For growers not sure where new generation SDHI chemistry fits in barley there is a new decision guide from Bayer CropScience which might help.

image expired

Starting with end use, the guide runs through a range of winter and spring barley scenarios. "Simple flow charts then take growers through hybrid and conventional varieties, disease pressure and crop potential to ascertain when to upgrade and when to stick with existing chemistry.

"For greater relevance there's separate guides for the eastern region where rust pressure tends to be higher and soils drier, and for northern and western regions where soils are more moisture retentive and the focus is shifted to broader spectrum disease control," says Ms Overson.

In addition to the guide, growers can get more detailed information on regional disease pressure, ascertaining crop potential and timing advice. "The guide is extremely easy to follow despite the detailed information contained. " Siltra_Xpro brings more disease control options for barley growers, but the question of where and when you upgrade depends on a number of factors.

"The beauty of this guide is that it takes growers through the decision factors relevant to their crop in a clear and simple fashion," she adds. For anyone wanting to use the tools they can be found at; www.bayercropscience.co.uk/barleyfungicides.