Boost fungicide rates for better cereal margins in ‘08, says TAG

Higher fungicide levels for cereals are the most striking recommendation from the second 2008 Spring Strategies document, published this week by The Arable Group.

Richard Overthrow, the document's author, says TAG's advice reflects the high disease pressure in several crops last year – not only cereals, but beans and winter oilseed rape too – and its commitment to ensuring TAG members can achieve maximum margins from this year's crops.

"It's not simply a reflection of higher grain prices justifying greater expenditure," he says. "It is possible that such disease pressure won't be seen in 2008, but we have to be prepared for worst case scenarios. Regular crop monitoring may provide opportunities for savings if last year's disease problems don't materialise."

Higher grain prices have influenced strategies elsewhere, says Mr Overthrow – particularly in winter wheat, where strobilurins have returned to favour."Despite slightly higher chemical prices, the inclusion of a strobilurin will be cost-effective in almost all cases.

"Even in varieties with strong rust resistance, such as Gladiator and Timber, the small yield increases delivered by strobilurins are still likely to be cost-effective," he points out.

However, when it comes to T3 sprays, Mr Overthrow says there may be a case for omitting strobilurin from the mix. "Fusarium ear diseases will take a higher profile in 2008, but only triazoles have significant effects on fusarium in the ear – and even then, at fairly robust rates," he warns.

Also taking a higher profile in 2008 is the issue of disease control in oats. "Historically, TAG trials have generally shown no yield response from fungicide programmes, even in high yielding crops," Mr Overthrow notes, "and we've always advised members to tread carefully, particularly at T1.

"But crown rust proved a significant problem for many crops in 2007, with associated yield loss. Select a spray with rust activity and remember that T2 timing is particularly important for this disease. Budget accordingly."

Spring Strategies 2, a 24-page document published by The Arable Group, is sent to all TAG members.