Latest agronomy techniques on display at Borders trials site
Arable farmers across the Scottish Borders and beyond will be able to catch up with the latest cereal agronomy developments this summer at Agrovista’s AgX regional trials site near Kelso.
An extensive wheat screening trial, where growers will be able to compare and contrast the best existing and new wheat and winter barley varieties, is one of the key features at the event, which takes place on 21 June at Ploughlands, St Boswells, Melrose.
“All the key varieties suited to the area including those in our extensive portfolio will be on display,” says Agrovista technical manager John Murrie. “Growers will be able to get in amongst them and discuss the various features with experts from the team.”
The fully replicated small plot trials will be also taken to yield, so that visitors can compare their own notes with the eventual outcome. “This will give growers a good steer on what they should be growing on their own farms over the next couple of seasons,” says John.
Various wheat fungicide programmes will also be put to the test on the site. These will compare the efficacy of commercial programmes as well as those containing new chemistry about to enter the market.
“This initiative should provide plenty of valuable take-home messages for growers looking to optimise their disease control programmes,” says John.
Members of Agrovista’s precision farming team will also be on hand to talk through the integration of precision farming into a farming business and how growers can benefit from the added value this technology offers, ensuring they achieve the best financial margin for each field.
In addition, Agrovista Rural Consultancy’s experienced team of business consultants will be available to discuss opportunities within various environmental schemes to help farm businesses to maximise opportunities and improve efficiency.
“We are delighted to be able to invite everyone back to our regional trials after a two-year absence due to Covid,” says John. “We would also like to extend a special thanks to our host farmer, Jack Parsons, for providing such an excellent venue.”
The site is at Ploughlands, St Boswells, Melrose, TD6 0RP (what3 words: solicitor.revised.received). The open day takes place on 21 June between 9.30am and 4.30pm. The first tour starts at 10am, the last tour is at 3pm.
All growers, whether they are Agrovista customers or not, are welcome to attend but are requested to book in advance at www.agrovista.co.uk/agx-kelso-registration
Kelso trials site
• Open day 21 June
• Comparing the best existing and new wheat and barley varieties
• Changing landscape of fungicides
• Agrovista Precision Services
• Agrovista Rural Consultancy
Free event
Lunch and refreshments provided
Basis and NRoSO points available