The need to adapt to a changing farming landscape was one of the key take home messages at Crops & Spreaders.

Growers and the industry professionals flocked to Teagasc Oak Park in their thousands last Wednesday to discuss issues facing the sector.

What was clear to see was that farmers had an increased awareness of the challenges facing their businesses.

The impending loss of chlorothalonil, the increase in barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) pressure and higher infestations of grass weeds were all hot topics, with farmers seeking advice and solutions to these challenges. The loss of the seed dressing Redigo Deter also poses challenges when it comes to controlling BYDV.

Given the mild winter and spring, BYDV infection can be found in most areas of the country. Growers were keen to learn more about the trigger factors which lead to BYDV infection and integrated methods of control.

Chlorothalonil

The loss of chlorothalonil will deal a significant blow to growers’ ability to control septoria in wheat and ramularia in barley . Teagasc has calculated that loss of chlorothalonil could cut wheat and barley margins by up to 50%.

Tramlines event this week

The Irish Farmers Journal will hold its first farm walk of the From the Tramlines series this Thursday, 4 July. The walk takes place on the farm of Martin Hoste near Kilbride, Co Meath. There will be a mix of speakers and practical demonstrations focused on preparing for Harvest 2019. The event is free for all to attend.

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