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STROBS COME INTO THEIR OWN IN 2007
Date added: 02/05/07 |
With dry conditions underpinning fears of early senescence in many crops, 2007 could be the year when Strobilurins really make a difference, predicts ProCam technical agronomist Nick Myers.
Concerns about growing resistance and cost effectiveness have put a question mark in some growers minds in recent years about Strobilurins, but this season they could prove unequivocally beneficial, as much due to their physiological effects as their fungicidal ones, he says.
“Crops are physiologically advanced and there is a real danger that some will start to enter senescence earlier than usual leading to a detrimental effect on grain fill. The challenge for many producers will be to delay senescence as long as possible to maximise yield and this is where the greening effects of Strobilurins could have a major part to play.
“Strobilurins are not just about disease control. They have important physiological effects on the plant as well, so their effect is more complex than many growers realise.”
One of the main areas is their ability to keep crops greener for longer improving photosynthesis and ultimately yield. Data shows this effect contributed to treated crops staying green for an extra 4 days - and in most years it’s nearer to 6 days.
“The increase in yield from strobilurin treatment in 2005 & 2006 was around 0.4 tonnes/ha. At wheat price of £90/tonne, the break-even yield is around 0.15 tonnes/ha so strobilurins are still cost-effective and could be particularly beneficial this year in these dry conditions. If it gets wetter, you will get a double benefit as their fungicidal action will come more into play.
“Strobilurins are really something everybody should be considering as part of the tank mix at T2 this year.”
Ends PRM144 30th April 2007
For further information please contact Nick Myers, ProCam Ltd., Royston, Herts. Telephone: 01763 261592 |
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