UK: Pulse growth prompts PGRO roadshow spread

An upsurge of interest for pulse crop growing in the spring has prompted the further spread of the popular PGRO Pulse Roadshows for 2015. An additional event in Kent will ensure more growers have the chance to hear and discuss the free advice with the industry’s leading specialists.

The series of winter Pulse Roadshows give arable farmers and agronomists an essential update on options for profitable pea and bean cropping for the coming season. Presented across the country by PGRO and Syngenta, the meetings will cover all aspects of the crops’ agronomy and marketing.

The extremely popular meetings also give the chance to quiz specialists from PGRO and Syngenta about the latest developments, and learn from the experiences of other growers.

Pulse crops will have an increasingly important role to help growers meet the three-crop rule and Environmental Focus Area requirements, reports Syngenta Vegetable Technical Manager, Pete Saunders. Spring cropping is also a key element in the rotational battle with blackgrass.

“For many growers, beans were once again among the best performing crops for yield and profitability this harvest, with continued strong demand. The agronomy advice provided by the Pulse Roadshows has been instrumental in helping achieve the consistency and reliability from the crops’ potential.

“This year’s events will be especially valuable for growers now looking to add peas or beans in their cropping plans,” he added.

Presentations will include the advice and topical tips of PGRO herbicide specialist, Jim Scrimshaw, to maximise the potential for weed control in pulses, whilst Kerry Maguire and Becky Ward will give details about recent developments in plant disease and nutrient research, as well as the latest advice to successfully tackle bruchid beetle and other pests.

Other speakers will include Graham Redman of Andersons, addressing the impacts of CAP reform, and BEPA offering an insight to profitable pulse marketing.

The PGRO/Syngenta Pulse Roadshow 2015 topics include:
• Herbicide options.
• Rotational gross margin increases
• Disease control and crop protection update
• Drilling date and plant population interactions
• Pulse crop marketing
• Growers’ experiences

The meetings will conclude with a satisfying Pie and Pea meal.

Invitations and booking forms have been mailed to all PGRO members. Other farmers and agronomists can view more details and book a free Roadshow place on the Syngenta website: www.syngenta.co.uk

For further information:
Syngenta
Kirsty Gould
T: 01223 883501
Email: kirsty.gould@syngenta.com
www.syngenta.co.uk