Establishing a profitable crop

Getting good early establishment is essential for controlling weeds and growing a profitable crop. Velcourt's Tim Whitehead and Lincolnshire grower Andrew Ward discuss tactics and strategies.

Well consolidated even seedbeds, appropriate seed rates and the right variety - these are the vital prerequisites to good weed control.  Once a competitive crop with good early vigour has been established, the season can be treated on the front foot, Tim and Andrew advise.

Last year may have been particularly difficult, following the protracted harvest and wet conditions, but work at the front end of the season will always pay off at harvest.

For Tim and Andrew, who both have black-grass to control, weed control strategies revolve around programmes to get the best from Atlantis WG.  Where possible both growers will be applying Atlantis WG before Christmas and both will be taking extra care at application to get the most from the product and protect it for the future.