Autumn Agronomy Update: Keeping Ahead of Pests, Weeds and Disease

As autumn progresses, growers and agronomists are balancing weed control, aphid monitoring, oilseed rape management and disease risk. Crop development and field conditions will influence the timing of any treatment, so regular monitoring remains important.

Italian ryegrass: build a robust control programme

Italian ryegrass remains a difficult weed to manage. Where it is present, a robust pre-emergence strategy can be an important part of the programme, alongside cultural control measures and careful monitoring.

Post-emergence options may also be considered as crops develop. Products such as Luxinum Plus and Fundatis have specific crop and weed-stage requirements, so check the current product label and discuss suitability with your agronomist. Monitor treated fields for control and identify surviving plants, which may need managing to limit seed return.

Keep monitoring aphids in wheat

Aphid activity remains a consideration in autumn-sown wheat, particularly in crops drilled from September to mid-October. The level of risk will vary with drilling date, crop development, aphid activity and conditions.

Continue to monitor crops and base treatment decisions on the risk in each field. Some crops may need more than one application, but this will depend on ongoing monitoring and the relevant product guidance.

Oilseed rape: time Kerb carefully and check for CSFB larvae

For oilseed rape growers considering Kerb, soil conditions and product guidance will help determine suitable application timing. Keep monitoring conditions and follow the current label.

Cabbage stem flea beetle (CSFB) also warrants continued attention. Check crops for larvae and assess their presence and numbers to help identify fields that may need closer monitoring.

Check for disease in linseed and wheat

In winter linseed, consider whether an autumn fungicide programme is appropriate for the disease risk. Difenoconazole may be an option where suitable, but check the target disease, product approval and label before making a decision.

Yellow rust should also remain on the watch list in later-drilled winter wheat. Monitor for early symptoms, especially where variety choice and seasonal conditions may increase risk. Early identification gives growers and agronomists time to assess whether a response is needed.

Keep monitoring and adapt to conditions

Autumn conditions and crop development can change quickly. Regular field inspections can help growers and agronomists assess weed control, aphid activity, oilseed rape pests and disease, and adjust plans where needed.

For field-specific decisions, speak with your agronomist and always follow the current product label. For procurement support, contact Agritek.