Midlands
Given the wide choice of bioscience products available, the trick in maximising return on investment is recognising the requirements of each crop, and individual customers’ needs, says Dan.
“If you then match these considerations with understanding the science and development behind the products, you can then make informed decisions on where to recommend them and where not to,” he adds.
Klorofill is particularly useful at key yield-building timings, such as flowering oilseed rape. “This is when we are looking to maximise photosynthesis and prolong green leaf area to build yield,” says Dan.
He favours Wholly K PGA on winter wheat at T1, but might also recommend it on flowering oilseed rape and winter beans.
“Winter wheat can’t get enough of it at T1-T2 when it is undergoing rapid growth. Potassium is a valuable component of yield and the additional nitrogen uptake is a valuable addition.
“The first three years of the YEN bean project have also suggested a positive relationship between potassium inputs and bean yields.
“I’ll also consider it where people have taken a potassium holiday, where lodging is a concern and when conditions are droughty, as potassium is important for nutrient and water regulation.”
Where additional potassium is not needed, Dan may opt for Twoxo at up to GS31 in wheat, around the main fertiliser application to give crops a boost.
The product contains 2-oxoglutaramate, a signalling molecule that stimulates the plant to increase carbon dioxide and nitrogen uptake, a combination that increases biomass and yield.
“Twoxo plays a vital part in the nitrogen and carbon pathways, helping the plant to make best use of any available nitrogen to help them through the imminent period of rapid growth,” says Dan.