The further we get into the summer, the warmer temperatures will become, and the higher the risk of pest invasions and diseases among crops.
Therefore, farmers need to be diligent in checking for signs of pests and diseases within crops, in order to prevent reductions in quality and yield.
With this in mind, the strongest set of cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB) management strategies to date has been released today (June 11).
The strategies, which were compiled by a large consortium of stakeholders passionate about the future of oilseed rape in the UK, will reduce the risks associated with growing this important break crop, especially when combined.
To prepare the strategies, the group evaluated the latest evidence, including data generated by AHDB-funded research.
AHDB will continually review the management strategies and adapt them in response to new sources of robust evidence arising from research activities.
Sacha White, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) lead crop protection scientist said: “The amount of oilseed rape grown in the UK in recent years has fallen sharply, partly due to CSFB pressures.
“However, the demand for oilseeds remains strong and the crop provides good market and rotational opportunities.
“These evidence-based management strategies will reduce the risks associated with the pest and stack the odds in the favour of farmers”, she added.
Pest management strategies
The AHDB has outlined the top ten CSFB management strategies as follows:
- Ditch the date: Do not stick to traditional calendar dates – sow early or late to avoid the peak migration period, which usually occurs during late August to mid-September.
- Good establishment: Always wait for adequate moisture before sowing, use the best seed, promote good seed-to-soil contact, ensure adequate nutrition and select varieties with appropriate vigour.
- Keep your distance: Any distance (space and time) between previous and current crops will improve the chance of success.
- Improve larval tolerance: Fewer, bigger plants will stand up better to larval attack.
- Make use of muck: Apply organic materials, which can reduce beetle damage and support crop growth.
They have also advised carrying out companion cropping and intercropping, which can shield crops from CSFB, and using sacrificial strips of brassica (e.g. turnip) or oilseed rape volunteer trap crops to lure beetles away.
The AHDB also called on farmers to stop using pyrethroids as “resistance is real and the chemical can harm beneficial insects”.
The board recommended cultivating OSR stubble soon after harvest to target emerging CSFB and integrating other tactics to suppress the pest.
The management strategies were identified as part of the Oilseed Rape Reboot initiative.
Led by United Oilseeds, the initiative established an advocacy group to provide a collaborative path to help UK farmers grow stable and profitable OSR crops.
