Farmers Guide Magazine March 2026

OUT & ABOUT

With the Farmers Guide team

Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd hosted its 66th Annual Doe Show in early February – a highlight in the calendar for many farmers.

Farmers Guide was there across the threeday event – check out our social media platforms to see behind-the-scenes videos or turn to page 53 to read machinery reporter Daniel Hodge's review of the show.

Pictured (l-r) are FG's Patrick Over, Greg Goulding and Daniel Hodge with Ernest Doe & Sons managing director, Angus Doe.

Machinery reporter Daniel Hodge headed to Norfolk in late January, where J Riley was demonstrating Vervaet sugar beet harvesters to farmers visiting from as far a eld as Ireland. Read all about the demos on page 58.

The Ulyatt family loaned their Vervaet Q-616 for the demonstration day – pictured with Daniel (l-r) are Martin, John and Sarah Ulyatt of farming and contracting business Pete Ulyatt & Son.

Livestock editor Sarah Kidby and sales executive Samantha Wilson were at Gulpher Farm, Felixstowe, learning more about the three DeLaval VMS V300 milking robots being used by Joe Adams as part of the dairy enterprise. See more at www.farmersguide.co.uk

Multiplatform journalist Aleksandra Cupriak was at the Norfolk Farming Conference in February – read more at ww.farmersguide.co.uk. She also interviewed farmer Olly Harrison at the event –check out the video on our YouTube channel.

Farmers Guide director Greg Goulding is pictured with the Ford Ranger PHEV Stormtrak, which we tried out for a couple of weeks under testing conditions, including towing a tractor. Find out how the hybrid pickup performed on page 49 .

The Farmers Guide team welcomed MP for South Su olk James Cartlidge to the o ce recently, and interviewed him about the booming wine industry in the East Anglian region, his views on the changes to IHT, and what the government could and should be doing to ensure domestic food security in testing times. You can see the videos on the podcast page at www.farmersguide.co.uk and on our YouTube channel. He's pictured with Daniel

How low can demand for cereals go?

One thing that is a given in the arable industry is that no two days are ever the same and it’s these changes and uncertainties that keep us all on our toes when trying to predict the future and price, writes Cecilia Pryce, Open eld’s head of research, compliance & shipping. The recent global and domestic political uncertainties are one aspect to never forget, but for those who use and follow monthly cereal demand and usage data alongside trade data, there are a few other things going on. Firstly, there is the predicted drop in grains being consumed by the UK’s two ethanol facilities.

ground plans for

to around 163,000 tonnes. This may not surprise those of you reading this in Scotland, but if we see a similar drop for the next six months that could be a 350,000–400,000-tonne drop in malting demand in one crop year. If you then add in the drop in wheat demand to the distilleries, you begin to ask some serious questions.

I remember looking at ground plans for Ensus back in 2005/06; it was then built and rst started running in 2009. Meanwhile Vivergo rst came online in July 2013 and both spluttered along until they had their biggest consumption in crop year 2016/17, where they consumed close to 1.4 million tonnes of wheat and 190,000 tonnes of maize. It was their biggest combined year and yet nine years later we may be lucky if they consume around 200,000 tonnes for the whole of the 2025/26 year, of which most may be imported maize. It’s a big demand hole. Over the same period the whole of the EU and UK increased cereal consumption in biofuels from around 6 million tonnes to 11.5 million tonnes. The second point is the move in the demand for malting barley by the maltsters and wheat by the distillers. For those of you who don’t follow the demand gures I would urge you to check out the data. Barley demand has dropped by close to 20% over the rst six months of the season, amounting

This month, Open eld experts share re ections on shrinking cereal demand and the impact of current global disruptions on fertiliser availability. The Openfield Partnership: More

My rst question is, how low can demand go? We saw monthly drops when the pubs were closed during Covid, but the current moves look like it could be a fundamental medium to long-term shift. The news is full of stories about less drinkers and trade tari s, but currently the industry looks very broken and that is starting to be felt at the farm gate. Some could call it unintended consequences while others could call it a temporary blip, but in reality we seem to be extinguishing domestic demand for cereals in many directions with the GLP-1 (weight loss/health) medications adding yet another uncertainty.

Over the last two harvests we have seen some of our smallest arable crops due to weather and a continued drop in planted area, but assuming a more normal crop production what happens to domestic UK crops if consumers keep hitting the o or slow down button? The UK is in such a precarious position, while other countries are investing and shoring up their agricultural industry and domestic consumption we seem to be hesitating into yet more uncertainty. The industry needs to be fully understood by those designing policy and those negotiating trade deals while farmers need to understand the usage data that is available monthly so they can anticipate change and markets before they nd out too late.

Fertiliser matters

Podcast 190x65mm.qxp_Layout 1 18/08/2021 15:30 Page 1

Due to weather issues at ports in Morocco causing major disruptions, there have been some

Our weekly grain market report is available as a podcast.

Why not listen to ourlatest views* on the Wheat, Malting Barley, OSR and Pulses markets and get the latest prices too?

Simply search for“Openfield – OpenView” on Spotify, ACAST, iTunes and Amazon Music.

*Content is updated every Thursday evening to ensure you’re always in the know.

www.openfield.co.uk I 01476 862730

delays in diammonium phosphate (DAP) vessels arriving in the UK, causing tight availability and price rises during February, explains fertiliser manager Lucy Hassall. China has also applied an export ban on phosphate until August 2026 which is adding to tight availability. There is strong demand from Brazil and India which will contribute to rm pricing. DAP demand in the UK for maize has been emerging and growers may need to look at alternative options.

In mid-February, India came back to the market with another tender for urea, looking to secure 1.5 million tonnes. There has been a higher demand from India for urea this season due to problems with their own domestic production which has been pushing prices higher due to increased demand. Iranian production has also been largely o ine due to major issues with gas supplies adding tightness to the global market, and as we are now in peak demand season, this could mean prices remain rm. FG

Price indicator (May 2026)

£160–£170 ............. Feed wheat

£150–£160 Feed barley

£445 ......................... Oilseed rape

*Prices quoted are from Open eld and were predicted as at 16th February 2026. They will be subject to regional variations.

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Homegrown beet sugar showcased in Parliament

Marking its 13th year, the Sugar Industry Programme (SIP), which is jointly sponsored by British Sugar and NFU Sugar, once again took its message on the importance of homegrown sugar to Parliament.

The SIP participants, including sugar beet farmers and professionals from British Sugar and the British Beet Research Organisation, joined their own constituency MPs, as well as other MPs

who support the sugar and agriculture sector, to tell them more about their work in the industry and discuss key policy issues.

This year’s SIP participants and industry representative discussed a range of topics with the 17 MPs who attended the reception, including food security, the need for trade policy to support British agricultural interests and the opportunities which agritech developments such as

precision breeding can bring to the beet industry.

The reception’s guest speakers included Baroness Minette Batters, who commented on her recent Farm Pro tability Review –adding that the beet sector is critical to UK farming. Baroness Batters also praised the Sugar Industry Programme, hailing its important role in training the next generation of leaders in the sector.

Mancozeb emergency authorisation application reaches disappointing conclusion

According to Scott Walker, CEO of GB Potatoes: “Following the announcement that mancozeb would be withdrawn from use in the UK at the end of the 2025 season, GB Potatoes explored the feasibility of progressing an Emergency Authorisation (EA) application to allow a continued use on potato crops.

“With support from Horticulture Crop Protection Ltd (HCP), a

small group of technical experts was convened to develop an application and to engage constructively with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) on what would be required for approval. Positive engagement with the authorisation holder, UPL, enabled productive pre-application discussions to take place.

“However, through these discussions it became clear that [...] any authorisation would

be limited to a single application of mancozeb per crop. Such a restriction would not be commercially viable given the additional stewardship requirements that would need to be put in place, and [...] only very limited resistance management benefit.

“As a result, and with great disappointment, the decision was taken not to proceed with an Emergency Authorisation application for mancozeb.”

Multi-site fungicide "can boost cereal yields by 0.3t/ha"

According to Adama, the multi-site fungicide Arizona (500g/ litre folpet) can pay for itself by boosting yields by 0.3t/ha. Adama’s UK technical manager, David Gri ths commented: “After the drought induced challenges of 2025, and with wheat markets showing little sign of improvement after last year’s drop, UK arable growers are looking closely at this year’s crop input expenditure.

“We understand this sentiment and encourage growers and agronomists to appraise the ROI of each and every penny spent on crop protection. It’s also important to understand what the potential of the crop is in order to make the right decisions to maximise output. UK growers currently have some fantastic looking crops in the ground, and it would be a shame to let their yield potential fall by the wayside simply because they weren’t adequately protected against diseases such as septoria in wheat and ramularia and rhynchosporium in barley.

spring disease control programmes, each

and its ability to enhance yield. Seven

“When selecting suitable products for spring disease control programmes, each input should earn its place, which is why Adama has been testing Arizona to assess its real value in terms of crop performance and its ability to enhance yield. Seven years of data has proven that Arizona not only protects newer chemistries, but it also returns an average yield bene t of just over 0.3t/ha.”

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Acquisition of Chafer Machinery Ltd and Horstine announced

The Chafer Machinery Ltd and Horstine brands have been acquired by Nexus Technology and Engineering Ltd. The new company is called Nexus Chafer Ltd.

“It is the start of a new chapter for both companies, founded on respect for heritage, continuity of excellence, and ambitious future growth,” says Nexus Chafer’s sales and marketing director, James Bilson. “We recognise the strength of the Chafer brand and are proud to build on its solid foundations, extending over the last three decades.

“It is the start of a new chapter in the ongoing development of Chafer sprayers that retains a longstanding reputation, which boasts a dedicated and professional team, along with a loyal customer base that stretches to all corners of the UK.”

Nexus Chafer Ltd says it is committed to active engagement within the sector, continuous improvement, dedication, transparency and integrity, and maintaining an open communication with all new and existing customers.

Commercial Vehicle Auctions Ltd launches new auction centre

Commercial vehicle auction house, CVA, is expanding with a strategic new site in Avonmouth, Bristol. Now open, the branch will serve as a physical gateway in the South West to the company’s powerful auction platform.

The move into Avonmouth is a big step for CVA, but a natural one. Positioned right in the heart of one of the UK’s busiest logistics corridors, the new branch serves as the perfect bridge for eet operators and buyers across the South West and Wales. The decision to expand into Avonmouth comes at a time of high demand for used commercial stock.

Pictured above right, with operations director Jonathan Earp, CVA managing director Ross Dalton said: “We aren’t just opening a new branch; we are creating a dynamic marketplace right in the heart of the South West’s logistics corridor. The appetite for auctions in this region is massive, but it has lacked a dedicated specialist auction centre like CVA’s for some time. With the cost of moving vehicles around the country these days, it gives customers the ability to save both time and money by dropping their vehicles o in the South West, whilst still receiving the same returns and service they have come to expect from using CVA. It also means that for those buyers that still like to get in and touch and feel the stock before buying that they can do so without having to spend half a day in the car.”

Trailer parts specialist relocates to South Norfolk

Hunton Legg (R.G.) Ltd will be relocating its agricultural trailer parts business to Loddon in South Norfolk from Tuesday 7th April.

Owner Mark Legg explains: “Following the sale of the family farms in Su olk, we purchased a farm near Loddon in Norfolk in 2024. Rather than continue working with an excellent contractor in Su olk, our son-in-law, who already farms, can now operate the arable farming part of the business, combining it with his own family dairy unit nearby.”

Following the closure of the trailer manufacturing side of the business in 2016, Hunton Legg’s engineering side is solely supplying trailer parts for both current and obsolete makes of trailer manufacturers.

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BASF and Adama to co-develop fungicide technology

BASF Agricultural Solutions and Adama Ltd have signed a strategic co-development and commercialisation agreement centered on Adama’s proprietary fungicide active ingredient, Gilboa ( umetylsulforim).

This partnership will accelerate the delivery of new, pioneering disease management solutions, helping farmers across Europe combat resistance

and maintain healthy yields.

Under the agreement, BASF will develop and commercialise new formulations based on Adama’s Gilboa molecule, alongside Adama’s own Gilboa-based products.

The collaboration combines Adama’s innovation expertise with BASF’s strong development capabilities and market access, ensuring that

farmers bene t from faster access to next-generation solutions. Adama and BASF will independently decide on its own concepts, pricing, sales and go to market strategies.

Pending product registration, the two companies plan to launch Gilboa-based formulations for wheat in the UK in 2027, followed by broader European launches in 2029.

UK agricultural tractor registrations – January 2026

According to the latest gures from the Agricultural Engineers Association (AEA), registrations of agricultural tractors started 2026 on a slightly more positive note than was seen through most of 2025.

Just over 500 machines were logged during the month, 40 more than in the same month last year. Indeed, it is the second highest gure recorded for the opening month of the year since 2021 but numbers in most other

recent years have been similar.

As the AEA explains, in any case, it is a quiet time of year for tractor registrations so the association suggests it is too early to draw conclusions about how trends might develop during the

remainder of the year.

Month: 502 units +8.7% change (compared with January 2025)

Lodi UK now sole distributor of Actellic insecticides

Lodi UK has become the sole distributor of the Actellic range of insecticides after the portfolio was acquired from Syngenta by Envu in 2025.

Roger Simpson, managing director at Lodi UK, said: “Lodi UK are already sole distributors of Envu’s range of K-Obiol products, and this new acquisition further strengthens their grain

storage protection o ering,” he says. The new portfolio includes the Actellic Smoke Generator.

“The Actellic Smoke Generator will complement the widely recognised K-Obiol range, providing growers, traders and grain storers with a comprehensive suite of grain protection products,” added Mr Simpson. “This extension expands coverage

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against stored grain pests, enhancing the quality and safety of grain. This will help streamline the process of grain storage preparation ahead of harvest by having all the products which growers need under one roof.”

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Maximising spring crop protection

Weed control in spring cereals can be particularly tricky as the weeds develop quickly and there are limited herbicide options. Nichino commercial technical manager Oliver Johnson discusses why BackRow Max should be in your armoury this season.

As soils warm up in spring, increased moisture and microbial activity lead to rapid biomass development and swift germination. It is therefore unsurprising that spring-sown crops emerge quickly and progress through their growth stages more rapidly than their winter-planted counterparts.

However, the same favourable conditions that accelerate crop growth also encourage weed development, making weed control in spring cereals particularly demanding. Post-emergence herbicide options are often limited by a cut-o point at the ag leaf stage, which can arrive sooner than anticipated, especially during a mild spring. If weeds persist after pre-emergence treatments, remedial applications in May can introduce additional stress and risk to the crop, especially when a more e ective alternative is available.

Role of BackRow Max

BackRow Max is Nichino’s agship pre-emergence herbicide companion product, designed to extend the period that herbicides remain active within the soil. It is proven to retain the herbicide in the upper soil layers where weed seeds are most likely to germinate, but above the rooting zone of the crop.

This dual action not only protects the crop by acting as a safener but also improves weed control. One of the notable risks associated with spring applications of pre-emergence herbicides is the larger root mass of spring crops.

While this is bene cial for nutrient and moisture uptake, it also raises the risk of herbicide damage if the chemical reaches the rooting zone. Consequently, spring crops are generally more susceptible to herbicide damage than winter crops, making a partner like BackRow Max essential for maintaining crop vigour and preventing thinning of the stand.

Unique qualities

BackRow Max distinguishes itself from other preemergence partners by being based on mineral oil rather than vegetable or seed oils. This composition makes it more resistant to microbial breakdown, allowing it to remain active for an extended period. In spring, increased soil temperatures promote microbial activity, which is bene cial for nutrient cycling but can accelerate the degradation of herbicides and adjuvants.

Typically, the e ective period of a herbicide in spring crops is shorter than in autumn-sown crops, so incorporating BackRow Max helps to maintain herbicide activity longer, ensuring better control over later-emerging weeds before the crop canopy closes.

Broader applications

The bene ts of BackRow Max are not limited to herbicides. The same principles apply to soil-applied fungicides such as azoxystrobin (Amistar), used for

Graph 1: The results from three separate, replicated trials. The e ect of the Amistar is variable but always improved by the addition of BackRow Max.

Amistar alone (Rhizoctonia)

Amistar + BackRow Max 0.4L/ha (Rhizoctonia) Amistar 6L/haAmistar

rhizoctonia control in potatoes.

For growers aiming to safeguard both yield and quality, a comprehensive approach involves using Moncut seed treatment prior to planting, followed by a ridge application of azoxystrobin, where BackRow Max enhances the fungicide’s e ectiveness. By including BackRow Max, azoxystrobin remains active in the soil pro le for a longer duration, extending protection against pathogens like Rhizoctonia solani, the cause of black scurf.

How BackRow Max works

BackRow Max operates via two distinct pathways. The rst is between the sprayer nozzle and the soil surface, where it optimises spray coverage and deposition. It achieves this by reducing the formation of both very ne and very coarse droplets, resulting in a more uniform spray pattern.

Trials conducted at Silsoe have shown that BackRow Max reduces the number of ne, driftprone particles by 35%, leading to more consistent deposition on the soil surface, a critical factor for successful pre-emergence applications.

Once on the soil, BackRow Max’s

Graph 2: Trials conducted at Silsoe have shown that BackRow Max reduces the number of ne, drift-prone particles by 35%.

Signi cant reduction in the number of drift prone spray droplets

hydrophobic (water-repelling)

enveloping it shell. This

e cacy is driven by its ability to form micelles within the spray solution. These micelles are created by specially developed molecules with hydrophilic (water-attracting) heads and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tails. The hydrophobic tails bind to the herbicide molecule, enveloping it in a hydrated shell. This produces a humectant e ect, reducing the

dependency on rainfall for herbicide activation. In dry conditions, BackRow Max sustains herbicide activity even when moisture is limited. Additionally, these micelle structures help bind the herbicide to soil cavities, preventing leaching towards the crop roots and beyond, thus acting both as a safener and a sustainer of herbicide e cacy.

Application recommendations

“Regardless of the drilling conditions this spring and with an approval for application in a wide range of crops, BackRow Max applied at a rate of 0.4-lires per hectare enhances the performance of your pre-emergence herbicide programme,” Oliver Johnson

bind the herbicide to soil cavities, preventing thus acting both as a safener and a sustainer concludes.

BackRow Max is available exclusively from Agrii. FG Nichino commercial technical manager, Oliver Johnson.

Why fungicides still pay – even in tight margin seasons

Early drilling, rust breakdown and the case for vigilance; growers should not drop their guard as the rst fungicide timing approaches, says Hutchinsons.

“Growers should not be lulled into a false sense of security following the relatively low disease incidence seen last season. The situation could be very di erent with more normal weather patterns this season,” warns Hutchinsons agronomy innovation director, David Howard.

With many wheats drilled early last autumn and generally good establishment, septoria risk could well be higher in larger biomass crops, as could yellow rust risk, especially in varieties a ected by the breakdown of the YR15 resistance gene.

Although there is not a huge amount of information con rming exactly which varieties carry the YR15 gene, and how reliant they are on it, some big names appear to have been a ected, given the reductions in yellow rust ratings on the latest AHDB Recommended List.

Varieties such as Champion, KWS Dawsum, LG Typhoon, and Bamford, have all seen revisions, and are varieties where we saw issues in the eld last year too.

Anyone growing a variety that has seen revisions to its RL score will have to be particularly vigilant with early disease control this spring, especially where other factors favour higher disease pressure.

David acknowledges that increasing inputs at a time when gross margins are already strained is unpalatable, but insists maintaining yield will be essential if disease pressure builds.

“Fungicides are often adapted according to disease pressure each season, but they’re a relatively safe bet in terms of investment. They are the second biggest returner after nitrogen,” he says.

“At a wheat price of £160–£170/t, we are looking at a fungicide return of £346–£368/ha.”

Use chemistry wisely to its best e ect, considering the strengths of individual actives, and where they are best used in the programme, he advises.

“Assess individual elds and varieties for risk and look for e ciencies across all inputs, rather than arbitrarily reducing the fungicide budget, given they o er one of the most consistent returns on investment.”

Ear fungicides (T0/pre-T0) should generally focus on yellow rust control, with septoria pressure

remaining the biggest determinant of mainline T1/ T2 fungicides.

However, if septoria pressure is particularly high by T0, growers should consider including folpet to manage this. Don’t overlook mildew pressure either, David notes.

“Beware label restrictions preventing use of some products before GS 30; biological controls may provide another option to help keep disease at a manageable level when fungicide options are limited, although remember they are purely protectant and not curative,” he says.

Optimise dose for longer protection

Lab trials last year illustrated the importance of dose rate for maximising the longevity of rust protection, especially when varietal resistance is compromised.

The trial compared a resistant variety (non-YR15) versus a variety with the YR15 gene, and examined the longevity of protection from six key rust actives (tebuconazole, prothioconazole, metconazole, azoxystrobin, pyraclostrobin, and benzovindi upyr), applied at di erent rates (25%, 50% and 75% of full label dose).

In the rst 15 days after treatment, there was generally very little di erence in the longevity of actives in either variety, but beyond this, di erences did appear. For some actives, a much higher dose was required to give the longevity of protection required, especially when varietal resistance was compromised. Generally, strobilurins and the SDHI (benzovindi upyr) gave the longest-lasting e ects, even at lower doses.

It is worth noting that 15 days is in the middle of the circa four-week T-timing interval, supporting the potential need for an interim spray to protect any new leaves emerging between the main treatments.

Early drilling risk?

Traditionally, early drilling is seen to favour septoria, while later drilling favours rust; the reason being that later-sown crops are less mature, so their resistance is less capable when rust comes in.

With many wheats drilled early last autumn, septoria risk may well be higher, however if a variety’s yellow rust resistance is compromised, then

rust risk could also be greater, as crops are likely to have more biomass and will have been in the ground longer to capture spores.

Cold weather during January may have reduced pressure, but to what extent is always challenging to predict until we get to spring. Prolonged cold is likely to have slowed and delayed rust arrival in crops, however it is unlikely to have gone completely. Higher soil nitrogen may further increase disease risk, especially where large rst doses are applied.

Another implication of early drilling is to extend the phyllochron – the gap between leaf emergence – which poses challenges for traditional ’T’ fungicide timings, designed around septoria management and its 360 day-degrees latent period. Yellow rust in contrast, operates on a much shorter timeline, nearer 180 day-degrees, so there may be a need for interim sprays, such as a T1.5, in higher-risk crops.

Six steps for managing early disease pressure

1. Identify disease risk for every eld, considering variety, drilling date, and weather

2. Act early to prevent disease populations building

3. Focus early sprays on yellow rust, but don’t overlook septoria or mildew if pressure is high

4. Use chemistry wisely to its best e ect

5. Use an appropriate dose to control disease present and maximise protection to the next treatment

6. Plan for shorter intervals/ interim sprays to maintain e ective control where variety resistance is compromised and rust pressure is high.

rust pressure is

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First EU43 finding in UK emphasises blight risk

A rst UK nding of the potato late blight strain, EU_43_A1, underscores the need to continue following industry guidance on alternating and mixing blight actives and modes of action.

The strain, which caused signi cant challenges in controlling blight in several European countries, is resistant to both carboxylic acid amide (CAA) fungicides, including mandipropamid, and oxysterol binding protein inhibitors (OSBPI), such as oxathiapiprolin.

Digital droplet PCR testing of blight-infected volunteer potatoes sampled in Su olk in November con rmed the presence of the EU43 strain, according to Dr David Cooke of the James Hutton Institute.

The late season testing was an addition to the ‘Fight against Blight’ programme, after the low pressure 2025 season meant there hadn’t been any samples from the eastern counties during the season. “It was unusually warm and damp in October and November, perfect for late blight, which was why we were encouraging volunteer samples,” David says.

EU36 is the dominant strain

to the breakdown of varietal blight resistance. While it has shown signs of reduced sensitivity to OSBPIs in parts of Europe, testing has shown it remains sensitive to those products in the UK.

That isn’t the case with EU43, although European experience shows it can be controlled.

By alternating actives, mixing modes of action, and strictly following resistance guidelines, the incidence of EU43 decreased from 23% in 2023 to 12% in 2025, according to the latest EuroBlight data.

The discovery of the EU43 clone is a reminder of the importance of removing volunteers and potato dumps, says Geo Hailstone, UPL’s technical potato lead. “It’s very important not to be complacent.”

There shouldn’t need to be any major change in strategy for blight programmes, with virtually all growers using the recommended mixing and alternation tactics advised by experts. But losing mancozeb will make it a little more di cult, Geo says. “I think we will likely see more uazinam used, and maybe more phosphonate products.”

The other active Geo forecasts that will be used more this season is propamocarb. Available in a mix with cymoxanil as Proxanil, both actives are the only members of their resistance group. “There’s no cross-resistance with other groups to worry about,” he says.

Proxanil should be used in a tank mix with other products, such as uazinam mandipropamid or amisulbrom, or at the end of programmes, cyazofamid. FG in the UK, comprising of 41% of samples in 2025. It is aggressive and linked phosphonate products.” that will be used more this season is propamocarb. Available in a mix with cymoxanil as Proxanil, both members their resistance group. “There’s no cross-resistance with other groups to worry about,” he says.

a tank mix with other products, such as uazinam mandipropamid programmes, cyazofamid.

Wheat dwarf virus widespread in UK, suggests survey

associated with barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV).

But a collaboration of AICC members, entomologists and plant virologists has now con rmed WDV incidence at multiple sites in 2025 through targeted sampling and laboratory testing.

Recently found in winter wheat

Positive results have largely been seen in winter barley, but signi cantly, the disease has also been uncovered in recent winter wheat samples from Norfolk.

The emerging picture was revealed and discussed at a recent AICC technical meeting.

Tim Martin and entomologist Alan Dewar shared eld observations and survey results from East Anglia and the international context of vector biology and disease behaviour.

of the leafhopper vector.

Patterns observed so far point towards greater risk in early-drilled crops, particularly on lighter soils following hot and dry summers that favour vector activity.

Grasses, volunteers and cover crops may also act as reservoirs for the virus.

Importantly, the collaboration is focused on understanding risk rather than generating alarm.

“We are not saying this is a problem everywhere, but without recognising what we are seeing in the eld, the industry cannot assess where the risks lie, or where research should be focused,” explained Tim.

WDV is a viral disease a ecting cereals, including wheat and barley. It is spread by a leafhopper, Psammotettix alienus, not by aphids, and causes stunting, yellowing of barley, reddening of wheat, poor rooting and plant death.

Infection typically occurs in early autumn, shortly after crop emergence. Once infected, plants do not recover, and damage is permanent; yield losses range from negligible to severe, with published estimates in literature ranging from 20% to 100%, depending on infection level and crop compensation.

The virus can survive in grassweeds, volunteers and cover crops between seasons, and hot, dry summers and autumns that favour the leafhopper vector increase risk.

chemical controls, so management will rely on improved awareness, cultural controls and longer-term varietal solutions.

WDV has long been recognised as a damaging cereal disease in continental Europe, but has received little attention in the UK. Its symptoms can easily be confused for barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV), meaning it has likely been overlooked or misdiagnosed.

Infected plants are often scattered through crops in a ‘salt and pepper’ pattern, rather than the more distinct patches

Tim said it is a shining example of what the AICC’s network can deliver for the industry.

There are currently no targeted

“Independent agronomists are walking crops across large areas every week. That puts us in a strong position to detect emerging issues early and, by working with researchers, turn those observations into robust,

Researchers involved in the work have highlighted signi cant gaps in current knowledge, including the national distribution of WDV, the strains present in UK cereals, and the e ectiveness of cultural and varietal mitigation measures under UK conditions.

Initial results

A survey led by the Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC) members suggests that wheat dwarf virus (WDV) may be more widespread than previously thought or recorded. as a damaging cereal disease in Europe, can easily be confused for or misdiagnosed. a ‘salt and pepper’ distinct patches practical evidence.” Tim Martin.

Initial results indicate that WDV is spread by primary infection in early autumn, rather than secondary spread within crops, aligning with the life cycle

AICC members are now being encouraged to report suspected cases and submit samples to extend the survey beyond East Anglia.

Findings will be shared with AHDB and DEFRA to support evidence-based decisions on future research priorities and management.

Survey ndings to date are:

• Wheat dwarf virus con rmed at multiple sites in eastern England

• Infection detected in both winter barley and winter wheat

• Symptoms easily confused with BYDV, suggesting historical under-reporting

• Primary infection in early autumn rather than secondary within-crop spread

• Early drilling, hot dry seasons, light soils and grass reservoirs increase risk. FG

Forward crops and resistance concerns influence fungicide sprays

As growers and agronomists weigh up fungicide plans for the coming spring, a number of factors will need to be considered.

Well-established plants have seen strong canopy development and, in some parts of the country, are well ahead of where they have been in recent seasons. Forward crops with large canopies create favourable conditions for disease development. There is also the evolving threat of resistance to some widely used chemistry which needs to be managed.

O the back of two underwhelming harvests, input cost control will be front of mind when purchasing fungicides, too.

Craig Chisholm, eld technical manager for Corteva Agriscience, says: “Many wheat crops were drilled earlier than in recent seasons, with some now running 10–14 days ahead of the past two years. As a result, canopy development has accelerated, bringing forward disease risk and increasing pressure from septoria at an early stage.”

Mark Fletcher, head of agronomy

Mark Fletcher, head of agronomy services at Niab, adds: “That microclimate being created in the canopy will mean disease is bubbling underneath.”

Growers and agronomists are being urged to take an approach that balances performance, resistance management and value.

Resistance to key active ingredients is no longer a theoretical issue. Performance from some SDHI and azole products is under increasing pressure, and programmes built around a narrow range of chemistry are becoming harder to sustain.

crop, he adds.

“We believe that having a unique site of action, such as that found in Univoq, is essential if we want to prolong the life of all the tools available to us,” he said.

Craig Chisholm, eld technical manager for Corteva Agriscience.

Corteva says that following best practice advice on resistance management is essential. Mixing modes of action and rotating chemistry between timings should be a fundamental consideration when planning programmes in the coming weeks, Craig says.

Growers and agronomists are being modes rotating chemistry between timings should be

planning programmes in the coming

Univoq has become a core component of septoria control for many growers. It contains the Inatreq active, which has a unique site of action and no known cross resistance. Optimised in a co-formulation with prothioconazole, it provides rapid uptake, strong rainfastness and extended protection against septoria and rusts.

This covers the requirements of resistance management without necessarily adding cost or compromising performance on this year’s

This covers the requirements without cost or compromising

Univoq at 1.25-litres/ha at T2 has delivered consistent performance across wet and dry seasons since launch. It is also being used with con dence at T1 where disease pressure has demanded its strength. FG

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A new fertiliser designed to improve nitrogen use e ciency (NUE) with the addition of sulphur has been launched to the UK market by OCI Nitrogen.

it into protein and growth, increasing the risk of nitrogen leaching into watercourses.

Launch of nitrogen-sulphur fertiliser designed to improve NUE

According to OCI Nitrogen, new product, Dynamax, bene ts from a balanced combination of 27% nitrogen and 4% sulphur to support protein formation and more e cient nitrogen uptake.

Sam Leadbeater, UK and Ireland sales manager for OCI Nitrogen, says: “The addition of sulphur helps plants use nitrogen more e ectively by supporting the production of proteins and enzymes needed for nitrogen assimilation, enhancing overall nitrogen uptake and stronger crop growth.

“The nitrogen to sulphur in the product is suitable for all crops, with trial results showing it to increase yields by at least 7.6% for oilseed rape, 8.9% for winter barley, and 10% for grassland leys.”

“This is where Dynamax comes into play – by supplying nitrogen and sulphur together in a balanced formulation, the crop can make better use of applied nutrients, keeping more of the fertiliser where it’s needed,” he says.

“When nitrogen is applied with insu cient sulphur, the crop will struggle to e ciently convert

Sam explains that sulphur delivers wider bene ts than increased yields alone. “Improving NUE is becoming increasingly important, not just for crop performance but for reducing nutrient losses, which can be environmentally damaging.

“A surprising number of soil tests will show insu cient levels of sulphur, with AHDB research showing that sulphur applications deliver yield responses on up to 32% of winter oilseed rape and around 10–15% of cereal sites.

Instantly recognisable by its magenta granules, Sam says their homogeneous, smooth, and dustfree formulation ensures excellent spreadability, even over large widths.

Compatible with standard spreaders, the granules are designed to cover areas of over 50 metres, with an even distribution of nitrogen and sulphur in every granule which, Sam points out, will support consistency across the crop.

For more information, visit https://nutrinorm. co.uk/products/dynama FG

Factor in broadleaf weed targets when

Colder conditions for much of February mean that early March will be crunch time for tidying up weed problems in wheat.

With grass and broadleaf weeds both having the potential to rob yield, carefully checking the weed spectrum is crucial before making the herbicide application.

Speaking at a Bayer CropScience Crop Doctor event, ProCam’s head of technical development Rob Adamson pointed out farmers are starting

we’ve had good activity across a broad-spectrum,” explained Rob.

No room for complacency

“We’ve had a good start, but we shouldn’t assume it’s done. We need to be looking for situations where residual protection is breaking down and where dormancy is starting to break. Grassweeds and broadleaf weeds always to chit at some point, so we need timely control.”

from a good place for weed control this spring but have to nish the job. “There were good conditions at drilling and some of the best seedbeds we’ve seen for quite a while. Residual performance, whether it’s a pre-emergence or post-emergence top-up has been really good for grassweed control. Even for broadleaf weeds,

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product like Atlantis

For black-grass and Italian ryegrass control it’s important to know the resistance status. If populations are susceptible, then a mesosulfuron product like Atlantis Star (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron + thiencarbazone) can control and reduce the vigour of spring ushes.

apply the spring

Rob emphasises that it is important to apply the spring post-em as soon as possible, ideally on a bright

a bright

It’s about footprint and ground pressure, and how weight is distributed

Thanks to large wheels, tall VF tyres and low operating pressures, Agrifac sprayers protect soil structure, even at high capacity.

Less compaction. More confdence. Better crops.

planning post-emergence sprays

sunny day which helps with e cacy. By early March, crops and weeds will both be growing, so there is no room for delay.

“T0 fungicide applications are going to be really important this season. If we start delaying the post-em herbicide until it is close to the T0 we could compromise both.”

Ellie Borthwick-North, Bayer CropScience technical manager (East) agrees that keeping the post-em herbicide and T0 separate is the preferred option. “In March, it’s a case of getting the post-em. spray done as soon as you can because T0 is just around the corner. We always recommend keeping the T0 and post-em. spray separate to ensure e cacy but there are some safe tank-mix options if you are stretched for time. Check the tank-mix guide on the Bayer CropScience website for more details.”

Factor in broadleaf weed control

“As the weather starts to warm up, it’s easier to see the weed spectrum, be it grassweeds, broadleaf weeds or a mix. In general, there will be a mixture even if black-grass, Italian ryegrass or brome is the prime target,” says Ellie.

“Atlantis Star is an excellent grassweed control product but is also e ective against many key broadleaf weed species such cleavers, poppy, chickweed, mayweeds, speedwell and several others. Hence it o ers a straightforward solution to many of the mixed weed problems we see in spring.”

Check the weed spectrum carefully before selecting the post-em spray. In some broadleaf weed situations, Paci ca Plus (mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron + amidosulfuron) might be more suitable without giving up too much on the grassweed side.

Ellie supports applying Atlantis Star during bright, sunny weather but targeting smaller

weeds is also important. By this time of year, it’s a case of using any suitable spray day regardless of light conditions.

Whether targeting grass or broadleaf weeds the application advice doesn’t change. Apply to a dry or drying leaf with the correct nozzles and water volume, pay attention to canopy size as higher water volumes may be needed.

“Travel at no more than 12kph and use the correct boom height for the nozzles in use. Typically, 50cm above the target for 110-degree nozzles at 50cm spacings. This will reduce drift and ensure as much active ingredient as possible reaches the target.” FG

Tackling early weed pressures in cereals

Growers are reminded not to overlook the importance of early-season weed control in spring cereals.

Despite a cold and wet start to the new year, residual herbicides were applied in warm, dry conditions last autumn, and are therefore likely to lose e cacy sooner than expected.

Mild weather following this application would also have encouraged the ongoing germination of both grassweeds and broad-leaved weeds.

With residual chemistry potentially running out of steam and weed emergence continuing, timely intervention will be critical. Weeds such as bromes, ryegrass, meadow grasses and broad-leaved weeds including cleavers and mayweeds should be controlled as early as possible to stop them from impacting crop performance.

Where residuals have not been applied, or where performance has been compromised by poor seedbeds or use on organic or lighter soil types, meadow grasses often dominate by spring. Annual meadow grass is the most common grassweed in the UK, with a wide

emergence window and a rapid lifecycle that allows populations to build quickly.

“Annual meadow grass thrives in fertile soils and is encouraged by min-till practices,” says Hugh Guinan, cereal herbicide eld technical manager for Corteva. “Less competitive than other grassweeds, it steals nitrogen from the soil and does increase the moisture content of the straw at harvest, which slows progress and a ects quality.

e ective grassweed herbicides, pyroxsulam and mesosulfuronmethyl, enabling arable farmers to control a wide spectrum of grass and broad-leaved weeds in a single pass.

Broadway Ultra applied at 100g/

competitive than other grassweeds,

“Populations can often be many lifecycles can relatively short typically six

“Populations can often be high in winter cereals because many lifecycles can occur within a relatively short space of time, typically six weeks.”

To help challenges, Broadway combines two

To help tackle these challenges, Corteva Agriscience launched Broadway Ultra in 2025. The product combines two of the most

broad-leaved weed control, but there is also a synergistic e ect with the mesosulfuron, which brings in control of chickweed, sow thistle, shepherd’s purse and meadow grass,” says Hugh. “Good control of rat’s tail fescues has also been reported.”

ha delivers 14g of each active per ha, in an easy to use, wettable granule. “Growers will know that pyroxsulam provides excellent grassweed and also been reported.”

1st January until the middle of May.

100g/ha in combination with an

Applications may be made in winter wheat and triticale from 1st January until the middle of May. Growers should use it at a rate of 100g/ha in combination with an approved adjuvant.

“It’s quite a wide window of application, but we always advise growers to treat weeds early when they are small and actively growing,” says Hugh. “These conditions can often occur in February, so growers need to be prepared ahead of the season.”

“It’s quite a wide window growers to treat weeds early when says Hugh. “These conditions growers need to be prepared ahead

Hugh adds that the product delivers greatest value where residual programmes have been compromised, leaving higher levels of grassweeds and broad-leaved weeds to tidy up in the spring. FG

Hugh adds that the product delivers greatest value where residual programmes have been compromised, leaving higher levels weeds to tidy up in the spring.

British-built sprayer o ers “accurate, reliable crop protection”

Team Sprayers says its Leader 4 sprayer is the ideal tool for farmers tackling crop disease and weed control.

It combines reliability, precision, and ease of use in a robust, eldproven machine built for the demands of modern agriculture. Consistent spray performance ensures accurate application of herbicides, fungicides, and pesticides, helping farmers protect

crops e ectively while avoiding overapplication and reducing input costs.

Designed for stability and durability, the Team Leader 4 performs reliably in challenging eld conditions. Its tubular steel booms provide outstanding strength and durability, while the axle air suspension and pantograph boom lift system which is dampened by a nitrogen accumulator delivers

excellent stability during operation. With boom height adjustment from 500–2,500mm, operators have maximum control across varying crop and terrain conditions.

Available with a 3,000-litre or 4,000-litre tank and with strong pump performance, the sprayer enables longer working periods with fewer re lls, boosting productivity during tight spraying windows. Operator

comfort is also a priority. The Müller Track Guide 3 Isobus terminal, 12-section boom control, stable handling, and good visibility make the sprayer easy to operate while reducing fatigue.

E cient, accurate, and dependable, the Team Leader 4 helps farmers maintain healthier crops and achieve con dent, e ective disease and weed control, the company says. FG

For spreading slug pellets and small seeds

Powerful fan, available in electric or hydraulic version

Mounted in the centre of the sprayer boom the unit comes with two outlets and two 40mm diameter hoses

A disc turbine is located in the centre of each boom

Maximum working width 48m

Both discs are controlled by an in cab control box which can adjust the working widths Ideal for spreading seeds into standing crops

Weed Wizard precision keeps row crops clean

Row crop root and vegetable growers under increasing pressure to cut costs and minimise inputs can now utilise new selective optical spot spraying techniques to reduce herbicide use and keep crops weed-free.

Techneat Engineering says its high-precision Weed Wizard has brought the high-tech approach of optical spot spraying into a cost-e ective solution for vegetable growers. Originally designed with onion and carrot crops, the technology has found favour and clear advantages for all row crops.

Demonstrating the Weed Wizard at LAMMA 2026, Techneat agri-specialist, James English, highlighted selectively targeting weeds in the crop reduces overall herbicide use, compared to

blanket application, as well as minimising any phototoxic check in crop growth associated with herbicide application.

“The amount of herbicide saving will clearly depend on the original level of weed coverage in the eld, but in practice growers have typically seen 94% to 99% reduction in product use,” he says. “Reducing overall herbicide use and application on bare soil also minimises implications for environmental loss and groundwater contamination.”

The Weed Wizard uses a series of cameras mounted along the spray boom, linked to a computer control panel in the cab. That identi es weeds among the crop – and automatically switches on spray nozzles to e ectively cover the

target, but minimising contact with the crop.

The sprayer can cover three beds across six metres, with up to 60 nozzles at 10cm spacing for precision targeting. The purpose designed nozzles are ultra-low drift, to ensure more product hits the weed and minimise crop contact or o -target loss.

“It’s pre-programmed to identify and target broad-leaved weeds, so the system is incredibly easy to set up. It requires no ongoing license fee –which can add signi cant costs to some systems,” he adds. “Operators can also pre-de ne weed size for treatment, to further enhance selectivity and herbicide savings.”

While it is designed for selective control of weeds in the crop, the Weed Wizard can be extremely e ectively used for pre-sowing or pre-emergence non-selective contact herbicide application, where signi cant product savings can be achieved by just targeting weed use. However, the system is not recommended for residual preemergence applications, where overall surface application is required.

“Growers also now have the opportunity to try-before-you-buy and get a full season evaluation of the machine through the Techneat Hire scheme, without the full capital outlay for a machine,” advises James. “It’s an ideal way to see how precision optical spot spraying can be integrated into a grower’s own system. And as the technology continues to evolve and improve, growers are future proofed through the Techneat Hire scheme.” FG

 Highly Accurate Spot sprayer - Drive down herbicide use

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 Only UK designed and manufactured spot sprayer

Spring management key for forward OSR crops

management principles:

• Measure and quantify the canopy – You can’t manage what you don’t measure. Tools such as GAI apps or satellite imagery can be used, where 1 GAI equates to around 50kg N/ha in the canopy. Alternatively, cutting and weighing 1m² of above-ground biomass can provide a guide – 1kg fresh weight is approximately equivalent to 55kg N/ha.

• Reduce the rst split of nitrogen – High early N rates encourage rapid stem extension, increasing shading and plant competition. This often leads to the loss of lower branches, which have the greatest yield potential. Early assessment of biomass variation also allows nitrogen rates to be reduced in thicker areas and increased where crops are thinner.

Liam Wilkinson, head of technical at Limagrain Field Seeds UK, says that although big OSR crops look encouraging, they can be counter-productive if not actively managed.

A mild autumn delivered excellent establishment conditions for oilseed rape (OSR) crops across much of the UK. While many crops are entering spring with large, forward canopies, careful management will be essential to ensure this strong start is converted into yield rather than lost through lodging or ine cient canopy structure.

which are the most productive in terms of pod set,” he says.

Varietal growth habit should also be considered when prioritising treatments: “Some varieties, such as LG Avenger, have faster stem extension and are more likely to bene t from early canopy management.

• Target a GAI of 3.5 at owering – This equates to around 175kg N/ha in the canopy. Knowing how much nitrogen is already present can help avoid unnecessary inputs. AHDB PR447 suggests that only around 60% of springapplied nitrogen is taken up by the crop, so application rates should be adjusted accordingly.

“From our own work, we know that the optimal OSR plant population is around 25–40 plants/m²,” Mr Wilkinson explains. “In previous seasons, growers often compensated for establishment losses by increasing seed rates. This year, however, losses have been far lower, meaning many crops are carrying plant populations well above the optimum.”

Without intervention, these dense, forward canopies can limit light interception, increase competition between plants and raise the risk of lodging, ultimately capping yield potential.

“Others, like LG Adapt, extend later and may be less of a priority in early spring. Soil temperature is another factor – where soils are warmer, the urgency for early treatment is reduced.”

Measure before you apply N

Work from AHDB project PR447 has shown that adjusting nitrogen (N) applications according to canopy size can increase yields by up to 0.36t/ha in crops that would otherwise have lodged under traditional management.

Tailoring spring management

Mr Wilkinson stresses that large crops require a di erent approach to thinner stands seen in recent years.

“These crops need to be managed to control canopy size and structure, reduce lodging risk and maximise light penetration to the lower branches –

“The key message is that OSR canopies already contain signi cant amounts of nitrogen, which can be remobilised by the plant,” says Mr Wilkinson.

“Ignoring this risks over-application early in the season, driving excessive stem elongation and canopy shading.”

To help growers get the most from forward crops this spring, Limagrain highlights ve key

• Ensure timely sulphur supply – Reducing nitrogen rates also reduces sulphur when using combined products such as double top. Sulphur de ciency can limit yield by slowing leaf and tissue development, reducing nitrogen use e ciency, lowering stress tolerance and decreasing oil content. Choose a product supplying around 40–75kg/ha of SO3.

• Apply micronutrients early – Boron is particularly important in forward crops. De ciency during rapid spring growth can lead to stem splitting, increasing disease risk. Boron also plays a key role in pollination and stress tolerance, supporting yield and crop resilience.

“With the right approach, these forward crops o er a real opportunity,” concludes Mr Wilkinson. “By measuring canopies and tailoring inputs, growers

can manage risk, improve e ciency and make the most of the strong establishment

we’ve seen this season.” FG

Building roots and resilience

Oilseed rape remains one of the most demanding crops on farm

Bionature’s proven OSR nutrition programme focuses on early rooting, plant strength and stress reduction, helping crops establish quickly, overwinter stronger and deliver consistent performance through to flowering

Over the years, we have set numerous world yield records and won endless YEN competitions in OSR

Take the stress out of growing oilseed rape

Proven nutrition Targeted timings Cost-effective results

Record-breaking yields thanks to precise nutrition strategies

After 13 successful years, the nal ADAS YEN awards for 2025 capped o a recordbreaking era with another oilseed rape world record of 7.71 t/ha.

Over the past decade, YEN (Yield Enhancement Network) has pushed UK yields to new heights, setting at least three world records in wheat, barley, and oilseed rape – while the national averages have barely moved. To put it in perspective, the 2022 UK average yield for OSR was 3.8t/ha; YEN records reached 9t/ha. Winter wheat went from 8.5t/ha to 18t/ha, and barley from 7.5t/ha to 16.2t/ha.

At the heart of this success is Tim Lamyman, YEN Innovator of the Year 2025. Over 13 years, Tim has amassed an astonishing haul of YEN golds; ve for OSR, ve for winter barley, and eight for winter wheat. His secret, he says, is a combination of skill, observation, and the Bionature UK Ltd nutrition programmes that maximise rooting, tillering, seed heads, and total plant biomass – even on challenging Grade 2 land. Anyone visiting Worlaby Farms will notice the uniformity and greenness of his crops, re ecting nutrition strategies that reduce stress and boost photosynthesis throughout the season.

Tim’s approach is rooted in careful trial and error. Using Bionature products such as Leodita, an organic soil conditioner, and Delta, a liquid nitrogen formula that encourages root growth and biomass, his crops enter spring stronger and more resilient than untreated plants. Products like TipTop X-Stress and Cal ux ensure nutrient

ow is maintained and stress is minimised during grain ll.

Mark Carter of Bionature explains: “YEN has shown us that supporting crops through rooting, tillering, and foliar nutrition is key to maximising yields. Even under extreme weather, these programmes help crops achieve their genetic potential.” Tim is far from alone – other growers following the Bionature programme, such as Mark Popplewell and John Anderson, have also claimed gold with record-breaking oats and cereals.

Tim Lamyman’s achievements are about

Could fewer inputs mean better oat quality?

New UK trials have revealed that spring oats grown with fewer inputs deliver higher grain quality. At the centre of these ndings is spring oat variety, Merlin.

Across both treated and untreated trials, Merlin produced the highest yields, clean samples, and more resilient crops when grown with minimal chemical inputs. “Trial data also shows that speci c weight of untreated Merlin spring oat crops in 2025 outperformed treated crops, demonstrating its ability to be grown in lower input systems,” explains Dominic Amos, research agronomist and natural capital specialist at Cope.

“Merlin has shown consistent performance across a wide range of farming systems,

from organic, to low input and conventional programmes. The key di erence is that Merlin does not need additional inputs to produce clean, marketable grain, giving growers greater exibility in how they manage the crop,” says Dominic. “During spring droughts, certain crop protection inputs can increase crop stress, with consequent negative impacts.”

The independent trials took place at Agrii Throws Farm Technology Centre in Essex, and Revesby in Lincolnshire and growers and agronomists reported that Merlin had:

• Highest treated and untreated yields overall

• Higher grain quality – including the highest speci c weight in untreated trials

more than numbers. They’re about pioneering approaches, sharing knowledge, and inspiring the farming community. With Bionature by his side, he’s proving that world-class crops are possible across any soil type, any weather, and any challenge. For farmers looking to push boundaries and maximise yields, Tim’s story is proof that the right nutrition programme can make all the di erence.

To learn more about Bionature’s recordbreaking crop nutrition programmes, contact the company directly. FG

• Cleaner, lower disease crops without fungicides

• Stronger standing power and earlier maturity

• Better crop health in untreated systems.

In the untreated trials, Merlin achieved 120% versus Isabel at 99% of control at Agrii’s trial site at Revesby in Lincolnshire and 113% versus Isabel at 86% of control at Agrii Throws Farm in Essex. “With only 8% lodging, Merlin held its position as one of the best-standing varieties,” says Dominic. “Its earliness also helps it to cope better in spring droughts compared to slower developing varieties.”

Merlin continues to be accepted by all mills across the UK for its high grain quality, including its low screenings, which are the lowest of any variety on the Recommended List.

Following on from trials results, Cope samples, tested internally from growers this harvest showed that organic oats in general had a higher average speci c weight than conventional oats, with a di erence of around 2.5%, corroborating the results from the Agrii trial sites.

After two contrasting seasons, including a drought-a ected 2025, Phil Gordon-Jones of Fir Farm, Cheltenham, says Merlin has delivered reliable yields and resilience in organic conditions:

“We’ve been very happy and surprised how well Merlin has grown, especially in a year like this. In 2024 we had just under 5.5t/ha, and with drought in 2025 it dropped to 4t/ha – still very good for an organic oat.”

If you’re interested in growing Merlin spring oats, contact your local seed merchant. FG

The record numbers re ect the increasing area of maize in the UK, with 240,000 hectares grown in 2025. The two-day event covered all aspects of maize production, from crop establishment and nutrition to market opportunities and the latest e ciency-optimising technology.

Crop confidence increasing around maize

Almost 190 farmers and maize specialists attended the Maize Growers’ Association (MGA) Annual Conference, marking the highest attendance in the event’s recent history as growers seek pro table alternatives to traditional break crops.

markets – there are opportunities for grain maize with additional markets opening up.”

“The numbers of delegates, trade stands, sponsors, researchers, advisers and most importantly growers here today are the strongest we’ve seen in recent years,” said MGA chairman Michael Jarmuz. “The Council is genuinely delighted, not just because the event is bigger, but because it re ects a crop, a multimarket sector, and a grower community that is moving forward with con dence.

“The question for many farmers is no longer: “Should we consider maize?” but: “How do we make it work on our farm?”

Rotational grazing improves soil

Attendees also saw innovative integration of sheep grazing on cover crops, with local shepherd Matt Harding’s Bentley Su olks demonstrating how rotational grazing adds £140 worth of nutrients per hectare while improving soil organic matter and creating ideal seedbeds for maize.

Transforming profitability on-farm

Day one took delegates out of the conference hall and onto a working farm. Will Oliver, vice chair of the NFU Midlands Crops Board and the MGA, hosted the record crowd at his family’s 810ha Fenn Lane Farm near Nuneaton.

Will demonstrated how maize has transformed farm pro tability. He explained how integrating onfarm poultry production generating 1,900 tonnes of chicken litter annually has reduced fertiliser costs while qualifying for Sustainable Farming Incentive payments worth £406 per hectare.

“Justify every decision with information; test, test, test,” Will told attendees, explaining his data-driven approach centred on regular testing to optimise nitrogen application. His balance sheets revealed that year-on-year maize margins outperformed wheat and oilseed rape, particularly when combined with SFI options.

Will also spoke about the growing membership at the MGA. “It’s not just the information available; it’s speaking to other people growing maize and sharing that knowledge. The stronger the MGA membership is the more funds we have available for crop trials, the more maize is available, and we can ful l the supply to more

crediting the MGA with how progressive breeding and genetics are for the crop, thanks to its trials.

MGA technical lead Jon Myhill presented the independently run crop trial results showing that pulling back nitrogen to 125-150kg N/ ha maintains optimum yields, with foliar nitrogen increasing nutrient use e ciency by 20-30%. “Nitrogen timing is crucial to avoid hungry periods during reproductive times,” Jon explained. Trial results demonstrated that foliar nitrogen application can deliver £30 per hectare savings without compromising metabolizable energy or starch content.

Delegate Rob Alexander from South Norfolk, who was attending the conference for the rst time was impressed by the depth of conversation: “It’s been very informative, from managing sheep on the cover crops right through to harvesting grain.

“The key reason I’ve attended is we’re looking at the options of growing maize and learning more about the varieties that are available and how pro table the crop is in the real world. This is the rst time I’ve visited; I’m really impressed by the number of people, not only growers to share experiences with, but also a lot of people from the trade.”

Agronomy considerations

Day two at Hinckley Hotel featured presentations from leading agronomists and commercial growers.

Ben Abell, head of agronomy at Dyson Farming’s 14,000ha operation, explained their tech-driven approach including Bilberry smart spraying for spot weed treatment on maize, delivering signi cant cost savings. As well as being passionate about British produce, Ben was positive about the future of maize,

The conference also featured presentations from ADAS, Germinal, Niab, AHDB, and Farol John Deere, which demonstrated the Harvestlab 3000 NIR sensor that continuously monitors harvest quantity and quality in real-time.

As some traditional break crops might struggle, the MGA believes maize is o ering growers both agronomic bene ts and viable margins across grain, forage, and anaerobic digestion markets.

“Resilience in farming is key, we need diversity of cropping,” said the NFU deputy president David Exwood. “Maize creates diversity, pro t, and ability to use it right across the rotation. The NFU Con dence Survey showed low farmer con dence, which means low investment, but maize is o ering a solution to allow farming to progress, to increase returns.”

The record attendance underscores growing industry con dence that maize o ers genuine solutions where traditional options are falling short.

The MGA is open to members from across the UK. To nd out more about becoming a member go to www.maizegrowers.com FG

Rotational grazing can add a signi cant amount of nutrients per hectare.

Soil management

Unlock the secrets of

soil

Powered by SoilOptix® Technology

Now the 2025/26 sugar beet campaign has ended, attention should be turned to management of the soil post-harvest.

Specialist sugar beet harvesting machinery such as the Holmer Terra Dos 5 is designed to limit compaction and improve cleaning of beet.

While sugar beet can be a pro table and useful break crop option, it has the potential to impact on soil health, due to compaction during harvest and potential loss of soil when the beet is removed – particularly if beet is harvested on heavy land during wet winter conditions.

Soil management post-beet therefore should be considered before harvest even begins. Soil compaction is a key concern, as heavy machinery on the land can undo all the good work that the sugar beet itself does for the soil.

Soil benefits of sugar beet

According to British Sugar, sugar beet feeds the soil microbiology when used in the rotation between other more shallow-rooting crops, complementing the soil microbiome and enhancing the soil structure thanks to the deep roots, which contribute to better water in ltration and aeration of the soil.

Sugar beet does have a high potassium requirement, but much of this is contained within the tops,

so if they are returned to the soil post-harvest this will go some way to replenishing the K in the soil. However, the potash removed in the root would likely need replenishment to prevent long-term depletion, so soil testing is invaluable. This should also highlight whether any remedial action needs to be taken in regards to soil pH ahead of the following crop.

The organic material returned to the soil by incorporating the beet tops post-harvest helps to rebuild soil carbon and organic matter, plus the nitrogen in the tops is made available for the following crop, thus reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers.

The key then is to focus on getting the next crop into the ground, to reduce the risk of erosion and waterlogging, and make the most of the soil bene ts created by the sugar beet over the season.

Careful management during harvest

Ensuring the beet is harvested from dry land is an e ective way to

post-sugar beet harvest

mitigate the risk of compaction, but this isn’t always possible, particularly given the wetter winters faced by the UK in recent years.

Growers can reduce the risk of soil damage by taking soil type into consideration when deciding on harvest timing. Heavier soils do well to be harvested earlier in the campaign, while lighter soils can withstand the wetter weather usually experienced later in the season as they don’t retain as much water.

The latest sugar beet harvesters are designed in a way that limits compaction, using innovations such as tyre technology and crabbing –whereby the front and rear tyres are o set, so they don’t travel down the same tracks, meaning the weight is spread across a broader area.

For example, the Vervaet Q series is designed to be lightweight, manoeuvrable and modular. Its low weight, combined with a four-wheel design where the rear tyres are mounted right next to each other, the harvester operates for all intents and purposes as a trike, leading to a more even ground pressure situation.

Meanwhile, the latest Terra Dos 5 series from Holmer is lighter in

weight than its predecessors. It also o ers an automatic crab steering mode for harvesting, distributing the weight of the machinery.

Trailers are also a consideration when it comes to compaction risk, so controlling the movement of these within the eld is important, along with using appropriate low ground pressure tyres.

Along with the harvested beet area, clamp sites can also su er from signi cant compaction, and will need to be assessed and dealt with appropriately – for example by using subsoiling to break up surface compaction, and analysis of the soil and subsequent action to remedy any nutritional de ciencies.

Where compaction has been unavoidable and has extended below the top soil, this can be remedied mechanically, using a plough or subsoiler once the soil is dry, or by planting deep-rooted cover crops.

Soil loss

Soil loss will depend on a number of factors, such as the soil type, moisture in the soil at harvest, and the e ectiveness of the cleaning system within the beet harvester and

Crab steering is one element that claims to reduce compaction due to spreading the weight of the vehicle.

the cleaner loader, which will remove more residual soil while loading into transport lorries.

However, despite these sophisticated cleaning systems,

British Sugar says it still takes in around 200,000t of soil along with the beet on the average campaign, which is then recycled into high quality topsoil. FG

EVERY CLOUD…

Tickets on sale for Game Fair

Tickets are o cially on sale for The Game Fair, the largest celebration of the British countryside, as it prepares to return to Ragley Hall, Warwickshire from Friday 24th to Sunday 26th July 2026.

This year, the Glastonbury of the countryside is proud to

announce The Gunmakers Trust as its o cial charity partner for the second year running. The Trust preserves the ancient craft of gunmaking by helping to fund vital apprenticeships.

The Shootline, run by E.J. Churchill, o ers a comprehensive range of clay shooting competitions and airgun ranges. BASC experts will be on hand in the shooting hub to provide professional gun t services and instruction. Meanwhile, the CPSA returns with its Colts Competition and Champion of Champions contest, alongside supervised ‘have-a-go’ experiences.

The 2026 event will also place a signi cant spotlight on gundogs, featuring world-class trials and demonstrations that showcase the incredible bond and skill between handler and dog. Beyond the arenas, the Falconry Village and the shing quayside o er expert-led demonstrations. Beyond the elds is the largest pop-up shopping village in the UK, with nearly 1,000 exhibitors.

Tickets are available now. Early bird discounts and premium packages are available for a limited time. FG

Genuine, species-appropriate

Promotes the bees’ natural, energy-efficient behaviour

Significantly reduces the bees’ energy consumption

Strengthens bee resilience by minimising stress

Replicates a 300-year-old tree while remaining ergonomic

Supports common health checks and Varroa treatments

Encourages the breeding of resilient bees

Top tips for setting up a HIIVE this spring

Mike Petersen of BIOM Beehives

o ers a checklist you can use when preparing an apiary in March and setting up a HIIVE.

The advice draws on common UK beekeeping practice and the design principles promoted by hiive.eu.

Key advice is:

• Choose a stable, welldrained location that avoids frost pockets and standing water

• Ensure the apiary is sheltered from prevailing winds while still allowing good air ow

• Position HIIVEs in a south or southeast facing aspect to maximise early morning sun

• Maintain clear ight paths by keeping entrances unobstructed and avoiding high tra c areas

• Check that the ground is level and rm enough to support the HIIVE’s weight once populated

• Assemble the HIIVE according to manufacturer guidance, ensuring insulation layers and ventilation channels are correctly aligned

• Inspect all components for winter damage or moisture before installation

• Secure the HIIVE to prevent movement in high winds. Supplied guy-lines should be used

• Con rm that the entrance reducer is set appropriately for early spring, when colonies are still small and defensive strength is limited

• If relocating an existing colony into a HIIVE, plan the move during a cool, calm part of the day to reduce stress

• Follow the golden rule of colony movement – less than 3 feet or more than 3 miles. If less than 3 feet, shift gradually over several days; if more than 3 miles, move in one go to prevent bees returning to the old site

• Allow the colony to settle for 24–48 hours before opening for inspection

• Ensure clean water sources are available nearby

• Prepare surrounding land by sowing a diverse wild ower mix suited to UK conditions – species such as red clover, knapweed, phacelia, and birdsfoot trefoil boost nectar ow from late spring onward

• Sow in March when soil temperatures begin to rise; lightly rake and rm the seedbed for good contact. Consider using Seedballs provided by BIOM beehives (www.biombeehives.co.uk/shop)

• Avoid herbicide use near the apiary during establishment

• Conduct an early season

inspection when temperatures are consistently above 10°C

• Check for signs of damp, mould, or isolation starvation

• Apply a nal Varroa treatment appropriate for prebrood expansion – March is often the last window before the queen accelerates egglaying. BIOM beehives provides a complete Varroa treatment package including vaporiser and BLS respirator

• Record mite counts and treatment dates for compliance and monitoring.

Contact Mike to discuss your pollinator strategy for 2026. FG

Robust and Reliable

°

Ewe wouldn’t hesitate to care for your flock. Don’t hesitate to care for yourself.

If you notice anything ongoing, unusual or unexplained, talk to your GP without delay and nip it in the bud.

Industry support for #NipItInTheBud cancer campaign

The Farming Community Network (FCN) and Macmillan Cancer Support are working together to deliver the Rural Communities Cancer Project – a UK-wide partnership which is helping to improve the support available to those living with cancer in farming communities and rural areas.

Previous research has shown that people in rural areas have more advanced cancer when they are diagnosed and are 5% less likely to survive it than people living in urban areas.

As part of this partnership the charities are raising awareness in rural communities of the signs and symptoms of cancer and the importance of early detection through the #NipItInTheBud campaign.

Farmers can be particularly at-risk of certain types of cancer – such as skin cancer due to outdoor working or cancers caused by exposure to carcinogens.

As a result of the campaign, people have reported to FCN that they have booked a GP appointment that they have been putting o . Some have received a cancer diagnosis sooner than they would have otherwise, and are now undergoing life-saving treatment.

Since the campaign launched in October 2024:

• Over 15,500 items of literature have been distributed in the farming and rural communities, including posters, yers and booklets – providing important information on cancer, signs and symptoms, and support available

• Multiple cancer stories have been shared from across farming and rural communities, highlighting both the unique challenges faced and the hard work of healthcare professionals

• A signi cant number of stakeholders have

been engaged with across the UK, prompting a long overdue conversation around cancer in our sector and encouraging a collaborative approach to change.

Personal stories

In January 2026 FCN sponsored the Oxford Union Debate and Christ Church Dinner at the Oxford Farming Conference. Prior to this year’s debate, Mario Caccamo (Niab), Stephanie Berkeley (Yellow Wellies) and dairy farmer Andy Venables shared their personal cancer stories, encouraging more than 300 delegates to prioritise their health and wellbeing.

In the same month FCN announced a partnership with John Deere, who are supportive of FCN and the #NipItInTheBud campaign.

Joedy Ibbotson, division business manager at John Deere, said: “Farmers and their families are so busy that health concerns can often get pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. Rural communities often also have lower access to cancer services and support due to living in more isolated areas. However, early diagnosis is essential, so John Deere is keen to encourage people to be more familiar with the early signs of cancer, and to take the necessary steps to get checked and nip it in the bud.”

Stakeholders from across rural Wales showed their support for the campaign during a reception event in the Senedd on 13th January. The event was introduced by Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, who

spoke of the vital need for greater equity of cancer care in rural communities.

Farming contractor John Saunders Davies, who is living with cancer, shared his story and urged others to prioritise their health. He spoke of a friend he encouraged to engage with bowel cancer screening opportunities and advocated for everyone to make use of any screening available to them. He said: “I’m not brave – I’m just somebody who wants to help other people.”

Survey

FCN is also running a survey, which helps the charity to better understand current service provisions in rural areas, whilst recommending areas for improvement. All are welcome to ll in this survey, whether you have personally had a cancer diagnosis or not. Scan the QR code in the advert to access the survey.

Being more familiar with the signs and symptoms is an important rst step in prioritising your health. Macmillan Cancer Support has a wide range of information on its website: www.macmillan.org.uk

The Macmillan Support Line o ers con dential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. You can call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00 to speak to an information and support adviser or cancer information nurse specialist. This number is available seven days a week, 8am to 8pm.

To talk in con dence about any worries with a sympathetic person who understands farming life, you can also contact The Farming Community Network (FCN) on 03000 111 999 (7am–11pm, 365 days of the year) or email help@fcn.org.uk FG

New general manager appointed

Agricultural Tyres & Wheels Ltd has appointed Gary Baxter as its new general manager and partner. Colin Sims, who started the business in 1995, will continue to be involved but is seeking to step back after over 30 years at the helm.

Gary stepped into the role on 1st February and will be the main point of contact, responsible for buying and selling, and all other aspects of the business. He has been involved in the agricultural wheel and tyre sector since 1992, starting as a fabricator and working his way up through sales to general manager with his last employer. Despite a 34-year tenure with his previous company, he says

the opportunity at ATW was too good to pass up.

The business is now in the process of bringing fabrication in-house, putting in a new welding bay, turntables and machining facility –which will allow ATW to manufacture and modify wheels on-site rather than outsourcing.

As well as ATW selling new bespoke agricultural tyres and wheels, the company sells used and will consider taking part exchange. It o ers wheel and disk alterations and full refurbishment of customerowned wheels. If you would like a quote or are seeking help and advice, contact Gary directly. FG

Avon Tuning HD o ers advice to dairy farmers looking to increase tractor power without having to invest in a complete overhaul of farm buildings to accommodate larger machinery.

Many dairy farmers will be familiar with the dilemma of trying to increase power and size of machinery but hampered by old, outdated buildings rather than modern parlours and facilities.

Low entrances, tight feed passages and reduced height shed architecture determine the size of tractor and feeder wagons that farmers can operate in their current systems. It’s the payo between output and access.

However, by applying a bespoke remap suited to the tractor, Avon Tuning HD says its engineers can professionally and safely release additional power from current machinery. ECU remapping is much safer than adding a tuning chip and can be reversed, if the owner requires, the company explains.

Rather than spending several hundreds of thousands of pounds upgrading existing infrastructure to cope with larger tractors, professional engine remapping can allow existing machinery, that is already suited to current shed space, to o er greater output for running current or new implements.

This could allow existing tractors to run a higher carrying capacity feeder wagon, enabling more cows to be fed per load, and current implements, such as mowers, to be run closer to peak performance. It also means that producers don’t have to upgrade to a tractor that may be cumbersome in the sheds and the con nes of the yard.

Using existing equipment tted with a professional and reliable engine remap, rather than upgrading to more powerful and

expensive new machinery, will maintain a better pro t margin for dairy farmers, according to

Avon Tuning HD. With milk prices continually uctuating, gaining additional output from existing

KING ROLLER

Independent flotation and central pivoting of each section ensures superb contour following and even weight distribution across the full working width. From 12.3m to 20.3m.

• Floating wings and centre pivots Superb contour following

• Hydraulic SAT system Even consolidation

• 3m transport width & hydraulic brakes Simple, safe road transport

• Heavy duty design throughout Built for high workloads and built to last

• Heavy duty NG rings 20”, 22”, 24” Cambridge & Breaker or Cambridge only

Remapping can solve tractor power issues on dairy farms

machines, without signi cant nancial outlay, is an important consideration. FG

Shattaboards, Slicerboards, a

or Straw Tines to Tip or Tip XL rollers to

New Crops feature for trading platform

Hectare Trading’s new Crops feature gives arable farmers total visibility of their grain marketing – for each harvest year and each crop grown. It’s the latest way the company is helping farmers get the most for their crop on its online crop marketplace.

Grain marketing doesn’t stop at making a sale. To make con dent decisions throughout the year, you need a clear view of what you’ve harvested, what you’ve sold, what you’ve got left – and whether you’re still on track to hit your price targets, Hectare explains.

That’s why the company has introduced Crops, the latest addition to the Hectare Trading online crop marketplace. Crops brings your entire harvest into one easy-to-use dashboard, giving you real-time visibility of your sales position and progress for every harvest year. Whether you’re just starting to sell or nearing the end of the season, Crops helps you see the bigger picture at a glance, the company reckons.

One clear view

Crops is designed to mirror how farmers actually think about grain marketing: by harvest year, by crop and by tonnage. Getting started is simple. Add a new harvest year, then create a crop record for each crop you grow. For each crop, you enter your total harvested tonnage – either your entire stock of old crop or your projected tonnage for future harvest years.

From there, Crops becomes your central hub for tracking performance. No spreadsheets. No scribbling in your notebook. No switching between systems. Just one comprehensive view of your trading position.

Crops is fully integrated with the rest of your activity on Hectare Trading. You can post a listing directly from a crop record. Once the listing goes live and sells, your position updates automatically on the Crops dashboard. It’s a smoother, more connected way to manage grain marketing from start to nish.

Set your targets

Every farm has a unique balance of costs, risks and goals, which is why Crops gives you the option to add both target prices and breakeven prices to each crop record.

As you sell, Crops automatically calculates your average price achieved to date on sold tonnage, along with the price you need to achieve on your remaining tonnage to hit your target. Instead of guessing or doing back-of-anenvelope sums, you can see the numbers clearly laid out in front of you, for each crop individually and across your whole harvest.

Real-time visibility

One of the biggest advantages of Crops is how it updates as you trade. Every time you list and sell grain through Hectare Trading, your crop position updates automatically. Your sold tonnage, remaining tonnage, average price and target progress all adjust instantly, so you always know exactly where you stand.

This real-time visibility helps remove uncertainty and supports more con dent decision-making throughout the season.

No data gaps

Grain marketing doesn’t always happen in one place, and Crops is built to re ect that reality. If you’ve sold tonnage elsewhere – to a merchant, through a pool or via another route – you can add that tonnage directly to your crop record. Crops will include it in your overall position, giving you a complete and accurate picture of your sales, wherever they take place.

That means no gaps in your data – just a single real-time view of your trading position. You can also quickly export all your harvest data to use o ine, so you always remain in control.

Modern grain marketing

Crops is part of a wider set of improvements across Hectare Trading, all designed to help arable farmers take control of their grain marketing from end to end – from harvested tonnage through to nal sales.

In December, the company enhanced the market insights available on Hectare Trading, giving farmers regional prices for a broader range of crops, along with analysis of feed and premium trends and the estimated carry on forward contracts.

Now with Crops, it is helping farmers to gain more insights from their own trading data – and use it to inform smart marketing decisions. You can see what’s working, spot gaps early and stay focused on the outcomes that matter most to your business.

Whether you’re managing a single crop or juggling multiple harvest years, Crops gives you the con dence that comes from knowing exactly where you stand, Hectare concludes.

Crops is available now to all sellers on Hectare Trading. It’s free to post a listing and nd out how much more you can get for your grain. FG

Latest cordless chainsaw o ers serious power

Makita has unveiled its new UC030G 40VMax 500mm Brushless XGT Chainsaw – which it says is its most powerful cordless chainsaw yet.

The UC030G chainsaw delivers petrol-like power – equalling or exceeding that of a 50cc chainsaw – without any of the drawbacks, according to Makita. Consequently, it can tackle hardwoods and large diameter rounds without exposing users to the petrol fumes or excessive noise and vibration that is synonymous with petrol tools.

tabless battery, it delivers the power, performance and endurance required for any task around the farm, the company reckons. Furthermore, with fewer mechanical elements than traditional brushed motors, the BL motor in Makita’s latest saw also reduces friction and the likelihood of components wearing out. This design ensures the saw runs more e ciently, maximising each charge and reducing the likelihood of costly servicing.

Utilising Makita’s e cient brushless motor (BL), the UC030G has three cutting modes and a maximum cutting speed of 29.0m/s. Combined with the new BL4080H 8.0Ah XGT

The UC030G also prioritises immediately if the trigger is held down, enabling users to continue making the same cut without the need to lift the saw and

safety and ease of use alongside power. Should the tool lock as a result of excessive load, removing the load will allow the motor to restart

to continue making the same cut retrigger.

than an equivalently powered petrol option, reducing noise that could disturb farm animals and vibrations that can cause Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), Makita concludes.

What’s more, the new saw’s electric motor runs more smoothly

To nd out more about the UC030G 40Vmax 500mm brushless XGT Chainsaw and the BL4080H 8.0Ah XGT battery, go to www.makitauk.com. FG

Financial planning in farming: Preparing for the year ahead

Alchemy Business Finance

managing director Dean Pollen explains the key steps farmers should be taking in order to manage cash ows e ectively for the 2026/27 season.

Financial planning in farming rarely follows a neat calendar. Cash comes in unevenly, costs arrive all at once, and weather, yields, and commodity prices can shift plans overnight. Yet the businesses that thrive in volatile cycles tend to have one thing in common: they plan ahead for the pinch points.

Winter and early spring are ideal times to look at working capital, machinery nance, renewals, hire costs, and repayment schedules. Many farmers are running essential machinery on nance terms that were agreed several years ago under very di erent interest rates and market conditions. The machinery itself was the right purchase at the time, but the nance behind it is now placing pressure on monthly outgoings.

Extending terms or restructuring nance can improve cash ow and reduce working capital pressure, particularly during winter when liquidity is tight. Likewise, understanding when cash will tighten – be it winter feed, lambing, harvesting or tax – allows decisions to be made proactively rather than reactively. This is an area where specialist agricultural lenders like Alchemy Business Finance can help, by restructuring nance around the realities and seasonality of UK farming.

The aim isn’t to take on more debt, but to align nance with the rhythm of the farm so the business isn’t forced into unfavourable decisions at the wrong time of year. Good planning doesn’t remove risk, but it gives farmers more control – and in farming, timing is everything’ and cash ow is still king. FG

Subsoil, cultivate & consolidate all in one pass

With working widths of 2.45m to 5.25m, the Combi-Disc brings together deep soil loosening and surface cultivation in one frame. HE-VA’s clever design allows all the components to be adjusted hydraulically on the move.

• Legs - restructure soils to 16” (40cm) deep

• 510mm discs - cut and mix to 5” (125mm) deep

• Long leg stagger - reduced soil squeeze means lower HP requirement

• Shearbolt or hydraulic auto reset leg protection

• 600mm/700mm single or 600mm twinV-Proflepressroller

• Mounted and trailed models

• Optional Stealth, low disturbance legs & points

FORD RANGER PHEV STORMTRAK: More than just a tax play

Machinery reporter Daniel Hodge reviews Ford’s hybrid Ranger model after trying it out under testing conditions recently.

Pickup trucks wearing hybrid badges are often met with raised eyebrows. The concern is understandable. When a vehicle is expected to tow heavy loads, spend long days on poor surfaces and often operate far from charging infrastructure, electri cation can feel like a compromise rather than a bene t. That was very much the mindset when this latest Ford Ranger PHEV Stormtrak arrived – a plug-in petrol hybrid, positioned as a tax-e cient alternative to the traditional diesel workhorse. On paper, at least, it looked interesting. In practice, expectations were modest.

However, once put to work (particularly once hitched to a trailer) the Ranger began to challenge some of those assumptions. This was not a pickup struggling under the weight of its own complexity, nor one trading capability for compliance. Instead, it quickly became clear that Ford has put considerable thought into how this hybrid system behaves in real working conditions.

Size, stance and usability

Visually, the latest Ranger makes no attempt to hide its size. The design leans heavily into the broader Ford pickup aesthetic, borrowing cues from larger North American models with a wide stance, bold front end and an unmistakably ‘big vehicle’ presence on the road. The inspiration from across the pond is particularly noticeable in the front grille and headlight arrangement.

In Stormtrak trim, this particular example gains a number of visual upgrades, including distinctive wheels, side skirts and detailing that push it further

towards the premium end of the segment. While styling is always subjective, it is undeniably a smart-looking pickup, and one that feels modern without straying too far into gimmickry.

Despite its size, the Ranger is immediately easy to drive, with light steering and predictable responses that make it feel closer to a large car than a traditional pickup. On narrow country roads, this counts for a lot, particularly for drivers transitioning from smaller vehicles.

Practical touches are evident too. At the rear, an electrically operated load cover adds convenience, while the option of a proper agricultural-spec tow hitch underlines that this is still intended to do real work, not simply look the part. Two rear 230V power outlets in the load bed provide up to 6.9kW,

allowing tools and equipment to be run directly from the pickup. Power is drawn from the battery, with the engine kicking in to maintain supply should the battery deplete.

Cab and controls

Inside, the Ranger strikes a balance between comfort and durability. Materials feel robust, and while it would not be described as luxurious, there is a clear emphasis on quality and longevity.

Seating position is good, visibility is strong and there is an immediate sense that this is a cab designed for long hours rather than short commutes. Storage is well thought out, with plenty of space for paperwork, tools and the inevitable collection of cables and travel mugs

that accumulate in any working pickup.

The most dominant feature in the cab is the large, vertically oriented touchscreen. Whilst it looks impressive and gives the interior a modern feel, in actual use it quickly reveals itself as one of the Ranger’s weaker points.

On rough and bouncy country roads, operating a touchscreen becomes incredibly frustrating. There is little opportunity to brace your hand, and even simple tasks such as adjusting navigation or making a call can become distracting. For a vehicle likely to spend much of its life on uneven surfaces, this is a genuine usability issue.

While the screen undoubtedly looks good, it perhaps prioritises form over function.

The hybrid powertrain

This Ranger is powered by a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system and a 12kWh battery. Combined output is quoted at 277hp, with torque gures approaching 700Nm. These are undoubtedly impressive numbers despite the small battery size.

Pulling away, the Ranger starts in electric mode before the petrol engine cuts in, creating a smooth, quiet initial response. In tra c and low-speed manoeuvring, this works well and gives a re ned feel.

In real-world use, however, the electric range is limited. While a full charge is quoted at around 25 miles, this quickly diminishes in mixed driving, particularly once any load is involved. In practice, we saw closer to 15 miles, cementing that the battery should be viewed as a supporting system rather than a primary driving mode.

That said, once the petrol engine and electric motor are working together, the system feels well integrated. There is no sense of the drivetrain struggling to decide what it should be doing, and power delivery remains consistent whether driving solo or under load.

Crucially, the hybrid system does not feel like it compromises the Ranger’s working ability. If anything, the additional torque available at low speeds enhances it.

The Ranger’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost features a timing chain and a gear-driven oil pump, a layout generally regarded as more durable and far less susceptible to the failure mode associated with earlier wet-belt engines.

Putting it to the test

A genuine test for any pickup marketed towards agriculture is towing, and this is where the Ranger

plug-in hybrid impresses.

Hitched behind the Ranger for this test was a Fergie 35 on a trailer, a valuable and far-fromlightweight load. Combined with the trailer itself, the total weight was comfortably over two tonnes, providing a meaningful challenge.

From the outset, the Ranger showed no hesitation. Pulling away was smooth and controlled, with none of the strain or delay sometimes associated with petrol-powered tow vehicles. Acceleration remained con dent, and once up to speed, the Ranger settled into a stable, composed drive.

There was some expected movement from the rear over rough surfaces, but this was entirely manageable and never unsettling. More importantly, the Ranger never felt short of torque. Despite lacking the traditional diesel soundtrack, it pulled with ease, to the point where it was easy to forget just how much weight was attached.

For drivers accustomed to large diesel pickups, this will be the biggest surprise. The Ranger does not simply cope with towing, it actively feels as though it wants to do it.

Towing aids and technology

Beyond raw pulling power, the Ranger distinguishes itself through its towing technology. Hitching up solo is made signi cantly easier thanks to a comprehensive camera system, including a dedicated tow bar camera that allows precise alignment without assistance.

In tight and unforgiving spaces, such as a car park or busy yard, this makes a real di erence. Hitching up rst time, every time, without needing a second pair of eyes, is more than a gimmick.

Once connected, the Ranger continues to assist. The system con rms whether safety cables are correctly attached and monitors trailer lights continuously, alerting the driver immediately if there is an issue. Anyone who has discovered a faulty indicator halfway down the road will appreciate the value of this.

Large towing mirrors further improve visibility, while the overall camera coverage is among the best

seen in this class. When manoeuvring with a load, con dence is high, and that con dence translates directly into safer operation.

The ability to store and adapt settings for di erent trailers is another welcome feature, allowing the Ranger to adjust its behaviour depending on what is attached, whether that be livestock, machinery or an empty atbed.

On the road and around the yard

Away from towing, the Ranger continues to impress as a day-to-day vehicle. It is easy to drive, simple to park despite its size thanks to the extensive camera coverage, and comfortable over longer distances.

Around the yard, the Ranger’s size is noticeable but manageable. Steering is light, visibility is good, and the hybrid system’s smooth low-speed response makes precise positioning straightforward.

Who is this Ranger for?

When the Ranger plug-in hybrid arrived, it was easy to view it primarily as a tax-e cient option that’s appealing on paper, but potentially compromised in practice. After spending time with it, that perception no longer holds.

This is a pickup that tows with con dence, o ers genuinely useful technology and delivers a driving experience that is both comfortable and reassuring. The hybrid system enhances rather than detracts from its working credentials, even if the electric range itself remains limited.

The touchscreen-heavy interior is a clear drawback, particularly for agricultural use, and will not suit everyone. In many ways, this high-spec model feels overly plush and perhaps too “ ashy” for serious work, however, judged on its ability to pull weight safely and e ectively – the Ranger performs exceptionally well.

For farm businesses and contractors considering a modern pickup that can genuinely work hard and be comfortable on the road while o ering potential tax advantages, the Ranger plug-in hybrid deserves consideration. It may not convert every diesel loyalist, but it will certainly make some think twice. FG

Adjustable

Hydraulic

Wide

Attachments

710mm

Hydraulic weight distribution LED Road lights

SUCCESS FOR THE DOE SHOW 2026

Daniel Hodge reports from the 66th Annual Doe Show, where the weather might have been miserable but the mood was upbeat.

While periods of cold, wet weather tested both exhibitors and visitors, the underlying mood across the Ulting site was one of steady engagement. Conversations continued under cover, stands remained busy, and machinery continued to move, reinforcing why the Doe Show, organised by Ernest Doe & Sons, has retained its place in the agricultural calendar for so long.

The event continues to serve as a focal point for the dealer’s extended territory, bringing together a broad mix of arable, livestock and mixed farming businesses. For many attendees, the appeal lies not in spectacle but in substance: machines are here to be sold, prices are transparent, and the people with the authority to make decisions are on hand.

This year’s show also arrived at a moment of transition behind the scenes. With long-standing sales director Graham Parker beginning to step back and responsibility gradually passing to Mark Crosby, the 2026 event felt both familiar and forwardlooking, which is a balance that perhaps best sums up the show’s enduring success.

The Doe Show at a glance

Unlike large national exhibitions, the Doe Show has always been de ned by its practical, retaildriven approach. Machines are presented with clear pricing, stock is available to move, and manufacturer specialists stand alongside dealer sta to support detailed, technical conversations. Covering an increasingly wide geographic area following Ernest Doe’s territorial expansions, the show now draws visitors from across East Anglia and beyond. Estimates suggest that footfall remains consistent year-on-year, with over 10,000 visitors passing through over the course of the event, a gure that exhibitors continue to view as commercially worthwhile given the quality of engagement.

What di erentiates the Doe Show from many

similar events is its role as a decision-making environment rather than being simply a browsing exercise. While some deals are concluded on the day, the show also commonly acts as a catalyst, triggering discussions that carry on in the week that follows as trade-ins are valued, nance is arranged and delivery schedules con rmed. That structure re ects modern buying behaviour, where even committed customers require time and reassurance before nalising investment.

The format also encourages comparison. With everything from cultivation equipment and drills through to handlers, harvest machinery and specialist kit presented side-by-side, visitors can assess options e ciently. For manufacturers and suppliers, the bene t lies in visibility and access: the right customers, in one place, prepared to talk.

Fresh names at the Doe Show

One of the clearest signals of the event’s continued relevance is its ability to attract new suppliers at a time when manufacturers are increasingly selective about where they exhibit. This year, AVR, Pöttinger, and Merlo used the Doe Show as an early platform following changes in dealer representation across the region.

For Pöttinger, the move to work with Ernest Doe came together at pace. A reshu e in grassland machinery representation left a gap that needed lling quickly, with conversations progressing from initial contact to signed agreement within a matter of weeks. As a result, the Doe Show became the rst public outing for the partnership, with machines arriving on site before any formal press activity had taken place.

Despite the short lead time, the response from farmers was immediate. Interest centred not just on individual machines, but on how the brand would be supported locally, particularly across grassland and mixed farming systems. Several machines were sold directly from the stand under show pricing, reinforcing the event’s role as a commercial launchpad rather than a marketing exercise.

Merlo’s presence re ected a di erent, but complementary, story. While Ernest Doe has worked with the Italian manufacturer on the construction side for some time, the agricultural dealership o cially came into e ect at the start of February. The show therefore o ered one of the rst opportunities to present a joined-up agricultural and construction handling portfolio to farmers in the region.

MACHINERY

Discussions on the stand highlighted the enduring importance of handlers across a wide range of farm types, from livestock units to arable businesses requiring versatile material handling capacity.

Merlo also drew attention to its design heritage, noting that features such as four-wheel steer trace their roots back to the brand’s early machines of the 1980s. That emphasis on evolution rather than

reinvention resonated with visitors looking for proven concepts backed by local support.

A further new name drawing interest was AVR, which attended the Doe Show for the rst time following Ernest Doe’s appointment as a dealer last summer. For AVR, the event provided an opportunity to introduce its potato harvesting, planting and cultivation equipment to growers in areas where the brand has previously had

limited visibility.

While the opening day was a little quieter, AVR reported a strong response on the second day of the show, with a high level of enquiry from growers keen to explore alternative approaches to potato establishment and harvesting. Discussions focused not only on full harvesting systems, but also on planting strategies that reduce reliance on intensive stone separation, re ecting ongoing pressure to control establishment costs.

AVR suggested that rising cultivation costs are prompting some growers to reassess traditional methods, with interest growing in wider planters and integrated cultivation approaches that streamline operations. The presence of demonstrator machines and the prospect of spring on-farm demonstrations helped to convert curiosity into practical next steps, with several requests already logged for the coming season.

With Ernest Doe’s extensive depot network providing coverage across key growing regions, AVR sees the partnership as an opportunity to establish a stronger foothold in the eastern counties. As with other new suppliers at the show, the emphasis was on starting conversations rather than closing immediate deals – a role the Doe Show continues to perform e ectively.

Taken together, the arrival of new franchises underlined a key theme of the 2026 show: while margins may be tight, manufacturers continue to see value in targeted, regional events where conversations are informed, focused and commercially grounded.

British manufacturing and regional reality

Alongside major European brands, the Doe Show continues to provide a platform for longestablished British manufacturers, o ering a useful counterbalance to global machinery trends. Among them, UK-based manufacturer Cousins of Emneth used the event to re ect both changing customer demand and the pressures facing UK farming businesses.

Account manager Bruce Reeve reported steady interest during the opening days of the show, with sales and quotations pointing towards a more cautious buying climate.

He said that conversations suggested a shift towards smaller, more manageable machinery, particularly where farms are reassessing costs and aligning equipment more closely with available horsepower. While demand for larger machines remains in speci c cases, replacement rather than expansion appears to be the prevailing theme.

Bruce also highlighted the growing importance of refurbishment and aftersales work, with many customers choosing to extend the life of existing machinery rather than commit to major new purchases. That trend re ects a broader lack of nancial headroom across the sector, coupled with uncertainty around support mechanisms and long-term policy direction.

A UK debut

For long-standing exhibitors, the Doe Show remains an important xture; not because it guarantees instant orders, but because it reliably generates momentum that carries on beyond the event itself.

For Lemken, the show marked the UK debut

of its 12m Solitair drill. Although launched last year, the event provided the rst opportunity for many British growers to see a demonstration-speci cation machine up close, ahead of a planned spring demo tour and appearances at Cereals. According to Lemken, many operations can be handled in a single pass, and hoppers are available as a 6,000or 7,000-litre option.

Feedback from the stand suggested a broadly positive mood among visitors, with interest driven by structural changes within farm businesses rather than speculative buying. Lemken’s general manager Paul Creasy noted ongoing demand from operations scaling up following mergers or collaboration, where increased output capacity becomes a practical requirement. At the same time, discussions re ected a more nuanced approach to cultivation, with growers reassessing soil movement strategies in response to weed pressure, soil structure and resilience.

That emphasis on measured change was echoed by Dalbo, which again highlighted the Doe Show’s role as a trigger point rather than a nish line. Dalbo’s general manager Simon Cowley said that show-speci c pricing remains an important incentive, typically extending for a week after the event to allow deals to be completed properly. That approach re ects how buying behaviour has evolved, with fewer customers expecting to sign immediately and more relying on accurate trade-in values and careful stock planning. In turn, the show plays an important role in refreshing dealer eets, with new orders helping to release used machinery back into the market.

Simon also pointed to the importance of workshop strength and continuity in supporting that process. Long-established service teams and loyal sta provide reassurance during periods of uncertainty, particularly when farmers are weighing up whether to replace equipment or extend the working life of existing machines.

Together, these established brands reinforced a consistent message: farmers may be cautious, but they are not standing still. Investment decisions are being made for clear, operational reasons, with reliability and support often outweighing novelty.

A farmer’s view

Among those attending were local farmers Andrew Lee, Simon Quince, and Richard Lee of P J Lee & Sons. They were visiting the show with Geo rey Watts, who was collecting a newly purchased Husqvarna mower.

For the group, the appeal of the show lay in being able to see equipment in person, discuss options directly with dealer sta and take delivery on the same day. While major machinery purchases often involve extended lead times, smaller but essential items remain an important part of the show’s retail character, reinforcing its relevance across a wide range of farm sizes and enterprises.

A leadership transition

Behind the machinery, the long-term strength of the Doe Show rests on continuity and trust, qualities that become particularly important during periods of change. This year marked the beginning of a transition, with divisional head of agricultural and construction sales, Mark Crosby, preparing to take on greater responsibility for the event.

Mark described the 2026 show as a year

of learning, shadowing Graham closely while becoming more involved in the planning and delivery of the event. While the handover is signi cant, he was keen to emphasise that the show’s success depends on collective e ort, from Ernest Doe sta through to suppliers and manufacturer representatives.

Central to the show’s longevity, Mark suggested, is its straightforward retail focus. With prices clearly displayed and stock available to move, the event o ers a level of transparency that builds con dence. Familiar faces returning year after year further reinforce trust, particularly in an industry where long-term relationships remain fundamental.

For Graham, who has overseen the Doe Show for more than two decades, this year’s event marked a natural moment to re ect. Having been involved directly with the show for 26 years, and with Ernest Doe for more than 40, he described the 2026 edition as one of the strongest in recent memory, both in terms of attendance and enquiry levels.

Despite persistent talk of caution across the sector, Graham noted a clear sense of optimism on site. Early estimates suggest visitor numbers were ahead of last year, which itself was the secondbest show on record, with catalogue distribution

pointing to more than 10,000 people through the gates over the course of the event.

More importantly, he reported a volume of genuine sales enquiries across multiple manufacturers that he had not seen for ve or six years, setting the stage for a busy follow-up period once the show concluded.

As responsibility passes gradually to Mark Crosby, Graham expressed con dence in the handover, describing it as the right time for fresh ideas and new energy, supported by experience built up over years of close involvement.

Why it still works

In an era where every investment is scrutinised, the continued success of the Doe Show o ers a reminder that well-run, regionally-focused events have a role to play. By combining clear pricing, broad representation and experienced support, the show continues to earn its place as both a marketplace and a meeting point.

New suppliers choosing to launch here, established brands returning year after year, and a carefully managed leadership transition all point towards a format built on trust rather than novelty. FG

There were no product launches waiting behind covers and no claims of step-change technology. Instead, J Rileys’ latest beet harvesting demonstration, held at Barton Bendish in Norfolk, o ered something far more re ective of the current mood in the sector: a practical look at what growers and contractors can realistically run, support and justify in today’s economic climate.

The event attracted visitors from across East Anglia and further a eld, including growers and contractors travelling from as far as North Yorkshire and Ireland. For managing director Matt Carse, that willingness to travel underlined why on-farm demonstrations continue to resonate, particularly when compared with the cost and spectacle of large indoor shows. With machines working in the eld and time for unhurried conversations, the day was geared toward decision-making rather than display.

While several current-generation Vervaet machines were operating in the eld, much of the discussion revolved around a very di erent exhibit: a fully refurbished 2003 Vervaet 17-T, rebuilt by J Rileys’ workshop team and presented as an example of how older beet harvesters can still

J RILEY BEET HARVESTING DEMO: THE OLD AND THE NEW

J Riley’s biennial sugar beet harvesting demo took place in Norfolk in late January, putting Vervaet harvesters through their paces. Daniel Hodge reports.

refurbishment could be a realistic route forward. Matt Carse was clear that the machine’s inclusion was intentional. The overhaul was designed to underline the idea that there remains a machine for every scale of operation. Whether a grower or contractor is working with a budget of £50,000 or closer to £500,000, there are still options available.

Although the 17-T did not lift beet on the day, its static presence arguably encouraged more scrutiny rather than less. Visitors spent time examining wear points, discussing rebuild scope and weighing the economics of refurbishment against the cost of new machinery. The conversation was less about outright performance and more about con dence: con dence that an older machine could be kept reliable, supported and productive for years to come.

Matt also pointed out that many of the wearing parts tted to the refurbished machine were still in production until relatively recently, with overlap into machines built just three years ago. That continuity plays a signi cant role in keeping older harvesters viable and helps explain why rebuilds continue to appeal in the current market.

combined with in-house expertise, helps reduce the risk often associated with running older equipment.

A refurbished 17-T as a statement of intent

The refurbished Vervaet 17-T sat alongside the working machines, and although it did not run on the day, it drew a steady stream of visitors. Many were not looking for nostalgia; instead, inspecting build quality, asking about parts availability and discussing whether

Service, parts and experience

A refurbished machine is only as credible as the infrastructure behind it, and much of the con dence surrounding the 17-T stemmed from J Riley’s long-standing emphasis on service and workshop capability. Matt highlighted the depth of experience within the company’s workshop team, with several senior sta having spent decades working on beet harvesters and overseeing summer rebuild programmes designed to extend machine life.

Taken together, the workshop capability, parts support and accumulated knowledge on display at Barton Bendish reinforced a broader point: longevity in beet harvesting is not accidental. It is the result of deliberate design choices, consistent support and an understanding that progress does not always require replacement.

Modern machines in the field

J Riley service engineer Luke Simpson, who carried out some walk-arounds and in-cab explanations, was keen to stress that modern Vervaet development has focused on versatility and consistency, rather than chasing headline gures. “If you want a good all-round machine that’ll go anywhere, anytime, then this is it,” he said, play a viable role.

Parts availability remains a central concern, but commonality across generations continues to work in favour of older Vervaet machines. With many components shared across multiple models and production years, stocking parts becomes less speculative and more sustainable. This continuity,

While the refurbished 17-T drew attention for what it represented, the working demonstrations focused rmly on Vervaet’s current machines, o ering a clear contrast between legacy design and modern development. In the eld were a Q-616 tted with a turbine cleaning system, a Q-616 with rollerbed, and a Beet Eater 625 rollerbed machine, alongside a converted chaser unit.

referring to the turbine-equipped machines.

“From yellow clay to blowing sand, that’s where the turbine system really earns its keep.”

Cleaning performance remains a central di erentiator. Luke pointed out that turbine-based systems continue to appeal on heavier soils, particularly where conditions change rapidly.

“Those open-ended turbines get rid of the dirt a lot sooner,” he explained. “We’re nding more and more customers ordering them now, depending on soil type.”

The 625, meanwhile, was positioned as a true “go-anywhere” machine, with design decisions aimed at maintaining forward momentum in di cult conditions. Cab development also featured prominently. The latest machines use the Claas Jaguar-style cab, o ering improved visibility, particularly to the rear, and a more re ned operator environment. “They’ve always run forage harvester cabs, but this is the next generation,” Luke noted. “It makes a big di erence when you’re spending long days in there.”

Across the line-up, modularity remains a clear theme. Lifter units, row con gurations and cleaning systems can be shared across models, allowing machines to be speci ed more precisely to workload and conditions – a philosophy that mirrors the refurbishment approach highlighted elsewhere on the day.

Operator perspective

Beyond speci cation and horsepower, much of the most valuable insight came from discussions around operator judgement. Luke, who combines service engineering with demonstration work, described the constant balancing act between lifting cleanly and avoiding unnecessary damage. “You want a bit of soil in the machine,” he explained. “If you take in no soil at all, the beet will nd any little gap to disappear into. The soil helps cushion everything and keep it owing.”

At the same time, over-cleaning carries its own penalties. Excessive soil intake increases workload on the cleaning system and fuel use, while aggressive topping or scalping risks losing yield. “You’re the man that gets the blame if the sample comes back and it’s not great,” Luke said. “British Sugar will analyse the sample, how clean it is, how much beet is left, and that directly a ects what the grower gets paid.”

That accountability places signi cant responsibility on operators, particularly in variable conditions. Cleaning intensity, topper settings and forward speed all need to be continually monitored, and adjusted if required. “You’re watching depth, you’re watching soil, and you’re making sure you’re not over-scalping or underscalping,” Luke added.

Contractor logic

For contractors, machine choice is shaped as much by consistency and familiarity as outright performance. Members of the Ulyatt family, who provided the use of their Q-616 harvester for the demonstration, spoke openly about the reasoning behind their long-term commitment to the brand. Operating primarily on silty loam soils in south Lincolnshire, the business has historically favoured turbine-equipped machines, though not without careful evaluation.

Fleet consistency also plays a role, both

operationally and commercially. “If you keep two machines specced the same, it makes life easier,” noted John Ulyatt, of farmers and contractors Pete Ulyatt & Son. “Operators know exactly what they’re getting into, and if you ever change colours or brands, training becomes much more complicated.”

Operator familiarity, particularly around control layout and setup logic, was another recurring theme.

While newer machines inevitably bring updates, abrupt changes can slow productivity. “Our operator had an older machine before this, so there was a bit of adjustment,” John said. “But once they’re used to it, that familiarity makes a big di erence.” For contracting businesses working at scale, reliability and support trump novelty. Well-maintained machines and predictable performance all feed into resale value and longterm planning.

The route for beet harvesting

Taken as a whole, the Barton Bendish demonstration o ered a clear snapshot of where beet harvesting currently sits, and where it may be heading.

Replacement decisions are not being abandoned, but in some cases they are being delayed, questioned and weighed more carefully than in previous cycles. In that context, refurbishment, rebuilds and long-term support are no longer secondary considerations; they are central to how many businesses are planning ahead.

For J Riley, events like this are less about immediate sales and more about facilitating

those conversations. Matt Carse noted that onfarm demonstrations allow for a more engaging experience for both the customer and supplier when compared with major shows. “It’s our target audience,” he said. “People come here to talk properly, not just walk past shiny machines.”

The presence of both refurbished and currentgeneration machines reinforced the idea that progress in beet harvesting is evolutionary rather than revolutionary. Design improvements, cleaner lifting, improved cab environments and modular speci cations all play their part, but so too does the ability to maintain, repair and adapt machines already in the eld.

In a sector where margins are tight and workloads intense, longevity is most certainly a strategic advantage. FG

Behind the scenes at Claas Manns Expo 2026

Held at Claas Manns’ Saxham headquarters, the Manns Expo 2026 was not heavily focused on launches or headline announcements, but instead on creating time and space for discussion, particularly around machinery decisions that many farms are now approaching more cautiously. Daniel Hodge was there.

The Saxham site itself played a central role in that approach. With extensive indoor and outdoor space, the facility allows a large volume of machinery – new and used – to be presented in a clean, accessible environment, encouraging farmers to spend time inspecting equipment rather than simply passing through. Across the yard and sheds, the mix re ected how the business is currently engaging with customers: used machinery as a starting point, supported by selected new models and a broad range of franchise partners.

Alongside Claas tractors, harvesters and handlers, the Expo featured kit from Horsch, Grange Machinery, Cherry Products and Stewart Trailers, reinforcing the event’s practical tone. The layout invited comparison between new and nearly new machines, di erent cultivation approaches, and varying levels of complexity.

With many farmers reassessing priorities ahead of the coming season, the Expo functioned less as a sales showcase and more as a checkpoint.

Conversations, more than commitments, appeared to be the main objective.

Used machinery:

strong, with interest focused on machines that o er clear savings without introducing additional risk. “Nothing’s ying out of the door,” he said, “but people are still spending where they feel they need to.”

Interest was particularly strong around nearly new tractors and combines, o ering modern speci cation and reliability at a reduced capital cost. Will noted that the ability to properly inspect machines was as critical as ever. “If someone’s looking at spending serious money, they need to see the machine clean, dry, and in the right conditions. It makes all the di erence.”

Therefore, Manns supporting farmers with the ability to view and compare machines in suitable conditions is clearly critical. The challenge this brings for Manns is the high cost associated with holding large volumes of high-value stock.

New machinery shines

While used machinery anchored much of the discussion, selected new models provided useful reference points for farmers weighing longer-term decisions. Rather than dominating the event, new kit was positioned alongside existing alternatives, allowing visitors to assess scale, speci cation and suitability without the pressure of a formal launch environment.

Starting the conversation

If there was a clear thread running through the day, it was the role of used machinery as the foundation of many current buying discussions. Instead of being framed as a fallback option, used stock was presented as a practical way for farmers to assess value, capacity and timing before making wider decisions.

Will Riddleston, Claas Manns’ used machinery manager described demand as steady rather than

Among the headline machines on display was the updated Scorpion 742 telehandler. Although poor weather prevented live demonstrations, the revisions were framed as evolutionary rather than transformational, with changes focused on cab comfort, visibility and day-to-day usability. It was presented as a re nement of a familiar platform as opposed to a radical shift.

The Expo also marked the public UK dealer debut of the Axion 9 series (read our coverage of the launch in the December 2025 issue), giving farmers an opportunity to view the tractor outside the context of a major exhibition. Positioned alongside more revisions dealer debut of the Axion 9 series in the December 2025 issue), to view the tractor outside the

familiar Xerion, Axion and Arion models, clear points of comparison were evident for businesses deciding where tractors might, or might not, t within their own operations. Jaguar forage harvesters and Lexion combines completed the Claas line-up.

Aftersales, parts and digital support

Alongside machinery, the Expo placed clear emphasis on aftersales support and parts, areas that for many farms are now as in uential as the initial purchase decision. With replacement cycles stretching and budgets under closer scrutiny, keeping existing machines running e ciently has become a priority.

Darren Copping, group aftersales manager said there was a greater focus on exibility and transparency instead of pushing premium solutions by default. Alternative oils and clearly priced consumables were positioned as everyday

options, aimed at helping customers manage costs without compromising reliability. Following last season’s relatively straightforward harvest, it was acknowledged that some routine servicing had been delayed, increasing the importance of planning and communication moving forward.

Digital support formed the other pillar of the aftersales o ering. Recent updates to Claas Connect have improved access to parts diagrams, service information and operator documentation across both desktop and mobile devices. Even where machines are not fully connected, operators and managers can still access key information quickly – a practical advantage as machinery becomes more complex.

Claas Connect and its suite of digital tools were framed as part of a broader support package, designed to reduce downtime and simplify ownership. In a market where new purchases are more carefully justi ed, that focus on uptime and accessibility has become increasingly central. FG

Horsch’s presence at the Expo re ected a continued focus on e ciency-led investment rather than wholesale change. Interest across drills and cultivators appeared steady, driven less by expansion and more by the need to improve timeliness and reduce establishment costs. Some growers, having delayed machinery updates for several seasons, were now reaching a point where older equipment was limiting exibility.

Rather than promoting a single system, the emphasis was on o ering adaptable solutions capable of working across di erent soils and rotations. Machinery choice, in this context, was framed around e ciency per pass rather than outright capacity.

Stewart Trailers’ presence underlined how transport and logistics continue to shape machinery investment, particularly on larger arable units. Discussions focused on capacity, durability and compliance, with increasing attention paid to how trailers t within existing eets and road work requirements rather than chasing maximum payloads.

Changing cropping patterns and regulatory pressures were cited as factors increasing the volume of material moved on farm, placing renewed emphasis on reliability. While trailers may not dominate purchasing lists, they remain an essential, if understated, part of maintaining operational e ciency.

Grange Machinery

Grange Machinery attracted attention from growers reassessing cultivation strategy in light of rising input costs. Strip-till and lowerdisturbance systems featured heavily in discussions, with interest linked to both soil health and cost control.

Versatility emerged as a recurring theme, with customers favouring machines capable of operating across a range of crops and conditions rather than specialist tools tied to a single approach. The focus was on extracting maximum value from each pass, re ecting a broader shift towards more measured, outcome-led establishment decisions.

Norfolk farmer keeping informed

For Norfolk farmer Richard Ford, the Expo was less about buying and more about staying informed. Having already committed signi cant capital this season by replacing two combines with a single, larger machine, his appetite for further investment was limited.

The decision was driven by rationalisation rather than expansion, simplifying the operation while maintaining capacity. With margins under pressure and political uncertainty continuing to weigh on con dence, his visit to Saxham was framed as a chance to see what was available and understand how the market was moving, rather than to make immediate commitments.

His comments re ected a pragmatic acceptance of current conditions. Machinery decisions now require more patience and timing than in the past, with value and longevity carrying greater weight than novelty.

farmer Warren Rodwell

and arable farmer James Dennis attended the Expo together, o ering a perspective shaped by smaller-scale operations and growing scepticism around machinery complexity. While both acknowledged the bene ts of modern technology, they questioned how much of it was genuinely necessary for everyday work.

Rising costs were a recurring concern, particularly as machinery becomes more sophisticated and harder to maintain independently. Older equipment was seen as easier to live with, even if it lacks the re nements of newer models.

Despite that caution, proximity to a strong local dealer remained important. Access to parts, backup and familiar contacts were viewed as a genuine advantage, particularly as replacement cycles continue to stretch.

The first FarmAds Auction of farm machinery and equipment commences 12pm on Friday 27 February, closing from 12pm on Friday 6 March. th th register today to bid and receive auction notifications www.farmads.co.uk/auctions

Drills included a John Deere 750A 6m, a Claydon Hybrid 3.5m, a Lely Polymat 4m combination power harrow drill and a Horsch Sprinter 6ST 6m, while large cultivators included a Sumo Quatro and a He-Va disc roller. All attracted competitive bidding both on-site and online.

Cambs dispersal sale follows change of farming policy for

An impressive array of modern farm machinery including a combine, self-propelled sprayer, tractors, implements and trailers was o ered for sale at an auction conducted by Brown & Co, on behalf of Cole Ambrose Ltd, in late 2025. David Williams was there.

The sale, at Stuntney, near Ely was due to a change in farming policy, and featured machinery used on the all-arable enterprise on the edge of the Cambridgeshire fens.

An excellent sale

“It was an excellent sale and achieved some extremely high prices,” Brown & Co auctioneer, George Watchorn told Farmers Guide. “Strong attendance at the event was bolstered by considerable interest through our online bidding system, with almost 300 internet bidders registered. Although most lots were bought by farmers from East Anglia and the Midlands, some lots ended up considerably further a eld and approximately 40% of winning bids were placed online.”

George commented that highlights included the Claas Lexion combine. “It was clean and well maintained, and although it was seven years old the working hours remained low. It eventually sold to an end user from Herefordshire for a good, but well-deserved price. Competitive bidding onsite for the Sumo Quatro cultivator resulted in a sale price well above expectations, and the Sands sprayer was in great condition and achieved a good result.”

In safe hands

Asked why the Brown & Co team was selected to arrange the sale on behalf of the Morbey family, CEO Alastair Morbey explained: “This was the rst time we had carried out a farm machinery sale for the business, so we met with several auction rms. Brown & Co stood out for their positive approach, and we already had an established relationship with land agent, Jon Clampin through our year-end valuations. That gave me con dence and made me feel I was in safe hands from the outset.

“Initially our main contact for the sale was Jon, due to our longstanding working relationship, and then as the sale planning progressed we also worked with land agency partner, George Watchorn. Both Jon and George were very easy to work with. They took control of the process and guided us through it with con dence and experience.”

Alastair said that guidance provided by the Brown & Co team made the sale planning much easier.

“As this was new territory for us and the sale was being held on the farm, their experience really showed. They handled what could have been an emotional and stressful situation in a calm and professional

way, making the whole process feel straightforward. On the day itself, the Brown & Co team were extremely well organised and professional.

FARM SALE

large arable farm

“A farm sale is something you have little control over in terms of who turns up and who is willing to buy on the day, but the outcome exceeded our expectations, and we were delighted with both the attendance and the results,” he con rmed. FG

A trade buyer purchased this Claas Axion 820. Registered on a 12-plate in 2012, it had worked 6,203 hours and the BKT 600/65R28 front, and 650/65R42 rear tyres all had 90% remaining tread. The Claas had a 50kph transmission, four rear spools and was sold with a set of 18, 50kg front wafer weights. It was extremely tidy inside and out and sold for £21,500, despite having what was described as a clutchpack fault.

A set of Goodyear 12.4R32 front, and Kleber 300/90R46 rear row crop wheels and tyres with John Deere centres was in good condition and made £800.

With its Ernest Doe supplying dealer stickers, this New Holland branded RVH 205QG 2m rotary cultivator was in excellent condition and sold for £2,000.

Workshop equipment, sundries and spare parts were displayed under cover and attracted competitive bidding.

A 2002 Perrott TRV100/400 400m irrigation reel with a single axle and 400/60-15.6 wheels and tyres was in good order and made £2,050.

This 2015 Doosan 33 industrial forklift with a three-stage mast, 6m maximum lift height and side shift was on dual drive wheels and had worked 3,598 hours. In very good condition, it achieved £8,000.

Dalbo rolls are always in demand and this 12.3m Powerroll XL 1230 set featured horizontal folding, 62cm rings and breaker rings. New in 2017, the rolls were in good order and made £16,500.

This John Deere 6630 Premium tractor was also bought by a trade buyer. It had an AutoQuad 50kph transmission, three manual spools, front suspension and air brakes and was on BKT 420/70R28 front tyres with 50% tread, and 520/70R38 rears with 80% tread. It had worked 8,500 hours and remained extremely tidy, attracting a winning bid of £31,000.

The Claydon Hybrid 3.5m drill with a Sulky Optiline MP hopper, bout markers, plus a Hatzenbichler Air 8 pneumatic seeder was in good condition and made £2,000.

Described by Brown & Co auctioneer, George Watchorn as one of the sale highlights, this 2020, 70-plate Sands Horizon 4000 selfpropelled sprayer with a 4,000-litre tank, 24m booms, ve-nozzle bodies, and GPS-ready with section control and auto shut-o sold to a Bedfordshire farmer. It had recorded 3,598 working hours and was on Michelin Cerex 520/85R30 wheels and tyres with 80% remaining tread. The winning bid was £95,000.

Mowers o ered included the 2015 McConnel SP620 6.2m hydraulic folding, bat-wing topper with a mulch kit, still carrying its Ben Burgess supplying dealer stickers, which made £4,900 and, beside it, a 2012 Votex Landmaster 2.8m ail mower suitable for front or rear linkage mounting and equipped with hydraulic side shift which sold for £1,600.

This Sumo Quatro 4, 4.8m hydraulic folding trailed cultivator had a set of front discs, seven legs, discs and a rear packer. The Trelleborg 404 600/5022.5 tyres had 40% remaining tread and, overall, the cultivator appeared in good order and ready to use. Fierce bidding pushed the price upwards to £34,800, the winning bid made by a Leicestershire farmer.

The farm’s large, 2001-manufactured, 8f (6+1+1) Lemken Vari-Diamant reversible semi-mounted plough with slatted mouldboards and skimmers was set up for on-land use, had hydraulic vari-width adjustment and a press arm. The bodies had plenty of remaining working life, the plough carried its Ernest Doe supplying dealer stickers and it sold for £4,200. Beside the plough, the 2007 Lemken VarioPack S 110 3.3m double furrow press was also in good condition and sold separately for £1,700 to the same buyer.

This Agriweld front weight block had been attached to the John Deere 8RX tractor during its time on the farm and was bought at the auction by the same buyer for £1,850.

2002

With Agri-Linc supplying dealer stickers, this 2015 Proforge MonoMole mole plough was on BKT 11.5/80-15.3 wheels and tyres and was in good condition. It sold for £3,800.

With its Ernest Doe supplying dealer stickers, this 2022 Cousins V-Form seven-leg, hydraulic folding subsoiler with a razor ring packer was in very good order and sold for £10,000.

These two HM Trailers were both new in 2013 and carried consecutive serial numbers. Both were 12t grain models, with a sprung drawbar, hydraulic brakes, hydraulic tailgate, grain chute and rollover sheet and were shod on 385/65R22.5 wheels and tyres of mixed brands and with 30–40% remaining tread. The trailers achieved £6,900 each, although they went to di erent buyers.

The Claas combine was a sale highlight. The 2018 Lexion 750TT APS Hybrid Terra Trac with a Vario 770 header, straw chopper, cha spreader, 24in rubber tracks, single Laser Pilot automatic steering and sold with its header trailer had worked 1,164 engine and 994 drum hours and harvested a total of 3,628ha since it arrived new on the farm. In exceptional condition inside and out, and with the rubber tracks appearing barely worn, it sold to a Herefordshire farmer for £164,000.

farm’s John

CommandPro was new in 2021 and carried a 21-pre x registration. It was shod on 24in front and 30in rear tracks which all had 80% remaining tread and very little damage to the casings or the mid rollers. With ve electric spools, air brakes, Isobus control, and GPS-ready with an integral Star re receiver and JD Link, the tractor had recorded 3,761 hours and still carried its Ben Burgess supplying dealer stickers. The winning bidder was a local farmer who already had a similar tractor, and he bought the 8RX together with its front ballast/toolbox and the He-Va cultivator. The 8RX achieved £110,000.

This 2016 Kelly MPH 600-Q 6m Multi-Purpose Harrow with hydraulic folding wings was in excellent condition and the cultivation discs had plenty of remaining working life. The winning bidder paid £9,000.

The farm’s 2014 Horsch Sprinter 6ST 6m hydraulic folding trailed drill with a front tyre packer, three rows of tines, a levelling harrow and a rear tyre packer had been converted to use Bourgault Dutch coulters although the standard legs and coulters were included in the sale. With an Isobus control system, it achieved a £21,200 winning bid from a farmer near Cheltenham.

This smaller Lely Polymat 4m combination power harrow drill had three-rows of Su olk seed coulters, bout and tramline markers and was mounted on a Lely power harrow. Described as for ‘spares or repairs’, it made £1,300.

This John Deere 750A 6m, hydraulic folding disc drill had an Isobus-only control system and was equipped with bout and tramline markers. It sold for £38,500 to a farmer from Yorkshire.

where we will showcase the best in the

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Strong starts matter: Helping calves thrive

As the spring calving season approaches, the focus on every farm shifts to one goal: ensuring every calf born has the best possible start in life. Provita o ers some top tips.

In the busy rush of calving, it is easy to focus on the big tasks like di cult calvings or feeding protocols, but often it is the microscopic battle within the calf’s gut that determines its long-term health and productivity.

A newborn calf is born with a naïve immune system and a sterile digestive tract. Unlike humans, they do not receive antibodies through the placenta; they are entirely dependent on colostrum and early environmental exposure to build their defences. However, in the high-pressure environment of a spring calving shed, pathogens like E. coli, rotavirus, and cryptosporidium are often waiting to colonise the gut before the calf's own defences are ready.

To bridge this gap, many farmers are now looking toward targeted nutritional interventions, such as Provita Response Paste or Capsules, to provide a concentrated kick-start of probiotics (bene cial bacteria), high-quality functional proteins (egg powder), and rapid energy.

Power of probiotics

The rst few hours of a calf's life are a race for real estate. The lining of the intestine is like an empty car park; whatever gets there rst – be it bene cial bacteria or harmful pathogens – will set the tone for the calf’s health.

Feeding a high-quality, proven probiotic helps ensure that bene cial bacteria occupy these sites rst. This process is known as competitive exclusion and helps to stabilise the gut. By populating the gut with ‘good’ bacteria, you create an acidic environment that is hostile to scourcausing pathogens. Furthermore, these probiotics stimulate the development of the gut wall itself, improving its barrier function and reducing the risk of ‘leaky gut’, where toxins enter the bloodstream.

Egg powder

While natural maternal colostrum provides IgG

(immunoglobulin G) for passive immunity, egg powder o ers a unique, localised advantage. Unlike the cow's antibodies, which are absorbed into the blood, the high-quality functional proteins from egg powder remain active within the intestinal lumen. They act like a search and destroy team, binding directly to pathogens like rotavirus and E. coli in the gut. This prevents the pathogens from attaching to the intestinal wall and causing the damage that leads to scour.

Research has shown that egg powder and colostral IgG work synergistically; while the cow's colostrum protects the whole body, the egg powder provides an extra boots on the ground layer of defence where it's needed most: the digestive tract.

Energy and vitamins

In the cold, damp conditions often found during spring, a calf’s energy reserves are depleted rapidly just trying to maintain body temperature (thermogenesis). A weak calf that lacks energy is a slow-to-stand calf, and a slow-to-stand calf is often a colostrum-deprived calf.

Supplementing with a concentrated energy source, including essential vitamins and minerals, provides the metabolic fuel needed for the calf to stand and suckle vigorously. This vigour is the most important factor in natural colostrum intake. By providing a boost of energy at birth, particularly after a di cult calving or to a twin, you ensure the calf has the strength to seek out the teat and ingest the colostrum it requires within the rst two hours.

Practical application

For the busy farmer, Provita Response is designed to deliver what the calf needs in a single, concentrated application. It is not a replacement for colostrum, but rather a vital insurance policy.

Time 1d14d

At birth: Administering within the rst six hours (the ‘golden window’) ensures the ingredients are present when the gut is most receptive. It is especially bene cial for calves from heifers (who may have lower-quality colostrum) or after an assisted birth.

Bought-in calves: For those buying in calves from marts, the stress of transport and exposure to new farm pathogens often leads to pneumonia or digestive upsets. An application upon arrival helps stabilise the gut ora and provides the energy boost needed to settle into a new environment.

Recovery: It can also be used as a supportive tool for calves recovering from antibiotic treatment or illness, helping to repopulate the gut with bene cial bacteria that may have been stripped away.

Success this spring is built on a foundation of hygiene, warmth, and the all-important colostrum. However, by understanding the roles of probiotics for gut colonisation, egg powder for localised protection, and energy for vitality, farmers can add an extra layer of resilience to their calves. A small intervention at birth can pay dividends in the form of higher daily live weight gains and a signi cantly reduced workload in the sick bay later in the season.

For more information, get in touch with Provita directly. FG

OPTIMISM AT DAIRY-TECH 2026 DESPITE FALLING MILK PRICE

Farmers and dairy sector professionals gathered together for the one-day event in Warwickshire, which delivered a dose of optimism, despite recent tumbling milk prices. Sarah Kidby was there.

Thousands of visitors attended the annual event at Stoneleigh Park, to witness live demonstrations and a packed speaker programme, showcasing the latest dairy technologies, sector innovations and key industry challenges. Sessions covered upcoming EID regulations, labour solutions and the nancial support available to help dairy farmers navigate ongoing economic pressures.

Despite signi cant concern over the milk price, which has been falling since the end of last year, visitors were given cause for optimism during the opening speech of the day, by market analyst Chris

Walkland. He pointed to encouraging signs from the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction on 3rd February, which saw increases in both skimmed and whole milk powder values.

“We had two positive GDT auctions in January and another up 6.7% yesterday (3rd February), providing the best start to the year anyone could have imagined,” he said.

The event also marked a signi cant milestone for organiser, the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers (RABDF), which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. DairyTech served as the o cial unveiling of RABDF’s new rebrand, marking the

AIC spoke to visitors about the newly-launched AIC Sustainable Commodities Scheme (ASCS), which is a voluntary initiative designed to support the feed sector in ful lling its due diligence requirements for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and UK sustainability initiatives such as the UK Soya Manifesto. Its creation was prompted by the need to certify that livestock feed ingredients have been grown without links to deforestation.

The scheme is comprised of two modules – one for commodities coming into the UK from the origin country, aligned with requirements of the EUDR; and the second for operators within the UK to demonstrate through their chain of custody that deforestation-free products are being delivered to farm. A certi cation body has been appointed and the scheme should be able to o er certi cation from Q2 this year.

AIC is also working to encourage young people into the industry and raise awareness of the opportunities available within the sector. Plus, the AIC stand featured the Forage Analysis Assurance Group and Feed Adviser Register.

start of an exciting new chapter in the organisation’s long history.

Meanwhile, the 2025 RABDF/ NMR Gold Cup was awarded to Cornish dairy business, TN Morrow and Partners. The farm is run by Paul Broad and his wife Wendy (née Morrow), with Wendy’s brother, Irwin Morrow, and Paul and Wendy’s sons, David and Philip. The family has made considerable investments in the past decade for the next generation, with a new dairy unit in 2018 and a new youngstock unit in 2023.

Commenting on this year’s event, RABDF CEO Hayley CampbellGibbons said: “There was a real air

of optimism at Dairy-Tech this year and, despite ongoing pressure on milk prices, the event highlighted the resilience and innovation within the dairy sector. Our exhibitors and sponsors continue to inspire farmers with their commitment to showcasing excellence, which brings visitors back year after year.

“As RABDF embarks on the next chapter in its 150-year history, marked by our new rebrand, our focus remains rmly on being the dedicated voice of British dairy farmers. As the UK’s only dairy charity, with a proud royal patronage and farming members at our core, we are committed to promoting, protecting and progressing all aspects of dairying through our work.” FG

smaXtec returned to the show with its innovative bolus, which measures inner body temperature, rumination, water intake and activity to provide heat and calving detection, as well as very early disease detection. “The thing that makes this stand out from other technologies for cow health is that it's internal monitoring,” explains Loretta Holder, customer success team lead UK.

“Core temperature is the rst thing that changes when a cow becomes sick, so before you see clinical signs – up to ve days before – you get an alert and you can treat really early, reducing antibiotic use. It saves people time so they know which cows to focus on.”

New elements are always being added, which are then instantly available to users. Currently smaXtec is working on its Assistant feature, which allows users to create lists based on any of the alerts. “It just makes life really easy,” Loretta concluded.

More is coming in the pipeline, but details remain under wraps for now.

Forage

email: info@faagroup.co.uk www.faagroup.co.uk

Feed Adviser Register

email: far@agindustries.org.uk www.agindustries.org.uk/feed-adviser-register.html

heat detection & calving alerts

Making use of genomics data

The Neogen team attended the show to speak to visitors about Igenity Select – its dairy genomic testing service. “Really, the driver at the moment is all about e ciency,” noted Robert Horn, senior eld sales specialist.

The test kits are made from sustainable materials, with customer experience a key focus. In just one small vial, there is a

Latest in calf feeding

Paul Wisden, of M&A Calf Systems, outlined the latest updates on the Förster-Technik Vario Connect smart feeder – much of which has to do with improved software. “Built into the antenna on these now is a temperature sensor which talks to the feeding programme,” he explained. “If the air temperature in the calf shed gets below an agreed level of say 8ºC, the machine will automatically feed the animal an extra 10% worth of milk powder. And if it gets a bit warmer during the day, it will not feed it the extra.”

signi cant amount of high-value data for farmers, and testing is only required once in the animal’s lifetime. “The return on investment when you look at any of the traits that you get from that is huge,” he added.

Whilst other testing kits on the market test for the same traits, what Neogen does di erently is in how it presents the data, Robert

The machine and the new antibacterial YelloTeats are used on the Wisdens’ own farm and Paul says they have made a big di erence, with the teats being more durable and reducing the bacteria level, allowing calves to thrive better.

Importance of airflow

Farmplus Constructions managing director Jim Rogerson said the company emphasises the importance of natural ventilation within livestock buildings.

explained. “It's very important that the data we produce for that farmer can be used by the farmer. We can provide a spreadsheet of data, give it to the farmer and say thanks very much – but that's pointless, it’s what they can do with it. It's very farm speci c and it enables them to make far more accurate decisions with their own data.”

“Ventilation is not the volume of air in the building; it’s the air exchange. It’s a simple way to get clean air in and get the stale air out quickly.”

Farmers always want guidance on this, he added. Jim believes mechanical ventilation should not be used as a cover for badly designed units, as by getting the building ventilation right in the rst place, you can avoid high running costs of mechanical ventilation.

Bedder and sweeper ranges attract attention

Melvin Crozier, co-founder of Plant-Mec, had a busy day at the show, with lots of enquiries and bookings for demos of the company’s Q-Bed cubicle bedders and cleaners, which are self-propelled and fully galvanised. The Q-Bed machines o er a fast and e cient solution for maintaining clean, dry, and wellbedded cubicles, reducing waste and labour and improving cow health.

Suitable for a range of bedding materials, it’s a cost-e ective and time-saving choice for dairy farmers looking to enhance hygiene and productivity in their cubicle housing.

The company also manufactures bucket-sweepers, with a SweeperSeries Bucket Brush on display during the show. The range combines a fully-galvanised, durable build with livestock-friendly polyester and polypropylene bristles for long-lasting performance.

Lower protein rations

One of the focuses for Cargill was its new Aminoreach product, which aims to help reduce crude protein in diets, improving nitrogen e ciency and thereby saving on costs and reducing environmental impact. It’s been trialled on the continent with some new trials in France and the Netherlands, and is now available to the UK market.

“It’s quite a new approach,” explains Phil Ingram, ruminant technology application specialist. “It's about helping to release more protein that's naturally bound up in the diet and make it more useful to the animal.”

Also on the stand was the Neo colostrum range, naturally derived from high-health status herds, to help calves get o to a good start and dictate their future success.

Demand for calf training

Lantra's head of agriculture, Andrew Palmer, said the show was an opportunity to run a survey and speak to visitors about demand for calf management training. Lantra is looking to develop new calf health courses to update existing knowledge, particularly around diseases and rumen development.

Progress on Q fever

Ceva Animal Health returned to the show to share its core messages around Q fever. Herd testing is ongoing and prevalence is still being seen, but vaccine uptake is increasing, said marketing manager Gill Ainge. “We've got to tell people about the disease rst and then you've got to tell them about the solution. So we're starting to get to that next phase now. It's making a di erence, but we'll keep getting the message out there.”

Q fever is caused by infection with the bacterium Coxiella burnetii and causes signs such as weak newborns, infertility, abortions, stillbirths, metritis, premature calving, and retained placenta.

Ceva also had its Rehydion Gel on the stand – which o ers oral rehydration for scouring animals –as well as information on its BTV-3 vaccine, though bluetongue vaccine uptake remains relatively low, despite cases ongoing across the UK.

Andrew said he had spoken to a variety of people, from students to established herd managers on the day, and found there was a great deal of demand for training on all levels of calf management.

Depending on feedback, it’s likely that the courses will drill down into key areas such as calf housing, colostrum, disbudding and castration protocols, as well as neonatal diseases and calf scour – plus weaning and rumen development. All of the feedback and insights are being collated to ensure the most e ective and productive training is developed, to support those working in the dairy sector.

Andrew noted that whilst there is a lot of training out there on calf health, for example from vets or producer groups, there is a lack of accredited, recognised courses.

The survey also sought to nd out what motivates farmers to complete training – while it often used to be about ticking a box for assurance schemes, there is now recognition that training can positively impact the farm’s e ciency, Andrew said. Making sure courses are t for purpose and meet the needs of farmers is essential, he added.

As well as displaying existing products such as its VentTube positive pressure ventilation system, Galebreaker debuted its new ventilation system, VentRidge, at Dairy-Tech. It’s designed to maximise the e ects of natural ventilation and, unlike other solutions, can be retro tted to existing buildings, making it a cost-e ective option to improve ventilation.

Area sales manager Matt Sellers said the new system had shown positive results at test sites in Wales, with one farmer saying it had solved his pneumonia problems. A similar product was available from Galebreaker but it was more expensive, couldn’t be installed by Galebreaker and was mainly aimed at new-builds. VentRidge can be retro tted by Galebreaker and is around two-thirds of the cost, Matt added.

additive NovaSile CS, which debuted at UK Dairy Day, has been trialled extensively over the past year, revealing an uplift in nutrients, reduced heating, and improved milk output. It’s also been shown to boost proteins and butterfats.

Noting recent falling milk prices, Rumenco technical associate Chris Wheatley said: “At a time when people think ‘I can’t a ord a [silage additive] right now, if you can get the most milk from the cheapest source, you’re saving yourself losses from the back end. Rather than seeing it as an insurance policy, it's more trying to improve the farmer's bottom line by preventing losses.”

While silage additives are quite a ooded market, NovaSile CS is a premium product; and Chris says you often get what you pay for. “If people are after a price point where it's cheap and cheerful, they lose out because they realise, actually yes, I did save myself £1,000, but how much have I lost through my silage?”

On the Storth stand there was a slurry storage tank which is also a turnkey anaerobic digestion tank. The digester requires 30-day slurry storage, slurry heat is maintained at 40ºC and methane captured to run the biogas engine. Electricity generated can be used on-farm to o set the use of the grid and any excess exported. Slurry from a single cow can produce 1,314kWh/year of electricity, according to Storth research, meaning a potential saving of £1/cow/day.

Storth also displayed its range of scrapers – hydraulic, rope and chain –noting that it’s the only company that manufactures all three in the UK.

Diversify grass swards to improve climate resilience

see these drought-tolerant species recover more quickly once there was some rain. Both species also grow earlier in the spring and later into the autumn than perennial ryegrass, further extending yield reliability.

“Cocksfoot and tall fescue head earlier than the most widely used ryegrass varieties but breeders have created later heading genetics incorporating the high-quality characteristics, more compatible with perennial ryegrass-based systems.

“Both species can be incorporated into grazing mixtures, but management needs to be adjusted to shorter grazing or cutting intervals in the early summer period for best quality. A bonus is that they switch back from the heading phase to the vegetative phase much earlier than perennial ryegrass.”

Weather tolerance

Perennial and hybrid ryegrasses have come to dominate British grass leys for a reason. Some 75 years of breeding innovation have led to varieties that produce highly productive, palatable forage. But with weather patterns becoming more extreme, Francis believes farmers should consider adding other deeper-rooted species into grass leys to improve climate resilience.

“We depend primarily on ryegrass species, which have performed very well.

However, one weakness is poor performance in dry conditions,” says Francis.

The opportunity for cocksfoot is greatest in grazing and dual-purpose mixtures, says Francis. Higher-quality tall fescues also have great potential to improve the yield reliability of silage leys. It has higher sugar content, enhancing silage fermentation and higher dry matter, reducing wilting time.

In dry seasons in the UK, cocksfoot and tall fescue can produce up to 25% more dry matter/ha than ryegrass. Although Francis adds that, historically, the low feed quality of cocksfoot and tall fescue has been a problem.

“Farmers in Northwest Europe also rely on ryegrasses, but as you go south and east, other species, like cocksfoot, tall fescue, and forage species like lucerne, begin to dominate. This is because of their ability to tolerate dry hot summers and cold winters.”

Similarly, Francis has visited Australia and New Zealand in recent years to investigate climateresilient forage systems. They are also increasingly adopting cocksfoot and tall fescue for their drought tolerance and pest resistance.

“I was expecting to see varieties home-bred in New Zealand, but they are adopting European genetics, particularly from France.”

Care needed

“However, as with the big advances in perennial ryegrass and hybrid ryegrass breeding, there have also been some impressive improvements in the palatability and energy and protein density of cocksfoot and tall fescue.

“Because they develop such extraordinary root systems, they are more tolerant to both extremes of dry and wet that we are increasingly experiencing. They are also compatible with key legumes like white and red clover and produce a more compaction-resistant sward surface.”

Improvements

He has observed big improvements in the palatability of some cocksfoot varieties in grazing trials. Experience of cocksfoot in grass swards in last year’s drought showed that it shut down later than the ryegrasses in the mix.

Because tall fescue is slower to establish than ryegrass, care needs to be taken with the mixture quantities to ensure it is supported by the ryegrass but not swamped by it, especially when the ley is establishing. Francis recommends tall fescue makes up about 40% of the mix in cutting leys where it is included.

“The French breeder RAGT has been particularly successful in breeding quality and later heading into tall fescue and cocksfoot. The top variety for feed quality on the French cocksfoot recommended list is RGT Beverly.

Even though the extreme drought eventually stopped everything in some areas, Francis did

“The tall fescue variety with the softest leaves and one of the highest levels of bre digestibility is RGT Nouga; both varieties are now in demand across northern Europe, New Zealand and temperate areas globally. Both varieties are potentially well suited to the UK climate, especially in the south and east,” highlights Francis.

For farmers looking to spread their risk of prolonged dry periods, Francis recommends incorporating newer, high-quality cocksfoot and tall fescue into mixes as a long-term solution, especially on drought-prone soils or in drier parts of the country. FG

Get on top of lungworm control before turnout

Lungworm (husk) is often thought of as an autumn disease, largely because the characteristic cough associated with it tends to peak later in the grazing season. However, vets are reminding farmers that pre-turnout is the critical time to put e ective lungworm control measures in place, particularly as grazing seasons continue to extend.

Lungworm cases are being reported more frequently, due to changes in climate and grazing patterns, with cattle turned out earlier and kept at grass for longer. “On farms relying on long-acting anthelmintics for lungworm control, protection may not last for the entire grazing period, leaving cattle exposed later in the season,” said MSD veterinary advisor Dr Kat Baxter-Smith.

A period of mild, wet weather can cause a sudden spike in lungworm larvae on pasture, and for cattle with little or no immunity, this can result in severe disease and, in some cases, fatalities.

Cattle can develop strong immunity to lungworm, but this requires controlled exposure. Vaccination plays a key role in achieving this safely, according to Kat. “The lungworm vaccine uses irradiated larvae that follow the same migration route to the lungs as natural infection. Because the larvae are unable to fully develop, cattle can mount an immune response without su ering clinical disease.”

On farms where lungworm is a risk, two doses of Bovilis Huskvac should be given four weeks

apart, with onset of immunity developing two weeks after completion of the basic vaccination scheme. Calves must be over eight weeks of age and older at the rst vaccination. This helps protect them by building immunity before they are exposed to lungworm on pasture.

The economics of vaccination also make sense, Kat believes. “Outbreaks can cost £50–100 per a ected animal, and up to £3 per head per day in lost milk yield in dairy cows, which is far more costly than vaccinating.”

She added: “Importantly, vaccination does not prevent all worms from completing their lifecycle. This allows natural immunity to continue developing, something that often doesn’t happen where anthelmintics are used routinely.”

Vaccination should sit alongside good pasture management.

“Rotating paddocks, grazing sheep ahead of cattle, or turning stock onto new leys can all help reduce exposure. Fields with a history of lungworm should be avoided for at-risk groups, and silage aftermaths can be useful for grazing when infection pressure is lower.”

Preventative wormers still have a role but should be used strategically, based on diagnostics and veterinary advice, Kat concluded. As every farm is di erent, now is the ideal time for farmers to work with their vet to review lungworm risk and develop a tailored disease control plan. FG

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Exceptional Cow Comfort

A supportive rubber top cover with a composite foam base that cushions lying cows and encourages milk production.

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The 4GS system is DLG-tested for compression, slip resistance, and abrasion, demonstrating robust physical performance.

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SEASON-LONG PROTECTION PAYS DIVIDENDS

Season-long worm and y management can pay dividends in the long-term, due to a reduced need for handling, stress on animals and people and labour costs, whilst giving long-term protection and peace of mind.

Lungworm and gut worms have previously been a challenge for Hills Green Farm near Maccles eld, Cheshire, due to the extended grazing season – at least 7–8 months, or more in a good year.

“Previously, when we used drenches and pour-on, we would have to treat every 3–4 weeks,” recalls farmer Andrew Venables.

much less labour-intensive, reduces animal stress, and has led to more consistent growth rates during the grazing season. Youngstock have been ready to serve earlier, reaching the target 350kg liveweight easily by 15 months.

Cydectin 10% LA Solution is a single-shot injection containing moxidectin to treat and control gastrointestinal roundworms and lungworm in cattle. It allows animals to develop a natural immune reaction when exposed to larvae1.

“To avoid having to handle them multiple times, youngstock are now injected with the long-acting wormer Cydectin 10% LA Solution around turnout.”

This strategy is

“Faecal egg counts are also taken to monitor roundworm levels; although this is less useful to con rm lungworm in acute disease, it is still important to know it is present on the farm,” adds Andrew.

Flies can also be a major issue; Flectron y tags o er ve months’ protection against nuisance and biting ies and have a zero-day meat and milk withdrawal. They work by slowly releasing the active ingredient, cypermethrin, onto the tag’s surface which acts as a constant reservoir of insecticide throughout the season.

Ben and Jonathan Charmley milk 500 NZ Friesian crosses at Kennels Farm, Ight eld in Shropshire with

their parents Richard and Carole. They are on a rotationally grazed system, but struggled with pink eye in their calves, a disease caused by Moraxella bovis bacteria spread by ies. Richard says the major cost came from the labour. Flies also cause major economic losses in both dairy and beef herds through reduced feed intake and the transmission of diseases. Studies in cattle have shown that y worry can cause growth rate losses of up to 0.3kg/day and 0.5-litres/day milk loss2.

Using Flectron tags completely stopped the issue, according to the Charmleys. The tags are inserted in the heifer replacement calves in June just as they are weaned and removed when they are housed in the autumn.

For further information on Cydectin 10% LA or Flectron, contact your farm vet or animal health advisor. FG

References: 1. Taylor, SM, et al., Vet Parasitol, 2000 2. Jonsson et al (1999). Med. Vet. Entomology 13, p372 376.

Rejuvenating spring pasture

As spring turnout approaches, livestock farmers are focused on getting swards back into premium condition. One of the key tasks this March should be pasture rejuvenation – breaking up soil compaction, aerating the root zone and establishing fresh seed to drive early spring growth. That’s where Galway-based ag machinery specialist Alstrong comes in.

Founded in 2012 by managing director Alan Winters, Alstrong began with a simple goal: to design

tools that tackle soil compaction and unlock grassland productivity. “Compacted soils restrict root growth and slow grass recovery,” Alan explains, “so preparing ground properly now means stronger regrowth and higher quality grazing later in the season.”

Central to Alstrong’s o ering is the Auctus range – one-pass pasture rejuvenation machines that combine levelling, aeration, seeding and consolidation in a single go. The design helps repair poached soil, open the sward and stitch in seed

Get ready for turnout

For many dairy and beef farmers across the country, soil temperatures are nally rising, spring grass is starting to grow and cows are itching to get out and graze on fresh pasture. But rst, it’s important to get any cow or calf husbandry jobs ticked o your to-do list whilst you have easy access to them.

One of these jobs is to check for any missing tags and to ensure all calves are tagged (if the calf is over 20 days old then it already should be double tagged, or, for dairy calves, the primary tag applied at 36 hours old, and secondary tag applied within 20 days).

with precision, saving time and labour at a crucial window.

Beyond rejuvenation, Alstrong also o ers robust aerators that penetrate deep soil pans, improving water

in ltration and nutrient uptake –vital for livestock farms aiming for dense, resilient grass. “Our aim is simple,” Alan says, “give farmers tools that deliver real results in the eld.” FG

Shearwell says it’s proud to have been o ering customers free cattle tag replacements since 1999, a true testament to the con dence it has in the retention of its Combi ag tags. A missing tag won’t delay your turnout date with Shearwell’s next day despatch service – just be sure to check your herd a couple of working days beforehand, the company says.

Its phone lines are open from 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday, and from 8am – 12pm on Saturdays, so get in touch directly or order online at www.shearwell.co.uk when you spot that missing tag. FG

ALSTRONG AERATOR THREE MODELS: 840T, 940T & 940M

The Alstrong range of aerators are designed not only to aerate the top layer of grassland but thanks to their unique blade design and weight they have the ability to shatter the hard pan up to 30cm (12”) deep without any soil disturbance or disruption to grazing systems.

ALSTRONG AUCTUS REJUVENATION & RE-SEEDING MACHINE

Rejuvenate and condition your grass with the Alstrong Auctus. Its unique design

NEW TWO-IN-ONE CLAMP SHEET

A new two-in-one silage clamp sheet could help farmers save silage from spoilage on the top and shoulders of their clamp.

The Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS) in the UK, cites average dry matter losses of 25% under commercial silage making conditions, which in round bale terms, equates to around 250 wrapped bales from every 1,000 otherwise lost due to ine ective sheeting. With more than 60% of farmers applying only a top sheet to their silage clamp, many are now opting for a combined dual sheet approach to increase protection of forage with no additional labour.

New launch

Visqueen, leader of silage sheeting solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its new onestep Visqueen Synergy clamp sheet, combining a vacuum underlayer sheet with a thicker quality top sheet in one product.

from a thicker green-black material, providing enhanced strength and durability.

“The exible underlayer sheet in the twoin-one process forms a vacuum e ect, creating an improved oxygen barrier to enhance fermentation and prevent spoilage.”

Financial losses

Mr Dawson says that without addressing the huge volume of silage lost each season to ine cient clamp management, farmers could continue to face huge nancial losses.

“With silage worth £60–70 per tonne this year, a 25% loss to spoilage in a 1,000-tonne clamp could mean a nancial loss of up to £17,500,” he explains.

more environmentally responsible silage production.

Visqueen’s owner, Amcor, is a leading plastic recycler and converter in Europe, with the scope and expertise to recycle up to 100,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year. It specialises in pre- and post-consumer polythene from agricultural, commercial, industrial, and retail sources.

For more information, visit the Visqueen website: www.visqueenpolycrop.com/ FG

Lloyd Dawson, Visqueen’s sales director for the UK and Ireland, says it’s become increasingly common for farmers to neglect proper sheeting of their clamp due to a lack of labour and time, which is where Visqueen Synergy

“The dry summer of 2025 served as a stark reminder of the importance of maximising forage in preparation for more challenging periods. Failing to do so puts huge pressure on winter feed supplies.”

Mr Dawson is urging farmers to make more informed decisions when choosing silage clamp sheets.

Without addressing the huge volume of silage lost each season to ine cient clamp management, farmers could continue to face huge nancial losses.

labour and time, which is comes in.

He says: “The product combines two crucial processes, giving farmers the bene t of both the vacuum sheet and top sheet in one time-e cient application.

“Visqueen Synergy is available upon request from your local merchant, and following positive feedback from users so far, we have begun making the product more widely available.”

About Visqueen

“The top sheet is made

Visqueen silage sheets are the most widely used in the UK and for good reason, the company says. With decades of experience and manufacturing in the UK, the Visqueen silage sheeting range has been designed to provide dependable protection. The sheets balance weight, with high puncture and tear resistance, even incorporating recycled content for

Visqueen Synergy combines two crucial processes, giving farmers the bene t of both the vacuum sheet and top sheet in one timee cient application.

Wox Agri Services o ers some top tips on grassland rejuvenation and how to increase forage production.

Before modern-day farming methods, silage wrap and fancy additives, the grass sward would be harvested in the summertime from June onwards. The forage was dried, stooked and put into the barn. During this harvesting process, the seeds from the grass heads would fall to the ground, and later be eaten or trampled into the soil by cattle and sheep.

In today’s new environment, we must mimic this process to maximise the grass yield – for the best meat and milk, we must grow the best grass. An unmanaged sward will

produce poor-quality grass with little or no value.

When considering an area for grassland rejuvenation pay careful attention to:

Preparation:

• Check the soil pH levels

• Seek advice from your local agronomist and seed supplier

• Consider the organic content of the soil and spread organic manure, lime and fertiliser if required

• Consider leather jackets along with Chafer bugs; there are no pesticides to control them.

Timing:

• Consider the soil temperature –cold, wet soil is not conducive to

good germination

• Consider the weather conditions – e.g. too dry, seeding in the middle of June/July with no rain forecast can be challenging, seeds germinate and die due to lack of moisture

• Remove as much dead thatch as possible. If a sward is an “old land” sward, the thatch decomposes and causes acidi cation, and can then kill the new seedlings. Regardless of pH you should seriously consider applying calcium lime at 2t/acre to neutralise the e ect

• This is no di erent from taking a chalk-based pill for indigestion.

Sowing:

• Create a tilth; this is important for the seedling to have the opportunity to strike and put a root down

• Calibrate precisely; there’s no point in a fancy seed drill if you don’t spend time on this

• Broadcast seed widely and evenly

• Ensure seed-to-soil contact; rolling at the point of seeding in the right conditions will ensure the result that you are looking for.

Maintenance:

• Regularly check for slug and leatherjacket damage, the slugs can be controlled to a degree but they need to be monitored to prevent the wrong conclusion being drawn as to the methodology used in your system for grassland establishment!

• The leatherjacket is more di cult to manage, but vigorous harrowing in the springtime when ground is moist, or during the operation will draw the bugs to the surface pro le of the soil, upon which rooks will devour them.

Planning:

• Consider a ve-year rotation of overseeding, grazing, ploughing, and an overall management plan. FG

Helping to BEAT the WEATHER

Farming is and always has been a gamble thanks to commodity prices and the weather, PFC shares. And whilst we cannot do anything about the commodity prices, the company says it can help beat the weather.

PFC is now manufacturing its own automatic applicator with moisture sensor for all baler types in the UK, at the assembly plant at PFC’s farm. The HarvestPro applicator and acid preservative allow the operator to monitor the hay and straw as it is baled and adapting the application rate of acid on the go in real time.

Stage one of the hay-making process is accurate fertiliser application, a slow forward speed and even tedding operation to ensure the baled product has even drying. Over 100m it is common to see 5–8% moisture swings especially in rye/Timothy grass. Over 10% swings mean you should look at the drying process and adapt the machine operations.

Tedding in the morning, prebaling and then raking is your best chance to lift the damp grass

o the deck for the best drying results, PFC says. With the baler operating and monitoring the entire moisture of the bale, the HarvestPro applicator will adapt to apply the correct amount of acid preservative.

The use of HarvestPro acid increases the baling window by an average of three hours per day. It allows for an earlier start and later nish, clearing more acres with green unspoilt hay in the barn at up to 30% moisture. For the straw operators it allows the baler to operate closer to the combine and reduces the risk of rain spoilage. 2025 was a dry year and hay making was relatively easier but don’t forget, no two years are the same. 2024 was relatively di cult, with short weather windows. Insure against the weather and use the HarvestPro system to bale good quality hay and straw, the company says.

The new HarvestPro applicator is up to 50% cheaper than a previous imported American product with higher reliability and precision, according to PFC. FG

MERGE MAXX

952 & 1092

New to the market - MERGE MAXX Adapting to any situation

• Versatile central and side swath delivery

• Side to side delivery forms larger swaths, reducing harvester passes

• Pick up units gather forage cleanly, protecting stubble and reducing ash

• Consistent, lump free swaths boost harvester speeds by up to 3 km/h

• ISOBUS compatibility

FORAGE & SILAGE

Flexibility without commitment

As spring looms and UK farmers prepare for silage season, hiring machinery can provide additional, exible support, handling seasonal workloads without needing to commit to long-term ownership.

SW Machinery Hire Ltd, based in Wiltshire, o ers a wide range of machines suitable for forage and silage operations nationwide in the UK. Its eet includes tractors from 100–400hp, including John Deere and JCB Fastracs, giving farms the option to match power to the task.

Silage trailer hire is particularly useful in spring, o ering extra capacity for moving forage and keeping your forager moving. Alongside silage trailers, the eet includes grain, atbed, dump, lowloader, and people carrier trailers, providing exibility to manage di erent tasks e ciently.

Also stocked in the company’s hire eet are telehandlers, muck spreaders,

and slurry tankers, all fully serviced and maintained to ensure reliable performance during busy periods. Hire durations can be tailored to the farm’s needs, ranging from a few days to several months.

Operating nationwide, SW Hire delivers machinery across the UK, helping farms adapt to seasonal peaks while avoiding the costs and maintenance of owning extra machinery.

For information about tractor or trailer hire for the silage season, farmers can contact SW Machinery Hire directly, or visit www.sw-hire. co.uk FG

No compromise on quality

Richard Western’s entire product range has been designed to maximise speed and e ciency. Larger-diameter single rams mean trailers achieve faster cycle times from the beginning of the tipping process through to the return of the body to the chassis.

This design also requires less oil than the twin ram arrangement. Using a single 0.75in hydraulic hose to move oil in one line directly to the tipping ram is more e cient than feeding a twin ram that uses multiple lines of 0.5in hoses with additional ttings that restrict ow.

The single ram in the centre of the body also ensures the trailer body does not twist if the load within it is uneven. Richard Western

silage trailers use six-stage single ram cylinders which are tenifer case-hardened for longevity. The high-duty cycle rams are designed for the high year-round demands of road haulage applications.

Other design features:

• 55-degree tipping angle

• 6in taper in the trailer body from front to rear to material ejection

• Floor welding in line with the load to ensure full and smooth emptying

• Hydraulic tailboard and sprung drawbar are standard features. Richard Western Ltd says it refuses to compromise on quality despite the increased production costs. Full three-year warranties are available on all products. FG

Popular new loader wagon

In the short time since the Jumbo 5000 range replaced the proven Torro loader wagon series, it has already become the most popular Pottinger UK bestselling loader wagon range, the manufacturer says. The Jumbo 5000 is available in six new models ranging in DIN capacity from 32–54m³ and combines all the key features from current and previous models.

To ensure maximum capacity is achieved, the moveable front panel is standard and provides an additional volume of 4.3m³ with the same length of wagon. When unloading, the front panel pushes the block of forage to the back along with the scraper oor to guarantee a very fast process.

The 45 knives are individually

protected against foreign objects and arranged asymmetrically to achieve a theoretical chop length of 34mm. At the press of a button, the knives are easily released and removed without tools.

Autocut is a new electro-hydraulic drive system which signi cantly reduces sharpening times. Permanently sharp knives reduce fuel consumption by up to 15%.

Harvesting with the loader wagon process guarantees the best quality forage at low harvesting costs, Pottinger adds. Loader wagons ensure e ciency and higher loading capacities, with much lower diesel consumption than a forage harvester, whilst reducing labour and purchasing costs. FG

Compact. Powerful. Premium.

JUMBO 5390

„ Cleanly collected crop thanks to the perfect ground tracking of the 6-row all-rounder pick-up and 7-row pro pick-up, each with a floating movement of 170 mm

„ POWERCUT short-cut chopping unit with a theoretical chopped length of 34 mm and EASY MOVE swing-out knife bank for e cient work

www.pottinger.uk

AMAZONE DRILL RANGE REFLECTS SHIFT IN FARMING

Amazone outlines its current drill line-up, which re ects modern crop establishment and the need for farms to balance tighter drilling windows, rising costs, soil health targets and increasingly variable weather.

Drills are expected to be far more adaptable than they once were, capable of working across conventional, reduced tillage and direct drilling systems while integrating seamlessly with precision farming technologies.

Amazone says its Cirrus, Cirrus Grand, Condor and Cayena each address di erent parts of the establishment spectrum.

Cirrus

The Cirrus range sits rmly in the middle ground, designed as a high-output cultivator drill that

suits farms running reduced tillage systems, but still requiring a degree of soil movement ahead of the coulter. Available in working widths from 3–6m, the Cirrus combines light cultivation, reconsolidation and accurate seed placement in a single pass.

The machine can be equipped with front tools such as levelling boards or knife rollers to tailor soil engagement, followed by tyre packers that consolidate the soil ahead of the coulters. Seed placement is handled by Amazone’s TwinTeC plus or RoTeC pro disc coulters, which o er reliable depth control and good trash ow, making the drill e ective in chopped straw and cover crop residues.

A key strength of the Cirrus is its ability to operate at higher forward speeds, up to around 20kph, where conditions allow, without compromising placement accuracy. This makes it well-suited to farms under pressure to cover ground quickly during narrow drilling windows. Isobus control, electric metering and Amazone’s AutoPoint system improve accuracy during headland turns by monitoring and compensating for seed travel time from meter to coulter.

Cirrus Grand

For larger arable businesses and contractors, the Cirrus Grand builds on this concept with signi cantly greater output and exibility. O ered in wider con gurations of 8 or 9m, the Cirrus Grand features a much larger hopper, still o ering twinand three-chamber options that you’ll also nd on the Cirrus with GreenDrill.

This allows multiple products to be applied in

a single pass, such as seed, fertiliser and, where required, slug pellets or companion crops. Using Amazone’s Single-Shoot system, these products are delivered together to the same placement point, maintaining consistent depth and reducing separation in the seedbed.

As well as 16.6cm row spacing, the Cirrus Grand is also now available with row spacings including 12.5cm, which can be bene cial for spring cereals or situations where faster canopy closure is needed to suppress weeds. MultiSwitch Individual row shut-o and section control further enhance accuracy, reducing overlaps on irregular headlands and improving input e ciency. Additionally, the individual row shut-o enables the new EasyTram system, allowing tramlines of any width, indeterminate of drill working width.

In modern farming systems focused on output and logistics, the Cirrus Grand’s large hopper capacity and reduced downtime for re lling can make a signi cant di erence during peak drilling periods.

Condor

Where minimal soil disturbance is the priority, Amazone’s Condor range represents a very di erent engineering approach. Designed as a true direct drill, the Condor is intended to place seed into uncultivated or minimally disturbed soils while preserving residue cover, soil structure and soil moisture. The machine uses narrow ConTeC pro tine coulters, which create a precise slot for seed placement while moving very little soil. This approach helps retain moisture, reduces the risk of

erosion and keeps power requirements relatively low compared with more aggressive systems.

The standard Condor is aimed squarely at largescale operations, with working widths of 12 and 15m and a high-capacity pressurised hopper that can handle seed and fertiliser together. Despite its size, the Condor is designed to maintain accurate depth control across uneven ground, an essential requirement for consistent crop emergence in no-till systems.

The Condor 02 brings the same direct drilling principles into a more compact format, with working widths of 8 and 9m and row spacing of 20 and 25cm. This makes it more suitable for farms with smaller or irregularly shaped elds, while still delivering the agronomic bene ts of true no-till establishment. Improvements in chassis layout and coulter pressure management enhance manoeuvrability and consistency, particularly on undulating ground.

The Condor 02 also brings the MultiSwitch individual row shut-o distributing unit across from the Cirrus Grand, reducing overlaps to below 1% and simplifying tramlining. For many UK farms looking to transition towards direct drilling without committing to the very largest machines, the Condor 02 o ers a more manageable entry point.

Cayena

At the faster, more robust end of the spectrum sits the Cayena tine coulter drill. Designed for forward speeds of up to around 15kph, the Cayena is well-suited to harder or drier soils where disc coulters may struggle. Available primarily in a 6m

format, the Cayena can be speci ed with a divided hopper to allow simultaneous application of seed and fertiliser, supporting e cient single-pass establishment.

Amazone concludes that in a modern farm system, these drills are not competing with one another so much as addressing di erent agronomic and logistical requirements. FG

or drier soils where disc

Cayena tine coulter seed drill

The Amazone Cayena trailed tine coulter seed drill delivers reliable sowing across a wide range of conditions - from direct drilling to cultivated seedbeds. With a generous hopper and narrow TineTeC coulters, it maintains high work rates while minimising water loss, helping operators cover more ground efciently.

3 3 3 3

Fast operation - Up to 15km/h for high daily output.

Accurate placement - TineTeC coulters ensure consistent seed depth with minimal soil disturbance.

Versatile - Optional front cutting discs for excellent residue handling.

Flexible sowing - Multi-chamber hopper handles diferent seeds or seed and fertiliser together.

Contact your local dealer or phone us on 01302 751 200

Combined seed drill up to 7 metres with front hopper

It is our passion for the

that guides us. Every

Each MASCHIO GASPARDO machine is the result of research, technology, and innovation, designed to always get the most out of the land while respecting nature. Our products are in continuous evolution: from soil tillage to seeding, crop protection, fertilization, and haymaking. This is the only way we can be sure to always give you the best, just as the land does for us.

maschiogaspardo.com

Maschio Gaspardo o ers a wide range of models for seeding all types of cereals. Here the company outlines some of the key features of its seed drill models.

Maschio Gaspardo transfers the seeds pneumatically thanks to the air ow generated by a special fan (operated either by the tractor’s

PTO or hydraulics).

The patented Bypass system allows the seeds to be moved from the distributor to the outermost delivery pipes, maintaining a high level of distribution uniformity at all times. This system uses two venturi-type ducts that inject additional air into the classic launch tube up to the specially designed distribution head.

The metering system (mechanically or electrically operated Isotronic) is entrusted to interchangeable volumetric distributors, depending on the type and size of the seed. Compared to the mechanical gravity system, the pneumatic transport system signi cantly reduces the overall dimensions, ensures uniformity along the entire seeding line, and facilitates distribution even when the seed quantity is low or when working on hills. The use of folding frames ensures working widths of up to 6m with transport dimensions of 2.5 to 3m.

All these features are common to the Pina, Pinta, and Primavera models.

Compared to the mechanical gravity system, reduces the overall dimensions, ensures sowing bars with two rows of coulters suitable

The Pina and Pinta models are equipped with sowing bars with two rows of coulters suitable for worked or minimally worked soil. The furrow openers can be “boot” type, for soils with little

Maximising yields with pneumatic cereal seeders

Primavera and Pinta are available with with PA1 and PA2 SF front hopper.

residue or stones, or “single Vortex disc” type, suitable for soils with abundant residue.

lightly worked soil. There are two types

On the Pina, the latter type of furrow opener on

On the Pina, the latter type of furrow opener is only available with a depth limiter with a shoe, while on Pinta, it is also possible to request the version with a wheel. Primavera, on the other hand, is equipped with a heavier seed bar, with four rows, and is more suitable for sowing on lightly worked soil. There are two types of coulters:

1. “Straight tip”

1. “Straight tip” for soil with little residue or stones.

2. “Double disc” heavy

crawler tractors or low-powered tractors. Pinta

2. “Double disc” for heavy soil with residue. All three seed drill models are also available in a trailed version, which is ideal for working with crawler tractors or low-powered tractors. Pinta and Primavera are also available with Isotronic electric transmission and Isobus communication protocol. This system allows for greater precision and control, as well as the possibility of taking

advantage of precision farming functions.

advantage of precision farming functions. tax breaks introduced by the new Budget Law: Isobus protocol allows you to earn a tax credit if investment aimed at transforming your business

and control, as well as the possibility of taking

It is also possible to take advantage of the tax breaks introduced by the new Budget Law: Maschio Gaspardo equipment equipped with Isobus protocol allows you to earn a tax credit if it falls within the scope of instrumental investment aimed at transforming your business into a 4.0 business.

The Pinta SC Isotronic model, for the simultaneous distribution of two products, hopper for seed and 500 litres for fertiliser. The

The Pinta SC Isotronic model, for the simultaneous distribution of two products, uses an internal partitioning of the 1,000-litre hopper for seed and 500 litres for fertiliser. The fertiliser is buried inside the seed furrow with an independent dosing system to promote faster plant development.

To meet the needs of contractors and farmers operating in special conditions, Pinta and Primavera seed bars are available with PA1 and PA2 SF front hoppers (seed and fertiliser).

To meet the needs of contractors and farmers Primavera seed bars are available with PA1 and

The Pinta Bar can only be combined with product, while the Primavera Bar can be hoppers. The latter, thanks to the internal partition of the hopper and the use of two metering units and two blowers, allows the distribution of two di erent products that are buried in the same furrow.

The Pinta Bar can only be combined with the PA1 hopper for the distribution of a single product, while the Primavera Bar can be combined with both the PA1 and PA2 SF hoppers. The latter, thanks to the internal partition of the hopper and the use of two metering units and two blowers, allows the distribution of two di erent products that are buried in the same furrow.

The PA1 and PA2 SF hoppers always use interchangeable volumetric metering units that are electrically operated with Isobus communication protocol.

interchangeable volumetric metering units

Isobus FG

DRILLS & DIRECT DRILLING

Maestro TV/TX: A universal single grain seed drill

The Maestro TV/TX from Horsch is built on the proven qualities of its larger trailed sibling.

The model is a compact, single-grain seed drill with three-point linkage. It is equipped with a hydraulic telescopic slide frame on which the seeding units are mounted, allowing them to be expanded and contracted as required. It o ers precise placement of the grain and optimum seed embedding at operational speeds of up to 15kph.

Available as a 6-row or 7-row model, the Maestro TV/TX is built on the proven qualities of its larger trailed sibling. It o ers row spacings between 45cm and 80cm, adjusted in 5cm steps, and an optional hydraulic weight transfer system to ensure higher coulter pressure during sowing.

On the Maestro 6 TX, common row spacings between 45cm and 80cm can be set and adjusted in 5cm steps. The Maestro 7 TX can also sow with a row spacing of 37.5cm or 40cm. If the middle row is deactivated, the operator can sow conventionally with six rows and a row spacing of 75cm or 80cm. The optional hydraulic weight transfer system guarantees higher coulter pressure while sowing.

As an option, the new Maestro TX line can be equipped with a 1,300-litre fertiliser hopper and, as standard, is equipped with a fertiliser half-width shut-o . The fertiliser is applied with the Horsch metering devices at the single disc fertiliser coulter for underground nutrient placement.

Maestro is available with two metering

systems: AirSpeed (TX) and AirVac (TV). They both o er very precise grain singulation across many crops. With di erent metering discs, maize, sun owers, sugar beet, soyabeans and other bean crops, as well as rape and sorghum are planted reliably, Horsch says.

Maestro TV with AirVac: AirVac uses a vacuum for reliable singulation and high precision for sowing speeds up to 12kph. It has the greatest

exibility for the widest variety of crops and wide range of sowing conditions, enabling the sowing window to be increased if wet.

Maestro TX with AirSpeed: AirSpeed uses overpressure for precise singulation and perfect plant spacings at high operational speeds up to 15kph. It o ers consistent embedding of the grain by means of a shot system and a catching roller for maximum power and e ciency. FG

VERSATILE DRILLING - DIRECT & MIN-TILL

Direct and min-till seeding drills that offer renowned precision, reliability and versatility from 3m to 12m: Avatar, Pronto, Sprinter, Focus, Maestro, Express and Versa. To discover more about the wide and versatile range of cultivators, drills and sprayers, speak to your local HORSCH branch HORSCH.COM

Moore Unidrill debuts its latest drilling system

At LAMMA, Moore Unidrill showcased a machine many farmers had been asking for: the Rigid 4.0m Moore Unidrill, which made its rst ever appearance at the show.

Built in a non-folding 32-row con guration with 125mm row spacing, the Rigid 4.0m o ers simplicity, strength and reliability for farmers who value a robust, no-nonsense drilling system.

Alongside it, the 4.0m grassland option was also on display, featuring a 44-row layout and Güttler-style Prisma roller, reinforcing Moore’s reputation for delivering e ective one-pass solutions for both arable and grassland systems.

At the heart of the Moore Unidrill is the Original One Pass System, combining slitting, harrowing, sowing and rolling in a single pass. This approach saves time, fuel and labour while reducing soil disturbance. The disc and coulter design cuts cleanly through trash without lifting stones or dragging residues, making it ideal for direct drilling and overseeding into

challenging conditions.

The 3-degree angled disc working with the 40mm Moore coulter creates a harrowing and levelling e ect, spreading dung, removing ATV ruts and repairing winter hoof damage. The coulter forms a mini furrow, allowing air, water and nutrients to enter the soil, improving drainage and soil health while providing shelter for emerging seedlings.

Seed placement is a standout feature of the Unidrill. This is reinforced by respected Grassmen contributor Barry Read, who has run a Moore Unidrill for years. His verdict is clear: “One of the best-designed machines in my yard”. When asked what sets it apart, his answer was simple: “Seed placement”. Whether you are drilling grass seed and stubble turnips at low rates or sowing cereals at higher rates, the Unidrill delivers consistent, accurate results.

The Accord metering system ensures precise, repeatable sowing rates and is quick and easy to calibrate, while the tungsten-tipped Moore coulters provide excellent

Updated Vredo seeder

Campey Agriculture has launched the latest Vredo DZ5 Agri Overseeder, positioning the updated machine as a bridge between traditional overseeding and more involved direct drilling systems.

The DZ5 Agri is designed to give growers greater control over mixed seed establishment without adding unnecessary complexity.

A standout feature of the update is the introduction of a third seed hopper, allowing grasses, legumes and herbs, or seeds of varying size, to be metered independently and placed accurately in a single pass. This, Campey explains, is aimed at improving consistency across increasingly diverse seed mixes, particularly where growers are

wear resistance and long service life. Each coulter is mounted on a rubbersuspended twin disc arm, allowing excellent contour following while protecting the machine when larger obstacles are encountered.

Finishing the job is the Güttlerstyle Prisma roller, providing rm seed-to-soil contact without surface capping. As Barry notes, its point-

pressure design allows water to in ltrate even in high rainfall areas, leaving the soil rm below and open on the surface.

For farmers and contractors looking for a proven, versatile drill that works, the Moore Unidrill continues to deliver dependable results in one e cient pass, the manufacturer concludes. FG

Even consolidation

The Ultima CS tine drill from Köckerling consists of a large prepress wheel followed by a seed tine. Approximately 90% of the machine’s weight sits on the 190mm-wide pre-press wheel, ensuring even consolidation before seeding.

looking to enhance sward resilience, biodiversity or forage quality.

Built around Vredo’s established double-disc seeding system, the machine is capable of both overseeding and direct drilling, with row spacing options suited to grassland or arable use. Adjustable disc depth and in-cab control allow operators to adapt quickly to changing eld conditions, while opening, seeding and pressing are all completed in one operation to reduce time and fuel use.

Early production machines are now being assembled, with rst UK deliveries expected later this spring, and interest is strong from growers looking for a more versatile approach to establishment. FG

The press wheel consists of a multi-spoked design with a tough rubber band around the circumference, which is exible and made up of several layers to reduce soil adherence in wet conditions.

The pre-press wheel works in combination with the tine, as the wheel follows the ground contours; so does the seeding tine. All tines on the machine work independently from each other, enabling very accurate

contour following.

The new 15mm TC Coulter allows direct drilling with far less soil disturbance. A metal tube places the seed close behind the tine in a narrow band to ensure excellent seed placement at the desired depth.

The seed rows are then covered by leaf spring levellers suspended on a parallelogram linkage to follow ground contours. The STS roller then follows with rings matched to the spacing of the seed tine, so each ring acts as a press wheel for a seed row.

Available options include: A front levelling board, wheel mark eradicators, split tank for two products, and seed ow control. FG

CC Agri strengthens drilling portfolio

This spring represents an exciting milestone for growers and cultivators across the Eastern counties, as CC Agri steps forward as a main dealer for Bednar machinery, bringing one of Europe’s most versatile and robust seed drill and soil-working ranges closer to home.

Based in Stoke Ferry, Norfolk, CC Agri has built a strong reputation since its founding in 2021 for supplying and supporting quality agricultural equipment alongside comprehensive eld engineering services.

With a background spanning sugar beet harvesters, tractors and a broad range of farm

machinery sales and service, the dealership’s evolution into supporting Bednar’s drill and cultivation products marks a timely expansion ahead of the key drilling window.

Bednar, the Czech agricultural manufacturer with a long track record of innovation in seed drills, soil cultivation and residue management, o ers machines designed for e ciency and agronomic performance. Its seed drills and direct drill solutions, such as the no-till Directo series, are engineered to establish both main and catch crops with precision – even in challenging stubble, highresidue or variable soil moisture conditions.

The Directo drills feature pressurised hoppers for accurate dosing and the ability to sow up to three products in one pass when combined with the Alfa Drill unit, helping maximise productivity and minimise passes at crucial establishment stages.

Chris Coleman, managing director of CC Agri, says: “Becoming a main dealer for Bednar machinery is a signi cant step for us and, importantly, for our customers heading into this spring’s drilling season. Bednar’s drills and cultivators bring real agronomic value –robust designs that handle everything from conventional seedbeds to direct drilling in heavy residues.

“We’re committed to supporting local farmers not just with great machines but with the service and advice they need to make the most of them on their farms,” he adds.

The timing couldn’t be better, with many farms now planning direct and min-till drilling as part of their soil health and cost-e ciency strategies. Bednar’s drills are built to respond to these trends, o ering options from mounted seeders up to wide-working direct drills that can help reduce soil disturbance and protect moisture – key considerations as ground conditions uctuate going into spring.

CC Agri’s expanded portfolio means farmers in Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and surrounding counties can now view and demo Bednar drills locally, backed by the dealership’s experienced team – a strong combination as the drilling season gets underway. FG

The Universal Seed Drill- New Direct Point

Row width options

As interest in regenerative farming practices grows, more farmers are looking to sow cereals at a wider row spacing to facilitate hoeing.

Historically, the SM-P direct tine drills from KRM have used a row spacing of 16.2cm (37 coulters on a 6m machine). Today, both 6m and 8m models of the SM-P are available with a 25cm row width. The company’s range of front hopper, rear coulter frame drills can also be ordered at the wider row spacing.

The SM coulters feature narrow Tungsten carbide tips which run at an attacking angle to pull the tip into work. Each coulter creates a tilth as it pulls through the soil, creating ideal conditions for germination and

Väderstad has launched the next generation of its seed drills Spirit 400-900C/S and Inspire 1200C/S.

The machines are now tted with a new seed coulter, extended coulter pressure, a new following harrow option, and a hydraulic depth setting which can be controlled from the cab as an option.The new seed coulter, featuring TriForce II, is a patented suspension technology that enables every seed coulter to follow the eld’s contours with even greater precision.

New patented TriForce II coulter arm suspension gives Spirit and Inspire seed drills an unmatched ability to maintain a set coulter pressure even in undulating and stressed eld situations and at high working speeds. The new seed coulter is able to apply 120kg coulter pressure, instead of 80kg as the previous model.

TriForce II seed coulter rubber suspension with a unique triangular beam helps it handle movements in eld, while maintaining its set pressure to the ground. This is a step forward regarding seed depth precision, compared to conventional methods in the double-disc seed drill segment.

The increased coulter pressure makes it possible for the machines to perform at peak level in a slightly higher range of soil conditions, but also

Getting more from your drill

minimum.

strong root development. Straw and other residues are moved away from the row, ensuring seeds are placed in clear, moist soil. The undisturbed soil between the rows minimises the risk of weeds germinating and leaves a rm surface for following operations.

To facilitate sowing companion crops, KRM has introduced the MiniSeed, an additional hopper which mounts on the drill. The outlets mount on the following harrow and can be positioned to broadcast before the harrow, so the seeds are incorporated or positioned behind the harrow and products such as Avadex remain on the surface. FG

JJ Metcalfe & Son Ltd supplies proven drill conversion systems designed to t the majority of tine drills already in the eld. Have an unused 80mm or 100mm frame in the yard? Turn it into a highly e ective drill using the company’s robust box-section brackets and tailored components. Its 12mm point delivers ultralow disturbance, creating a clean, accurate seed slot that closes easily for consistent establishment. When a little more tilth is required, the 50mm winged coulter o ers the ideal balance – producing a level seedbed, improving seed-to-soil contact, and helping reduce slug pressure, all while keeping soil movement to a

For elds showing signs of light compaction, the wider winged coulters provide e ective loosening without unnecessary disturbance. Every point in the range ts the purpose-designed holder system, available from 50–125mm in 25mm increments, giving you the exibility to ne-tune your setup to match soil conditions and drilling objectives. If you’re looking to improve establishment, reduce soil movement, and get more from your drill, contact the JJ Metcalfe & Son team directly and they will be happy to help you build the right system for your farm. FG

Next-gen seed drills launched by Väderstad

with higher suspension capacity.

The 12m-wide pneumatic seed drill Inspire 1200C/S o ers a highcapacity output at a low draught force requirement. Its adaptive double disc seed coulter system, paired with the advanced Fenix III metering system, results in even emergence and strong crop growth, says Väderstad. Available as a seed-only or seed and fertiliser model.

The Spirit 400-900C is available in 4, 6, 8 or 9m working widths. The 5,000-litre hopper with large opening, results in fewer lls. Both the fertiliser and seed metering have impressive capacity, Väderstad shares. FG

more lth and aid soil mineralisaon with

winged

• Creates a level finish.

• Conversion systems available to fit a wide range of ne drills - Horsch, Weaving, Tillso, Seed Hawk, Kockerling, and Amazone

• Wide variety of points and tubes to suit individual needs

• Self build components available for 50mm, 80mm and 100mm box secon frames

• Points available in 3 lengths and 6 different widths

• Design protected by registered community design number 008046148-001

JJM Conversion Holder to fit Horsch Drill with 125mm winged point Visit our website www.jjmetcalfeandson.com or call 01609 771124

Introduced on Spirit and Inspire seed drills.

The new patented TriForce II coulter arm suspension brings an unmatched ability to maintain set coulter pressure when stressed by field irregularities. The result is seen in a more consistent seed depth, leading to an even germination and more uniform crop emergence.

KRM SM-P tine drills provide the versatility to ensure your crops can be planted in hard dry conditions through to the wettest of seedbeds with the benefits of less weight, less horsepower and less fuel used Simple precise calibration and full ISObus control make these drills simple to setup and operate

Tine drill or disc drill?

Moving to a reduced or no-tillage system on a farm with varying soil types is a challenge familiar to many farmers. What works in one eld could be an abject failure in another. Similarly, what drill system do you go for?

Weaving Machinery plans a demonstration farm to show farmers the bene ts of each drill type in varying soil types. year

A tine drill will give greater exibility in suboptimal conditions, by shattering and mineralising the soil around the seed, reducing the risk of localised compaction. In contrast, a disc drill causes less disturbance and better manages trash and weed control.

When the farm you are transitioning to notill surrounds the Weaving Machinery factory, then those challenges become opportunities to showcase the capabilities of the brand’s agship drills: the Sabre Tine and GD.

That is one of the reasons why Simon Weaving, sales director at Weaving Machinery, decided to bring the farm back under the company’s management two years ago, following years of rental agreements. Utilising low disturbance farming principles, Simon is astonished by the progress in restoring the farm’s grade one and grade two soils.

Restoring soils

cultivated with one of our Raptor cultivators, partly to manage the trash from the preceding spring oat crop. We also needed to create a tilth to remediate soil compaction, particularly in the areas used for biogas cropping while the farm was rented out. We would’ve used an LD low-disturbance subsoiler, but it was too dry at depth,” explains Simon.

“Delighted”

He decided to use a Sabre Tine drill across the whole area in the autumn, primarily to save time and costs on what would otherwise have required an additional cultivation pass if the GD disc drill had been used, due to lumpy soil conditions.

has completely disrupted its soil structure and created problems,” he says.

To help speed up these e orts, Simon has adopted a rotation of winter wheat followed by a fallow year of two cover crops, one sown in the autumn and the other in the spring. He says this is a remedial rotation for three to four years, with the added bene t of providing the team with two opportunities to test and demo machinery on the farm.

As well as testing Weaving’s equipment in di erent situations, Simon wants to see the farm’s soils restored. “Much of the land has grown onions, leeks, pumpkins, and other vegetable crops for the last 15 years. There has been a lot of soil movement, which

The tilth created directly in the seed row by the Sabre Tine meant the drill could go straight in, followed by rolling. Simon has been delighted with the results, but looking ahead to the spring, he says he plans to switch to the GD disc drill, as it will be better suited to cutting cleanly into the now dense cover crop.

“Looking at the eld, you would think from the accuracy of the plant stand in the row that it is drilled with a disc drill. That’s the big selling point of the Sabre Tine. It’s a more rigid tine than other tine drills, which means there’s very little movement in the ground, and you get better seed placement.

This year’s wheat crop was sown on September 20th at 200kg/ha. Simon has opted for the variety Crusoe across the whole farm, and he is growing it for a full milling speci cation contract.

“The top four inches of soil were

“We also use a rubber exhaust, which di uses 50% of the air, so the seed free-falls as it funnels into the slot,” explains Simon.

As well as improving the soil, they are also signi cantly investing in the farm’s infrastructure to get the most out of it as a facility for demonstrating Weaving’s machinery and drills. A gravel track is being built to ring the farm and provide access for open days, which Simon plans to begin once Weaving’s new showroom opens. FG

provide

has opted for the variety Crusoe across infrastructure to get the most out of it

New o ces and showroom set to open this spring

Following 14 months of building work, Weaving Machinery’s new headquarters o ce and showroom is due to open this spring. Built at its factory site in Evesham, the facility will allow farmers to look over Weaving’s range, see how it is constructed and have a practical demonstration on the surrounding farm.

“We are tremendously excited about having access to the new o ces and showroom,” says Simon. “Farmers are always fascinated to see how we make our equipment, and now we will have a facility to host and entertain groups of farmers and agronomists to go alongside that.”

If you are a farmer and wish to visit the Worcestershire site rst-hand, contact Weaving Machinery directly to arrange a tour.

Rising land values, diversi ed income streams, and increasingly complex ownership structures mean more farming families are now facing IHT exposure than ever before. Agricultural property relief (APR) and business property relief (BPR) remain essential tools in protecting family farms from signi cant tax bills but the rules governing those reliefs are changing.

What’s changed?

The UK Government has announced that from April 2026, a new cap will apply to both APR and BPR. Under the new rules, each individual will be able to claim full relief on only the rst £2.5 million of qualifying agricultural and business assets. Any value above this threshold will receive 50% relief rather than the 100% relief available under the current system. This marks a signi cant departure from the previous approach, in which APR and BPR were uncapped as long as the assets met the qualifying criteria.

For many farming families, a farm is far more than a business. It is heritage, identity, and the foundation on which generations have built their livelihoods. Yet one of the greatest threats to the continuity of that legacy is inheritance tax (IHT). Succession Wealth o ers advice on how it can help.

have risen sharply over the past decade, which means that even modest family farms may now exceed the new relief cap. At the same time, many farms have diversi ed into areas such as holiday accommodation, renewable energy projects, commercial buildings, or contracting services, and these activities can complicate eligibility for BPR and increase the estate’s exposure to IHT.

Multigenerational farms may nd themselves facing unexpected tax liabilities, which could create pressure to sell land, livestock, or machinery simply to meet the tax bill. Families who have long believed their farm was fully protected under the existing rules may now discover that a substantial portion of the estate could fall within the IHT net.

IHT: What’s changed and where to find help

expertise that makes them a trusted partner for farming families planning for the future.

Succession Wealth can help farming families:

• Understand how the new APR/BPR rules will a ect their estate

• Review ownership structures and land use

• Identify risks and opportunities early

• Build long-term, tax-e cient strategies to protect the farm

• Use trusts, gifting, insurance, and legacy planning to create stability across generations. Whether the goal is succession planning, intergenerational transition, or protection against future tax liabilities, every recommendation is tailored to the family’s values and goals. Just as importantly, Succession Wealth advisers can help prepare the next generation by ensuring younger family members understand their nancial responsibilities and the legacy they will inherit.

Protect the farm

The government has framed this change as part of a wider e ort to ensure that the tax system remains fair, sustainable, and balanced, while still o ering protection for genuine agricultural and business activity. For many farming families who had long assumed their entire farm would qualify for full relief, these changes represent a major shift in how estates may be assessed in the future.

Why it matters

These changes have signi cant and immediate implications for family farms. Farmland values

For farming families, the risk is not solely nancial; it can be deeply emotional. Without proactive planning, the continuity of the family farm, the family home, and the livelihoods of future generations could all be placed at risk. This is why specialist nancial planning has become essential – and why Succession Wealth believes it is well placed to help farming families protect their land, their business, and the legacy they hope to pass on.

Support

Succession Wealth is an independent nancial advice rm with o ces across the UK, but its strength lies in how the team work locally. The company’s nancial advisers live and work within the rural communities they support, bringing genuine local knowledge of farming practices, land values, regional diversi cation trends, and the practical realities of running a farm. It is this combination of national strength and local

E ective IHT planning protects decades of hard work, strengthens family relationships, and ensures the farm, which is so often the heartbeat of rural life, remains in capable hands. Succession Wealth can provide farming families with the expertise, tools, and longterm planning they need to safeguard what matters most.

If you want to ensure your farm and legacy are protected for generations, contact Succession Wealth directly and the team will put you in touch with a local adviser you can trust to help secure the future of your family farm and nances. Please note: This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only. The content was accurate at the time of writing, changes in circumstances, regulation and legislation after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the article. FG

Inheritance Tax changes are coming

Will your farm be affected?

From April 2026, Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) will be capped at £2.5m, with only 50% relief above that level.

With rising land values and diversified farm businesses, many families could face unexpected IHT bills.

How Succession Wealth Can Help

Our local financial advisers understand farming communities and can help you:

Understand how the new rules affect your estate

Identify risks and opportunities early

Build long term, tax efficient plans to protect multi generational farms

Discover how we can help:

0808 253 1808 info@successionwealth.co.uk successionwealth.co.uk

Scan the QR code to learn more and book a meeting.

Succession Wealth is a trading style of Succession Wealth Management Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 588378. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate advice on taxation, Trusts, Estate Planning, lifetime cash flow planning, Will writing and certain aspects of corporate services. Succession Wealth Management Limited is registered in England and Wales at The Apex, Brest Road, Derriford Business Park, Derriford, Plymouth PL6 5FL: Registered Number: 07882611.

Asset finance – your next option for funding

In short, asset nance is an alternative form of funding used by businesses to obtain the equipment they need to grow or access much-needed cash. Asset nance makes the otherwise una ordable a ordable because it gives businesses access to the equipment they need, without incurring the cash ow disadvantage of an outright purchase, Close Brothers Asset Finance explains.

Agreements can be customised to the business’s needs, with exibility

on both the term and repayment schedule.

Asset nance products:

Hire purchase (HP): Allows you to buy the equipment on credit. The nance company purchases the asset on your behalf and owns the asset until the nal instalment is paid, at which point you are given the option to buy it.

Finance lease: The full value of the equipment is repaid to the nance company, plus interest, over the lease period. At the end of the

Positive tax updates

December 2025 yielded two positive announcements from the Treasury. The rst, regarding inheritance tax, was the threshold increase for APR and BPR, to £2.5m. Plus, from April, couples will be able to get 100% relief under APR/BPR for up to £5m on qualifying assets.

Careful succession planning will still be required, particularly for larger estates, writes Graham Page, partner at Ensors.

The other announcement relates to Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD for ITSA). From April 2026, sole traders or landlords with gross income over £50,000 will need to report results to HMRC digitally every quarter. However, there will now be a one-year deferral for farmers and other select groups as the new MTD system is not yet able to cope with certain income types.

by way of general guidance only, is correct and applicable only at the time of delivery and no action should be taken solely on the basis of the information contained herein. Ensors Accountants LLP will be pleased to provide further guidance on the issues, and how they might a ect you. No liability is accepted by the rm for any actions taken without seeking appropriate professional advice FG.

life. This means you pay a reduced rental because the cost is based on the di erence between the asset’s original purchase price and its residual value at the end of the agreement.

term, you can choose to:

• Continue to use the asset by entering a secondary rental period

• Sell the asset and keep a portion of the income from the sale

• Return it.

Re nance: Re nancing or capital release, as it’s also known, is a proven way to make your assets work for you and release cash back into the business. It works by the nance company purchasing the asset and nancing it back to you, with repayments calculated in line with the income the asset is expected to generate; at the end of the re nance term, you own the asset.

This o ers several bene ts to a business that just needs a cash injection, whether it’s for investment in additional business-critical assets or to use in other areas of the business, including unexpected bills and invoices, salaries, VAT payments, and diversi cation – the uses are almost endless. Funders can also look to take over a nance agreement with another provider and extend the term, ultimately reducing monthly payments and easing the pressure on cash ow.

Operating lease: Similar to a  nance lease, an operating lease allows you to rent the asset from the asset funder while you need it. The key di erence between the two is that an operating lease is only for part of the asset’s useful

Final details are yet to be provided, but the temporary reprieve is welcome.

The information contained herein is given

Ensors Farmers Guide advert.qxp_Layout 1 28/01/2026 15:43 Page 1

For more information, please visit: www.closeasset nance.co.uk FG

Helping you manage, protect and shape your financial future

Our farming experts will give you dedicated, sector-specific advice and a tailored service to help your farm and business thrive now and into your succession plans.

Practical farming knowledge and construction expertise

A T Bone & Sons Ltd is a design and build contractor specialising in agricultural, commercial, and rural construction projects. With a strong background in farming and estate work, the company says it understands the practical, regulatory, and commercial pressures facing modern landowners and rural businesses.

The company’s work ranges from the refurbishment and conversion of existing buildings through to the delivery of bespoke new-build workshops, spray sheds, machinery stores, grain stores, and commercial and industrial units. By o ering a fully integrated, in-house service, it promises to deliver durable, compliant, and future-proofed buildings that support long-term operational e ciency and rural diversi cation.

A T Bone delivers a complete turnkey service, managing projects from early feasibility and design development through to construction and nal handover. The company regularly works with challenging structures, planning constraints, and sensitive rural settings, ensuring each development is both functional and visually appropriate.

Its in-house capabilities include CAD, structural steel design and fabrication, comprehensive groundworks, drainage, and associated works. This integrated approach allows the company to maintain quality control, programme certainty, and cost e ciency throughout every stage of a project.

Conversions

A T Bone focuses on converting redundant agricultural buildings into high-quality commercial units suitable for a wide range of tenants. These projects often involve complex structural remediation, asbestos removal, drainage upgrades, and internal recon guration.

The company’s experience includes repairing and upgrading existing farm and rural buildings, strengthening or replacing steel frames, improving foundations, renewing worn structural supports, correcting uneven oors, and installing modern insulated cladding systems. It delivers practical, ready-to-use spaces with upgraded electrical supplies, metering where required, provision for future EV charging, and hardwearing nishes designed for long-term use. Where required, the company carefully balances modernisation with estate and heritage

considerations, ensuring converted buildings remain visually sympathetic to their rural surroundings.

Workshops

A T Bone designs and builds bespoke agricultural and commercial workshops tailored to its clients’ operational needs. Its workshops are fully insulated, robustly constructed, and designed to accommodate heavy machinery, fabrication equipment, and evolving uses.

A T Bone says its practical understanding of workshop environments ensures e cient layouts, safe access, durable nishes, and buildings that are future-proofed for expansion or change of use.

Spray sheds

Spray sheds and sprayer stores require careful consideration of safety, compliance, and environmental protection. A T Bone has extensive experience delivering bunded spray sheds with integrated wash-down facilities and containment drainage systems.

Its designs can include external wash-down areas, bio lter systems, machine wash-down pits, and provision for rainwater harvesting. By addressing both current regulations and future operational requirements, the company helps clients operate safely while reducing long-term upgrade costs.

Machinery storage

Machinery storage buildings are designed to withstand heavy use while o ering exibility for changing equipment sizes and uses. Reinforced concrete oors, generous access openings including roller shutter doors, corrected levels, and insulated cladding ensure reliable, all-season storage.

These buildings can be delivered as standalone structures or integrated within wider farm or estate developments.

Livestock facilities

For livestock buildings, durability, drainage, ventilation, and animal welfare are critical. Whether

refurbishing existing structures or delivering new facilities, the company applies an engineering-led approach to create long-lasting, practical buildings that meet operational and welfare requirements.

Silage clamps

A T Bone designs and constructs compliant silage clamps using reinforced concrete slabs and engineered drainage systems. Its expertise in concrete and groundworks ensures clamps are robust, easy to operate, and aligned with current environmental regulations.

Crop storage

A T Bone also provides secure, dry, and accessible buildings suitable for crop storage and handling. Insulated cladding, durable oor nishes, and e cient layouts allow buildings to be adapted for grain, produce, or mixed agricultural use.

Working closely with grain handling and drying suppliers, the company designs and builds modern storage facilities that perform today while allowing for future expansion.

General purpose buildings

Many clients require exible buildings that are capable of evolving. A T Bone specialises in general-purpose agricultural buildings that can be adapted for storage, workshops, livestock, or commercial use as needs change.

Its focus on structural integrity, service provision, and future adaptability ensures longterm value from every building we deliver.

Lagoons and reservoirs

Additionally, A T Bone provides specialist building and civil engineering services for digestate lagoons and reservoirs, including groundworks, earthworks, containment structures, and associated access and safety features. Its approach focuses on robust construction, regulatory compliance, and longterm durability.

Supporting diversification

With increasing pressure on traditional farming incomes, rural diversi cation is more important than ever. A T Bone works closely with farmers, estates, and landowners to unlock the potential of underutilised assets, delivering buildings that generate income, improve e ciency, and enhance asset value.

The company believes its combination of practical farming knowledge, in-house construction expertise, and commercial awareness makes it a trusted partner for agricultural and rural construction projects. FG

Reliable storage for modern agricultural needs

With greater pressure on post-harvest handling, many farmers are turning to precast concrete grain stores for their durability, e ciency and long-term value.

Creagh Concrete has ve decades of experience supporting agricultural infrastructure across the UK and Ireland. Its reputation is built on engineering expertise, practical design and a strong understanding of on-farm requirements.

Creagh’s precast grain stores are designed for modern arable farming. Each store is bespoke, developed with the farmer to suit individual storage capacity, layout and access requirements. This tailored approach ensures that buildings integrate seamlessly into existing farm operations and are t for purpose from day one.

A key bene t of concrete grain storage is faster, more controlled drying. The solid structure creates a stable internal environment, reducing reliance on weather conditions and removing uncertainty from traditional drying methods. This gives greater control over moisture levels, helping to maintain grain quality and reduce post-harvest losses.

Modern agricultural machinery places heavy demands on storage buildings, and Creagh grain stores are engineered to withstand daily use. The robust construction allows loaders, telehandlers and other equipment to operate safely within the store during busy harvest periods, contributing to a long service life with minimal maintenance.

Designed for exibility, Creagh pre-stressed wall panels are cast to match column spacing, with

thickness options from 100–180mm and heights ranging from 0.6–1.2m. Secure, sealed joints further enhance performance, with tongue-and-groove edges that can be sealed horizontally or vertically to safely contain stored materials.

Speed of installation is another advantage. Components are manufactured o -site under controlled conditions and delivered ready for assembly, reducing on-site construction time and minimising disruption at critical points in the farming calendar.

Optional internal divisions allow farmers to store di erent crops within a single building, helping the structure adapt as needs change over time.

Grain stores form part of Creagh Concrete’s

wider agricultural precast o ering, which includes drying oors, slurry stores and channels, silage pits, slatted oors, cubicles, troughs, L-walls and walling systems. This integrated approach allows farmers to source multiple elements from a single supplier, simplifying farm development and ensuring consistency across projects.

From initial consultation through to delivery and installation, Creagh Concrete provides technical guidance and practical support. With strong local presence and national manufacturing capability, the company continues to deliver durable, e cient storage solutions that support modern agriculture and stand the test of time.

Visit www.creaghconcrete.com for details. FG

JH Vaudrey & Son Ltd have been supporting farmers with their building requirements since 1993 and have a wealth of expertise when it comes to the requirements of today’s agri business. JH Vaudrey & Son Ltd can provide grain stores complete with the most up to date grain handling equipment, silos, dryers, and straw barns. We also provide a maintenance service to all properties and farm buildings.

JH Vaudrey & Son Ltd provides a complete design and build service and will even take care of the planning application for you. We will be pleased to hear from you and offer a friendly reliable service. To discuss your requirements telephone 01379 678459.

Retrofit ventilation ridge launches

Livestock environment specialist, Galebreaker, has launched VentRidge – a cost-e ective ventilation system designed to exhaust warm, contaminated air up to four times more e ectively than traditional cranked roof ridge tile designs.

VentRidge has been engineered to maximise the e ects of natural ventilation. Warm, humid air forced upwards by the ‘stack e ect’ of a fully stocked cattle building must have an adequate exhaust route to avoid being recirculated down through the building.

Galebreaker’s UK and Ireland sales manager Will Johnson notes that many livestock buildings su er from insu cient air ow, frequently providing only 20% of the natural ventilation required. “A well-designed ridge should be a key element of any natural ventilation strategy, because

if dirty air can’t leave the building e ciently, there are real implications for animal health and productivity,” he says. “We developed VentRidge as a cost-e ective solution that can easily be retro tted to ensure better ventilation for existing livestock buildings.”

VentRidge has been designed with aerodynamic performance in mind to maximise the bene ts of crosswinds. As wind passes across the top of the ridge, the ba es encourage the air ow to accelerate and create a low-pressure zone. That low pressure increases draw –e ectively boosting the ‘suction’ that draws stale air out of the building.

VentRidge installation can be carried out from inside the building, helping minimise the need for expensive roof safety netting and it comes with a 10-year warranty. FG

Battery storage makes sense for farms

Battery storage is becoming a practical option for farms and landowners to make better use of the energy they produce. With more rural businesses installing solar PV, being able to store daytime generation and use it later can make a noticeable di erence to running costs. Instead of exporting excess electricity back to the grid, you can hold onto it and use it when demand on the farm is higher, advises East Green Energy.

For farms with equipment that draws power at di erent times, such as grain dryers, chillers, milking parlours, nurseries and workshops, battery storage helps manage those changing demands.

Electricity prices uctuate during the day. You can charge the batteries from the grid when electricity is cheaper and use it, or export it back to the grid when electricity prices rise. Using batteries alongside solar PV strengthens this further, allowing you to capture more of what you generate and reduce grid reliance.

There’s also growing interest from developers seeking suitable land for larger grid-tied battery projects, which can o er a new income stream for some landowners.

If you’d like to explore what this could look like for your farm or land, contact the East Green Energy team: www.eastgreenenergy.co.uk FG

Pre-Stressed Concrete Wall Panels

Inspired by the latest technology in Pre-stressed Concrete Wall Panels, and with the desire to continue in meeting our customers' requirements regarding Quality, Design, Volume & Delivery... ...we have opened a new & improved manufacturing facility in Green eld, Flintshire, North Wales

• Brand new precision built moulds & tooling

• Larger range of sizes & loadbearing options (95, 145, 200 & new 240, 280mm)

• Selection of Concrete Lego Blocks

• Increased capacity

• Made to measure

• Shorter lead-times

• Established Quality Assured products at competitive prices

• Design & Bespoke Project capability

t: 01352 719182 or 01352 716648 • f: 01352 837690 e: tracey@jonesbrothersconcrete.co.uk www. jonesbrothersconcretepanels.co.uk

Modern timber engineering

Timberspecs UK Ltd says it stands at the forefront of modern timber engineering, combining technical expertise with a practical understanding of the construction industry’s evolving needs.

Demand is growing for sustainable, e cient, and high-performance building solutions, for diversi ed businesses such as holiday lodges; or farmworker accommodation. Timberspecs says it delivers clarity where it matters most: speci cation, compliance, and con dence.

What sets Timberspecs apart is its commitment to precision. From structural timber calculations to detailed speci cations, the company bridges the gap between design intent and build reality. Architects, engineers, and contractors rely on Timberspecs not only for accuracy, but for insight –solutions that are robust, cost-e ective,

and fully aligned with UK standards and regulations.

Equally important is the company’s forward-thinking approach. Timberspecs recognises timber’s central role in low-carbon construction and actively supports projects that prioritise sustainability without compromising performance. By embracing innovation and best practice, the team helps clients unlock the full potential of engineered timber systems.

At its core, Timberspecs UK Ltd is built on trust. Clear communication, dependable turnaround times, and a collaborative mindset ensure longterm partnerships rather than one-o transactions. In an industry where details de ne success, Timberspecs continues to prove that expertise, integrity, and passion for timber make all the di erence. FG

Pedestals built to last

When investing in farm equipment, you’re thinking long term. You need products that perform reliably year after year, and that’s exactly what Plug&Cool plastic pedestals deliver.

Unlike traditional metal pedestals, which can be easily damaged or crushed by a loader during grain intake, Plug&Cool says its pedestals are twin-walled and extremely robust. Their durable plastic construction makes them almost indestructible, meaning once you invest in a complete system, it’s likely a one-time purchase, according to the company.

Now is an ideal time to consider new on- oor pedestals for your grain store. If you’re planning a new building, it’s also worth thinking

about under oor cooling before the concrete oor is poured. Both pedestal systems o er excellent long-term value, with the exibility to accommodate a wide range of cooling fan sizes depending on your grain depth.

Mould growth in stored grain is a major concern for arable farmers, and plastic pedestals o er an e ective solution. Traditional metal pedestals can encourage condensation in and around the grain, often leading to spoilage and costly losses. In contrast, plastic pedestals produce minimal condensation and do not rust, even during prolonged cooling periods, helping to maintain grain quality and protect your bottom line. FG

Working within budget constraints

Bowie Lockwood Structures has a wealth of experience in supplying and erecting all types of agricultural and industrial buildings, including livestock housing, general purpose buildings and grain, chemical, muck and machinery stores.

Whether you are looking to convert existing buildings or considering a new development –large, small or an extension – the company says it has the expertise to assist. It can undertake projects from either a basic supply-only building through to a fully managed design and build turnkey conversion or new build project.

It o ers a full and comprehensive

range of services to provide a turnkey solution. At the same time, the team understand the budgetary constraints which many businesses and individuals face. With this in mind, Bowie Lockwood o ers xed price contracts on building packages – from supply-only building kits through to ready-for use storage facilities.

Bowie Lockwood Structures is a family-run business based in Coventry, with over 20 years’ experience. Its team of skilled operatives are highly knowledgeable in all aspects of building design, manufacture and construction. FG

Passive fire protection products

Envirograf, a global leader in passive re protection products, was established in Kent in 1983 and remains a family-run business, headed by its 93-year-old founder, Derek Ward. Since then, the company says it has pioneered British-manufactured re safety solutions that farmers know they can rely on.

that they are applied to. Their indoor and outdoor coatings are likely to be of great interest to the farming community.

Envirograf says customers can be assured it has all your re safety protection needs covered. Boasting over 150 product variations, Envirograf is the onestop shop for passive re safety products that have been trusted worldwide for over 40 years. Visit envirograf.com today to nd out more. FG

With Envirograf products, that comes from using proven, the company reckons. intumescent re-retardant

Its re safety products have been successfully applied to a considerable number of highpro le projects; from the new Canary Wharf Crossrail Station, to historic Rochester Cathedral. With Envirograf products, farmers have the peace of mind that comes from using proven, dependable re safety products to protect all important farm buildings and infrastructure, the company reckons.

Envirograf’s key intumescent re-retardant product range expands when exposed to ame to provide much-needed re resistance and cooling to the materials

Envirograf® is a leader in passive fire protection products, o ering a comprehensive range of innovative solutions to meet the needs of the farming industry. Our fire containment technology provides a cost-e ective, high-quality answer to protecting farm buildings and property from the ravages of fire.

Our popular intumescent Envirograf Product 42 range is one of a number of fire retardant coatings that we o er, and the only coating system for both internal and external wood o ering up to 60 minutes of fire protection with just 2 coats. The product is well liked by farmers, as its animal safe solution is very much suited to providing protection to stables and animal outhouses.

Use Envirograf fire resistant coatings today – trusted, tested and used globally to safeguard timber and building materials from the devastating threat of fire.