Managing crops through the remainder of the 2017 growing season will be the focus of a GRDC Grains Research Update at Spalding on August 9.
The latest on herbicide resistance, emerging problem weeds, managing spray drift, Russian wheat aphid control and nitrogen considerations will be topics of seasonal relevance up for discussion at the Update.
GRDC Southern Regional Panel member Bill Long, Auburn, says the update will be a timely forum for graingrowers from throughout the Lower, Mid and Upper North regions, as well as Yorke Peninsula.
“It has been a slower than normal start to the season with rainfall after sowing variable and well below average through May and June in many areas,” Mr Long said.
“The outlook has improved on the back of recent rains and growers will now be looking to maximise productivity from their crops.
“The Spalding update will be a particularly valuable one for growers seeking expert advice on managing their crops through until harvest.”
Addressing the important issue of nutrient considerations will be Rob Norton from the International Plant Nutrition Institute.
Dr Norton, from Vic, will discuss nitrogen management for the remainder of 2017, based on soil nitrogen levels, soil water levels and the weather forecast for spring.
The latest insights on herbicide resistance and emerging problem weeds will be the topic of a presentation by University of Adelaide’s Chris Preston, who will look at the risk of resistance occurring in Group D, C, K and J herbicides, stewardship of new Group K options, as well as key findings from research on sowthistle.
Consultant Peter Cousins will offer pertinent advice on technology to improve spray application and minimise drift, and the impact of surface temperature inversions, while SARDI entomologist Greg Baker will update growers and their advisers on RWA biology, spray thresholds, integrated pest management and control options.
Providing food for thought on options for improving the profitability of integrated cropping and livestock will be Brad Nutt from Murdoch University in WA, who will discuss new varieties of pasture legumes and new techniques for harnessing the dual benefits of pasture legumes for grazing and improving the soils for future crops.
The update, to be held in partnership with the Hart Field-Site Group, will be at the Spalding District Hall from 9am to 1pm, with lunch to follow.
- Details: grdc.com.au