Join us for an engaging episode of "Cereal Killers," the podcast that delves into the fascinating world of arable crop management. This instalment features an insightful talk from the Farming Innovation Forum at Lancaster University, exploring the critical topic of protecting soil biology on regenerative farms.

Dr Russell Sharp shares his journey from studying ornamental plants to focusing on arable crops, driven by a passion for innovative solutions in agriculture. Learn about the key principles of regenerative farming, including minimizing soil disturbance, the strategic use of biologicals, and the impact of cover crops on soil health.

Dive into the challenges faced by modern agriculture, as we discuss zero-till techniques, the role of biostimulants, biopesticides, and biofertilizers, and the groundbreaking research aimed at combating blackgrass, a notorious weed affecting crops. Discover how science and sustainability intertwine to shape the future of farming.

Gain valuable insights into the controversial topics surrounding regenerative agriculture, from the misuse of copper fertilizers to the promising potential of biological solutions. Whether you're an agricultural enthusiast or a curious listener, this episode promises to challenge your perspective and spark thought-provoking conversations.

In this episode of Cereal Killers, we delve into the intriguing world of agricultural diseases, focusing specifically on the Sharp Eyespot. This fungal disease, affecting a variety of crops including cereals, is dissected to uncover its symptoms, global impact, and differentiation from its better-known cousin, the Eyespot.

Learn about the conditions favouring its growth, its potential to cause yield loss, and the ongoing research efforts to manage its effects. Discover its interaction with other pathogens, the importance of soil management, and how advances in RNA technology might offer new ways to combat this silent cereal killer.

Dr Russell Sharp

https://eutrema.co.uk/crop-care/

Check out Hydroponics daily by clicking the link below:

https://open.spotify.com/show/207T7p7fw9sPjINfSjVXW2

Dr Russell Sharp

Eutrema Ltd

Do you consider yourself a regenerative agriculture expert?

Take our quiz and find out:

https://eutrema.co.uk/agriculture-expert/

Let us know how you got on!

Dr Russell Sharp

Eutrema Ltd

It was about time we recorded a podcast on flooding and waterlogging, seeing how 2024 has been a wash out of a year!

In this podcast we do a deep dive into all aspects of flooding; causes, effects on plants, positive effects, and how to solve issues around clay soils impeding drainage.

For more details on Eutrema's Liquid Gypsum please visit: https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/liquid-gypsum/

Dr Russell Sharp

Eutrema Ltd

Welcome to a special Halloween edition of Cereal Killers, the podcast dedicated to the pests and diseases affecting cereal crops. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of the ghost moth, scientifically known as Hepialis humuli.

Discover the intriguing history and biology of this moth, from its misleading scientific name to its unique mating dance known as "lekking." Learn about the ghost moth's lifecycle, its impact on various crops, and its fascinating relationship with bats.

Join us as we explore the ghost moth's ability to adapt and survive, despite its lack of traditional senses like hearing and taste. Uncover the reasons behind its peculiar strategies and how they help it thrive in the wild.

Don't miss out on this spooky and educational episode that offers a special Halloween treat for our listeners.

Happy Halloween!

Dr Russell Sharp

https://eutrema.co.uk/

In this episode of Cereal Killers we focus on the notorious Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV). As farmers brace themselves for the upcoming season, we explore the impact of this virus on winter wheat and barley, where it can lead to staggering yield losses of up to 60% and 50% respectively.

Join us as Russell discusses the intricacies of controlling BYDV, including the role of aphids as vectors, and the importance of timely aphid control measures. We cover a variety of strategies, from insecticide applications to innovative farming practices like direct drilling and the use of BYDV-tolerant crop varieties. Additionally, we touch on the complexities of the virus's science and explore the promising developments in black grass pathogenic spore trials.

Whether you're a seasoned agronomist or a curious listener, this episode provides valuable insights into managing one of the most serious threats to cereal crops. Tune in and discover how you can stay ahead of the curve in combating BYDV.

eutrema.co.uk

In this episode, Josie and Russell dive deep into the world of the small but mighty flea beetle, a pest with over 100 species that wreaks havoc on crops like oilseed rape and brassicas.

Learn about the life cycle of these beetles, their impressive jumping abilities, and the significant impact they have on crop yields. Discover the challenges of controlling flea beetles, from insecticides to innovative methods like companion planting and trap crops. Josie also shares fascinating insights on how scientists are studying flea beetles to inspire advancements in robotics and engineering.

Don't miss this engaging and informative episode, filled with interesting facts, practical advice, and a few light-hearted moments. Whether you're a farmer, gardener, or just curious about these tiny pests, there's something here for everyone.

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https://eutrema.co.uk/