A Wet Autumn = Stem Lodging Risks

This time last year we warned against the impact dry autumn conditions would have on lodging. This is in stark comparison to the situation we are in today. However, forward, lush crops are not the only cause of lodging. Many of the cereal crops that have been drilled are in danger of being poorly rooted due to the substandard drilling conditions/seedbeds and the fact that they haven’t had to search for moisture at depth.

Laying the foundations for a healthy crop is particularly important this year, to safeguard against further yield and profit loss. Focusing on ensuring adequate root spread will be vital to ensure nutrient uptake, as well as improving anchorage strength to help mitigate against the most common type of lodging, root lodging. Products like Canopy^® do this, yet also ensure the survival of viable side tillers, increasing viable ears at harvest – a key consideration if you are working with a thin crop.

At T0/T1 it’s important to consider PGRs that will have the required impact on the root plate spread but will also be kind to the crop. Because of the challenging conditions, heavy tank mixes are expected. Canopy^® can be used on soft fast-growing plants and in tank mixes, with less risk of scorch.

This season will undoubtedly be unpredictable, your PGR will need to be flexible as you are, as you work to ensure the months of hard work pay off.

For more information about Canopy^® go to: www.agricentre.basf.co.uk/en/canopy