Main Objectives
Docking Disorder is believed to be prevalent on approximately 15% of soils within the UK beet growing area. The control method is to apply a down-row continuous band of a granular nematicide at drilling via a drill-mounted granule applicator. Vydate is now the main insecticide used, as approval for the use of Temik in sugar beet was withdrawn in 2004. The cost and environmental impact of using this type of carbamate nematicide is high, therefore a synchronised, placed application around the seed, and not a continuous band, could reduce cost and environmental impact. This project examines whether a synchronised application of a nematicide granule is as effective as a continuous application, for nematode and other pest control. It also evaluated any plant phyto-toxicity effects that may result from the different granular application pattern produced by synchronisation application.
Latest Report
Outcomes / Key Message For Growers And Industry
The Kuhn applicator allowed granules to be applied either continuously or as a synchronised application and was easy to calibrate. No problems were experienced with blockage during application.