Farmers urged to improve nutrient efficiency as new RB209 guide launches
A new edition of the UK’s key nutrient management guide has been released, aiming to help farmers cut fertiliser costs while improving efficiency and environmental performance.
AHDB’s updated Nutrient Management Guide (RB209) follows a major review involving feedback from more than 900 farmers and advisers, reflecting growing pressure on the sector to use nutrients more efficiently amid rising costs and global uncertainty.
The revision is the first since the 2023 “golden anniversary” edition and comes as fertiliser markets remain volatile, sharpening the focus on getting applications right.
AHDB said the publication provides “robust, evidence-based information” to help farmers reduce inputs without compromising yield or quality.
Amanda Bennett, AHDB senior environment manager, said the update responds directly to industry demand.
“We have listened to what levy payers need from RB209 and have strengthened activity to provide adaptable guidance to meet the nutrient needs of a wide range of farming situations across the UK,” she said.
She added that further work is under way to address key knowledge gaps identified during the review.
“We have also invested in research to address some of the most critical knowledge gaps identified during the 2024 review,” Ms Bennett said.
She noted that geopolitical tensions have increased scrutiny on fertiliser use.
“The conflict in the Middle East has refocused attention on fertiliser inputs and RB209 will continue to help farmers apply nutrients in the right place, in the right amount, at the right time, on a healthy soil.”
The revision introduces targeted improvements across soil management, organic inputs, grassland and arable systems.
Updated guidance on pH and liming aims to improve soil health, while enhanced data on organic materials gives a clearer picture of nutrient availability in different conditions.
New information has also been added on nitrogen availability following applications of anaerobic digestate.
In grassland systems, the guide includes more detailed examples of nitrogen recommendations for grazing and silage management.
Refinements have also been made to arable crop recommendations, alongside improvements to layout and usability.
Alongside these updates, attention is also turning to cover crops, a key area of interest for farmers.
AHDB said consistency of guidance has been improved across the publication, with further research under way to better understand nutrient release following cover crop use.
Recent findings suggest most nitrogen taken up by cover crops is released back into the soil within two months of destruction, although this can vary depending on conditions.
Industry demand for clearer advice is strong. An ADAS-led review found 86% of farmers and advisers expressed a “great interest” in a practical decision-making tool.
In response, AHDB is working with water companies to develop a decision support tool to guide nutrient management after cover crops.
The tool will consider factors such as species, timing, crop condition, soil type and weather.
Looking ahead, results from this work are expected later this year and will be used alongside RB209 guidance.
AHDB said the updated publication will play an important role in helping farmers manage costs, improve nutrient efficiency and adapt to ongoing market and environmental pressures.
