IPM

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is core to our business success.

Four of our key areas of focus are:

  1. Crop rotation – typically a minimum of 7-9 years.
  2. Spring and autumn (overwinter) cropping – in order to enhance and maintain our soil structures.
  3. Grass clover leys – we currently grow around 150 hectares. The grass from these leys is destined for two neighbouring dairy farms who in turn supply us with farm yard manure.
  4. Field scale trials of hot mustards – we currently grow around 200 hectares, which we start drilling in June – following first early potatoes. Our mustard crops are supplied and managed by Andrew Wade of Optigro.

Grass clover leys and hot mustards are extremely important, and fundamental to the success of our rotation; both in terms of fertility and IPM. Potato Cyst Nematodes (PCN) and Free Living Nematodes (FLN) species are kept in balance as a result.

2023 will be the third year growing trap crops, which helps us keep on top of our PCN levels. DeCyst Prickly (solanum sisymbriifolium) and DeCyst Broadleaf (solanum scabrum) are supplied and managed by Produce Solutions. The use of these trap crops means sacrificing a high value crop, however, we believe it is the right thing to do in order to deliver environmentally sustainable food production.

We will also be trialling a number of dual PCN resistant potato varieties. Not only do they maintain yield but they also help with our IPM strategy for PCN control.

Red Tractor Farm Assurance

6390

The Farm Business Food and Farming Industry Awards Winner 2010
Parliamentary Review - Best Practice Representative
Assured Produce Growing Partner

6390

Organic Soil Association Certified

G9159