The Processors and Growers Research Organisation (PGRO) will reveal the 2026 Descriptive List for peas and beans during a live online event at 10.30am on 27 November. 

 
The session will be led by Dr Chris Judge, Principal Technical Officer, and will share performance results from three to five years of trials of combining peas and beans across the UK. 
 
The Descriptive List remains a benchmark for growers weighing up yield, standing power, disease resistance and market suitability. 
 
Dr Chris Judge said this season has provided a clear reminder of why growers need trusted data to guide their decisions.
 
"This has been one of the most challenging seasons in recent memory," he said. "We saw prolonged drought in April and May, right when crops needed moisture to get established, and many spring beans and peas simply struggled to get going as a result."
 
The PGRO sets out its trials in a number of different geographical locations to reduce the risk of wholesale crop failure due to extreme weather conditions. 
 
"A small number of our trial plots did fail this year, but we have a strong network of sites across the country and those performed well, so we still have a robust set of data to work with. 
 
"The flip side is that some crops have thrived in these warmer, drier conditions. This contrast between crops and locations underlines exactly why independent data is essential. It gives growers the confidence to select varieties that will stand up to whatever each season throws at them."
 
Returning to an online format increases access and gives producers the chance to put queries directly to PGRO experts without leaving the farm. Industry breeders and press are also invited to attend.
 
Registration for the event is open now. Details and access are available here.