Management of phosphorus (P) comes under the spotlight at the forthcoming HGCA Agronomists’ Conference.

The latest developments in phosphorus research will be discussed at the conference on 10 December at Peterborough Arena as part of this year’s theme of input management.

Phosphorus is a major nutrient for all crops and an essential input for profitable crop production.

James Holmes, Research and KT Manager at HGCA, said: “The UK arable sector has made great advances in nutrient management over recent decades. This includes significant progress in reducing pollution associated with phosphorus use on farms.

“However, a number of key issues remain and HGCA is tackling many of these through an innovative programme of research involving extensive collaboration with industry partners.

“We already know that some soils contain too little P, whereas others are well supplied. Our research is scrutinising P management advice to make sure that the most appropriate target P level can be set and that the grower has the tools to hit the target.”

At the conference, which regularly attracts around 300 delegates, Mr Holmes will look at how research is helping to provide answers to some critical questions, including:

• · Is a target P index of 2 appropriate for all soil types?
• · Is it realistic to farm at P index 1?
• · How long does it take for soil P indices to decline when P treatment ceases and to increase when P treatment is resumed?
• · How can the arable sector make better use of recycled P sources?

“With the right information at the growers’ fingertips, the industry can move towards more sustainable use of this increasingly precious resource, optimise yields and play its part in reducing environmental pressures,” concluded Mr Holmes.

The 2013 conference also includes annual fungicide performance figures, a resistance management session led by Rothamsted Research, the latest thinking on varietal interactions, the launch of HGCA’s research priorities consultation and an update on grain market prospects for the coming season.

Ten BASIS points will be available at the event and NRoSO points have been applied for.

For further details on the HGCA Agronomists’ Conference: Input management for 2014 and beyond, visit the conference web page