So Thursday 7th June saw the first of three National Agronomy Centre open days. The weather didn't look like it was going to be kind to us, and don't mention the lack of coffee.
With boards up and a field of wheat and oilseed rape the locations for the field tours, Patrick Stephenson, Northern Regional Agronomist, made introductions and welcomed all. With the rain falling senior pathologist Jane Thomas explained the merits of the Optibean programme and Ron Stobart, Head of Communications, discussed the research we are doing in agricultural rotations.
With the rain easing slightly there was the option of going to either field location with Bill Clark, Commercial Technical Director, covering fungicide programmes 'the possibility of a T6 spray' with a look at some crop treated with SDHI fungicides, plus his explanation of the flecking we've seen a lot of this year in wheat crops. Also in the wheat field was Richard Overthrow, Western Regional Agronomist, he was demonstrating the wheat varieties, with several new ones on the list and some highlights to consider for this Autumn.
Over in the Oilseed field, Selwyn Richardson ADAS soil management expert, had dug a suitably large hole to explain the virtues of good soil management, I was surprised to hear that Sugar Beet roots can get as far down as 6ft and OSR as much as 3ft, down deep enough, should it turn dry, to access enough moisture down in the profile to see the plant through the important pod fill period. Alan Dewar talked about insect pest resistance which is becoming more and more of a problem. Finally Simon Kightley, responsible for Oilseeds and Pulses, gave us his enlightening view on the pros and cons of the current OSR varieties along with his choice of the pick of the bunch and ones to look out for in the future.
Also joining us, somewhat drier in the marquee, were representatives from Easton College, HGCA, AFP, RASE, United Oilseeds and CFE.
With the rain abating at 12, the hog roast was a welcome sight and smell, it gave a chance to put down the brollies and chat with a few of the growers attending. Most thought the location was good, with the field display and talks a highlight. It's always good to go to these events, you never know what new bit of information you might pick up, whether on varieties, soil care or the new thinking on why the hell is the cause of that, or just an opportunity to catch up with the rest of the members.
Well one down and two more to go, Morley on the 21st June and Hampshire on the 28th. I'm sure the sun will shine at some point!