More than 400 farmers attend crop trials near Darlington (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

More than 400 farmers attend crop trials near Darlington

10:14am Friday 3rd July 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)

A TWO day cereals event attracted more than 400 farmers to the trials site at Walworth, near Darlington.

Organised by DKB Crop Protection, plots demonstrating Dow AgroSciences' new cereal herbicide Broadway Star proved a particular draw.

Visitors saw its activity on sterile brome, wild oats and ryegrass in winter wheat, as well as its added bonus of activity against broadleaved weeds.

Growers also saw how to achieve the best results from the new herbicide, particularly by using it as part of a programme with an autumn residual.

DKB Directors Dave Barker and Vernon Spinks said they had been very impressed with Broadway Star's performance.

Mr Spinks said: "We used it for the first time this spring in varying situations. Within a week, it gave very good control of rye-grass as well as tackling wild oats and brome as well as a wide range of broadleaved weeds, including cleavers.

"We have been impressed by its flexibility. It hits a lot of weeds, is safe to the crop and can be used in a range of tank-mixes.

"I can see a big place in the market for it as it gives growers the option of using just one product in spring."

Other farmers who had used it in its debut season were equally impressed.

David Swall, from Northallerton, reported excellent results on sterile, great and rye brome and good action against broadleaved weeds.

Jamie Finch, from Bishop Auckland, was impressed with its activity on wild oats, saying the difference between treated and non-treated was obvious where he'd missed the odd patch with the sprayer.

Independent variety consultant Richard Fenwick was kept busy taking a constant stream of farmers on a tour of the extensive variety plots.

He said the up and coming wheat varieties to look out for were Gallant, JB Diego, Scout, and Grafton. He recommended Cassia and Volume winter barley varieties.

Other attractions included a busy moisture meter clinic, machinery and sprayers from local dealers Brian Robinson and Claytons and advice on NVZs and stewardship schemes by Alison Clayton.

Mr Barker said they were delighted with the event.

"Despite poor weather on the second day, we've had more people here than ever," he said, "Our aim is to demonstrate to farmers and growers in an informative way, new cereal varieties, fungicides and herbicides.

"We like to think that everyone has enjoyed the casual atmosphere and look forward to coming to see us again next year."

• Print
• Email
• Share
• Comments(0)