BeetCast
An insight into the world of sugar beet production in the UK, hosted by the British Beet Research Organisation (BBRO). This monthly production provides an overview of the industry with timely updates and future forecasts to support sugar beet growers. Hear from BBRO scientists and the field team, plus grower updates and industry comment.
BeetCast (June): Pushing boundaries with barley and weed control
Join us at Morley Farms with farm manager David Jones and BBRO’s Head of Operations Stephen Aldis; checking on our under-sown barley work and discussing weed control.
BeetCast (May): Varieties in action: A growers view
Drilling complete at BBRO Demo Farms and preparation underway for the summer events. We meet site host, grower Bill Legge at Wallington Hall to discuss how he selects his varieties and what he is hoping to gain from having the BBRO team 'on-farm'.
BeetCast (April) - 2022 RL sees first virus tolerant variety released.
The 2022 RL is now available (https://bbro.co.uk/sugar-beet-varieties/recommended-list/). Mike May and Dr Vicky Foster reflect on the release and the use of the first Beet mild yellowing virus tolerant variety.
BeetCast (March) - Forecasting risk with the use of data modelling
The results from the Rothamsted virus forecasting model have now been released, these indicate a reduced aphid population and therefore significantly lower risk of virus in 2021. Listen to how BBRO utilise models to support growers and how this can improve decision making.
BeetCast (February) A good beet crop starts with soil preparations.
Good soil structure is crucial in getting an early spring crop such as sugar beet away, but just how do you achieve that in wet or frosty environments? Soils specialist Philip Wright offers a few pointers for making the most of the conditions and time before drilling commences.
BeetCast (January) What does 2021 hold in store for sugar beet growers?
As we enter 2021, BBRO continues to look for solutions to support growers against Virus Yellows in the short-term, whilst also looking further ahead with the appointment of Dr Georgina Barratt who will be investigating a number of new work streams to build confidence in the crop for the future.
