’s latest carb-free, yield to the order of 9.2 tonnes ideal growth, says Andrew. Report 2016 was released at the vegetable alternative offering; a per hectare,” says Andrew “Once the crop plants are end of last year. As well as riceless risotto. Gough, from LPC. better nourished, which Rise P analysing the past 12 months, the In this trial, Rise P was applied significantly promotes, they will document also casts its eyes that’s a leap of 43%. to one hectare with the be considerably more forward and predicts what As people move away from fungicide application at productive. However, the plants consumers will be reaching for on bread, they’re looking for planting, through the middle of can be prone to not retaining the shelves during the next year. alternatives - and that’s where a field of Markies, with an all of the tubers that they And the good news for vegetable vegetables come in. From untreated control on each side. initiate and this is often growers is that they won’t to be swapping spaghetti for courgetti An innovative plant growth exacerbated by external stress falling out of favour anytime soon and mash potato for cauliflower promoting ‘rhizobacteria’, Rise effects acting on the crop. To as the national obsession with mash, vegetable alternatives to P is a living organism - made up stop this happening, we ‘clean eating’ shows no signs of rice and pasta was one of the of a minimum of 2 billion recommend the use of IntraCell abating. biggest trends of 2016 and it spores per gram. It is mixed which is a powerful stress Rob Collins, Waitrose Managing looks certain to carry on into with water and applied at a relieving biostimulant product Director, said: “Healthy eating is 2017. rate of one kilogram per applied following Rise P,” adds no longer a bolt-on to how we Indeed Waitrose is so confident hectare, which equates to at Andrew. live – it’s an integral part of who of this trend that it recently we are. And, with more than 70% launched its first ‘riceless of us regarding healthy eating as risotto’.‘Mushotto’ is made using Exclusive partnership for Asparagus part of our identity, it’s no longer celeriac and mushroom in a something to be coy about, as the cheesy sauce, topped with sliced Greenic F1 rocketing popularity of seeds and roasted mushrooms and steamed Hazera Seeds UK Ltd have The agreement, which started grains, seaweed and smoothie- kale. announced an exclusive in 2016, has allowed Hargreaves makers demonstrates. Living well Nicola Wall, Waitrose Ready- partnership with Hargreaves to produce crowns of Greenic is something to celebrate, as is an meal Buyer said: “Using Plants Ltd for marketing their F1 for UK asparagus producers increased awareness of the vegetables as carb alternative is a exciting new asparagus variety to plant in spring 2017. Hazera environment and waste – we are trend we’ve seen grow over the Greenic F1 (formerly 1021). Seeds UK confirm that, as their all conscious consumers now.” last year and as the popularity official partner, So, what do Waitress believe we continues to grow we’re really Hargreaves are the only will be consciously consuming excited about launching riceless crown producer that over the next 12 months? risotto.” can provide commercial Aubergine is the latest vegetable quantities of Greenic F1 Carb-substitute to take its turn in the spotlight - for 2017 onwards. vegetables Waitrose figures reveal that sales According to Hazera, First up is a huge opportunity rose 18% last year as consumers Greenic F1 has excelled for the vegetable industry - the used it to replace burger buns, in trials over the last ‘carb-substitute’. The trend for make alternative pasta sheets for few seasons and they shunning bread is demonstrated lasagna and create aubergine expect it to challenge by the huge rise in the demand ‘chips’. These statistics also show the main established for gluten-free products last year; that 60% of people claim the varieties, providing UK according to Mintel, UK-wide sales food they eat now is ‘fresher’ and growers with a high of ‘free-from’ foods are forecasted ‘lighter’ than it was five years ago; Hazera say that Greenic F1 has done very well yielding, top quality to grow from £470 million in these are clearly characteristics in trials over recent seasons. product. 2015 to £673 million by 2020 – that consumers are looking for in

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•VEGETABLE TRENDS• 10 their meals and where vegetables it’s a pretty colour - because of that we needed to increase our hugely beneficial to some in particular, can take the upper the nutrient density and acreage and decided to expand it growers; however in a crop like hand. antioxidants the colour represents. the following year.” asparagus you always have to be Purple cauliflower, purple sweet She says that part of the reason one step ahead of the trend,” she Purple vegetables potatoes and purple asparagus for its popularity is that it is said. “With a three year time span But aubergine isn’t on its own are all predicted to see a naturally sweeter than the green from seed to a harvestable crop, it in experiencing a change of particularly profitable 12 months. variety. It was developed as a is very difficult to suddenly start fortune. In their predictions for One grower who hopes at least salad vegetable and should ideally producing a commercial crop to 2017 Whole Foods’ experts and the latter is true, is Caroline be eaten raw so as not to lose meet consumer demand. buyers revealed that purple food Holland, partner at R T Lee & Son. colour during cooking. “Purple asparagus is also in general has seen a significant A father and daughter partnership “Its colour comes from the high significantly more expensive for us rise in interest. And not because with 30 years’ experience of levels of anthocyanins in the to produce with seed costs being growing asparagus spears,” she explained. around twice that of green on the National “Anthocyanins are potent asparagus and yields being much Trust Dudmaston antioxidant flavonoids that are lower, all compounded by the Estate in believed to have protective and shorter crop lifespan of about one Shropshire, they preventative health benefits, third!” began producing including anti-inflammatory and purple asparagus in anti-cancer properties. Using social media 2007. “Purple asparagus is derived If you eat something healthy “It was a very from the same cultivar as the and don’t post about it on social new idea in the UK green varieties and is therefore media, did it ever really happen? and we always like very similar in its physical The trend for taking pictures of to be at the appearance, however it is meals and posting them on forefront of generally less fibrous and is Instagram might seem a touch developments therefore more tender than the ridiculous, but the power it holds within the green,” she says. However, she should not be underestimated. industry,” Caroline admits that trends such as the Waitrose refers to the food on said. “We only increased demand for purple our plates as ‘social currency’ and planted a small vegetables can sometimes be reveals that in the past month acreage in the first difficult to fulfil. alone, one in five Britons (or nine year but it was “In short term crops I’m sure million adults) has posted a Caroline Holland, partner at R T Lee & Son, grows asparagus together with her father in Shropshire. clear from that these sorts of trends are picture of their food on social customer interest media.

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•VEGETABLE TRENDS• 11 Barfoots, including their New vegetable trends the first time in its history, Instagram account Judging from the predictions Waitrose Food magazine has @grownwithlove_, which has an for the next 12 months, dedicated an entire edition to impressive 906 followers. vegetables are set to take on a vegetarianism. The January “We are able to capitalise on bigger profile than ever before. edition interviews “visionaries food trends and hashtags to drive The rise in ‘Meat Free Mondays’ whose innovative approaches to brand awareness and last year led to Whole Foods meat-free meals have put consumption of the vegetables predicting that ‘flexiterianism’ - vegetables centre stage” and we produce, including specialist people mostly, but not who better to advocate a more products such as spiralised exclusively, embracing a inventive approach towards courgetti and our newly launched vegetarian diet - will become vegetables than Sir Paul butternut squaffles,” she said. more widespread in 2017. McCartney, who is interviewed in “Consumers today like to know Waitrose predicts that the magazine? where their food comes from. vegetable-based trends that “Mary, Stella [Linda and Paul’s There is a huge emphasis on have proved popular in the US daughters] and I heard Australia Caroline Holland started growing ensuring their food is ethically will make their way across the and America were doing purple asparagus in 2007. produced and people are eating Atlantic ocean - one such Meatless Monday, and we more seasonal produce to example is vegetable yoghurt. wanted to do something similar “Food is about experience and support British growers. The Waitress report explained: here – we called it Meat Free emotion,” said Natalie Mitchell, Instagram (in addition to other “In the US, they’re infusing the Monday,” Sir Paul McCartney Waitrose’s Head of Brand social channels) helps us to share flavours of carrot, beetroot, said. “Being vegetarian is a big Development. “And in a connected our story and ethos with sweet potato and tomato into step, so doing it for just one day world, people want to share that.” consumers.” yogurt for a savoury (with a hint a week seemed more doable. So how can vegetable For growers looking to of sweet) accompaniment to all The vegetarian revolution is a producers become part of this capitalise on this community, she sorts of food. It won’t be long slow burner and I like the idea ‘connected world’? The old adage advised: “Imagery is key to before we’re adding it to our of not pushing people. In doing of ‘if you can’t beat them, join Instagram. Ensure you use a weekly shop…” so I find they do it for them’ is applicable and more and variety of shots to entice new Waitrose clearly believes that a themselves.” more businesses are realising that followers, for example, photos of lot more vegetable products will So there you have it - if one of they can connect to a new dishes in addition to images from be making their way into Britain’s most-loved audience by participating in the the farm. Furthermore, ensure consumers’ weekly shops over supermarkets and a former world of social media. there is consistency in the the next 12 months and has Beatle are predicting a Susan Zwinkels from Kitch regularity of posts and the brand thrown its weight behind this particularly veggie 2017, then Media handles social media for voice.” predicted trend. For instance, for you know it must be true!

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•PROFILE• 12 SARAH DAWSON – STILL ON A MISSION TO HELP GROWERS Sarah Dawson has been one of the most influential figures on the NFU Board for Horticulture and Potatoes ever since its conception. Here, she talks to Adrian Tatum about what her next plan is to help the sector and about some of the biggest challenges facing the industry as well as about life on her family farm.

t was April 2006 and Sarah doesn’t plan on slowing down Dawson, the then deputy anytime soon. IIchair of the NFU Board for Horticulture, was making a Selling freshness speech at a farming conference Her next mission could be in London. It was clear to me one of the most effective yet. from the opening five minutes The plan is to conduct some in- that this young lady was depth research into the destined for success. nutritional benefits of fresh But what was equally clear produce. “Imagine if we could from her presentation was that demonstrate further the there was no personal agenda, nutritional value of freshness,” simply a desire to make a she tells The Vegetable Farmer. difference in the horticulture “I think most people are really Sarah Dawson has spent over a decade working to improve the lives of industry, a sector that arguably, focused on freshness and there British growers. at the time, had not had is a lot more understanding of enough attention paid to it, seasonality, so if we can structuring seasonal offers weather, could all be made not only by the NFU, but by commit to increasing that differently. “It is ridiculous that easier if everyone was prepared Government and some of the knowledge I have no doubt there are so many cheap offers to back British produce and we other key organisations in the consumers, retailers and for produce that has just come need to keep banging that farming community. growers will benefit,” she adds. into season. Like buying drum way into the future,” she Some years later, as chair of “What we need is new in- anything new, people would says. the NFU Board, Mrs Dawson depth research into the current expect to pay more so why are But there is more work to do laid the foundation for change nutrient levels in fresh produce we setting prices so low so in lots of different areas. “There in the sector by leading the and to understand what is early on in the season? We are still some tough challenges NFU’s Fruit and Veg Pledge needed to increase those levels need to make sure the pricing to overcome,” she adds. She project. This was the result of of nutrients. This is is structured more gives the example of the the organisation’s Catalyst for undoubtedly our biggest USP appropriately and also ensure changes to business rate tax Change report which showed as an industry. We need to we have enough stock of the which could have a dramatic the UK was at risk of losing continue to work hard to produce that is in season, effect on the glasshouse sector. ‘huge swathes of British improve it and make more use because otherwise we are in “If this is not addressed and Horticultural production’ if of it in our marketing strategies danger of losing momentum managed effectively then it profitability was not improved and learn how to educate early on in the season. could destroy a number of in the fresh produce supply people in different ways. “I think also we should be glasshouse growers.” chain. The aim was to get Imagine the difference it would trying to put harvest dates on retailers to sign-up to the make to growers if we can produce instead of use by Family farm Pledge and adhere to 11 increase the value of each acre dates. Let the consumer decide Since stepping down as chair commitments covering they grow because we can when they want to use it and of the NFU Board for integrity, honesty and openness prove we have improved the when it is losing its freshness. Horticulture (she remains a co- within their businesses when nutritional value of that crop. That way we would start to opted member of the board), dealing with suppliers and “Retailers would be in a create less waste as well.” Mrs Dawson has also managed producers. position to charge more and Mrs Dawson also thinks more to spend more time on the In 2015, Aldi was the first consumers would benefit in should be made of promoting family farm in Lincolnshire retailer to sign the pledge, their pursuit of a healthier the Red Tractor standards. which grows vegetable crops. followed by Lidl last year. While lifestyle. This is definitely a “More of this is needed to “The focus here on the farm in the NFU Fruit and Veg Pledge win/win for everyone in the remind people that UK growers the last few years has been was undoubtedly a team effort, sector. If we can get this right are producing to the highest of about minimising risk and Mrs Dawson’s drive to get the and re-position freshness at the food standards. This is taking a detailed look at our job done should be applauded. forefront of people’s minds especially important given the costs and making sure the She has now spent well over then it could make a real challenges Brexit will present services and equipment we buy a decade dedicating time to difference,” she adds. us,” says Mrs Dawson. “All the are the best possible. It has improving the lives of growers challenges we have as an been a chance to look at every in the UK. But the news is that Pricing and promotion industry-the National Living area of the business and Mrs Dawson remains as Mrs Dawson also says more Wage, Brexit, climate change, consider the best strategy to go determined as ever, and she attention needs to be paid to rises in input costs and extreme forward with.

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•PROFILE• 13 “One of the biggest but we still need work to businesses are already feeling challenges for any business in demonstrate how we can bring the pressure. They will need to this sector is managing all these new technologies make some serious decisions volatility and that is all about together effectively across a about staffing levels, how reducing risks and creating the business to make it more viable much they pay their staff, right culture in the business,” for more vegetable growers to whether they pay over-time or she says. The business has also invest,” she says. “Harvesting not - the list goes on.” focused on a comprehensive will remain the focus in the Mrs Dawson says having a seed development programme, near future because the biggest structured labour provision which has seen many trials on cost most vegetable growers scheme such as the previous the farm over many years. “The have is labour and we need to SAWS scheme will be necessary. main aim has been to help keep on finding ways of “Getting rid of SAWS was a identify potential gaps and to addressing this. ridiculous decision. For a help find the right varieties that “While I think we all agree system which proved that 98% are suited not only to rapidly with the principle of it, the of the people who went changing conditions, but which National Living Wage (NLW) through it came into this will help drive freshness and has presented us with a country to work and returned more quality value per acre.” massive challenge. In our home again, to get caught up business we are already paying in the immigration debate was Labour and wages (on average across the year) just stupid. Labour has also been high on £10-11 an hour so we are well “We need a similar scheme the agenda for obvious positioned but as the NLW otherwise we will lose out on reasons. “We are using as increases it will present us with the next generation of workers much automation as possible different challenges and create from abroad. We need a across the business, especially some tension and pressure. The scheme which does two things: with our focus of harvesting biggest question that hasn’t provide enough seasonal labour and packing in the field, but been answered yet is: who is but also, and more importantly we are a few years away from going to end up paying for the for the veg sector, provide proper commercialised NLW? Like many businesses in people that are interested in automation in the vegetable the sector, the business cannot working all year round. What I sector. The research work on absorb any more costs. It is still would like to see is a five year robotics that has been a little bit early for us to work permit set up especially Sarah Dawson – backing British conducted by places like the consider the real impact of for foreign workers who want Farming. University of Lincoln is fantastic NLW but I know some to commit to regular work in the UK all year round for a few and to try and extend its years.” powers.” By now the conversation has She is also very excited about gone full-circle and Mrs the progress of the Fruit and Dawson is talking about how Veg Pledge. “Watch this pleased she is with the progress space,” she says, “there could made by the creation of the be some very interesting news supermarket ombudsman. “It on a major development on has definitely made a this very soon.” Reading difference,” she says. “I think between the lines it could be growers feel more at ease. The the major breakthrough the debate now will be about how NFU has been searching for it moves forward and whether since the scheme started. It its jurisdiction will include the might have taken some time primary producers - which but this news could make a could prove difficult. But we huge difference to growers in definitely need it to continue the future.

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•NUTRITION• 14 HIDDEN HUNGER FOR SULPHUR AFFECTS YIELD AND QUALITY

Sulphur is an often overlooked yet essential plant nutrient which impacts on crop yield and quality and helps activate plant disease resistance mechanisms. Frances Wright spoke to ADAS Soil Scientist Lizzie Sagoo, who has been on the team revising RB209; brassica and allium specialist Andy Richardson, and NIAB-CUF senior research associate Marc Allison.

lthough there are ample sulphur deposition has resources about the plummeted since the 1990; a AAeffects of sulphur in recent review, showed a decline combinable crops, there is little of 94 per cent between 1970 and information on vegetable crop 2010, with a further increase of requirements. about 50 per cent expected by “We currently do not know 2020. “There are hypotheses that Crops like onions, with high sulphur requirements, suffer when hungry for enough about sulphur in the there is now a higher demand for the nutrient. vegetable crops; we can draw on the nutrient; whereas before, the work done on oilseed rape (which atmosphere supplied sufficient content. demonstrated the yield response is a brassica) and so is relevant to levels, this may no longer be the The risk of sulphur deficiency with a huge 40 per cent increase other vegetable brassicas, but case,” she says. and likely yield responsiveness to in yield. The trials also showed little knowledge of the crop Growers a long way from it, depend on the crop that application of sulphur needs of others such as carrots. industrial activity could have requirement for the nutrient, she increased dry matter content This means it is difficult to give crops which are particularly at explains. However, detecting from 7.5 per cent when no accurate recommendations,” says risk. This is made more complex insufficient supply can be sulphur was applied to a mean of Dr Sagoo. by regional differences. Soil type challenging as soil analysis tests 10.2% where sulphur fertiliser Often called the ‘fourth major can also make a difference; are not always reliable, so plant had been applied. nutrient as it influences lighter soils are more prone to tissue analysis tends to be Field experiments carried out on marketable yield, sulphur is linked deficiency and these are the very undertaken. head cabbage and onions in with nitrogen (N) as crops with a soils which tend to be used for Dr Sagoo says: “The potential Poland found both applying high N requirement will usually growing vegetables, says Dr impact of sulphur on yield can be sulphate as a component part of also have a high need for sulphur. Sagoo. seen in the recent work we have a fertiliser and as the element This is because both elements are Even if sulphur is present in the done on oilseed rape. The sulphur on its own, produced involved in the formation of soil it does not mean it is average yield response to sulphur significant yield increases in protein and chlorophyll and are available for the plant to uptake. in oilseed rape crops is about cabbage and onions. Maximum linked in the conversion of nitrate This is because it needs 0.5t/ha., but in extreme situations yields of both cabbage and onion to amino acids. converting to its inorganic form where sulphur is the key limiting were achieved when 100 kg Sources of sulphur include (sulphate anion) before it can be factor, yield has been seen to SO3/ha was applied, further mineralisation from organic released and made available to increase by up to 4t/ha.” applications did not result in matter in the soil, applications of the plant. The amount of sulphur Recent privately-funded trials higher yields. organic manure, and deposition mineralised will vary between using Cleveland potash on Sulphur is not only key to yield, from the atmosphere. However, soils and will be greatest in soils processing cabbage grown in it can make a real difference to points out Dr Sagoo, atmospheric with a high organic matter light soils Lincolnshire crop quality and produce higher

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•NUTRITION• 15 sulphur recommendations for sulphur, reveals Marc Allison, sand and 1.9 percent organic RB209,” she says. senior research associate at NIAB matter whilst at NIAB the soil Some of the Ag-Chem giants CUF. Dr Allison, who participated had 56 per cent sand and 3.3 make their own recommendations in the recent RB209 crop percent OM. which are higher than for RB209, nutrition review and revision, At EG Harrison’s, comparisons and are vegetable specific. “We discovered a lack of information were made between elemental really need new UK based for potatoes; the only one was a sulphur at a rate of 0, 40 and research to confirm if these Scottish technical note 80 kg SO3/ha. At Elveden, the higher application rates are recommending an application of treatments compared justified,” says Dr Sagoo. 25kg/ha of sulphate (SO3) in 0 kg SO3/ha with 125 kg deficient situations. SO3/ha applied as either Prevention better than To help fill this knowledge gap, elemental sulphur of ammonium cure three experiments were sulphate. At NIAB, the For top agronomist Andy commissioned by the Cambridge treatments compared Richardson from Allium Brassica University Potato Growers 0 kg SO3/ha with 75 kg SO3/ha and Agronomy, prevention is Research Association (CUPGRA), applied as either elemental Prevention is better than cure says better than cure, so he routinely taking place in on the Elveden sulphur of ammonium sulphate. brassica and allium specialist Andy applies sulphate at 150kg/ha for Estate (West Suffolk), which All the treatments were soil Richardson. brassicas, 100 -120kg/ha for bulb hosted the 2016 AHDB SPot Farm applied at planting. onions. “Brassicas and onions East, EG Harrison’s in North Average total tuber yields in levels of dry matter. This is an have a high sulphur requirement, Norfolk, and the NIAB site in each experiment were high: 79 important for the vegetable and where these crops are grown Cambridgeshire. t/ha at NIAB, 60 t/ha at EG sector because increased dry on light soils, they can become Different varieties were Harrison’s, and 65 t/ha at matter is associated with better deficient in sulphur, particularly investigated with the popular Elveden; and in each experiment storage quality in cabbage. in high rainfall seasons,” he says. Russet Burbank used for the trial there was no effect of the It has also been shown to Some areas, such as the north on the Elveden Estate, Rooster sulphur treatment on yield, increase the glucosinolate content west and Scotland, have both being grown in Norfolk and tuber population or tuber dry of brassicas, increase the light soils and high rainfall, Maris Piper used at NIAB. matter concentration. pungency of onions and the alliin which makes them more at risk Different soil types were Tissue sampling on the content of both onions and as sulphur leaches relatively easily examined: the soil at Elveden Elveden Estate, however, showed garlic. This, however, could be a from them. However, in recent had 80 per cent sand, but had a treatment differences in sulphur double-edged sword, as years even lower rainfall areas relatively high organic matter concentration but this did not considerable work has gone into such as Lincolnshire, with level of 2.5 per cent. The soil at correlate with greater yield or the development of sweeter- retentive silt soils, can also suffer EG Harrison’s had 60 per cent better quality, said Dr Allison. tasting varieties, says Dr Sagoo. deficiencies. The sulphur uptake of vegetable As sulphur mineralises from brassica crops is high and organic matter (OM), maintaining comparable to the sulphur uptake OM is key to keeping adequate of oilseed rape. Dr Sagoo has levels of the nutrient. Clay and been looking to confirm that the clay loams are less at risk of sulphur requirement of oilseed deficiency. Nevertheless, sulphur rape support the current RB209 deficiency is difficult to predict recommendations of 50-75 kg and although it may not be an SO3/ha for oilseed rape. However, issue, once symptoms are spotted she points to a lack of evidence there is no way back, he on which to base sulphur cautions. recommendations for the other “Sulphur can have a massive field vegetable crops. effect on yield in brassicas, so it “If sulphur deficiency is is really important to ensure          suspected, the updated RB209 crops have access to it.” will recommend applying 50-75 Moreover, the long growing  kg/ha SO3 to the vegetable season for storage cabbage and brassica crops (Brussels sprouts, sprouts makes them more cabbage, cauliflower and susceptible to sulphur deficiency. calabrese) and 25 kg SO3/ha to “What is unusual is that it all other vegetable crops in the affects the younger leaves, rather form of a sulphate containing than the older ones which are fertiliser at or soon after affected by nitrogen deficiency.” planting.” These young leaves, which However, she emphasises, not massively affect yield, become     
enough is known about sulphur pale from chlorosis, brittle and applications for vegetable crops cupped. In Brussels Sprouts they and she is calling for urgent tend to become yellow topped research on sulphur deficiency. with restricted rooting. “There are some professional commercial fertiliser/agronomy No response in spud companies who currently sulphur uptake trials    
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•IPM• 16 IMPROVING THE EFFICACY OF IPM More needs to be done to More farmers and growers are considering IPM as an understand the impact of option, and pioneering work is being done to better individual insecticides and understand how efficacy can be improved. Frances indeed other pesticides on the crop ecosystem, says Rosemary. Wright reports. Other approaches to rof Keith Walters of bounce back, and hungry plant protection Harper Adams University predators are ready to hit them Together with potentially PPsays helping beneficial hard. This means a second fewer chemical solutions, there insects survive to attack pests spray may not be necessary.” is increasing demand for and pathogens after the initial However, not all insecticides blemish free, residue free effectiveness of conventional are equal, he warns; some products and there is a growing pesticides has diminished, could pesticides in the study have interest in other approaches to offer growers a win: win proved to be more toxic to the Rosemary Collier, director of plant protection. Biological situation. beneficial ladybirds. Looking at Warwick Crop Centre. control agents such as Not only could it result in carbamates (Aphox), predatory mites and extra protection for crops organophosphates (dimethoate “There is some potential good nematodes, botanicals and grown under integrated pest and chlorpyrifos) and news here as well. We have semio-chemicals are expected to management (IPM) strategies, pyrethroids (lambda cyhalothrin found that adult and larval form an important part of crop but also growers could and cypermethrin), he ladybirds can detect residues of protection of the future. potentially save on the costs of discovered that feeding rates these pesticides on the crop However, one of the main applying a second dose. In fell most sharply with the and display a series of challenges has been how to addition, by using less active, pyrethroids, and the fastest behavioural responses that effectively use biopesticides in this strategy is more reaction was seen with Lambda result in them moving to the field vegetable crops; but now environmentally friendly. cyhalothrin. lower horizon where less important steps are being made Keith, who has been Overall, this resulted in no pesticide is often deposited. in improving in-field researching the effects of difference between the survival “It is all to do with how the performance, says Semo Kurtev, pesticides on seven-spotted of aphids fed on prey treated insecticide spray penetrates the IPM manager at Certis Europe. ladybird behaviour, has found with Aphox (which contains crop - and this is normally There are four types of interesting results: they eat pirimicarb), chlorpyrifos, deposited in the upper canopy. fewer aphids which have been lambda cyhalothrin or The ladybirds, which would sprayed with a pesticide than cypermethrin, and those that normally be foraging where the they would otherwise. had been fed on untreated aphids are – often on the fresh Delving deeper into why this aphids. Dimethoate use resulted growth at the top, but these happens, he has discovered this in lower survival rates for the behavioural responses cause is because they show early signs ladybirds. them to move further down to of toxicity and lose their The next question was safer havens,” says Prof Walters. appetite. But, of course, as whether direct exposure of the However, he cautions, this living creatures, they soon need ladybirds to crops sprayed with only works when the to eat again. these insecticides is lethal for underneath of the crop does Keith says: “If they continue to target insects, resulting in not receive high levels of toxic eat pesticide-sprayed aphids, mortality even before they eat insecticides. “This is showing they will die. But, as the effects the treated prey. After all they great potential as a component of the first pesticide application kill insect pests efficiently so of IPM and the next step is to wear off, aphid populations why not ladybirds? evaluate its commercial viability.”

Insecticides Semo Kurtev, IPM manager at Certis Increasing numbers of pest Europe. species are developing biorational: semio-chemicals, resistance to pyrethroids which botanicals, microbiologicals, means they are not the best and macrobiologicals. For group of insecticide to use in example, mycelia and spores of many situations, says Rosemary naturally occurring soil fungus Collier, director of Warwick can be effective as a Crop Centre. hyperparasite and can be even Resistant pests include the more effective when specially diamond-back moth which bred fungus is used, says Semo, invaded the UK in large who spoke at the recent numbers in summer 2016. Association of Independent Using ineffective insecticide Crop Consultants’ (AICC) treatments can have knock-on conference. effects, particularly if they harm One of the main benefits the natural enemies of, not only from these new biorational We need to help beneficial insects like Ladybirds survive pest attacks, says the target pest, but also of products is their potential for Prof Keith Walters of Harper Adams University. other pests in the crop. use as partners with other

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•IPM• 18 conventional products, rather efficacy and reliability – and matters that are not considered growers to view. than as replacements for them. keeping a sharp eye on at the moment; this means In the AHDB project, traps “The more forward looking ensuring return on investment ensuring products undergo have been hosted by several view is that we will eventually for the grower.” ethical considerations, are not growers and all traps are visible come to rely more on Andrew Gough, UK and allergens and do not contribute on the web site to all biorational products,” he says, Ireland area manager at to antibiotic resistance participants. A network of but he cautions that “getting Lallemand Plant Care (LPC), says concerns. traps potentially provides biologicals to work in one of the challenges is that Lallemand Plant Care has also considerable advantage in commercial in-field growing currently registration is just as been contributing to the helping to understand the situations can be tough; complicated - and expensive - development of a system for extent of the threat posed by elements such as temperature for microbiologicals as for pollinators to distribute migrant pests (such as the and humidity can vary conventional products. fungicides: within the system in diamond-back moth), which throughout the day, affecting Moreover, the regulating place so far, bees pick up the may arrive suddenly in large efficacy.” authorities consider biologicals biological fungicide (which is numbers, carried by wind Knowing where a pest can be as equal to conventional another fungus) on their feet currents at high altitudes. found at a particular time can products and therefore require and bodies as they leave the “This system could help make a significant difference, as data that he says is completely hive, and when they move from growers use timely controls – can understanding of irrelevant for biologicals and flower to flower within a crop, and speed is crucial for compatibility of how products often this data is not possible they distribute it. diamond-back moth control in perform in the field alongside to produce or the results are particular as it has a rapid life conventional ones. “You need not acceptable. New technology helps cycle,” says Rosemary. to know how long to wait after “If microbiological products effective monitoring applying one product before are to help growers follow IPM Knowing the enemy and Other approaches applying another,” he says. “We strategies in line with the when it is active plays a crucial Physical barriers can play a are working hard to improve Sustainable Use Directive (SUD), role in effective control. A significant role in preventing understanding of how there needs to be a change in recent AHDB-funded project pest damage; net covers have biologicals work, and what principles on how things are has been assessing a new been used for a number of needs to be done to make them registered,” says Mr Gough method of monitoring pests years to exclude cabbage root work more consistently.” who previously worked as a such as the diamond-back fly from swede crops and they trained agronomist. moth, silver Y moth and the are now being deployed on Boosting defences “It is worth highlighting that turnip moth (cutworm) some other crops with One of the successes is the biologicals are most often low remotely, reports Rosemary generally good results. increased understanding of how risk products that should Collier. Host plant resistance also to improve plant defence therefore undergo an easier Male moths are captured in presents a great opportunity to mechanisms to pests and registration process and in this pheromone traps containing a manage pests with fewer pathogens, using biorationals way, they could be quicker solar-powered camera which insecticides. The plant material such as wild and bred strains of introduced to the potential takes a picture once a day of kept in gene banks such as the fungus and bacteria as well as markets and users. It currently the sticky surface on which the UK Vegetable Gene Bank at botanicals and semio-chemicals, costs at least 0.5 to 1 million moths are caught. The images Wellesbourne, is a great says Semo. Euros to take a product of their trap captures are resource for screening for pest “These are currently being through to Annex 1 available on a web site for resistance. used alongside conventional registration,” he says. products to create Integrated Nevertheless, as the fresh Call for supermarkets to award premiums for Control Programmes designed produce market develops, he using IPM to get the best of both sees increasing need to keep Growers using IPM strategies conventional and biorational the end users in mind should be awarded a price products. Work is ongoing on particularly regarding some premium, says Rothamsted senior crop protection scientist Toby Bruce. Unlike organic produce, which is promoted for health and environmental benefits, IPM does not feature anywhere in the marketing literature. Variety choice is dependent on consumer demands, which can make acceptance of new varieties difficult. But this is where GM crops could play an important role. For example, growing GM potatoes with all the taste and culinary traits of favourite Rothamsted senior crop varieties, but with agronomic protection scientist, Toby Bruce, sees a potentially important role advantages such as blight and for GM – if it finally receives PCN resistance, declares Toby. approval. “One of the problems has been the vociferous objection of a small minority to GM. However, breeding techniques such as mutagenesis have been around since the 1920s and do not get mentioned, even though we owe the existence of modern sweet peppers to them.” Andrew Gough, UK and Ireland area manager at Lallemand Plant Care.

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•SPOT FARM RESULTS• 19 ‘GREAT REVEAL’ AT SPOT FARM EAST Results from new work aimed at helping to solve challenging problems facing East Anglian potato farmers - such as PCN, common scab control using minimal water and residual herbicide strategies post-linuron - were analysed at the AHDB’s SPot Farm East results day last month, writes Sue Jupe.

ith funding from the Norfolk/Suffolk border. The Greater Cambridge / Estate covers 9,000ha of which WWGreater Peterborough 3,000ha are farmed with a Local Enterprise Partnership, rotation including 470ha of SPot Farm East is putting potatoes, and 600ha of onions research into practice by plus parsnips, carrots and demonstrating cutting edge cereal crops. techniques - appropriate to the A well-attended event, most region and market sector - in a delegates had been to one of commercial scale potato several SPot Farm East events in growing environment. 2016. The morning workshops Potato growers and saw attendees grapple with the Graham Tomalin of Vegetable Consultancy Services (VCS) Agronomy. agronomists met at Newmarket data to draw conclusions Rowley Mile racecourse to before research leads took over herbicide strategies. Combinations and individual digest the results from the first to explore the results in full. Agronomist Graham Tomalin, active substances - including year of demonstrations and of Vegetable Consultancy pendimethalin (Stomp Aqua), trials. One of three AHDB Weed control post Services (VCS) Agronomy, led a metribuzin (Shotput), Strategic Potato Farms, SPot Linuron demonstration of the clomazone (Gamit 36EC), Farm East is run in partnership With the impending loss of performance of 12 residual prosufocarb (Defy) and with the Elveden Estate in the linuron, SPot Farm East is herbicide combinations on metobromuron (Praxim) - were Brecklands on the exploring alternative residual medium sandy soil. compared to a standard

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•SPOT FARM RESULTS• 20 programme of linuron, sand / sandy loam soils,” little difference pendimethalin and metribuzin. Graham warned. “Growers in ground cover, In sand land conditions such as need to maximise control using while intolerant at Elveden, Graham highlighted safe levels of remaining active varieties showed the potential issue of substances and to target the greatest phytotoxicity. components for the expected difference in Part funded by Belchim Crop weed spectrum.” ground cover Protection, the demonstration Full results of the compared to plots featured Maris Piper demonstrations and trials will treated plots,” planted on 21st April and 27th be posted on the AHDB Graham May. Although the site had website. concluded. high levels of small nettle, Planted on flixweed, annual meadow PCN – a high cost to 21st April on grass, groundsel and cleavers, growers loamy sand, the surprisingly there was no fat Graham Tomalin also led the plots included hen, bindweed, mayweed or SPot Farm East work exploring PCN susceptible knotgrass and less surprisingly varietal variations in resistance varieties no redshank or blackgrass. and tolerance to PCN including Overall Graham concluded (Globodera pallida – white Shepody and that Treatment 5 [Praxim potato cyst nematode). BPC Maris Piper and (metobromuron 500g/l) 3l/ha 2009 estimates suggest UK eight partially or + Artist (metribuzin 17.5% + growers lost £29.5million to fully resistant flufanacet 24%) 1kg/ha] and PCN (a cost that would have varieties Treatment 8 [Praxim 2l/ha + risen to £58million without including Forza Defy (prosulfocarb 800g/l) nematicides). Twenty four and Lanorma. 3l/ha + Shotput (metribuzin percent of UK potato growing Analysing the Phil Burgess, AHDB Potatoes, Head of Knowledge 70%) 200g/ha] gave the best land is treated with yield data, Royal Exchange. nematicides at a cost of and Lanorma £12million. both produced yields variable yield data for tolerance Graham explained that PCN equivalent to 60t/ha while Cara interpretation, he said it resistance relates to the ability was slightly less. Eurostar and required further trials to validate of a variety to affect Performer yielded 50t/ha each, it. multiplication of the pest – full while untreated Panther was “Approximately 10% of UK resistance means no under the 20t/ha bar. potato growers are using PCN replication. In contrast, Overall yield in nematicide resistant varieties which will no tolerance is the ability to treated plots was 9.2% higher doubt have an effect on PCN in produce yield when grown in for this trial on this site. The the crop,” says Graham Tomalin. the presence of PCN. The ratio of the final PCN “However, growers growing varieties tend to have larger population number (pf) other varieties are constantly roots and quicker growth - compared to initial PCN number pushing up pallida population – however the PCN tends to (pi) for resistant varieties such they are heading down a cul de multiply. as Performer, Arsenal, Innovator, sac,” he warned. The replicated trial saw 12 Eurostar, Forza, Panther and According to Philip Burgess, varieties tested in a total of 96 Royal were below 1 except for AHDB potatoes head of plots. Sited at the edge of a Lanorma - which was partially knowledge exchange, the field of Royal, the randomized resistant. In susceptible project will provide data to trial featured four blocks of varieties, such as Cara, Maris improve the modeling of the treated (Nemathorin - Peer, Maris Piper and Shepody, AHDB PCN calculator tool fosthiazate) and untreated the ratio was eight times (potatoes.ahdb.org.uk/online- plots. higher. toolbox/pcn-calculator). Graham explained it is From the data gathered from difficult to get even PCN this single trial, the tolerance Nitrogen movement Delegates at the Spot Farm East distribution across a trials site results were as follows: (see Correct nitrogen use makes Results Day. and the pre-trial PCN levels table below) the difference between an were recorded at between 2- Summing up Graham said average and top-performing overall performance in the 40 egg/g – averaging 10.88 that producing consistent potato crop but N is notorious demonstration plots. eggs/g. resistance and tolerance data for leaching, denitrification and However, he warned they Drones took aerial pictures of would allow comparison with volatisation. were twice as expensive as the the ground cover. While newer varieties. He stressed the Run by NIAB CUF, the SPot standard. He concluded that all nematicide-treated plots had significant increase in yield with Farm East nitrogen treatment combinations gave higher ground cover it was not the use of nematicide within demonstration used equipment adequate control on the site as marked as expected. this trial when comparing all loaned by Agrii and the John including active ingredients “Tolerant varieties showed very varieties. Responding to the Innes Centre to measure soil with cleaver control. ‘Three active substance Tolerant Moderately tolerant Moderately intolerant Intolerant combinations provided broader Cara Eurostar Maris Piper Panther and better control on the Lanorma Forza Maris Peer Innovator Elveden site. Post-linuron the Performer Shepody cost of residual herbicide applications will increase on Royal Arsenal

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•SPOT FARM RESULTS• 21 nitrogen at emergence and on the yield. A better Streptomyces species, post-season at difference understanding of N uptake will common scab is widely depths. enable a more dynamic system distributed in UK soils. The Russet Burbank for management.” Control strategies centre demonstration plots explored six or growers keeping soil treatments employing three Sulphur nutrition trial wet in the early–season, irrigation strategies - standard Significantly reduced from tuber initiation (TI). 15mm, half-dose frequent atmospheric sulphur (S) As water becomes an irrigation 8mm and over- depositions, and fertilizers with increasingly scarce and watered irrigation (25mm) a low S content, have costly resource, the SPot comparing Elveden’s standard contributed to S deficiency in Farm East common scab split-N applications versus crops in many UK regions. demonstration, run by seedbed N – both totaling Part of a series of three NIAB CUF, looked at 260kg/ha. replicated trials sponsored by control with minimal “On these light-textured soils, Cambridge University Potato water. putting all the N in the seedbed Growers Research Association Differences in scab and overwatering was thought (CUPGRA), three treatments susceptibility enable to be a high-risk strategy,” says were tested; no S, applications varieties to be grouped Dr Marc Allison of NIAB CUF. of S liquid at 125kg/ha SO3 or according to the “The results showed no effect of ammonium sulphate applied at maximum soil moisture irrigation regime – either the 125kg/ha SO3. deficit (SMD) for rate or timing - on ground cover Following sap testing of common scab control development, duration, yield or petioles, Marc Allison explained and when irrigation quality. However, less soil that while the ammonium scheduling should nitrogen was detected at 50- sulphate treatment showed the commence. Dr Marc Allison of NIAB CUF. 60cm at harvest in over-watered greatest increase in S, this had Small plots of fourteen than in standard irrigation plots. not translated in to yield or packing varieties were irrigated standard commercial practice. “The rate of N uptake peaks quality differences. A third from TI at two SMDs, 10mm The demonstration showed 30 days after emergence – 60 parameter, ‘fry colour’, is yet to and 20mm, using adjacent that TI is generally synchronized. days after emergence most N is be tested. irrigation runs with a boom. The results showed an average already in the crop. Restricting One treatment was made at half time lapse of 4 days from first N early on restricts the crop Common scab control the frequency of standard to 50% emergence, and an yield. If it is taken up early, Caused by Streptomyces commercial practice but twice average of 8 days from first to leaching later on doesn’t impact scabiei and other pathogenic the amount, the other at 90% emergence - the shorter

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•SPOT FARM RESULTS• •AGROMEK 2016• 22 PLENTY OF INNOVATIONS AT DANISH SHOW All 13 halls at the Herning exhibition complex were needed to house the 535 exhibitors at the recent Agromek international trade fair held on Nov 29th, in Denmark. The largest event of its kind in northern Europe, with nearly 50,000 visitors, there were plenty of new machines on show, writes Steven Vale. SPot Farm Host and Elveden Farm Manager, Andrew Francis (far left). anish firm Siwi already this period, the shorter the longer in Red Fantasy and this offers a system that period for scab control. Vales information is useful for timing DDallows trailers to be Sovereign stood out, taking 27 irrigation. connected and disconnected days from first to 90% In addition, it was noted that from the safety of the tractor emergence, due to inherent powdery scab, where the cab, in just seconds. Called the dormancy (not disease) issues. inoculum is on the seed potato, Combi-Hitch, as many as eight From this one demonstration, increased with frequent hydraulic and two electrical with a frequent irrigation irrigation, as did cracking. services are automatically regime Maris Piper was 100% Using large blocks of Russet connected and disconnected in packable. However, with Burbank, a further one swift movement. Developed by a Danish farmer, the infrequent irrigation it resulted demonstration tested standard The only thing that was 6Trax is a crab-steering system for a in higher levels of common vs delayed-start to irrigation to missing was automatic trailer. scab, and a similar but less demonstrate the most effective attachment and removal of the pronounced result was observed control period for processing PTO. This is now included on wheels. in Leontine and Red Fantasy varieties. (Full results will be the new heavy-duty 2017- The hydraulically-activated suggesting they were also more made available on the AHDB version, which is designed for drawbar ensures the wheels on susceptible to the pathogen. In website) Cat III linkages on tractors up the trailer’s front axle run in a contrast Melody showed slightly to 400hp. track to the left of the tractor’s better common scab control Summing up wheels, while the rear axle with infrequent irrigation. While SPot Farm Host and Elveden turns through a maximum the emergence to TI period was Farm Manager, Andrew Francis, angle of 30 degrees so that very short in Leontine, it was said that the trials and the wheels run in a track to demonstrations were bringing the right of the tractor tyres. two-dimensional work to life. The trailer’s two axles are “As an industry we achieve what hydraulically locked from the we set out to do,” he says. tractor cab for road transport. “Improving efficiency is key but He-Va used Agromek to work like this produces bolt on launch two XL versions of its findings – for instance the Tip Roller, which unlike the leachate on the farm appears to standard models can be fitted contain just 10% of the with a range of cultivation allowable nitrate level.” He tools ahead of the rolls. Based urged farmers to come and see on a heavier-duty frame than work like this in context – to see the standard models, the XL is it in action. available in working widths of Summing up at the end of the The Combi-Hitch automatically 12.3 and 15.3m (the current day, Jenny Bashford – SPot Farm connects and disconnects hydraulic widest Tip Roller is 10.2m). East Project Manager - and electrical services and the PTO. Depending on the front kit highlighted the importance of used, the Danish price of the measuring and monitoring as Crab steer is nothing new on five-gang 12.3m model on precursor for management. “It self-propelled root crop display, which weighs 12.6t is vital to understand and use harvesters, but Danish firm and requires a minimum of varietal attributes for the AgroIntelli is believed to be the 280-300hp, start from around industry to move forward,” she first to adopt the technique on DK300,000. said. a trailer. Called 6Trax, and Dal-Bo’s MaxiRoll is a developed by Danish farmer popular tool on heavy land but Further events Ole Green, the hydraulically- on light land the rolls tend to SPot Farm Scotland is holding operated concept not only bulldoze the soil. Reason its first results day on 9 March. ensures all four trailer wheels enough for the Danish Jenny Bashford, SPot Farm East For more information visit the run in a different track, but cultivator maker to go back to Project Manager. AHDB website. also straddle the tractor the drawing board and design

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•AGROMEK 2016• 23 a solution. provide enough switch between petrol and Called the Bogie T, the twin power for 8 gas. Power comes from a 4cyl roller design uses the same hours, but the 60hp turbocharged Kubota number of rings but staggers Dino’s maker engine, and manufacturer them on two shafts, which Naïo Tobroco reckons the new ensures they remain on top of Technologies option meets engine emissions the land. Available as an reckons there is without lots of complicated option on the range (6.3 to plenty of space and expensive technologies. 12.3m), the 830 MaxiRoll at to double the The prototype will undergo Agromek is around €3,000 number of performance tests, and to find more expensive than the batteries. When The Danish-made BioRotor pulls up stubborn grass out how long it can operate standard model. it goes on sale weeds and roots and leaves them on the surface to dry with a 30-litre gas bottle. Designed to work behind the the machine will out and die. PMC Hydraulics has combine, Thyregod’s 8m SDH be fitted with a cover, and as a Danish manufacturer Lunde developed a hydraulically- (Straw Distribution Harrow) rough guide prices are suggests an initial pass with its powered axle concept that spreads surface trash to create expected to range from BioHarrow, followed two days integrates tractor and machine a stale seedbed, but can also €70,000-€100,000. later with the BioRotor. drive systems to create a fully be fitted with a hopper and Danish firm Agro Intelligence Available in working widths of automatic hydraulic auxiliary seed equipment to establish showed a 50hp diesel- 3, 4 and 6m, the gearbox on drive system to reduce field OSR or cover crops. powered self-propelled tool the widest is rated to 300hp. damage and increase The angle of the tines can be carrier designed primarily for 4m prices start from around efficiency. Called Copro-Drive, changed from one of six hoeing in row crops, such as DK225,000, and the 6m model and developed in close different positions (no tools onions, cabbage and carrots. costs approx. DK340,000. cooperation with Italian required), and on the road the Called Robotti, the 600kg Austrian firm Geoprospectors hydraulic motor maker SAI, the two wings fold to a transport vehicle has no front or rear has developed a front- technique is suitable for use height of 4m and width of linkage. Instead, implements mounted sensor system that on trailers, and on any trailed 2.55m. Danish prices start (lift capacity 750kg) are carried measures the electro-magnetic machine requiring a powered from around DK127,000 for between the hydraulically- conductivity of the soil at axle (sprayers, potato and powered front and rear different depths, several times sugar beet harvesters). wheels. Controlled via an app per second. Information on The prototype has been on a tablet or smartphone, soil type, compaction and running for 12 months in operating speeds range from 6 moisture content is displayed Denmark. Prices start from to 8km/hr and around €24,000 for a single the track powered axle. width can be It is over 30 years since the changed from last Volvo BM tractor left the 1.5 to 3m. factory but many of these The vehicle is reliable workhorses still work expected to on farms throughout Europe. cost around Spare parts to many of the DK450,000. tractors in the Nordic region The Dino hoeing robot weeds beds Alo was are supplied by Olssons, and or four-rows with a maximum track showing a this company was keen to width from 1.2-1.8m. new simple The fuel supply to the Bi-Fuel version of the Dutch-made show what a new Volvo BM and compact Giant telescopic wheeled loader can be changed at the might look like today if the SDH and DK70,000 for the design of flick of a switch between petrol and gas. production hadn’t ended in seeding equipment. quick tractor 1985. Taking a year to build, Other versions are coming, weight. Unlike most tractor directly on a terminal in the the 255hp 7664 is based on a but for now the French-made concrete-filled weights, the Q- tractor cab. used chassis, numerous Dino hoeing robot is designed Bloq is made from cast iron, Called the Topsoil Mapper custom parts and a great deal to mechanically hoe beds or which helps to reduce its size. (TSM), there are two versions of imagination. four-rows with a maximum Available in three weights – of the on-the-go and weather Finally, Finnish firm Avant track width from 1.2-1.8m. 600kg, 900kg and 1.8t, the independent soil scanning showed an electrically- The six batteries currently 600kg block can also be system. The basic version powered articulated loader. quickly and easily connected to permits offline mapping of a There are two options – the e5 the larger two to increase the field based on the parameters and e6. The standard battery weights to 1.5 and 2.4t. of soil type, water saturation, in the e5 provides up to four Designed for front or rear and compaction. The Pro hours of operation and mounting, the 600 and 900kg version provides users with real requires a 5-hour re-charge. lumps cost around €1,000 time information of soil The Li-Ion battery in the e6 and €1,600, respectively. conditions, and the data can lasts for 2-6 hours and takes Turning at 300rpm, and be transferred to the cultivator just an hour to re-charge. Both working at depths from 10- to variably adjust the working models provide the same 15cm at speeds of 10- depth with an accuracy of 800kg lift capacity. Prototypes 12km/hr, the BioRotor pulls up 1cm. have been running for some stubborn grass weeds and The fuel supply to the Bi-Fuel time in Finland. Production of roots and leaves them on the version of the Dutch-made the e5 is planned to start The Robotti carries implements surface to dry out and die. The Giant V6004T telescopic sometime this spring with the between the hydraulically-powered first part of a two-stage system wheeled loader can be e6 following towards the front and rear wheels. as an alternative to spraying, changed at the flick of a middle of the year.

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•LEAFY SALADS• 24 TRIALS SHOW STRENGTH OF NEW BEJO LETTUCE & LEAFY SALAD LINES

At the end of June 2015, Bejo Zaden acquired privately Times did very well and is a owned Dutch breeder Agrisemen. At the time some compact variety ideal for size 12s. Business did observers may have wondered why a company with the exceedingly well in the week size and global reach of Bejo was interested in a smaller, where we got up to nearly more specialist player, writes Richard Crowhurst. 30 degrees where other varieties were breaking down with the heat and will owever, despite having a of their Iceberg material for a also do 10s or 12s.” He also large portfolio of number of years, but having the highlights medium-framed HHproducts, while Bejo is local resources of Elsoms on AS26-113 which has good strong in some speciality salad board means that it will now be field standing ability, the crops like radicchio, it has much easier to select and trial more compact AS26-124, lacked a diverse range of leafy varieties suitable for UK markets and AS26-135 which salads and lettuce. At the same and production. “This is a real performs well later in the time, Agrisemen were looking opportunity,” adds Andrew. “So Andrew describes Batavia type Lilybel as summer into the autumn. to expand beyond their the approach we took last year the ‘star of the show’ in terms of specialist “Most of these varieties will continental heartland, making was to focus on the Iceberg as lettuce. finish off well in the the acquisition of the that was the most developed resistance,” adds Andrew. “It’s autumn, and with the Indian Agrisemen portfolio, and their crop in terms of the UK, the belt and braces approach summers we’ve been getting breeding team based at Breda although the weather meant that most growers want, to we are probably getting better in the south of the Netherlands, that it wasn’t the easiest of back up a robust spray growing conditions in an ideal fit. seasons.” programme. Our trials suggest September and October than Agrisemen brought with it Despite the difficult that the genetic basis for the we have been seeing earlier in two dedicated breeders, one conditions, Andrew says that Bremia resistance is quite robust the season,” he explains. responsible for its Iceberg Agrisemen-bred material with no signs of breaking down Elsoms have also run a small programme and the other performed well and showed last year.” trial on the more diverse lettuce looking after speciality lines like good consistency in both VO From the Iceberg trials, and specialist lines. In Batavia Batavia, Lollo Rosso, Butterhead trials and pre-commercial trials Andrew has identified the types, both Sementel, which and baby leaf. As Andrew with key growers. “The material material of most interest to has good early vigour for spring Vincent of Elsoms, who are stood up well, although it British growers: “We are growth, and Lilybel stand out. now promoting the new lines in wasn’t much of a mildew looking for both compact-type “Lilybel is the star of the show the UK, explains; “Crops like season last year,” he says. “It heads for producing 12s, and for summer,” says Andrew. “It is Butterhead and Batavia are was more of a trial for botrytis, also for the potential for a 12 a heavy head, but very uniform much bigger on the Continent sclerotinia and rots, and we to make a 10. Having the ability with a slightly smaller leaf size in comparison with here in the only saw a little bit of mildew to do both gives you a little bit which is ideal for processing.” UK, but Iceberg is probably the towards the end of the season of leeway at harvest and they Other interesting varieties most important lettuce type in susceptible varieties.” tend not to break down so include the dark green Lollo globally.” It is hoped that a Resistance is something the readily.” Bionda AS76-004 and the triple Romaine breeder will be company takes very seriously, He has been impressed both red Lollo Rosso Bejo 78-140 recruited shortly, giving Bejo a with all new varieties having by early variety Bloomberg, and which has looked good in early full lettuce portfolio going 16-32 Bremia mildew resistance also Rumours which works at trials this season. forward. and most also having Nasanovia both ends of the summer. There is also a strong line up Agrisemen have been running resistance as well. “It is the “Rumours is another variety of baby leaf, including Cherry small so-called Visual policy that any new material which works quite well for Red Batavia type AS80-026 and Observation (VO) breeding trials will have full Bremia and Nas spring work,” he adds. “It is a a range of red and green oak good all rounder and the leaf types and red and green internal structure provides room Batavia, all with full 16-32 for field holding which is Bremia resistance. “They have another trait we are looking shown good uniformity and for.” regrowth,” comments Andrew. There are also several AS “There is also good range of numbers, which will become Butterhead which we will look Bejo numbers in the future, at next year, but that is which Andrew feels are worth obviously very specialist.” He further investigation: “AS28-135 also hopes to expand the oak in particular has very good leaf trials in the UK. “The potential for spring work. It reaction we are getting from went through a cold spring and growers and customers is very a difficult summer and did a good. The material has been very good job, with its ability to very well received in what is consistently make a very quite a developed market, Times, a new Iceberg variety for summer production, has a compact habit uniform size 10. grown alongside established and good internal structure. “In terms of summer varieties, commercial varieties,” he adds.

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Bejo Zaden B.V. P.O. Box 50 | 1749 ZH Waarmenhuizen | The Netherlands T + 31 (0) 2 26 - 39 61 62 E [email protected] Elsoms Seeeds Ltd T 01775 715000 E [email protected] | Europrise Co. Ltd. T (01) 843 8711 E [email protected] FEBRUARY 2017.qxp_VEG FARMER TEMPLATE 26/01/2017 15:27 Page 26

•AGRI-TECH EAST• 26 AGRI-TECH EAST – DRIVING INNOVATION IN AGRICULTURE by Richard Shepherd-Barron

Agri-Tech East was established in March 2014 to help accelerate innovation in crop-based agriculture and horticulture. Since then, many high value and worthwhile projects have been created to help advance knowledge and performance in many sectors of the industry.

gri-Tech East is based in thinking from other disciplines. Cambridge and the The East of England’s fertile AAdirector, Dr Belinda farming areas have many very Clarke, told The Vegetable Farmer progressive farmers, ground- recently that the organisation breaking technologists, specialises in bringing people innovative companies and centres together from different spheres of world-leading research. As of industry and science, to turn well as the many high-technology challenges into business and research organisations in or opportunities and facilitate near Cambridge, the Research Dr Belinda Clarke. mutually beneficial collaboration. Park in Norwich is home to the Group, and Sainsbury Laboratory Belinda herself has a good They arrange for farmers and most significant agri-food as members. deal of experience of the growers, scientists and technology cluster in the UK. All Belinda Clarke said: “I’m also technical side of bioscience technologists, and entrepreneurs this power can be brought to proud to point out that it’s having trained initially at the and investors to get together bear through Agri-Tech East’s noteworthy that there are no Sainsbury Laboratory and then thus creating an entrepreneurial connections to help farmers and less than six universities and been at the University of culture that fosters the growers move forward in colleges who are members - the Cambridge as well as working at development of early-stage technology that can benefit them Universities of Cambridge, East the John Innes Centre, where business ideas in agri-tech and in so many different ways. Anglia, Lincoln and Essex,Harper she gained her PhD. She has a brings news sources of finance. In November, there was the Adams and Easton and Otley huge enthusiasm for Agri-Tech Earlier in 2016, the University Agri-Tech Week - five days for College”. East, the benefits it can bring to of Cambridge’s Institute for new collaborators, customers and East Anglia has always been agriculture and what it is Manufacturing compiled a report partners to take part in events, well known for its advances in achieving in such a short time. “Making Smart Specialisation workshops and discussions across agricultural techniques. These She was delighted to receive the Smarter” and this endorsed the the East of England. During that were pioneered by such people Knowledge Catalyst Award in Agri-Tech East business cluster as week, Agri-Tech East organised as the famous ‘Coke of November at the Eastern Daily a beacon for “productive the REAP conference (entitled Holkham,’ Thomas Coke, Earl of Press Business Awards evening collaboration and innovation”. “Innovation for an agricultural Leicester. Over the forty years at the end of October. Carlos Lopez-Gomez from the revolution”) in Cambridge. following 1776 when he Examples of collaborations Centre for Science, Technology This received wide coverage on inherited Holkham Hall in North with business and benefits and Innovation who was one of TV and radio with leading Norfolk, he pioneered several facilitated by Agri-Tech East that the authors, told East Anglian companies such as Bayer, BT, agricultural innovations - notably impressed the judges included; Farming World: Fujitsu, Lockheed Martin and PA seed drilling, crop rotation and soft robotics and predictive “The cluster is uniquely Consulting discussing how proper fertilising. crops modelling for fresh positioned to address agricultural innovations used in other sectors Agri-Tech East’s work is produce, RFID tagging for stock innovation. It’s clear that Agri- could be adapted for the agri- currently concentrated on the and crop management, new Tech East, in its role as a food industry to provide radical arable and horticultural sectors crop growth and protection business-focussed cluster new approaches. Developments as the amount of cattle in East chemistries, use of temperature organisation, has strengthened in plant and soil science were Anglia is quite low. However, to regulate plant development connections among key players also covered at the event and with many of the members and helping a number of and provides certainty on how there was a display by many being national and international companies to gain investment. stakeholders from diverse innovative organisations - with organisations, Belinda Clarke is It is clear that in its short life, communities can come together advances in robots really open to contacts and interesting Agri-Tech East has made in a productive way”. catching the eyes of the TV and technical proposals from other connections stronger among Agri-Tech East drives this media people. parts of the country. She said: many of the important innovation by showcasing new There is a large list of “We help catalyse new companies and organisations in research, technology and members who have joined Agri- collaborations that could include the industry. At the same time, innovation that is relevant to Tech East to further the potential funding partners for we know that there are world farmers, producers and advancement of technology researchers and start-ups, as class research and technological processors. They enable farmers through their scheme. These well as attracting more capabilities in both engineering and growers to clearly explain include; ADAS, AHDB, John investment to enterprises. We and plant sciences in the eastern their priorities and requirements Innes Centre, Bayer Crop want to work with companies region. These are surrounded by to those within the research and Science, G’s Growers, Microsoft, and researchers to help secure an outstanding network of technology world as well as Rothamsted Research, Greens of funding to develop new highly progressive farmers and generating interest from non- Soham, Elveden Estate, NIAB, PA innovations and drive business growers, all keen to try new traditional sources to bring fresh Consulting, Produce World growth”. ideas and technologies.

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•LEAF• 27 LEAF’S FIVE YEAR STRATEGY FOR HEALTHY FOOD AND FARMING evaluation as well as novel very computerised and LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) celebrated its approaches to support better innovative and we at LEAF will 25th anniversary last year. Since 1991, this organisation information flow - working with be very much part of this.” universities and research As is shown in the has worked hard to promote the best ways to produce institutes to increase the organisation’s name, the healthy, quality food whilst caring for the earth’s natural evidence of the impact of environment is also a key resources. Richard Shepherd-Barron spoke recently to LEAF’s work and continue to element in their activities. drive improvement in IFM LEAF’s continued partnership Caroline Drummond MBE, LEAF’s chief executive to find practices. with the Game and Wildlife out about their plans for the next five years. They are very keen to identify Conservancy Trust (GWCT) in partnerships within the food, the “Big Farmland Bird Count” farming, environment, health has seen a steady increase in EAF now has some 2,500 and education sectors to the number of LEAF members members and 38 LEAF provide added-value taking part every year and this LLdemonstration farms in opportunities for farmers is one way to demonstrate the the UK, which hosted 1,500 around the health agenda. High positive impact that IFM makes farmers last year to see on the agenda also is the effort to the farmland bird Integrated Farm Management to build farming’s respect and population. Caroline said: (IFM) in practice. understanding among the “We’ve moved forward in leaps The latest LEAF Global Impact general public and this is where and bounds to help wildlife Report shows 33 per cent of UK Open Farm Sunday (261,000 habitats and when I started vegetable and fruit is grown by visitors on 382 farms in 2016!) with LEAF all those years ago, I LEAF Marque certified has so much impact, helping believed then very strongly that businesses and globally there the public’s understanding, the environment was important are 342,556 hectares of crops recognition and demand for and that this needed very much grown by LEAF Marque certified environmentally and sustainably to be addressed. I’m very proud businesses. LEAF’s chief executive, Caroline grown produce. that we have achieved so much Caroline Drummond said: Drummond, MBE. Caroline said that she sees in that time.” “Our main strategic ambition technology in farming as being LEAF has a strong board of for the next five years is to towards, and knowledge of, of huge and critical importance trustees and an advisory board, position ourselves as the “go- food, farming and the for the future and that LEAF supported by several to” organisation for the delivery environment will be holding some committees specialising in of more sustainable food and technology events this spring; different areas such as policy farming. The strategy is bold LEAF is committed to “Of course, our demonstration and strategic development, and and visionary and I look strengthening their membership farms already operate many of LEAF Marque technology. LEAF forward to working with our offer and particularly, the LEAF the latest developments in was very honoured at the end members and many Marque. They want to increase farming practice and these can of last year when Her Royal organisations across the food, the promotion of the LEAF be seen and discussed by Highness, The Countess of farming and health sectors to Marque and its relationship visiting farmers. Our links with Wessex agreed to become the drive forward a new approach with existing growers to the technological research honorary president. to delivering more sustainable improve the outreach amongst world, such as Harper Adams Over the past 25 years, LEAF agriculture under the theme of consumers and across the food University (one of the nine LEAF has built up considerable skills, healthy food and farming, fit chain. They want to build closer innovation centres), are very expertise and experience. These for the future.” links with their members important to us.” Caroline can be used to help farmers Caroline explained that LEAF’s through demonstration added: “I can see huge and growers deliver sustainable five year strategy has five main activities: robust management opportunities in the fresh farming that is prosperous and objectives: tools, data, monitoring and produce sector as it becomes to communicate this to the public through an emphasis on • Tripling LEAF’s capability the LEAF Marque. There is an and capacity to deliver its increasing interest in the health work and outreach aspects of fresh produce, and • Increasing the adoption of an increasing number of more sustainable farming consumers are starting to look practices through IFM much harder at the food they • Improving industry buy and how it is produced. recognition and demand for The fresh produce industry sustainably-sourced cannot afford to ignore this products trend and this is where LEAF’s • Leading a collaborative activities can really make an approach within the impact across the food chain. industry for better public As Caroline Drummond puts it: engagement among “We are driving the opportunity consumers for farming to be at the heart • Positively influencing Open Farm Sunday helps the public’s understanding, recognition and of food, health and consumer attitudes demand for environmentally and sustainably grown produce. environmental improvement”.

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•RESOURCE EFFICIENCY• 28 MAKING THE MOST OF FINITE NATURAL RESOURCES by Richard Crowhurst

Over the last few years, issues around sustainability have Agriculture and Horticulture policy makers and evaluate Development Board (AHDB) to research and knowledge been high on the agenda. Whether in terms of energy research and develop a Farm exchange priorities.” use, both from a cost and a climate change perspective, Scale Resource Use Efficiency He adds; “improved resource the avoidance of waste and the protection of the Calculator. The main aim was to efficiency can improve financial understand the environmental performance, for example by environment have all become much more important and economic impact of farm reducing the cost of inputs, at considerations when making any management decision. management decisions relating the same time as reducing the to resource use. environmental impact of The resulting AHDB production. The tool enables owever, while access to produced by the United States Environmental and Agricultural scenarios to be tested so that water and soil are also Geological Survey (USGS) in Resource Efficiency Tool trade-offs between different HHrecognised issues, the 2012 suggested more than 350 environmental metrics can be availability of other finite years supply of rock phosphate, considered. resources, such as nutrients, and there are many uncertainties However, improvements in other materials has not received surrounding the figure. resource use efficiency typically quite as much attention. A similar calculation for potash require a significant investment This is beginning to change. In suggests around 250 years of of time; to measure, plan the wider world businesses are reserves. However, neither changes, adapt or mitigate and starting to think about the so- estimate considers the fact that then subsequently manage. In called ‘circular economy’, as the UN FAO estimates global addition to time, there can also promoted by the Ellen demand is currently growing by be significant financial MacArthur Foundation. around two per cent a year. investments to be made, According to their website, ‘A “The efficient use of resources although the return on circular economy is one that is and inputs will help producers investment can be relatively restorative and regenerative by to manage costs of production quick.” design, and which aims to keep and improve profitability,” points products, components and out Leslie Berger, Agri-Food Recycling veg waste Haroon Jabar, Senior Marcomms materials at their highest utility Sustainability Consultant at RSK Manager at AHDB Horticulture. “Recovering and recycling and value at all times, ADAS UK Ltd vegetable waste can provide distinguishing between technical “Climate related limitations on (EAgRET) is available to levy new income streams such as and biological cycles.’ water and potential increases in payers via AHDB, but other tools animal feed, anaerobic The foundation also points out the cost and availability of water are available to measure and production or composting to that today’s linear ‘take, make, are driving improved efficiency monitor carbon emissions, produce energy and organic dispose’ economic model relies of water use, while reducing including the Cool Farm Tool fertiliser,” points out Leslie on large quantities of cheap, water use and greenhouse gas developed by the Cool Farm Berger. “We are aware of a easily accessible materials and (GHG) emissions is increasingly Alliance: number of the larger vegetable energy, and is a model that is required by supply chain (https://coolfarmtool.org/coolfar growers who have invested in reaching its physical limits. partners and customers such as mtool/). For those simply looking AD and are now using the There are sound economic processors, food service for introductory information, energy produced and recycling reasons for agriculture and suppliers and retailers.” there are numerous sources, the digestate back onto their horticulture to address the such as Defra’s Waste crops.” availability of certain resources. Resource use calculator Minimisation Manual which can However, she points out that Global phosphate and potash In 2013 ADAS led a two year be found at: while organic materials such as are limited, and while figures consortium project for the http://tinyurl.com/ztatkja. digestate and composts contain “The EAgRET project was valuable organic matter and developed in order to provide a plant nutrients, it is important tool to quantify the efficiency of that recycling of these materials resource use at a farm level, to land is done carefully to avoid including where that farm has any risks to the food chain: “The multiple enterprises,” explains main concern is potential Haroon Jabar of AHDB pathogen transfer where Horticulture. growing fresh produce, but “The tool is unique in digestate and compost are addressing the impact of generally very low in pathogens transferring resources between anyway as the treatment process enterprises and the impact that kills pathogens has on a range of environmental “Any risk from purchased metrics. EAgRET is not designed digestate can be further to provide a decision making minimised by using a quality tool for individual farmers or product, such as PAS 100 There are sound economic reasons for agriculture and horticulture to address growers, but rather to test certified compost or PAS110 the availability of certain resources. scenarios for ‘typical’ farms in certified digestate, and following order to inform discussions with guidelines in Farm Assurance

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•RESOURCE EFFICIENCY• 29 very low heavy metals relative to standard phosphates. It also has a low salt index and so may safely be placed in the rooting zone,” he explains. “It is not locked up and is available from very low to very high pH levels. The product is solid, is most efficient when placed in the root zone and used in conjunction with some water- soluble phosphate, although it has not yet been given clearance An on-farm AD plant. There are now around 540 anaerobic digestion plants for use on organic crops.” in total, of which well over two hundred are on farms. Unlike sewage sludge and digestate, and other forms of schemes such as Red Tractor, carbon footprint associated struvite, Crystal Green® is which sets out safe harvest with it.” classed as an EU and UK fertilizer intervals when applying wastes and not a waste and has a Ostara’s Pearl production process to fresh produce crops.” Nutrient recovery guaranteed plant available cleans P and N from waste water to produce a concentrated N-P-Mg Growers should also refer to the However, a lot of nutrients are nutrient analysis. It doesn’t have complex fertiliser. [Ostara]. Safe Sludge Matrix and the lost through other non-farming the societal or environmental Renewable Fertiliser Matrix, both activities and while the use of concerns associated with However, true sustainability of which provide excellent biosolids and sewage sludge is biosolids and digestate and has means that this has to be done guidelines. an established method of no restrictions as to what crop it in a way which is profitable and Matt Hindle, Head of Policy for recovering resources, they are can be used. provides the business itself with the Anaerobic Digestion & not always suitable for all crops As demand for resources of all a future: “Growers have to Bioresources Association (ADBA) or production systems, as well as kinds continues to increase and continually challenge normal points out that farming has needing specialist equipment society moves towards a circular procedures, inputs and timings, been at the heart of the recent and being subject to additional economy, more companies such but they have to do it in a way expansion of anaerobic regulations. Because of this, as Ostara are likely to appear, which provides them with digestion. entrepreneurs are now looking helping the agricultural and sufficient empirical evidence to “The AD market has grown at recovering resources from horticultural sectors play their warrant the change,” Jim very strongly in the UK over the materials like sewage and full part. concludes. last few years and the farming making them available to end sector in general has been a very uses such as farmers and other big part of that,” he says. “There industries. are now around 540 anaerobic “The Pearl® process is a digestion plants in total, of unique phosphate recovery which well over two hundred system from both cleaning P and are on farms. They use a huge N from waste water and also range of different feedstock providing a concentrated N-P-Mg materials, but the residue from complex fertilizer which vegetable processing can be a vegetable growers may use,” really important feedstock.” explains Jim Welson, a As well as recycling nutrients, Consultant with Ostara. farmers benefit from a waste “Some nutrients like phosphate processing process which is are known to be a relatively often lower cost than the limited resource, and in addition available alternatives, and energy while all nutrients are needed to generation. “The advantage of grow vegetables, some major AD is that the nutrients ones like phosphate are utilized exactly recovered match the crop or very inefficiently by crops, so the WAWATER WHERE YOYOU WAWANT ITT vegetable waste that is put into aim is to improve upon that 
Booms from 16-76m for uniform application the plant,” explains Matt. uptake.” “The biofertiliser that is Ostara Nutrient Recovery 
VeVersatile R46 boom offffers eevven more solutions produced, the digestate from Technologies Inc. sustainably 
Efffficient ho eels frser om 63/200 to 125/750 AD, is particularly rich in produces Crystal Green®, an 
nitrogen, phosphorus and enhanced efficiency continuous Quiet, econnomical, secure pumps potassium which are all crucial release phosphate fertilizer that 
e rvExtensi ange of pipes and options to plant growth, and the has a guaranteed analysis of 5- 
First class support nationwide availability of the nitrogen is 28-0-16.7MgO. According to visit our website: rgsirigbr igation.co.uk increased by the AD process, so Jim, Ostara’s Pearl® process or call Adrian Collwwill 01536 260338 you get more available nitrogen produces three mean granule [email protected] than from spreading the grades, 1mm, 1.5mm and 3mm organic materials directly and which are citric soluble and the next crop can take that release the nutrients evenly over nutrition up very quickly. It is a period of 5 – 8 months. also a low carbon fertiliser, so “The product is clean and dry, your end product has a lower not hygroscopic, and contains

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