Crop Production Systems
This page introduces some of the current research and consultancy work from our Crops Department.
To read a more on each example, simply click on the links to be taken to an explanatory report in Openfields, the landbased library online.
Effect of tillage systems on wintering farmland birds: Ploughing stubbles before sowing autumn cereals may affect the availability of food for farmland birds. Skylarks, gamebirds and four species of seed-eating birds were found to be less common in ploughed fields than in those cultivated using non-inversion tillage techniques. A further study has investigated the effects of agricultural management practices on the survival of lapwings. Contact the author, Dr Keith Cheney.
Integrated control of potato cyst nematodes: These microscopic worms are present in approximately two-thirds of potato growing land in
England and Wales where they can cause complete crop loss; within the
EU they cause in excess of £200M damage each year to agriculture.
Researchers at HAUC have established the biology and distribution of PCN in the UK and developed novel methods for diagnosis and control as part of a sustainable, integrated pest management approach. New management
guidelines have been developed for both growers and the potato
industry. Contact the author, Dr Pat Haydock.
Simple salts as a possible effective, safe and cheap disease control: Initial trials are underway to evaluate the potential of simple salts such as such as sodium and potassium bicarbonate as an alternative to conventional fungicides. Contact the author, Dr Peter Kettlewell